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WO2025061278A1 - Dishwasher equipped with a supporting base - Google Patents

Dishwasher equipped with a supporting base Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2025061278A1
WO2025061278A1 PCT/EP2023/075933 EP2023075933W WO2025061278A1 WO 2025061278 A1 WO2025061278 A1 WO 2025061278A1 EP 2023075933 W EP2023075933 W EP 2023075933W WO 2025061278 A1 WO2025061278 A1 WO 2025061278A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
snap
fit
dishwasher
washing chamber
seat
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/EP2023/075933
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Mattia ROVEDO
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Electrolux Appliances AB
Original Assignee
Electrolux Appliances AB
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Electrolux Appliances AB filed Critical Electrolux Appliances AB
Priority to PCT/EP2023/075933 priority Critical patent/WO2025061278A1/en
Publication of WO2025061278A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025061278A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/4251—Details of the casing
    • A47L15/4272—Supporting arrangements for the tub
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/4251—Details of the casing

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a dishwasher having a washing chamber for items to be washed.
  • a washing chamber or tub, wherein items to be washed are placed. Items to be washed are preferably arranged in racks slidingly received in the washing tub.
  • the washing tub of known dishwashers is preferably arranged on a supporting base that holds and supports the weight of the washing tub when the dishwasher is placed in its working position, preferably placed on the floor.
  • the washing tub is preferably made of metal and the supporting base is preferably made of plastic.
  • the washing tub is preferably fixed to the supporting base during manufacturing of the dishwasher.
  • said fixation uses metal bars that are each fixed at one side to the tub, for example by soldering, and fixed at opposite side to the supporting base, for example by screws.
  • Disassembling operations are typically involved during repair/maintenance of the appliance or dismantling of obsolete dishwashers.
  • a panel is also preferably placed on top of the dishwasher such that the panel covers the same dishwasher.
  • the top panel according to known system is preferably connected to respective front and rear bars, also known as upper front crossbar and upper rear crossbar, that hold the top panel in place.
  • the upper front and rear crossbars are screwed to vertical metal bars fixed at respective vertical later sides of the tub, for example by soldering. Assembling of the upper crossbar and vertical bars requires for a correct alignment therebetween and high precision is therefore needed during manufacturing, leading to additional manufacturing costs and loss of time.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide a solution that makes maintenance and/or dismantling operations of a dishwasher more efficient compared to known systems.
  • Applicant has found that by providing a dishwasher for washing items, wherein the appliance comprises a washing chamber and a base supporting the washing chamber and by providing a snap-in device for removably connecting the base to the washing chamber, it is possible to reach the mentioned objects.
  • the present invention relates, therefore, to a dishwasher for washing items comprising:
  • said snap-in device comprises a snap-fit element protruding from said base and a snap-fit seat associated to said washing chamber and apt to receive said snap-fit element, said base and said snap-fit element being made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction; said snap-fit seat comprising an element fixed to said washing chamber; said base comprising a supporting surface and said washing chamber comprising a corresponding holding surface wherein, in the assembled configuration with said snap-fit element inserted in said snap-fit seat, said holding surface abuts said supporting surface so that said base supports the weight of said washing chamber through said supporting surface.
  • the base and the washing chamber are easily assembled therebetween during manufacturing of the dishwasher. This simplifies and/or reduces the time of the assembly operations.
  • the base and the washing chamber can be quickly disassembled without special tools.
  • the base and the washing chamber can be easily disassembled during repair/maintenance of the dishwasher or during dismantling of the dishwasher.
  • the supporting surface of the base advantageously supports the weight of the washing chamber while the snap-in device is not subjected to the weight of the tub.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises a metallic element fixed to the washing chamber.
  • the snap-fit seat and the washing chamber are both metallic elements. More preferably the snap-fit seat is fixed to the washing chamber by clinching.
  • assembling of the snap-fit seat to the washing chamber is cost-effective.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit element comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit element when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat; or the snap-fit element comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit seat comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit seat when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat.
  • the snap-fit element comprises a stem portion and a head portion, wherein the abutting surface is provided between the head portion and the stem portion.
  • the head portion comprises a top leading surface with a round corner and a lateral inclined surface extending from the round corner towards the stem portion, wherein the lateral inclined surface diverges in the direction of the stem portion and wherein the abutting surface is provided between the end of the lateral inclined surface and the stem portion.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises two flexible elements facing each other and having respective retaining surfaces and the snap-fit element comprises two abutting surfaces, wherein the two retaining surfaces abut the two abutting surfaces of the snap-fit element when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat; or the snap-fit element comprises two flexible elements having respective retaining surfaces and the snap-fit seat comprises two abutting surfaces, wherein the two retaining surfaces abut the two abutting surfaces of the snap-fit seat when the snap- fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat.
  • the snap-fit element comprises a stem portion and a head portion wherein the two abutting surfaces are provided between the head portion and the stem portion.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises two spaced apart flanges facing each other and extending from a base surface, at least one of the flanges comprises a respective flexible fin wherein the retaining surface is defined at a respective end of the flexible fin.
  • the snap-fit element comprises at least one flexible fin, wherein the at least one flexible fin is provided with said retaining surface.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises two spaced apart flanges facing each other and extending from a base surface, wherein at least one of the flanges comprises an aperture and said abutting surface is defined by an edge of the aperture.
  • the snap-fit element has a mushroom shape.
  • the snap-fit element protrudes upwardly from the base and the snap-fit seat protrudes downwardly from the washing chamber when the dishwasher is placed in its working position.
  • the supporting surface and the holding surface are arranged in a position below the snap-in device when the dishwasher is placed in its working position.
  • the appliance comprises a washing chamber, an outer casing having at least an upper cover panel and an upper rear cross bar apt to be arranged at a rear upper position of the washing chamber and allowing the connection of said upper cover panel thereto and by providing a snap-in device for removably connecting said upper rear cross bar to said washing chamber, it is possible to reach the mentioned objects.
  • the present invention relates, therefore, to a dishwasher for washing items comprising:
  • an outer casing for said washing chamber comprising at least an upper cover panel
  • said dishwasher comprises a snap-in device for removably connecting said upper rear cross bar to said washing chamber, said snap-in device comprising a snap-fit element protruding from said upper rear cross bar and a snap-fit seat associated to said washing chamber and apt to receive said snap-fit element, said upper rear cross bar and said snap-fit element being made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
  • the upper rear cross bar and the washing chamber are easily assembled therebetween during manufacturing of the dishwasher. This simplifies and/or reduces the time of the assembly operations.
  • the upper rear cross bar and the washing chamber can be quickly disassembled without special tools.
  • the upper rear cross bar and the washing chamber can be easily disassembled during repair/maintenance of the dishwasher or during dismantling of the dishwasher.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit element comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat or the snap-fit element comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit seat comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit seat when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises a metallic element fixed to said washing chamber.
  • the snap-fit seat and the washing chamber are both metallic elements. More preferably the snap-fit seat is fixed to the washing chamber by clinching.
  • assembling of the snap-fit seat to the washing chamber is cost-effective.
  • the snap-fit element protrudes horizontally from the upper rear cross bar and the snap-fit seat is arranged at a top wall of the washing chamber when the dishwasher is placed in its working position.
  • the snap-fit element comprises a head portion having a recessed portion wherein said abutting surface is provided.
  • FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of a dishwasher according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein for the sake of clarity the door and some other elements of the dishwasher are not illustrated;
  • FIG. 2 shows the dishwasher of Figure 1 with the upper panel and a lateral panel in a removed position
  • Figure 4 shows a partially sectioned plan view of Figure 3
  • Figure 6 shows the detail of Figure 3 sectioned according to a vertical plane
  • Figure 7 shows the detail of Figure 3 according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 10 shows an exploded view of Figure 9
  • Figure 12 shows a partially sectioned view of Figure 11
  • the present invention has proved to be particularly advantageous when applied to a dishwasher.
  • the dishwasher 1 here represented is a free-standing dishwasher 1, hereinafter also simply indicated as dishwasher 1.
  • the dishwasher may be of a bult-in type, i.e. preferably embodied to be positioned within a furniture recess.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a dishwasher 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the dishwasher 1 comprises an outer casing 2 and a washing chamber 3 configured to accommodate items to be washed, such as dishware, cutlery, and the like.
  • the tub 3 as shown in Figure 2, preferably comprises a top wall 6, a bottom wall 8, a rear wall 9 and spaced apart first and second lateral walls 10, 12.
  • the tub 3 defines a front side aperture 14 that allows access to the tub 3.
  • a closing door not shown, is associated to the aperture 14. For the sake of clarity the closing door and some other elements of the dishwasher 1 are not illustrated.
  • the tub 3 is substantially a cuboid and the aperture 14 is substantially rectangular.
  • Top and bottom walls 6, 8 are preferably jointed to lateral walls 10, 12 with rounded edges.
  • the dishwasher is a freestanding dishwasher 1 wherein the outer casing 2 encloses the tub 3 and comprises an upper cover panel 22, a first lateral panel 24 and a second lateral panel 26.
  • a rear panel may also preferably be arranged to close the rear side of the dishwasher 1. In preferred embodiments, the rear panel is omitted.
  • the upper cover panel 22 faces the top wall 6 of the tub 3
  • the first lateral panel 24 faces the first lateral wall 10 of the tub 3
  • the second lateral panel 26 faces the second lateral wall 12 of the tub 3.
  • the base 30 is preferably parallelepiped- shaped and preferably extends substantially over the same area of the tub 3. Also, preferably, the base 30 is made of plastic.
  • the front corner zones of the base 30 are connected to respective lateral bars 23a, 23b of the dishwasher 1, preferably by means of screws 25a, 25b.
  • Lateral bars 23a, 23b are preferably fixed to the tub 3, more preferably fixedly connected through clinching.
  • Lateral bars 23a, 23b preferably act as reinforcing members and are also preferably configured to mount a hinge device (not shown) for the closing door at their lower ends.
  • the lateral bars 23a, 23bare preferably configured to mount a door compensation system for a soft movement of the closing door.
  • the base 30 and the snap-fit element 52 are made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
  • the snap-fit element 52 and the base 30 are realized in a single piece construction through an injection- moulded process.
  • manufacturing of the base 30 is cost-effective.
  • the snap-fit seat 60 is preferably realized as a separated element 61 fixed to the tub 3. More preferably the snap-fit seat 60 is realized as a metallic element 61, the latest being fixed to the tub 3 by clinching when the tub 3 is also preferably a metallic element.
  • the snap-fit element 52 preferably comprises a stem portion 53 and a head portion 54 so that it preferably has a substantially mushroom shape.
  • the two abutting surfaces 56a, 56b are preferably provided between the head portion 54 and the stem portion 53.
  • the head portion 54 preferably comprises a top leading surface 58 with round corners 58a, 58b and two lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b extending from said round corners 58a, 58b towards the stem portion 53.
  • the lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b diverge in the direction of the stem portion 53 so that the distance between the ends of the lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b is larger than the width of the stem portion 53.
  • the snap-fit seat 60 preferably comprises two spaced apart flanges 61a, 61b facing each other and extending from a base surface 61c.
  • Each flange 61a, 61b comprises a respective flexible fin 62a, 62b and retaining surfaces 64a, 64b are defined at respective ends of the flexible fins 62a, 62b.
  • Disconnection of the base 30 from the tub 3 is easily obtained by moving the flexible fins 62a, 62b apart in order to disengage retaining surfaces 64a, 64b of the flexible fins 62a, 62b from abutting surfaces 56a, 56b of the snap-fit element 52, separating the base 30 from the tub 3 in a direction opposite the insertion direction D so that the snap-fit element 52 is easily extracted from the snap-fit seat 60.
  • a folded tongue 66 is further preferably defined in the snap-fit seat 60 and covers the head portion 54 of the snap-fit element 52 in the assembled configuration.
  • the folded tongue 66 preferably comprises an aperture 70 apt to receives a fastening element (not shown), for example a screw, that advantageously engages a respective hole 72 of the head portion 54.
  • This may be used for a further and/or additional secure fastening of the base 30 to the tub 3.
  • the screw is screwed into the hole 72 during manufacturing of the dishwasher 1 when the base 30 and the tub 3 are assembled. In a further preferred embodiment, the screw is not screwed into the hole 72 during manufacturing of the dishwasher 1 but is successively screwed if necessary. If the snap-fit device 40 for some reason breaks, for example during maintenance of the dishwasher 1 , a screw may be used to restore a secure fastening of the base 30 to the tub 3.
  • the base 30 comprises a supporting surface 34 and the tub 3 comprises a corresponding holding surface 36.
  • the supporting surface 34 and the holding surface 36 are preferably substantially horizontal when the dishwasher 1 is placed in its working position.
  • the supporting surface 34 and the holding surface 36 are arranged in a position below the snap-in device 40 when the dishwasher 1 is placed in its working position.
  • the holding surface 36 of the tub 3 abuts the supporting surface 34 of the base 30. Therefore, the supporting surface 34 of the base 30 supports the weight of the tub 3 while, advantageously, the snap-in device 40 is not subjected to the weight of the tub 3.
  • the snap-in device 40 advantageously guarantees the connection between the base 30 and the tub 3, as previously described.
  • the snap-fit seat comprises two flexible fins and the snap-fit element comprises two respective abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins.
  • the snap- fit seat may comprise a different number of flexible fins, even only one flexible fin, and accordingly the snap-fit element may comprise a different number of abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins/s, even only one abutting surface.
  • the snap-fit element may comprise a stem portion and a head portion, wherein the only one abutting surface is provided between the head portion and the stem portion.
  • the head portion may comprise a top leading surface with a round corner and a lateral inclined surface extending from the round corner towards the stem portion, wherein the lateral inclined surface diverges in the direction of the stem portion and wherein the only one abutting surface is provided between the end of the lateral inclined surface and the stem portion.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 show a further preferred embodiment of the snap-in device 140 of the invention.
  • corresponding characteristics and/or components of the first embodiment previously described are identified by the same reference numbers.
  • the snap-in device 140 preferably comprises a snap-fit element 152 protruding from the base 30 and a snap-fit seat 160 associated to the tub 3 and apt to receive the snap-fit element 152. More preferably, the snap-fit element 152 protrudes upwardly from the base 30 and the snap-fit seat 160 is arranged in a lower part of the tub 3, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position.
  • the base 30 and the snap-fit element 152 are preferably made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
  • the snap-fit element 152 and the base 30 are realized in a single piece construction through an injection-moulded process.
  • manufacturing of the base 30 is cost-effective.
