Patent Description:
Contemporary automatic dishwashers for use in a typical household include a tub that can have an open front and at least partially defines a treating chamber into which items, such as kitchenware, glassware, and the like, can be placed to undergo a washing operation. At least one rack or basket for supporting soiled dishes can be provided within the tub. A spraying system can be provided for recirculating liquid throughout the tub to remove soils from the dishes. The spray system can include rotating or stationary sprayers. A user interface can be provided for selecting, modifying, or otherwise controlling a cycle of operation.

Document <CIT> discloses a dishwasher comprising a body, a control panel and electrical devices in electrical communication with the control panel. A first cable bundle is connected to the control panel from one end and has a first connection member at the other end. A second cable bundle is connected to an electrical device from one end and has a second connection member at the other end. A casing is positioned in the body and defines a certain area therein to connect the first and second connection members to each other, to establish electrical communication between the first and second cable bundles. The casing comprises a casing body bearing the first and second connection members therein. Moreover, the casing comprises a lid connected to the casing body, wherein the lid can move between a position which allows access at the first and second connection members borne in the casing body and another position which prevents access.

In one aspect, the invention relates to a dishwasher. The dishwasher includes a chassis defining an interior, a tub located within the interior and defining a treating chamber, a set of electrical components, a controller operably coupled to the set of electrical components, an electrical connector electrically coupling the controller to at least one electrical component in the set of electrical components, and a housing at least partially forming a water barrier chamber receiving the electrical connector, and also forming a radio frequency interference (RFI) barrier.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a dishwasher. The dishwasher includes a chassis defining an interior, a tub located within the interior and defining a treating chamber, a first electronic component and a second electronic component located within the chassis, an electrical connector electronically coupling the first electronic component to the second electronic component, and a housing projecting from the chassis into the interior, the housing at least partially forming a water barrier chamber receiving the electrical connector, and also forming a radio frequency interference (RFI) barrier.

<FIG> illustrates an automatic dishwasher <NUM> capable of implementing an automatic cycle of operation to treat dishes. As used in this description, the term "dish(es)" or "dish item(s)" is intended to be generic to any item, single or plural, that can be treated in the dishwasher <NUM>, including, without limitation, dishes, plates, pots, bowls, pans, glassware, and silverware. As illustrated, the dishwasher <NUM> is a built-in dishwasher implementation, which is designed for mounting under a countertop. However, this description is applicable to other dishwasher implementations such as a stand-alone, drawer-type or a sink-type, for example.

The dishwasher <NUM> has a variety of systems, some of which are controllable, to implement the automatic cycle of operation. A chassis <NUM> is provided to support the variety of systems needed to implement the automatic cycle of operation. As illustrated, for a built-in implementation, the chassis <NUM> includes a frame in the form of a base <NUM> on which is supported a open-faced tub <NUM>, which at least partially defines a treating chamber <NUM>, having an open face <NUM>, for receiving the dishes. A closure in the form of a door assembly <NUM> is pivotally mounted to the base <NUM> for movement between opened and closed positions to selectively open and close the open face <NUM> of the tub <NUM>. Thus, the door assembly <NUM> provides selective accessibility to the treating chamber <NUM> for the loading and unloading of dishes or other items.

The chassis <NUM>, as in the case of the built-in dishwasher implementation, can be formed by other parts of the dishwasher <NUM>, like the tub <NUM> and the door assembly <NUM>, in addition to a dedicated frame structure, like the base <NUM>, with them all collectively forming a uni-body frame to which the variety of systems are supported. In other implementations, like the drawer-type dishwasher, the chassis <NUM> can be a tub that is slidable relative to a frame, with the closure being a part of the chassis <NUM> or the countertop of the surrounding cabinetry. In a sink-type implementation, the sink forms the tub and the cover closing the open top of the sink forms the closure. Sink-type implementations are more commonly found in recreational vehicles.

The systems supported by the chassis <NUM>, while essentially limitless, can include dish holding system <NUM>, spray system <NUM>, recirculation system <NUM>, drain system <NUM>, water supply system <NUM>, drying system <NUM>, heating system <NUM>, and filter system <NUM>. These systems are used to implement one or more treating cycles of operation for the dishes, for which there are many, and one of which includes a traditional automatic wash cycle.

A basic traditional automatic wash cycle of operation has a wash phase, where a detergent/water mixture is recirculated and then drained, which is then followed by a rinse phase where water alone or with a rinse agent is recirculated and then drained. An optional drying phase can follow the rinse phase. More commonly, the automatic wash cycle has multiple wash phases and multiple rinse phases. The multiple wash phases can include a pre-wash phase where water, with or without detergent, is sprayed or recirculated on the dishes, and can include a dwell or soaking phase. There can be more than one pre-wash phases. A wash phase, where water with detergent is recirculated on the dishes, follows the pre-wash phases. There can be more than one wash phase; the number of which can be sensor controlled based on the amount of sensed soils in the wash liquid. One or more rinse phases will follow the wash phase(s), and, in some cases, come between wash phases. The number of wash phases can also be sensor controlled based on the amount of sensed soils in the rinse liquid. The wash phases and rinse phases can included the heating of the water, even to the point of one or more of the phases being hot enough for long enough to sanitize the dishes. A drying phase can follow the rinse phase(s). The drying phase can include a drip dry, heated dry, condensing dry, air dry or any combination.