  • the snap-fit seat 160 is preferably realized as a separated element 161 fixed to the tub 3. More preferably the snap-fit seat 160 is realized as a metallic element 161, the latest being fixed to the tub 3 by clinching when the tub 3 is also preferably a metallic element.
  • the snap-fit element 152 preferably comprises two flexible fins 162a, 162b provided with respective retaining surfaces 164a, 164b.
  • Retaining surfaces 164a, 164b are preferably defined by horizontal surfaces, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position.
  • the snap-fit element 152 thus preferably has a substantially mushroom shape.
  • the snap-fit seat 160 preferably comprises two spaced apart flanges 161a, 161b facing each other and extending from a base surface 161c wherein two abutting surfaces 156a, 156b are defined.
  • the abutting surfaces 156a, 156b are defined by the lower edges of two respective apertures 155a, 155b realized in the flanges 161a, 161b.
  • the snap-fit element 152 is inserted in the snap-fit seat 160 along an insertion direction D.
  • the snap-fit element 152 is inserted in the area defined between the flanges 161a, 161b of the snap-fit seat 160.
  • the flexible fins 162a, 162b are temporarily compressed under the action of the flanges 161a, 161b.
  • the snap-fit element 152 finally reaches its final position, the flexible fins 162a, 162b expand entering the apertures 155a, 155b so that the retaining surfaces 164a, 164b of the flexible fins 162a, 162b abut against abutting surfaces 156a, 156b of the flanges 161a, 161b.
  • the snap-in device 140 realizes the connection between the base 30 and the tub 3 and the flexible fins 162a, 162b maintain the snap-fit element 152 in engaged position.
  • Disconnection of the base 30 from the tub 3 is easily obtained by compressing the flexible fins 162a, 162b of the snap-fit element 152, for example with the fingers, and separating the base 30 from the tub 3 in a direction opposite the insertion direction D so that the snap-fit element 152 is easily extracted from the snap-fit seat 160.
  • the base 30 comprises a supporting surface 34 and the tub 3 comprises a corresponding holding surface 36.
  • the holding surface 36 of the tub 3 abuts the supporting surface 34 of the base 30. Therefore, the supporting surface 34 of the base 30 supports the weight of the tub 3 while, advantageously, the snap-in device 140 is not subjected to the weight of the tub 3.
  • the snap-in device 140 advantageously guarantees the connection between the base 30 and the tub 3, as previously described.
  • the snap-fit element comprises two flexible fins and the snap-fit seat comprises two abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins.
  • the snap-fit element may comprise a different number of flexible fins, even only one flexible fin, and accordingly the snap-fit seat may comprise a different number of abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins/s.
  • At least one snap-in device 74 for removably connecting the upper rear cross bar 73 to the tub 3.
  • the snap-in device 74 preferably comprises a snap-fit element 82 protruding from the upper rear cross bar 73 and a snap-fit seat 90 associated to the tub 3 and apt to receive the snap-fit element 82. More preferably, the snap-fit element 82 protrudes horizontally from the upper rear cross bar 73 and the snap-fit seat 90 is arranged at the top wall 6 of the tub 3, when the dishwasher 1 is placed in its working position.
  • the upper rear cross bar 73 and the snap- fit element 82 are made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
  • the snap-fit element 82 and the upper rear cross bar 73 are realized in a single piece construction through an injection-moulded process.
  • manufacturing of the upper rear cross bar 73 is cost-effective.
  • the snap-fit seat 90 is preferably realized as a separated element 91 fixed to the tub 3. More preferably the snap-fit seat 90 is realized as a metallic element 91, the latest being fixed to the tub 3 by clinching when the tub 3 is also preferably a metallic element.
  • the snap-fit element 82 preferably comprises a head portion 84 having an abutting surface 86 provided in a recessed portion 87 thereof, as shown in Figure 13.
  • the recessed portion 87 comprises a pass-through hole.
  • the abutting surface 86 is preferably defined by a vertical surface, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position.
  • the head portion 84 of the snap-fit element 82 then preferably comprises a leading surface 88 with a slanted portion 88a.
  • the snap-in device 40 realizes the connection between the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 and the flexible fin 92 maintains the snap-fit element 82 in engaged position.
  • the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 are easily assembled therebetween by arranging one opposite the other and inserting the snap-fit elements 82 in respective snap-fit seats 90 of the snap-in devices 74. No special attention is therefore required for alignment between the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 during assembling. This simplifies and/or reduces the time of the assembly operations.
  • the upper cover 22 is then preferably connected to the upper rear cross bar 73 through proper connecting devices (not shown), for example through one or more screws arranged along a rear side of the upper cover 22 not visible from outside.

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  • Washing And Drying Of Tableware (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates a dishwasher (1) comprising a washing chamber (3), a base (30) supporting the washing chamber (3) and a snap-in device (40; 140) for removably connecting the base (30) to the washing chamber (3). The snap-in device (40; 140) comprises a snap-fit element (52; 152) protruding from the base (30) and a snap-fit seat (60; 160) associated to the washing chamber (3) and apt to receive the snap-fit element (52; 152). The base (30) and said snap-fit element (52; 152) are made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction and the snap-fit seat (60; 160) comprises an element (61; 161) fixed to the washing chamber (3). The base (30) comprises a supporting surface (34) and the washing chamber (3) comprises a corresponding holding surface (36) wherein the holding surface (36) abuts the supporting surface (34) so that the base (30) supports the weight of the washing chamber (3) through the supporting surface (34).

Description

DISHWASHER EQUIPPED WITH A SUPPORTING BASE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher having a washing chamber for items to be washed.
BACKGROUND ART
In dishwashers there is provided a washing chamber, or tub, wherein items to be washed are placed. Items to be washed are preferably arranged in racks slidingly received in the washing tub.
The washing tub of known dishwashers is preferably arranged on a supporting base that holds and supports the weight of the washing tub when the dishwasher is placed in its working position, preferably placed on the floor. The washing tub is preferably made of metal and the supporting base is preferably made of plastic. The washing tub is preferably fixed to the supporting base during manufacturing of the dishwasher. In a preferred embodiment, said fixation uses metal bars that are each fixed at one side to the tub, for example by soldering, and fixed at opposite side to the supporting base, for example by screws.
Assembling requires for a correct alignment between the parts involved and high precision is therefore needed during manufacturing, leading to additional manufacturing costs and loss of time.
On the other hand, parts cannot be disassembled without special tools, such as screwdrivers. Therefore, disassembling operations are complex and time consuming.
Disassembling operations are typically involved during repair/maintenance of the appliance or dismantling of obsolete dishwashers.
In known dishwashers a panel is also preferably placed on top of the dishwasher such that the panel covers the same dishwasher.
The top panel according to known system is preferably connected to respective front and rear bars, also known as upper front crossbar and upper rear crossbar, that hold the top panel in place.
The upper front and rear crossbars are screwed to vertical metal bars fixed at respective vertical later sides of the tub, for example by soldering. Assembling of the upper crossbar and vertical bars requires for a correct alignment therebetween and high precision is therefore needed during manufacturing, leading to additional manufacturing costs and loss of time.
On the other hand, disassembling of the upper front and rear crossbars requires special tools, such as screwdrivers. Therefore, disassembling operations are complex and time consuming.
Known dishwashers, therefore, require complex assembling and/or disassembling operations.