A controller <NUM> can also be included in the dishwasher <NUM> and operably couples with and controls a set of electrical components <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) for the various components of the dishwasher <NUM> to implement the cycle of operation. The controller <NUM> can be located within the door assembly <NUM> as illustrated, or it can alternatively be located somewhere within the chassis <NUM>. The controller <NUM> can also be operably coupled with a control panel or user interface <NUM> for receiving user-selected inputs and communicating information to the user. The user interface <NUM> can include operational controls such as dials, lights, switches, and displays enabling a user to input commands, such as a cycle of operation, to the controller <NUM> and receive information.

The dish holding system <NUM> can include any suitable structure for holding dishes within the treating chamber <NUM>. Exemplary dish holders are illustrated in the form of upper dish racks <NUM> and lower dish rack <NUM>, commonly referred to as "racks", which are located within the treating chamber <NUM>. The upper dish racks <NUM> and the lower dish rack <NUM> are typically mounted for slidable movement in and out of the treating chamber <NUM> through the open face <NUM> for ease of loading and unloading. Drawer guides/slides/rails <NUM> are typically used to slidably mount the upper dish rack <NUM> to the tub <NUM>. The lower dish rack <NUM> typically has wheels or rollers <NUM> that roll along rails <NUM> formed in sidewalls of the tub <NUM> and onto the door assembly <NUM>, when the door assembly <NUM> is in the opened position.

Dedicated dish holders can also be provided. One such dedicated dish holder is a third level rack <NUM> located above the upper dish rack <NUM>. Like the upper dish rack <NUM>, the third level rack is slidably mounted to the tub <NUM> with drawer guides/slides/rails <NUM>. The third level rack <NUM> is typically used to hold utensils, such as tableware, spoons, knives, spatulas, etc., in an on-the-side or flat orientation. However, the third level rack <NUM> is not limited to holding utensils. If an item can fit in the third level rack, it can be washed in the third level rack <NUM>. The third level rack <NUM> generally has a much shorter height or lower profile than the upper and lower dish racks <NUM>, <NUM>. Typically, the height of the third level rack is short enough that a typical glass cannot be stood vertically in the third level rack <NUM> and the third level rack <NUM> still slide into the treating chamber <NUM>.

Another dedicated dish holder can be a silverware basket (not shown), which is typically carried by one of the upper or lower dish racks <NUM>, <NUM> or mounted to the door assembly <NUM>. The silverware basket typically holds utensils and the like in an upright orientation as compared to the on-the-side or flat orientation of the third level rack <NUM>.

A dispenser assembly <NUM> is provided to dispense treating chemistry, e.g. detergent, anti-spotting agent, etc., into the treating chamber <NUM>. The dispenser assembly <NUM> can be mounted on an inner surface of the door assembly <NUM>, as shown, or can be located at other positions within the chassis <NUM>. The dispenser assembly <NUM> can dispense one or more types of treating chemistries. The dispenser assembly <NUM> can be a single-use dispenser or a bulk dispenser, or a combination of both.

Turning to <FIG>, the spray system <NUM> is provided for spraying liquid in the treating chamber <NUM> and can have multiple spray assemblies or sprayers, some of which can be dedicated to a particular one of the dish holders, to particular area of a dish holder, to a particular type of cleaning, or to a particular level of cleaning, etc. The sprayers can be fixed or movable, such as rotating, relative to the treating chamber <NUM> or dish holder. Six exemplary sprayers are illustrated and include, an upper spray arm <NUM>, a lower spray arm <NUM>, a third level sprayer <NUM>, a deep-clean sprayer <NUM>, and a spot sprayer <NUM>. The upper spray arm <NUM> and lower spray arm <NUM> are rotating spray arms, located below the upper dish rack <NUM> and lower dish rack <NUM>, respectively, and rotate about a generally centrally located and vertical axis. The third level sprayer <NUM> is located above the third level rack <NUM>. The third level sprayer <NUM> is illustrated as being fixed, but could move, such as in rotating. In addition to the third level sprayer <NUM> or in place of the third level sprayer <NUM>, a sprayer <NUM> can be located at least in part below a portion of the third level rack <NUM>. The sprayer <NUM> is illustrated as a fixed tube, carried by the third level rack <NUM>, but could move, such as in rotating about a longitudinal axis.

The deep-clean sprayer <NUM> is a manifold extending along a rear wall of the tub <NUM> and has multiple nozzles <NUM>, with multiple apertures <NUM>, generating an intensified and/or higher pressure spray than the upper spray arm <NUM>, the lower spray arm <NUM>, or the third level sprayer <NUM>. The nozzles <NUM> can be fixed or move, such as in rotating. The spray emitted by the deep-clean sprayer <NUM> defines a deep clean zone, which, as illustrated, would like along a rear side of the lower dish rack <NUM>. Thus, dishes needing deep cleaning, such as dishes with baked-on food, can be located in the lower dish rack <NUM> to face the deep-clean sprayer <NUM>. The deep-clean sprayer <NUM>, while illustrated as only one unit on a rear wall of the tub <NUM> could comprises multiple units and/or extend along multiple portions, including different walls, of the tub <NUM>, and can be provide above, below or beside any of the dish holders with deep-cleaning is desired.

The spot sprayer <NUM>, like the deep-clean sprayer, can emit an intensified and/or higher pressure spray, especially to a discrete location within one of the dish holders. While the spot sprayer <NUM> is shown below the lower dish rack <NUM>, it could be adjacent any part of any dish holder or along any wall of the tub where special cleaning is desired. In the illustrated location below the lower dish rack <NUM>, the spot sprayer can be used independently of or in combination with the lower spray arm <NUM>. The spot sprayer <NUM> can be fixed or can move, such as in rotating.

These six sprayers are illustrative examples of suitable sprayers and are not meant to be limiting as to the type of suitable sprayers.

The recirculation system <NUM> recirculates the liquid sprayed into the treating chamber <NUM> by the sprayers of the spray system <NUM> back to the sprayers to form a recirculation loop or circuit by which liquid can be repeatedly and/or continuously sprayed onto dishes in the dish holders. The recirculation system <NUM> can include a sump <NUM> and a pump assembly <NUM>. The sump <NUM> collects the liquid sprayed in the treating chamber <NUM> and can be formed by a sloped or recess portion of a bottom wall of the tub <NUM>. The pump assembly <NUM> can include one or more pumps such as recirculation pump <NUM>. The sump <NUM> can also be a separate module that is affixed to the bottom wall and include the pump assembly <NUM>.

Multiple liquid supply conduits <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> fluidly couple the sprayers <NUM>-<NUM> to the recirculation pump <NUM>. A recirculation valve <NUM> can selectively fluidly couple each of the conduits <NUM>-<NUM> to the recirculation pump <NUM>. While each sprayer <NUM>-<NUM> is illustrated as having a corresponding dedicated supply conduit <NUM>-<NUM> one or more subsets, comprising multiple sprayers from the total group of sprayers <NUM>-<NUM>, can be supplied by the same conduit, negating the need for a dedicated conduit for each sprayer. For example, a single conduit can supply the upper spray arm <NUM> and the third level sprayer <NUM>. Another example is that the sprayer <NUM> is supplied liquid by the conduit <NUM>, which also supplies the third level sprayer <NUM>.

The recirculation valve <NUM>, while illustrated as a single valve, can be implemented with multiple valves. Additionally, one or more of the conduits can be directly coupled to the recirculation pump <NUM>, while one or more of the other conduits can be selectively coupled to the recirculation pump with one or more valves. There are essentially an unlimited number of plumbing schemes to connect the recirculation system <NUM> to the spray system <NUM>. The illustrated plumbing is not limiting.

A drain system <NUM> drains liquid from the treating chamber <NUM>. The drain system <NUM> includes a drain pump <NUM> fluidly coupled the treating chamber <NUM> to a drain line <NUM>. As illustrated the drain pump <NUM> fluidly couples the sump <NUM> to the drain line <NUM>.

While separate recirculation and drain pumps <NUM> and <NUM> are illustrated, a single pump can be used to perform both the recirculating and the draining functions. Alternatively, the drain pump <NUM> can be used to recirculate liquid in combination with the recirculation pump <NUM>. When both a recirculation pump <NUM> and drain pump <NUM> are used, the drain pump <NUM> is typically more robust than the recirculation pump <NUM> as the drain pump <NUM> tends to have to remove solids and soils from the sump <NUM>, unlike the recirculation pump <NUM>, which tends to recirculate liquid which has solids and soils filtered away to some extent.

A water supply system <NUM> is provided for supplying fresh water to the dishwasher <NUM> from a household water supply via a household water valve <NUM>. The water supply system <NUM> includes a water supply unit <NUM> having a water supply conduit <NUM> with a siphon break <NUM>. While the water supply conduit <NUM> can be directly fluidly coupled to the tub <NUM> or any other portion of the dishwasher <NUM>, the water supply conduit is shown fluidly coupled to a supply tank <NUM>, which can store the supplied water prior to use. The supply tank <NUM> is fluidly coupled to the sump <NUM> by a supply line <NUM>, which can include a controllable valve <NUM> to control when water is released from the supply tank <NUM> to the sump <NUM>.

The supply tank <NUM> can be conveniently sized to store a predetermined volume of water, such as a volume required for a phase of the cycle of operation, which is commonly referred to as a "charge" of water. The storing of the water in the supply tank <NUM> prior to use is beneficial in that the water in the supply tank <NUM> can be "treated" in some manner, such as softening or heating prior to use.