It is an object of the present invention to optimize assembling and/or disassembling operations in a dishwasher.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a dishwasher suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a solution that makes maintenance and/or dismantling operations of a dishwasher more efficient compared to known systems.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
Applicant has found that by providing a dishwasher for washing items, wherein the appliance comprises a washing chamber and a base supporting the washing chamber and by providing a snap-in device for removably connecting the base to the washing chamber, it is possible to reach the mentioned objects.
In an aspect thereof the present invention relates, therefore, to a dishwasher for washing items comprising:
- a washing chamber apt to receive said items to be washed;
- a base supporting said washing chamber;
- an outer casing for said washing chamber;
- a snap-in device for removably connecting said base to said washing chamber; wherein said snap-in device comprises a snap-fit element protruding from said base and a snap-fit seat associated to said washing chamber and apt to receive said snap-fit element, said base and said snap-fit element being made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction; said snap-fit seat comprising an element fixed to said washing chamber; said base comprising a supporting surface and said washing chamber comprising a corresponding holding surface wherein, in the assembled configuration with said snap-fit element inserted in said snap-fit seat, said holding surface abuts said supporting surface so that said base supports the weight of said washing chamber through said supporting surface.
Advantageously, the base and the washing chamber are easily assembled therebetween during manufacturing of the dishwasher. This simplifies and/or reduces the time of the assembly operations.
On the other hand, advantageously, the base and the washing chamber can be quickly disassembled without special tools. The base and the washing chamber can be easily disassembled during repair/maintenance of the dishwasher or during dismantling of the dishwasher.
Furthermore, advantageously, manufacturing of the base is cost-effective.
Moreover, the supporting surface of the base advantageously supports the weight of the washing chamber while the snap-in device is not subjected to the weight of the tub.
In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit seat comprises a metallic element fixed to the washing chamber. Preferably, the snap-fit seat and the washing chamber are both metallic elements. More preferably the snap-fit seat is fixed to the washing chamber by clinching. Advantageously, assembling of the snap-fit seat to the washing chamber is cost-effective.
According to a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit seat comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit element comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit element when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat; or the snap-fit element comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit seat comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit seat when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat.
Preferably, the snap-fit element comprises a stem portion and a head portion, wherein the abutting surface is provided between the head portion and the stem portion.
According to a preferred embodiment, the head portion comprises a top leading surface with a round corner and a lateral inclined surface extending from the round corner towards the stem portion, wherein the lateral inclined surface diverges in the direction of the stem portion and wherein the abutting surface is provided between the end of the lateral inclined surface and the stem portion. In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit seat comprises two flexible elements facing each other and having respective retaining surfaces and the snap-fit element comprises two abutting surfaces, wherein the two retaining surfaces abut the two abutting surfaces of the snap-fit element when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat; or the snap-fit element comprises two flexible elements having respective retaining surfaces and the snap-fit seat comprises two abutting surfaces, wherein the two retaining surfaces abut the two abutting surfaces of the snap-fit seat when the snap- fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat.
Preferably, the snap-fit element comprises a stem portion and a head portion wherein the two abutting surfaces are provided between the head portion and the stem portion.
According to a preferred embodiment, the head portion comprises a top leading surface with round corners and two lateral inclined surfaces extending from the round corners towards the stem portion, wherein the lateral inclined surfaces diverge in the direction of the stem portion so that the distance between the ends of the lateral inclined surfaces is larger than the width of the stem portion and wherein the two abutting surfaces are provided between the ends of the lateral inclined surfaces and the stem portion.
According to a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit seat comprises two spaced apart flanges facing each other and extending from a base surface, at least one of the flanges comprises a respective flexible fin wherein the retaining surface is defined at a respective end of the flexible fin.
In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit element comprises at least one flexible fin, wherein the at least one flexible fin is provided with said retaining surface.
Preferably, the snap-fit seat comprises two spaced apart flanges facing each other and extending from a base surface, wherein at least one of the flanges comprises an aperture and said abutting surface is defined by an edge of the aperture.
According to a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit element has a mushroom shape. In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit element protrudes upwardly from the base and the snap-fit seat protrudes downwardly from the washing chamber when the dishwasher is placed in its working position.
Preferably, the supporting surface and the holding surface are arranged in a position below the snap-in device when the dishwasher is placed in its working position. Applicant has further found that by providing a dishwasher for washing items, wherein the appliance comprises a washing chamber, an outer casing having at least an upper cover panel and an upper rear cross bar apt to be arranged at a rear upper position of the washing chamber and allowing the connection of said upper cover panel thereto and by providing a snap-in device for removably connecting said upper rear cross bar to said washing chamber, it is possible to reach the mentioned objects.
In a further aspect the present invention relates, therefore, to a dishwasher for washing items comprising:
- a washing chamber apt to receive said items to be washed;
- an outer casing for said washing chamber comprising at least an upper cover panel;
- an upper rear cross bar apt to be arranged at a rear upper position of said washing chamber and allowing the connection of said upper cover panel thereto; wherein said dishwasher comprises a snap-in device for removably connecting said upper rear cross bar to said washing chamber, said snap-in device comprising a snap-fit element protruding from said upper rear cross bar and a snap-fit seat associated to said washing chamber and apt to receive said snap-fit element, said upper rear cross bar and said snap-fit element being made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
Advantageously, the upper rear cross bar and the washing chamber are easily assembled therebetween during manufacturing of the dishwasher. This simplifies and/or reduces the time of the assembly operations.
Furthermore, advantageously, manufacturing of the upper cross bar is cost- effective.
On the other hand, advantageously, the upper rear cross bar and the washing chamber can be quickly disassembled without special tools. The upper rear cross bar and the washing chamber can be easily disassembled during repair/maintenance of the dishwasher or during dismantling of the dishwasher.
Furthermore, advantageously, manufacturing of the upper rear cross bar is cost- effective.
In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit seat comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit element comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat or the snap-fit element comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and the snap-fit seat comprises an abutting surface, wherein the retaining surface abuts the abutting surface of the snap-fit seat when the snap-fit element is inserted into the snap-fit seat.
Preferably, the snap-fit seat comprises a metallic element fixed to said washing chamber. According to a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit seat and the washing chamber are both metallic elements. More preferably the snap-fit seat is fixed to the washing chamber by clinching. Advantageously, assembling of the snap-fit seat to the washing chamber is cost-effective.
In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit element protrudes horizontally from the upper rear cross bar and the snap-fit seat is arranged at a top wall of the washing chamber when the dishwasher is placed in its working position.
Preferably, the snap-fit element comprises a head portion having a recessed portion wherein said abutting surface is provided.
According to a preferred embodiment, the abutting surface is defined by a vertical surface when the dishwasher is placed in its working position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be highlighted in greater detail in the following detailed description of some of its preferred embodiments, provided with reference to the enclosed drawings. In the drawings, corresponding characteristics and/or components are identified by the same reference numbers. In particular:
- Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a dishwasher according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein for the sake of clarity the door and some other elements of the dishwasher are not illustrated;
- Figure 2 shows the dishwasher of Figure 1 with the upper panel and a lateral panel in a removed position;
- Figure 3 shows an enlarged detail of Figure 2;
- Figure 4 shows a partially sectioned plan view of Figure 3;
- Figure 5 shows an element of Figure 3 isolated from the rest;
- Figure 6 shows the detail of Figure 3 sectioned according to a vertical plane;
- Figure 7 shows the detail of Figure 3 according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention;
- Figure 8 shows a partially sectioned plan view of Figure 7; - Figure 9 shows another enlarged detail of Figure 2;
- Figure 10 shows an exploded view of Figure 9;
- Figure 11 shows an enlarged detail of Figure 9;
- Figure 12 shows a partially sectioned view of Figure 11;
- Figure 13 shows an element of Figure 11 isolated from the rest;
- Figure 14 shows another element of Figure 11 isolated from the rest.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.
As described below, the present invention has proved to be particularly advantageous when applied to a dishwasher.
With reference to Figure 1 a preferred embodiment of a dishwasher 1 according to the invention is described. The dishwasher 1 here represented is a free-standing dishwasher 1, hereinafter also simply indicated as dishwasher 1. In different embodiments the dishwasher may be of a bult-in type, i.e. preferably embodied to be positioned within a furniture recess.
Figure 1 illustrates a dishwasher 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. The dishwasher 1 comprises an outer casing 2 and a washing chamber 3 configured to accommodate items to be washed, such as dishware, cutlery, and the like.
A number of walls form the washing chamber 3, hereinafter also indicated as tub 3. The tub 3, as shown in Figure 2, preferably comprises a top wall 6, a bottom wall 8, a rear wall 9 and spaced apart first and second lateral walls 10, 12. The tub 3 defines a front side aperture 14 that allows access to the tub 3. A closing door, not shown, is associated to the aperture 14. For the sake of clarity the closing door and some other elements of the dishwasher 1 are not illustrated.
The tub 3 is substantially a cuboid and the aperture 14 is substantially rectangular. Top and bottom walls 6, 8 are preferably jointed to lateral walls 10, 12 with rounded edges.
According to the preferred embodiment here illustrated, the dishwasher is a freestanding dishwasher 1 wherein the outer casing 2 encloses the tub 3 and comprises an upper cover panel 22, a first lateral panel 24 and a second lateral panel 26. A rear panel may also preferably be arranged to close the rear side of the dishwasher 1. In preferred embodiments, the rear panel is omitted.
In the assembled configuration the upper cover panel 22 faces the top wall 6 of the tub 3, the first lateral panel 24 faces the first lateral wall 10 of the tub 3 and the second lateral panel 26 faces the second lateral wall 12 of the tub 3.
The dishwasher 1 comprises one or more racks, not shown, apt to accommodate the items to be washed. The dishwasher 1 , as known in the art, further comprises a sump 28 at the bottom wall 8 of the tub 3, one or more spray devices, such as one or more spray arms, and a circulation pump. For the reason of brevity and clarity, the spray devices and the circulation pump are not illustrated in the Figures. The circulation pump is configured to pump liquid from the sump 28 to the spray devices during a wash cycle of the dishwasher 1. The liquid is sprayed from the spray devices onto the items to clean the items. Due to gravity, the liquid is collected in the sump 28 where it is pumped again by the circulation pump to the spray devices.
In an aspect of the invention, a base 30 is arranged at a bottom of the dishwasher 1 with the aim of supporting the tub 3.
The base 30 is preferably parallelepiped- shaped and preferably extends substantially over the same area of the tub 3. Also, preferably, the base 30 is made of plastic.
In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided at least one snap-in device 40 for removably connecting the base 30 to the tub 3.
According to the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, there are preferably two snap-in devices 40 arranged at respective rear corner zones between the base 30 and the tub 3. In particular, there is preferably provided for a first snap-in device 40 arranged at a rear corner zone between the base 30 and the first lateral wall 10 of the tub 3, as shown in Figure 2, and a second snap-in device arranged at a rear corner zone between the base 30 and the second lateral wall 10 of the tub 3, not visible in the Figures.
Hereinafter we will refer to one of the snap-in devices 40, which is an object of the present invention, being clear that the description may be extended to the other snap-in device 40 that is substantially identical.
According to the preferred embodiment here illustrated and described, the front corner zones of the base 30 are connected to respective lateral bars 23a, 23b of the dishwasher 1, preferably by means of screws 25a, 25b. Lateral bars 23a, 23b are preferably fixed to the tub 3, more preferably fixedly connected through clinching. Lateral bars 23a, 23b preferably act as reinforcing members and are also preferably configured to mount a hinge device (not shown) for the closing door at their lower ends. Furthermore, the lateral bars 23a, 23bare preferably configured to mount a door compensation system for a soft movement of the closing door.
The snap-in device 40 according to the invention preferably comprises a snap-fit element 52 protruding from the base 30 and a snap-fit seat 60 associated to the tub 3 and apt to receive the snap-fit element 52. More preferably, the snap-fit element 52 protrudes upwardly from the base 30 and the snap-fit seat 60 is arranged in a lower part of the tub 3, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position, i.e. the dishwasher 1 being placed on the floor.
According to an aspect of the invention, the base 30 and the snap-fit element 52 are made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
Preferably, the snap-fit element 52 and the base 30 are realized in a single piece construction through an injection- moulded process.
Advantageously, manufacturing of the base 30 is cost-effective.
The snap-fit seat 60 is preferably realized as a separated element 61 fixed to the tub 3. More preferably the snap-fit seat 60 is realized as a metallic element 61, the latest being fixed to the tub 3 by clinching when the tub 3 is also preferably a metallic element.
Advantageously, assembling of the snap-fit seat 60 to the tub 3 is cost-effective. The snap-fit element 52 preferably comprises two abutting surfaces 56a, 56b.
The snap-fit element 52, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, preferably comprises a stem portion 53 and a head portion 54 so that it preferably has a substantially mushroom shape. The two abutting surfaces 56a, 56b are preferably provided between the head portion 54 and the stem portion 53.
The head portion 54 preferably comprises a top leading surface 58 with round corners 58a, 58b and two lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b extending from said round corners 58a, 58b towards the stem portion 53. The lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b diverge in the direction of the stem portion 53 so that the distance between the ends of the lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b is larger than the width of the stem portion 53.
The two abutting surfaces 56a, 56b are hence defined between the ends of the lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b and the stem portion 53. Abutting surfaces 56a, 56b are preferably defined by horizontal surfaces, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position.
The snap-fit seat 60 preferably comprises two spaced apart flanges 61a, 61b facing each other and extending from a base surface 61c. Each flange 61a, 61b comprises a respective flexible fin 62a, 62b and retaining surfaces 64a, 64b are defined at respective ends of the flexible fins 62a, 62b.
The snap-fit element 52 is inserted in the snap-fit seat 60 along an insertion direction D. The snap-fit element 52 is inserted in the area defined between the flanges 61a, 61b of the snap-fit seat 60.
When the snap-fit element 52 moves between the flanges 61a, 61b, the flexible fins 62a, 62b are temporarily spaced apart by round corners 58a, 58b and lateral inclined surfaces 59a, 59b of the head portion 54 of the snap-fit element 52. When the snap-fit element 52 finally reaches its final position, flexible fins 62a, 62b move back towards their initial position and retaining surfaces 64a, 64b of the flexible fins 62a, 62b abut against abutting surfaces 56a, 56b of the snap-fit element 52.
In this configuration, the snap-in device 40 realizes the connection between the base 30 and the tub 3 and the flexible fins 62a, 62b maintain the snap-fit element 52 in engaged position.