A water softener <NUM> is provided with the water supply system <NUM> to soften the fresh water. The water softener <NUM> is shown fluidly coupling the water supply conduit <NUM> to the supply tank <NUM> so that the supplied water automatically passes through the water softener <NUM> on the way to the supply tank <NUM>. However, the water softener <NUM> could directly supply the water to any other part of the dishwasher <NUM> than the supply tank <NUM>, including directly supplying the tub <NUM>. Alternatively, the water softener <NUM> can be fluidly coupled downstream of the supply tank <NUM>, such as in-line with the supply line <NUM>. Wherever the water softener <NUM> is fluidly coupled, it can be done so with controllable valves, such that the use of the water softener <NUM> is controllable and not mandatory.

A drying system <NUM> is provided to aid in the drying of the dishes during the drying phase. The drying system as illustrated includes a condensing assembly <NUM> having a condenser <NUM> formed of a serpentine conduit <NUM> with an inlet fluidly coupled to an upper portion of the tub <NUM> and an outlet fluidly coupled to a lower portion of the tub <NUM>, whereby moisture laden air within the tub <NUM> is drawn from the upper portion of the tub <NUM>, passed through the serpentine conduit <NUM>, where liquid condenses out of the moisture laden air and is returned to the treating chamber <NUM> where it ultimately evaporates or is drained via the drain pump <NUM>. The serpentine conduit <NUM> can be operated in an open loop configuration, where the air is exhausted to atmosphere, a closed loop configuration, where the air is returned to the treating chamber, or a combination of both by operating in one configuration and then the other configuration.

To enhance the rate of condensation, the temperature difference between the exterior of the serpentine conduit <NUM> and the moisture laden air can be increased by cooling the exterior of the serpentine conduit <NUM> or the surrounding air. To accomplish this, an optional cooling tank <NUM> is added to the condensing assembly <NUM>, with the serpentine conduit <NUM> being located within the cooling tank <NUM>. The cooling tank <NUM> is fluidly coupled to at least one of the spray system <NUM>, recirculation system <NUM>, drain system <NUM> or water supply system <NUM> such that liquid can be supplied to the cooling tank <NUM>. The liquid provided to the cooling tank <NUM> from any of the systems <NUM>-<NUM> can be selected by source and/or by phase of cycle of operation such that the liquid is at a lower temperature than the moisture laden air or even lower than the ambient air.

As illustrated, the liquid is supplied to the cooling tank <NUM> by the drain system <NUM>. A valve <NUM> fluidly connects the drain line <NUM> to a supply conduit <NUM> fluidly coupled to the cooling tank <NUM>. A return conduit <NUM> fluidly connects the cooling tank <NUM> back to the treating chamber <NUM> via a return valve <NUM>. In this way a fluid circuit is formed by the drain pump <NUM>, drain line <NUM>, valve <NUM>, supply conduit <NUM>, cooling tank <NUM>, return valve <NUM> and return conduit <NUM> through which liquid can be supplied from the treating chamber <NUM>, to the cooling tank <NUM>, and back to the treating chamber <NUM>. Alternatively, the supply conduit <NUM> could fluidly couple to the drain line <NUM> if re-use of the water is not desired.

To supply cold water from the household water supply via the household water valve <NUM> to the cooling tank <NUM>, the water supply system <NUM> would first supply cold water to the treating chamber <NUM>, then the drain system <NUM> would supply the cold water in the treating chamber <NUM> to the cooling tank <NUM>. It should be noted that the supply tank <NUM> and cooling tank <NUM> could be configured such that one tank performs both functions.

The drying system <NUM> can use ambient air, instead of cold water, to cool the exterior of the serpentine conduit <NUM>. In such a configuration, a blower <NUM> is connected to the cooling tank <NUM> and can supply ambient air to the interior of the cooling tank <NUM>. The cooling tank <NUM> can have a vented top <NUM> to permit the passing through of the ambient air to allow for a steady flow of ambient air blowing over the serpentine conduit <NUM>.

The cooling air from the blower <NUM> can be used in lieu of the cold water or in combination with the cold water. The cooling air will be used when the cooling tank <NUM> is not filled with liquid. Advantageously, the use of cooling air or cooling water, or combination of both, can be selected on the site-specific environmental conditions. If ambient air is cooler than the cold water temperature, then the ambient air can be used. If the cold water is cooler than the ambient air, then the cold water can be used. Cost-effectiveness can also be taken into account when selecting between cooling air and cooling water. The blower <NUM> can be used to dry the interior of the cooling tank <NUM> after the water has been drained. Suitable temperature sensors for the cold water and the ambient air can be provided and send their temperature signals to the controller <NUM>, which can determine which of the two is colder at any time or phase of the cycle of operation.

A heating system <NUM> is provided for heating water used in the cycle of operation. The heating system <NUM> includes a heater <NUM>, such as an immersion heater, located in the treating chamber <NUM> at a location where it will be immersed by the water supplied to the treating chamber <NUM>. The heater <NUM> need not be an immersion heater, it can also be an in-line heater located in any of the conduits. There can also be more than one heater <NUM>, including both an immersion heater and an in-line heater.

The heating system <NUM> can also include a heating circuit <NUM>, which includes a heat exchanger <NUM>, illustrated as a serpentine conduit <NUM>, located within the supply tank <NUM>, with a supply conduit <NUM> supplying liquid from the treating chamber <NUM> to the serpentine conduit <NUM>, and a return conduit <NUM> fluidly coupled to the treating chamber <NUM>. The heating circuit <NUM> is fluidly coupled to the recirculation pump <NUM> either directly or via the recirculation valve <NUM> such that liquid that is heated as part of a cycle of operation can be recirculated through the heat exchanger <NUM> to transfer the heat to the charge of fresh water residing in the supply tank <NUM>. As most wash phases use liquid that is heated by the heater <NUM>, this heated liquid can then be recirculated through the heating circuit <NUM> to transfer the heat to the charge of water in the supply tank <NUM>, which is typically used in the next phase of the cycle of operation.

A filter system <NUM> is provided to filter un-dissolved solids from the liquid in the treating chamber <NUM>. The filter system <NUM> includes a coarse filter <NUM> and a fine filter <NUM>, which can be a removable basket <NUM> residing the sump <NUM>, with the coarse filter <NUM> being a screen <NUM> circumscribing the removable basket <NUM>. Additionally, the recirculation system <NUM> can include a rotating filter in addition to or in place of the either or both of the coarse filter <NUM> and fine filter <NUM>. Other filter arrangements are contemplated such as an ultrafiltration system.

As illustrated schematically in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> can be coupled with the set of electrical components <NUM> for various operations during a cycle of operation. The set of electrical components <NUM> can include the heater <NUM> for heating the wash liquid during a cycle of operation, the drain pump <NUM> for draining liquid from the treating chamber <NUM> (<FIG>), and the recirculation pump <NUM> for recirculating the wash liquid during the cycle of operation. The controller <NUM> can be provided with a memory <NUM> and a central processing unit (CPU) <NUM>. The memory <NUM> can be used for storing control software that can be executed by the CPU <NUM> in completing a cycle of operation using the dishwasher <NUM> and any additional software. For example, the memory <NUM> can store one or more preprogrammed automatic cycles of operation that can be selected by a user and executed by the dishwasher <NUM>. The controller <NUM> can also receive input from one or more sensors <NUM>. Non-limiting examples of sensors that can be communicably coupled with the controller <NUM> include, to name a few, ambient air temperature sensor, treating chamber temperature sensor, water supply temperature sensor, door open/close sensor, and turbidity sensor to determine the soil load associated with a selected grouping of dishes, such as the dishes associated with a particular area of the treating chamber. The controller <NUM> can also communicate with the recirculation valve <NUM>, the household water valve <NUM>, the controllable valve <NUM>, the return valve <NUM>, and the valve <NUM>. Optionally, the controller <NUM> can include or communicate with a wireless communication device <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a rear perspective view of the chassis <NUM>. The chassis <NUM> defines an interior <NUM> and includes at least a rear wall <NUM> and a bottom wall <NUM> as shown. In some examples, the bottom wall <NUM> can form part of the base <NUM> (<FIG>). Additionally or alternatively, the bottom wall <NUM> can be separate or spaced from the base <NUM> (<FIG>). The drain pump <NUM>, a portion of the drain line <NUM>, and other electrical components in the set of electrical components <NUM> are also shown within the interior <NUM>. The dishwasher <NUM> comprises a radio frequency interference filter mechanically connected to the chassis <NUM>. The radio frequency interference filter can be configured for mitigating unwanted electromagnetic noise present on the power lines and/or on the signal lines that could interfere with the operation of adjacent equipment. The radio frequency interference filter is per se known and is not shown in attached figures.

At least one electrical connector can also be provided in the dishwasher <NUM> for coupling the controller <NUM> to at least one electrical component in the set of electrical components of the dishwasher <NUM>. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the electrical component coupled to the controller <NUM> through the electrical connector belongs to a water leak sensor or to a device commercially known as "AquaStop" (which is able to detects possible water leakages during the process of filling the tub <NUM> with water by means of a float, so that the water filling can be interrupted and the water filled can be drained from the tub). It has to be pointed out that, albeit in the present written description, special reference is made to the controller <NUM> and to the water leak sensor "AquaStop" device, the present invention shall not be construed as being limited in that respect, since the electrical connector may connect any two of the electrical or electronic components of the dishwasher <NUM> (in other terms, a first electrical or electronic component and a second electrical or electronic component of the set of electrical or electronic components of the dishwasher <NUM>). In the illustrated example, the at least one electrical connector includes a harness connector <NUM> and a sensor connector <NUM>. A wiring harness <NUM> can electrically couple the controller <NUM> to the harness connector <NUM>. The wiring harness <NUM> and harness connector <NUM> are illustrated partially outside of the chassis <NUM> for visual clarity. The drain sensor assembly <NUM> can include wiring <NUM> coupling a sensor <NUM> to the sensor connector <NUM>. The sensor connector <NUM> can be coupled to the harness connector <NUM> for operably coupling the controller <NUM> to the drain sensor assembly <NUM>. It will be understood that any electrical component can be operably coupled to the controller <NUM> by way of the harness connector <NUM>, with the drain sensor assembly <NUM> representing one such example. Furthermore, in another example a single electrical connector can be provided for direct coupling the wiring <NUM> of the drain sensor assembly <NUM> to the wiring harness <NUM> of the controller <NUM>. A portion <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> is indicated where the harness connector <NUM> and sensor connector <NUM> can be positioned within the interior <NUM>.