Advantageously, during manufacturing of the dishwasher 1 the base 30 and the tub 3 are easily assembled therebetween by arranging one opposite the other and inserting the snap-fit elements 52 in respective snap-fit seats 60 of the snap-in devices 40. No special attention is therefore required for alignment between the base 30 and the tub 3 during assembling. This simplifies and/or reduces the time of the assembly operations.
Disconnection of the base 30 from the tub 3 is easily obtained by moving the flexible fins 62a, 62b apart in order to disengage retaining surfaces 64a, 64b of the flexible fins 62a, 62b from abutting surfaces 56a, 56b of the snap-fit element 52, separating the base 30 from the tub 3 in a direction opposite the insertion direction D so that the snap-fit element 52 is easily extracted from the snap-fit seat 60.
Advantageously, the base 30 and the tub 3 can be quickly disassembled without special tools. The base 30 and the tub 3 can therefore be easily disassembled during repair/maintenance of the dishwasher or during dismantling of the dishwasher 1.
A folded tongue 66 is further preferably defined in the snap-fit seat 60 and covers the head portion 54 of the snap-fit element 52 in the assembled configuration. The folded tongue 66 preferably comprises an aperture 70 apt to receives a fastening element (not shown), for example a screw, that advantageously engages a respective hole 72 of the head portion 54.
This may be used for a further and/or additional secure fastening of the base 30 to the tub 3.
In a preferred embodiment, the screw is screwed into the hole 72 during manufacturing of the dishwasher 1 when the base 30 and the tub 3 are assembled. In a further preferred embodiment, the screw is not screwed into the hole 72 during manufacturing of the dishwasher 1 but is successively screwed if necessary. If the snap-fit device 40 for some reason breaks, for example during maintenance of the dishwasher 1 , a screw may be used to restore a secure fastening of the base 30 to the tub 3.
Preferably, as shown in Figure 3 and more clearly shown in Figure 6, the base 30 comprises a supporting surface 34 and the tub 3 comprises a corresponding holding surface 36. The supporting surface 34 and the holding surface 36 are preferably substantially horizontal when the dishwasher 1 is placed in its working position. Furthermore, preferably, the supporting surface 34 and the holding surface 36 are arranged in a position below the snap-in device 40 when the dishwasher 1 is placed in its working position.
In the assembled configuration, with the snap-fit element 52 inserted in the snap- fit seat 60, the holding surface 36 of the tub 3 abuts the supporting surface 34 of the base 30. Therefore, the supporting surface 34 of the base 30 supports the weight of the tub 3 while, advantageously, the snap-in device 40 is not subjected to the weight of the tub 3.
At the same time the snap-in device 40 advantageously guarantees the connection between the base 30 and the tub 3, as previously described.
In the embodiment illustrated and described above, the snap-fit seat comprises two flexible fins and the snap-fit element comprises two respective abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins. In different embodiments, not shown, the snap- fit seat may comprise a different number of flexible fins, even only one flexible fin, and accordingly the snap-fit element may comprise a different number of abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins/s, even only one abutting surface. For example, the snap-fit element may comprise a stem portion and a head portion, wherein the only one abutting surface is provided between the head portion and the stem portion. In particular, the head portion may comprise a top leading surface with a round corner and a lateral inclined surface extending from the round corner towards the stem portion, wherein the lateral inclined surface diverges in the direction of the stem portion and wherein the only one abutting surface is provided between the end of the lateral inclined surface and the stem portion.
Figures 7 and 8 show a further preferred embodiment of the snap-in device 140 of the invention. In the drawings, corresponding characteristics and/or components of the first embodiment previously described are identified by the same reference numbers.
The snap-in device 140 preferably comprises a snap-fit element 152 protruding from the base 30 and a snap-fit seat 160 associated to the tub 3 and apt to receive the snap-fit element 152. More preferably, the snap-fit element 152 protrudes upwardly from the base 30 and the snap-fit seat 160 is arranged in a lower part of the tub 3, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position.
The base 30 and the snap-fit element 152 are preferably made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
More preferably, the snap-fit element 152 and the base 30 are realized in a single piece construction through an injection-moulded process.
Advantageously, manufacturing of the base 30 is cost-effective.
The snap-fit seat 160 is preferably realized as a separated element 161 fixed to the tub 3. More preferably the snap-fit seat 160 is realized as a metallic element 161, the latest being fixed to the tub 3 by clinching when the tub 3 is also preferably a metallic element.
The snap-fit element 152 preferably comprises two flexible fins 162a, 162b provided with respective retaining surfaces 164a, 164b. Retaining surfaces 164a, 164b are preferably defined by horizontal surfaces, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position.
The snap-fit element 152 thus preferably has a substantially mushroom shape.
The snap-fit seat 160 preferably comprises two spaced apart flanges 161a, 161b facing each other and extending from a base surface 161c wherein two abutting surfaces 156a, 156b are defined.
Preferably, the abutting surfaces 156a, 156b are defined by the lower edges of two respective apertures 155a, 155b realized in the flanges 161a, 161b.
The snap-fit element 152 is inserted in the snap-fit seat 160 along an insertion direction D.
The snap-fit element 152 is inserted in the area defined between the flanges 161a, 161b of the snap-fit seat 160.
When the snap-fit element 152 moves between the flanges 161a, 161b, the flexible fins 162a, 162b are temporarily compressed under the action of the flanges 161a, 161b.When the snap-fit element 152 finally reaches its final position, the flexible fins 162a, 162b expand entering the apertures 155a, 155b so that the retaining surfaces 164a, 164b of the flexible fins 162a, 162b abut against abutting surfaces 156a, 156b of the flanges 161a, 161b.
In this final configuration, the snap-in device 140 realizes the connection between the base 30 and the tub 3 and the flexible fins 162a, 162b maintain the snap-fit element 152 in engaged position.
Disconnection of the base 30 from the tub 3 is easily obtained by compressing the flexible fins 162a, 162b of the snap-fit element 152, for example with the fingers, and separating the base 30 from the tub 3 in a direction opposite the insertion direction D so that the snap-fit element 152 is easily extracted from the snap-fit seat 160.
Preferably, again, the base 30 comprises a supporting surface 34 and the tub 3 comprises a corresponding holding surface 36. In the assembled configuration, with the snap-fit element 152 inserted in the snap-fit seat 160, the holding surface 36 of the tub 3 abuts the supporting surface 34 of the base 30. Therefore, the supporting surface 34 of the base 30 supports the weight of the tub 3 while, advantageously, the snap-in device 140 is not subjected to the weight of the tub 3. At the same time the snap-in device 140 advantageously guarantees the connection between the base 30 and the tub 3, as previously described.
In the embodiment illustrated and described above, the snap-fit element comprises two flexible fins and the snap-fit seat comprises two abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins. In different embodiments, not shown, the snap-fit element may comprise a different number of flexible fins, even only one flexible fin, and accordingly the snap-fit seat may comprise a different number of abutting surfaces cooperating with the flexible fins/s.
In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an upper rear cross bar 73 that is arranged at a rear upper position of the tub 3, ad shown in Figures 2 and 9. According to this preferred embodiment, the upper rear cross bar 73 is used for assembling the upper cover panel 22 during manufacturing of the dishwasher 1. The upper rear cross bar 73 is interposed between the tub 3 and the upper cover panel 22. Preferably, the upper rear cross bar 73 is made of plastic.
In an aspect of the invention, there is provided at least one snap-in device 74 for removably connecting the upper rear cross bar 73 to the tub 3.