The dishwasher <NUM> includes an integrated barrier member which can be mechanically connected to the chassis <NUM>. In at least one embodiment, the integrated barrier member can be integrally formed with the chassis <NUM>. As a non-limiting example of the integrated barrier member according to the invention, a housing <NUM> can also be provided for securing either or both of the harness connector <NUM> or the sensor connector <NUM> within the interior <NUM>. The integrated barrier member, e.g. the housing <NUM>, can be located or positioned on an internal surface <NUM> of the rear wall <NUM>. The integrated barrier member, e.g. the housing <NUM>, can project from the chassis <NUM> into the interior <NUM>. The integrated barrier member, e.g. the housing <NUM>, can be located within the interior <NUM> on the rear wall <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

The dishwasher <NUM> comprises, within the chassis <NUM>, an electrical or electronic component susceptible to electric arc damage. Such an electrical or electronic component can be a pump, e.g. the drain pump <NUM>. The integrated barrier member, e.g. the housing <NUM>, is spaced from the electrical or electronic component susceptible to electric arc damage, e.g. from the pump such as the drain pump <NUM>. In addition, the housing <NUM> can be spaced from a pump of the dishwasher, such as the drain pump <NUM>. More specifically, the housing <NUM> and drain pump <NUM> can be offset from one another in a direction along the rear wall <NUM>. In this manner, the housing <NUM> can be more easily accessed from the rear wall <NUM>. In a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the integrated barrier member is positioned in the chassis <NUM> below a counterweight of the dishwasher <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, an internal view of the chassis <NUM> illustrates the internal surface <NUM> of the rear wall <NUM> in the portion <NUM>. The harness connector <NUM> and the sensor connector <NUM> are coupled together and received within the integrated barrier member, in particular within the housing <NUM>. Indeed, the harness connector <NUM> and the sensor connector <NUM> (or, more generally, one or more electrical connectors) are accommodated in a dedicated receptacle of the integrated barrier member, in particular of the housing <NUM>. In the example shown, the housing <NUM> projects from the rear wall <NUM> into the interior <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> in a cantilevered manner. In some examples, the housing <NUM> can be unitarily formed with the rear wall <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. In some examples, the housing <NUM> can include a mechanical connector for securing to the rear wall <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> can at least partially form a water barrier chamber <NUM> and a radio frequency interference (RFI) barrier <NUM>. In the example shown, the housing <NUM> can include a first plate, in particular a platform <NUM> at least partially forming the RFI barrier <NUM> and the water barrier chamber <NUM>, though this need not be the case. The radio frequency interference filter is positioned beneath the first plate, in particular beneath the platform <NUM>. Advantageously, the first plate, e.g. the platform <NUM>, is configured for forming a guard to the wetting of the radio frequency interference filter. It is contemplated that the RFI barrier <NUM> and water barrier chamber <NUM> can be separately defined in the housing <NUM> without sharing a common wall. In addition, the RFI barrier <NUM> can overlie at least one additional electrical component, such as a second electrical connector <NUM>, for other components of the dishwasher <NUM>. Advantageously, the integrated barrier member, in particular the housing <NUM>, is arranged in such a position that any imaginary straight line joining a point of the electrical or electronic component susceptible to electric arc damage, e.g. the pump such as the drain pump <NUM>, and a point of the receptacle, e.g. of the water barrier chamber <NUM>, intersects the first plate, e.g. the platform <NUM>. Taking a first point falling within the receptacle, e.g. within the water barrier chamber <NUM>, a second point belonging to the radio frequency interference filter and a third point belonging to the additional electrical or electronic component, the distance between the first point and the second point is advantageously less than the distance between the first point and the third point, preferably less than ten times the distance between the first point and the third point, more preferably less than fifteen times the distance between the first point and the third point.

The receptacle, e.g. water barrier chamber <NUM>, can receive the at least one electrical connector, such as the sensor connector <NUM> or the harness connector <NUM>. In the example shown, the sensor connector <NUM> is coupled to the harness connector <NUM>, and the coupled connectors <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned within the receptacle, e.g. water barrier chamber <NUM>.

The water barrier chamber <NUM> can include a second plate, in particular a top cap <NUM>, overlying at least one of the sensor connector <NUM> or the harness connector <NUM>. The second plate, in particular top cap <NUM>, is positioned above the first plate, in particular platform <NUM>. The second plate, e.g. the top cap <NUM>, is configured for forming a guard to the access of water in the receptacle, e.g. in the water barrier chamber <NUM>. To this aim, as shown in particular in <FIG>, the integrated barrier member may comprise at least one retaining wall preferably unitarily formed with the second plate, e.g. with the top cap <NUM>. The at least one retaining wall projects transversally, in particular orthogonally, from a portion of the edge of the second plate, e.g. of the top cap <NUM>, in order to prevent spillage of water from the second plate, e.g. from the top cap <NUM>, in correspondence with such portion of the edge of the second plate, e.g. of the top cap <NUM>. Moreover, as shown still in <FIG>, the integrated barrier member may comprise a draining chute (without reference number in the drawings) which extends downwards from the second plate, in particular from the top cap <NUM>, in order to allow the outflow of water from said the second plate, in particular from the top cap <NUM>, through the draining chute. Additionally or alternatively, the second plate, e.g. the top cap <NUM>, is configured for forming a guard to the wetting of the electrical connector received in the receptacle, e.g. in the water barrier chamber <NUM>. The first plate, in particular the platform <NUM>, and the second plate, in particular the top cap <NUM>, define in combination the receptacle, in particular water barrier chamber <NUM>, wherein the at least one electrical connector, in particular harness connector <NUM> and sensor connector <NUM>, is accommodated. The integrated barrier member may comprise a third plate connecting the first plate, e.g. the platform <NUM>, and the second plate, e.g. the top cap <NUM>, so that the second plate, e.g. the top cap <NUM>, cantilevers from the third plate. Consequently, the top cap <NUM> can have an L-shaped geometric profile. The top cap <NUM> can be connected to the platform <NUM> as shown. In this manner, the water barrier chamber <NUM> can be positioned above the RFI barrier <NUM> with respect to the bottom wall <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

At least one wire guide can be provided in the housing <NUM>. In the example shown, an upper portion of the top cap <NUM> can include first and second flanges <NUM>, <NUM>. A first sidewall <NUM> preferably unitarily formed with the first plate, e.g. with the platform <NUM>, can extend from the platform <NUM> toward the top cap <NUM> to at least partially form a first wire guide <NUM> adjacent the first flange <NUM>. A second sidewall <NUM> preferably unitarily formed with the first plate, e.g. with the platform <NUM>, can extend from the platform <NUM> toward the top cap <NUM> to at least partially form a second wire guide <NUM> adjacent the second flange <NUM>. In this manner, the wiring <NUM> of the drain sensor assembly <NUM> and the wiring harness <NUM> of the controller <NUM> (<FIG>) can be directed out of the water barrier chamber <NUM> to their respective portions of the dishwasher <NUM>.

In addition, a spacer <NUM> can also be provided along the platform <NUM> between the first and second sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. The spacer <NUM> can be positioned between the platform <NUM> and either or both of the harness connector <NUM> or sensor connector <NUM> to form a gap therebetween. The spacer <NUM> can increase air exposure and reduce contact between the harness and sensor connectors <NUM>, <NUM> and interior surfaces of the water barrier chamber <NUM>, thereby protecting the connectors <NUM>, <NUM> from moisture within the chassis <NUM>.

A clip <NUM> can also be provided for securing an electrical connector, such as the sensor connector <NUM> or the harness connector <NUM>, within the water barrier chamber <NUM>. The clip <NUM> can include a flexible body in some examples. A first end <NUM> can extend from the housing <NUM>, and a second end <NUM> can be rotatable around the sensor connector <NUM> or harness connector <NUM> for securing to a portion of the housing, such as the top cap <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, additional details of the housing <NUM> are shown. The platform <NUM> can extend between side legs <NUM> configured to couple to the rear wall <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> (<FIG>). The first sidewall <NUM> and the first flange <NUM> can form the first wire guide <NUM> with a serpentine geometric profile as shown. The second sidewall <NUM> and the second flange <NUM> can form the second wire guide <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the first sidewall <NUM> has a taller height than the second sidewall <NUM> though this need not be the case. In some examples, the first and second sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> can have the same height, or the second sidewall <NUM> can be taller than the first sidewall <NUM>.

In some examples, the housing <NUM> can be unitarily formed with the clip <NUM> to define an integral hinge <NUM>. Furthermore, a snap-fit coupling <NUM> can be provided between the clip <NUM> and the water barrier chamber <NUM>. More specifically, the second end <NUM> of the clip <NUM> can include an aperture <NUM> and the top cap <NUM> of the water barrier chamber <NUM> can include a projection <NUM>. When the clip <NUM> is in a closed position, the projection <NUM> can extend through the aperture <NUM> to form the snap-fit coupling <NUM> and secure the clip <NUM> in place. In addition, the clip <NUM> can include a second spacer <NUM> forming a gap between the clip <NUM> and either or both of the harness connector <NUM> or sensor connector <NUM> (<FIG>), thereby improving airflow around the connectors <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>).

<FIG> illustrates a rear perspective view of the housing <NUM>. It is contemplated that the platform <NUM> can include a vertical step <NUM> between the side legs <NUM> and the top cap <NUM> as shown. A rear portion of the platform <NUM> can also include mounting connectors <NUM> for coupling to the rear wall <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> (<FIG>), though this need not be the case.