According to the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, and better described later, there are preferably two snap-in devices 74 arranged at respective two zones between the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3.
Hereinafter we will refer to one of the snap-in devices 74 (Figures 11 to 14), which is an object of the present invention, being clear that the description may be extended to the other snap-in device 74 that is substantially identical.
The snap-in device 74 preferably comprises a snap-fit element 82 protruding from the upper rear cross bar 73 and a snap-fit seat 90 associated to the tub 3 and apt to receive the snap-fit element 82. More preferably, the snap-fit element 82 protrudes horizontally from the upper rear cross bar 73 and the snap-fit seat 90 is arranged at the top wall 6 of the tub 3, when the dishwasher 1 is placed in its working position.
According to an aspect of the invention, the upper rear cross bar 73 and the snap- fit element 82 are made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
More preferably, the snap-fit element 82 and the upper rear cross bar 73 are realized in a single piece construction through an injection-moulded process. Advantageously, manufacturing of the upper rear cross bar 73 is cost-effective.
The snap-fit seat 90 is preferably realized as a separated element 91 fixed to the tub 3. More preferably the snap-fit seat 90 is realized as a metallic element 91, the latest being fixed to the tub 3 by clinching when the tub 3 is also preferably a metallic element.
The snap-fit element 82 preferably comprises a head portion 84 having an abutting surface 86 provided in a recessed portion 87 thereof, as shown in Figure 13.
In the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, the recessed portion 87 comprises a pass-through hole.
The abutting surface 86 is preferably defined by a vertical surface, considering the dishwasher 1 in its working position.
The head portion 84 of the snap-fit element 82 then preferably comprises a leading surface 88 with a slanted portion 88a.
The snap-fit seat 90 preferably defines a receiving channel 93 for the snap-fit element 82. The upper part of the receiving channel 93 preferably comprises a flexible fin 92 with a retaining surface 94 at its free end. The snap-fit element 82 is inserted in the receiving channel 93 of the snap-fit seat 90 along an insertion direction D, as indicated in Figure 9.
When the snap-fit element 82 moves in the receiving channel 93, the flexible fin 92 is temporarily moved/raised by the slanted portion 88a of the snap-fit element 82. When the snap-fit element 82 finally reaches its final position, the flexible fin 92 moves back towards its initial position and the retaining surface 94 of the flexible fin 92 abuts against the abutting surface 86 of the snap-fit element 82.
In this configuration, the snap-in device 40 realizes the connection between the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 and the flexible fin 92 maintains the snap-fit element 82 in engaged position.
Advantageously, during manufacturing of the dishwasher 1 the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 are easily assembled therebetween by arranging one opposite the other and inserting the snap-fit elements 82 in respective snap-fit seats 90 of the snap-in devices 74. No special attention is therefore required for alignment between the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 during assembling. This simplifies and/or reduces the time of the assembly operations.
Disconnection of the upper rear cross bar 73 from the tub 3 is easily obtained by moving the flexible fin 92 in order to disengage retaining surface 94 of the flexible fin 92 from the abutting surface 86 of the snap-fit element 82, separating upper rear cross bar 73 from the tub 3 in a direction opposite the insertion direction D so that the snap-fit element 82 is easily extracted from the snap-fit seat 90.
Advantageously, the upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 can be quickly disassembled without special tools. The upper rear cross bar 73 and the tub 3 can be therefore easily disassembled during repair/maintenance of the dishwasher or during dismantling of the dishwasher 1.
The snap-fit seat 90 further preferably comprises an aperture 100 apt to receives a fastening element, for example a screw, that advantageously engages a respective hole 102 of the snap-fit element 82. This may be used for a further and/or additional secure fastening of the upper rear cross bar 73 to the tub 3.
According to this preferred embodiment, the upper cover 22 is then preferably connected to the upper rear cross bar 73 through proper connecting devices (not shown), for example through one or more screws arranged along a rear side of the upper cover 22 not visible from outside.
In the embodiment illustrated and described above, the snap-fit element comprises one abutting surface and the snap-fit seat comprises one flexible fin cooperating with the abutting surface. In different embodiments, not shown, the snap-fit element may comprise two or more abutting surfaces and accordingly the snap-fit seat may comprise two or more flexible fins cooperating with the abutting surfaces. It has thus been shown that the present invention allows all the set objects to be achieved. In particular, the invention makes possible to provide a dishwasher with a washing chamber for items to be washed that optimize assembling and/or disassembling operations compared to known systems.
While the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments shown in the figures, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated and described herein; on the contrary, further variants of the embodiments described herein fall within the scope of the present invention, which is defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dishwasher (1) for washing items comprising:
- a washing chamber (3) apt to receive said items to be washed;
- a base (30) supporting said washing chamber (3);
- an outer casing (2) for said washing chamber (3);
- a snap-in device (40; 140) for removably connecting said base (30) to said washing chamber (3); wherein said snap-in device (40; 140) comprises a snap-fit element (52; 152) protruding from said base (30) and a snap-fit seat (60; 160) associated to said washing chamber (3) and apt to receive said snap-fit element (52; 152), said base (30) and said snap-fit element (52; 152) being made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction; said snap-fit seat (60; 160) comprising an element (61; 161) fixed to said washing chamber (3); said base (30) comprising a supporting surface (34) and said washing chamber (3) comprising a corresponding holding surface (36) wherein, in the assembled configuration with said snap-fit element (52; 152) inserted in said snap-fit seat (60; 160), said holding surface (36) abuts said supporting surface (34) so that said base (30) supports the weight of said washing chamber (3) through said supporting surface (34).
2. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (60; 160) comprises a metallic element (61; 161) fixed to said washing chamber (3).
3. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (60; 160) and said washing chamber (3) are both metallic elements.
4. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (60; 160) is fixed to said washing chamber by clinching.
5. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (60) comprises a flexible element (62a, 62b) having a retaining surface (64a, 64b) and said snap-fit element (52) comprises an abutting surface (56a, 56b), wherein said retaining surface (64a, 64b) abuts said abutting surface (56a, 56b) of said snap-fit element (52) when said snap-fit element (52; 152) is inserted into said snap-fit seat (60); or said snap-fit element (152) comprises a flexible element (162a, 162b) having a retaining surface (164a, 164b) and said snap-fit seat (160) comprises an abutting surface (156a, 156b), wherein said retaining surface (164a, 164b) abuts said abutting surface (156a, 156b) of said snap-fit seat (160) when said snap-fit element (152) is inserted into said snap-fit seat (60).
6. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that said snap-fit element (52) comprises a stem portion (53) and a head portion (54), wherein said abutting surface (56a, 56b) is provided between said head portion (54) and said stem portion (53).
7. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that said said head portion comprises a top leading surface with a round corner and a lateral inclined surface extending from said round corner towards said stem portion, wherein said lateral inclined surface diverges in the direction of said stem portion and wherein said abutting surface is provided between said end of said lateral inclined surface and said stem portion.
8. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (60) comprises two flexible elements (62a, 62b) facing each other and having respective retaining surfaces (64a, 64b) and said snap-fit element (52) comprises two abutting surfaces (56a, 56b), wherein said two retaining surfaces (64a, 64b) abut said two abutting surfaces (56a, 56b) of said snap-fit element (52) when said snap-fit element (52) is inserted into said snap-fit seat (60); or said snap-fit element (152) comprises two flexible elements (162a, 162b) having respective retaining surfaces (164a, 164b) and said snap-fit seat (160) comprises two abutting surfaces (156a, 156b), wherein said two retaining surfaces (164a, 164b) abut said two abutting surfaces (156a, 156b) of said snap-fit seat (160) when said snap-fit element (152) is inserted into said snap-fit seat (160).
9. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that said snap-fit element (52) comprises a stem portion (53) and a head portion (54), wherein said two abutting surfaces (56a, 56b) are provided between said head portion (54) and said stem portion (53).
10. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that said head portion (54) comprises a top leading surface (58) with round corners (58a, 58b) and two lateral inclined surfaces (59a, 59b) extending from said round corners (58a, 58b) towards said stem portion (53), wherein said lateral inclined surfaces (59a, 59b) diverge in the direction of said stem portion (53) so that the distance between the ends of said lateral inclined surfaces (59a, 59b) is larger than the width of said stem portion (53) and wherein said two abutting surfaces (56a, 56b) are provided between said ends of said lateral inclined surfaces (59a, 59b) and said stem portion (53).
11. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the claims 4 to 10, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (60) comprises two spaced apart flanges (61a, 61b) facing each other and extending from a base surface (61c), at least one of said flanges (61a, 61b) comprises a respective flexible fin (62a, 62b) wherein said retaining surface (64a, 64b) is defined at a respective end of said flexible fin (62a, 62b).
12. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 5 or 8, characterized in that said snap- fit element (152) comprises at least one flexible fin (162a, 162b), wherein said at least one flexible fin (162a, 162b) is provided with said retaining surface (64a, 164b).
13. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 5 or 8 or 12, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (160) comprises two spaced apart flanges (161a, 161b) facing each other and extending from a base surface (161c), wherein at least one of said flanges (161a, 161b) comprises an aperture (155a, 155b) and said abutting surface (156a, 156b) is defined by an edge of said aperture (155a, 155b).
14. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said snap-fit element (52; 152) has a mushroom shape.
15. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said snap-fit element (52; 152) protrudes upwardly from said base (30) and said snap-fit seat (60; 160) is arranged in a lower part of said washing chamber (3) when said dishwasher (1) is placed in its working position.
16. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said supporting surface (34) and said holding surface (36) are arranged in a position below said snap-in device (40; 140) when said dishwasher (1) is placed in its working position.
17. A dishwasher (1) for washing items comprising:
- a washing chamber (3) apt to receive said items to be washed;
- an outer casing (2) for said washing chamber (3) comprising at least an upper cover panel (22);
- an upper rear cross bar (73) apt to be arranged at a rear upper position of said washing chamber (3) and allowing the connection of said upper cover panel (22) thereto; wherein said dishwasher (1) comprises a snap-in device (74) for removably connecting said upper rear cross bar (73) to said washing chamber (3), said snap- in device (74) comprising a snap-fit element (82) protruding from said upper rear cross bar (73) and a snap-fit seat (90) associated to said washing chamber (3) and apt to receive said snap-fit element (82), said upper rear cross bar (73) and said snap-fit element (82) being made of plastic and realized in a single piece construction.
18. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (90) comprises a flexible element (92) having a retaining surface (94) and said snap-fit element (82) comprises an abutting surface (86), wherein said retaining surface (94) abuts said abutting surface (86) of snap-fit element (82) when said snap-fit element (82) is inserted into said snap-fit seat (90) or said snap-fit element comprises a flexible element having a retaining surface and said snap-fit seat comprises an abutting surface, wherein said retaining surface abuts said abutting surface of said snap-fit seat when said snap-fit element is inserted into said snap- fit seat.
19. A dishwasher (1) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that said snap- fit seat (90) comprises a metallic element (91) fixed to said washing chamber (3).
20. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the claims 17 to 19, characterized in that said snap-fit seat (90) and said washing chamber (3) are both metallic elements.
21. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the claims 17 to 20, characterized in that said snap-fit element (82) protrudes horizontally from said upper rear cross bar (73) and said snap-fit seat (90) is arranged at a top wall (6) of said washing chamber (3) when said dishwasher (1) is placed in its working position.
22. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the claims 18 to 21, characterized in that said snap-fit element (82) comprises a head portion (84) having a recessed portion (87) wherein said abutting surface (86) is provided.
23. A dishwasher (1) according to any of the claims 18 to 22, characterized in that said abutting surface (86) is defined by a vertical surface when said dishwasher (1) is placed in its working position.
PCT/EP2023/075933 2023-09-20 2023-09-20 Dishwasher equipped with a supporting base Pending WO2025061278A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2023/075933 WO2025061278A1 (en) 2023-09-20 2023-09-20 Dishwasher equipped with a supporting base

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2023/075933 WO2025061278A1 (en) 2023-09-20 2023-09-20 Dishwasher equipped with a supporting base

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WO2025061278A1 true WO2025061278A1 (en) 2025-03-27

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Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2022621A (en) * 1978-05-26 1979-12-19 Domar Sa Improvements in and relating to washing machines
GB2124483A (en) * 1982-07-16 1984-02-22 Faini Spa A top for domestic appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators
DE19613320C1 (en) * 1996-04-03 1997-04-30 Bauknecht Hausgeraete Worksurface fixing system for domestic electrical appliance
DE102007057513A1 (en) * 2007-11-29 2009-06-04 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance, in particular dishwasher
DE102008015944A1 (en) * 2008-03-27 2009-10-01 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Household Floor
EP2409631A2 (en) * 2010-07-22 2012-01-25 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Dishwasher and method for manufacturing same
EP2420177A2 (en) * 2010-08-18 2012-02-22 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Dishwasher, in particular household dishwasher
WO2012032007A1 (en) * 2010-09-07 2012-03-15 Vestel Beyaz Esya Sanayi Ve Ticaret A.S. A domestic appliance comprising top plate
EP2484264A2 (en) * 2011-02-08 2012-08-08 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Dishwasher, in particular household dishwasher
DE102012220347A1 (en) * 2012-11-08 2014-05-08 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Domestic integrated dishwasher has flange which is provided with holding portion, so that guiding arrangement is fitted with recess portion and rinsing container is positively connected to base support

Patent Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2022621A (en) * 1978-05-26 1979-12-19 Domar Sa Improvements in and relating to washing machines
GB2124483A (en) * 1982-07-16 1984-02-22 Faini Spa A top for domestic appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators
DE19613320C1 (en) * 1996-04-03 1997-04-30 Bauknecht Hausgeraete Worksurface fixing system for domestic electrical appliance
DE102007057513A1 (en) * 2007-11-29 2009-06-04 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance, in particular dishwasher
DE102008015944A1 (en) * 2008-03-27 2009-10-01 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Household Floor
EP2409631A2 (en) * 2010-07-22 2012-01-25 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Dishwasher and method for manufacturing same
EP2420177A2 (en) * 2010-08-18 2012-02-22 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Dishwasher, in particular household dishwasher
WO2012032007A1 (en) * 2010-09-07 2012-03-15 Vestel Beyaz Esya Sanayi Ve Ticaret A.S. A domestic appliance comprising top plate
EP2484264A2 (en) * 2011-02-08 2012-08-08 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Dishwasher, in particular household dishwasher
DE102012220347A1 (en) * 2012-11-08 2014-05-08 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Domestic integrated dishwasher has flange which is provided with holding portion, so that guiding arrangement is fitted with recess portion and rinsing container is positively connected to base support

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