In addition, the projection <NUM> can be provided on a front flange <NUM> of the top cap <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, one or more snap-fit couplings can be provided on portions of the top cap <NUM>, including an upper surface, for added security when the clip <NUM> is in a closed position.

Referring now to <FIG>, another housing <NUM> is shown that can be utilized in the dishwasher <NUM> (<FIG>). The housing <NUM> is similar to the housing <NUM>; therefore, like parts will be identified with like numerals increased by <NUM>, with it being understood that the description of the like parts of the housing <NUM> applies to the housing <NUM>, except where noted.

The housing <NUM> can include an RFI barrier <NUM> and a water barrier chamber <NUM>. The housing <NUM> can also include a platform <NUM>, a top cap <NUM>, and side legs <NUM>. The top cap <NUM> can include a first flange <NUM>, a second flange <NUM>, and a front flange <NUM> as shown.

A clip <NUM> can be provided with the housing <NUM>. The clip <NUM> can include a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. One difference compared to the clip <NUM> is that the clip <NUM> can be in the form of a rigid tab extending from a rotatable first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM>. Another different compared to the clip <NUM> is that multiple apertures <NUM> can be provided in the clip <NUM>.

A snap-fit coupling <NUM> can be provided between the clip <NUM> and the top cap <NUM>. Another difference compared to the clip <NUM> is that the clip <NUM> can include a projecting ridge <NUM> along the second end <NUM> for engagement with the top cap <NUM>. More specifically, the ridge <NUM> can snap directly onto the front flange <NUM> to secure the clip <NUM> in a closed position.

Aspects of the invention provide for several benefits. The common housing for the water barrier chamber and RFI barrier provides for a reduction in part complexity, assembly times, and production costs. Compared to traditional electrical connector chambers that are located behind or beneath other dishwasher components (e.g. the drain pump), the positioning of the housing along the rear wall and offset from other dishwasher components provides for easier access of the electrical connector(s) for installation or servicing. In addition, portions of the RFI barrier can be used to direct wiring away from the water barrier chamber and associated wire guides, by way of the shared wall/platform, providing for added protection of electronic components.

Other benefits include that the clip can provide improved security for electrical connectors positioned within the water barrier chamber. The flexible-body clip described herein can accommodate a variety of connector geometries that may protrude slightly out of the water barrier chamber. The tab-body clip described herein can be directly connected to the top cap without need of additional snap-fit projections, providing additional streamlining and reduction of part complexity.

To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various aspects can be used in combination with each other as desired. That one feature cannot be illustrated in all of the aspects is not meant to be construed that it cannot be, but is done for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the different aspects can be mixed and matched as desired to form new aspects, whether or not the new aspects are expressly described. Combinations or permutations of features described herein are covered by this invention.

This written description uses examples to disclose aspects of the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice aspects of the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. While aspects of the invention have been specifically described in connection with certain specific details thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation.

For the mere sake of providing an example of an envisageable variant of the present invention (not shown in attached drawings), the integrated barrier member could be configured not only for protecting the radio frequency interference from water, but also for securing the radio frequency interference to the chassis <NUM> and/or keeping the radio frequency interference in position. For instance, the integrated barrier member could comprise anchoring means allowing the radio frequency interference filter to be mechanically connected to the integrated barrier member. The mounting of the radio frequency interference filter to the integrated barrier member may replace the traditional mounting of the radio frequency interference filter to the chassis <NUM>. Otherwise, the mounting of the radio frequency interference filter to the integrated barrier member may be contemplated in addition to the traditional mounting of the radio frequency interference filter to the chassis <NUM>. Suitable anchoring means can be hooks and/or pins and/or passage holes for screws. In particular, the anchoring means could be configured for allowing the radio frequency interference filter to be mounted in correspondence of the surface of the first plate facing towards the bottom of the chassis <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A dishwasher (<NUM>) comprising:
a chassis (<NUM>);
at least one electrical or electronic component;
a controller (<NUM>);
at least one electrical connector electrically coupling the controller (<NUM>) to the at least one electrical or electronic component; and
an integrated barrier member (<NUM>; <NUM>) mechanically connected to the chassis (<NUM>) or integrally formed with the chassis (<NUM>),
wherein the integrated barrier member (<NUM>; <NUM>) comprises a first plate (<NUM>; <NUM>) and a second plate (<NUM>; <NUM>),
wherein the second plate (<NUM>; <NUM>) is positioned above the first plate (<NUM>; <NUM>),
wherein the first plate (<NUM>; <NUM>) and the second plate (<NUM>; <NUM>) define in combination a receptacle (<NUM>), and
wherein the at least one electrical connector is accommodated within the receptacle (<NUM>),
characterised by further comprising a radio frequency interference filter mechanically connected to the chassis (<NUM>),
wherein the radio frequency interference filter is positioned beneath the first plate (<NUM>; <NUM>).