IT202000013459A1 - WASHING AGENTS DISPENSER FOR DISHWASHERS - Google Patents

Description

Description of the industrial invention entitled:

?Dispenser of washing agents for dishwashers?,

DESCRIPTION TEXT

Field of invention

The present invention relates to washing agent dispensers for washing machines, in particular domestic dishwashers, and more. particularly to dispensers intended to be mounted in correspondence with one of the walls which define a washing chamber of a dishwashing machine. The invention? been developed with particular reference to multi-dose dispensers of at least one washing agent in liquid or semi-solid form (gel), or equipped with a refillable tank, which is? likely to contain a quantity? of the aforementioned washing agent sufficient for carrying out a plurality? of washing programs by the washing machine.

State of the art

US2006157086 A1 discloses a dispensing device for a dishwasher, which comprises a multi-dose tank for a liquid washing agent and a pump housed inside the door of the dishwasher. A passage for refilling the tank and a liquid detergent dispenser nozzle extend through the wall of the dishwasher door which faces towards the inside of the relative washing chamber, with this dispenser nozzle being ? connected in fluid communication with the tank and with the pump via a conduit. In one embodiment, the pump ? of the reversible type, in order to allow the duct to be rinsed and prevent possible blockages.

This solution is complicated, not very efficient and uncomfortable to use for a user.

US7845361 B1 discloses a dispensing system for a dishwasher, comprising a multi-dose tank for a liquid washing agent, and a piston dispensing pump which defines a dosing chamber, adapted to receive from the tank a quantity predetermined quantity of the liquid additive, to be dispensed during a dishwasher operating programme. The tank and the dispensing pump are mounted in a frontal recess in the wall of the dishwasher door which faces towards the inside of the relative washing chamber, and are coupled in a separable way by means of respective fluid couplings, to allow the tank to be removed for cleaning purposes. of charging. In one embodiment, two distinct tanks of the type indicated are housed in the front recess of the wall of the door of the dishwasher, each of which is associated in a separable manner with a respective piston pump of the type indicated, each piston pump being actuated by a relative solenoid actuator.

Also this solution is complicated, not very efficient and uncomfortable to use for a user, also in relation to the risk of undesired leakage of a washing agent from the relative tank, when this is handled.

EP 2138088 A1 discloses a dishwasher dispenser device having a dispenser body in whose source ? defined as a compartment capable of containing a tablet of a washing agent. The compartment? equipped with a sliding door, through which the compartment can? be closed after loading the tablet. At the counter ? operatively associated with an electrically controlled release system, for causing the opening of the door during a washing programme. The door has a lateral extension substantially in the form of a grid, so that, when the door slides into its open position, the lateral extension faces the compartment, to hold the tablet inside it as the program continues of washing.

Also this solution is complicated, not very efficient and uncomfortable to use for a user, also in relation to the risk of undesired leakage of a washing agent from the relative tank, when this is handled.

EP0691101 A1 discloses an integrated dispenser device for a dishwasher, having a dispenser body intended to be partially inserted into an opening on the inner side of a tilting door of the dishwasher, i.e. the side intended to face towards the inside of the relative washing chamber . Does the dispenser body frontally define a housing in which ? hinged a multi-dose container tank for a powder detergent, mounted to be movable between an inclined position of partial extraction, which allows the container tank to be filled, and an insertion position, in which the front of the container tank is substantially aligned with the front of the dispenser body. The container tank? frontally equipped with a transparent window, which allows you to visually verify the quantity? washing powder.

With solutions of this type, the verification of the contents of the tank? uncomfortable, both due to possible misting of the transparent window, and due to the fact that, being the dispenser mounted on a replicable door, the visual level control can be carried out practically only with the door open, and therefore substantially horizontally: with such a plane of arrangement of the dispenser, however, the information that can be inferred through the window can? not be significant.

Pi? in general, moreover, in solutions in which ? a removable or movable tank is provided (for example as described in the aforementioned US7845361 B1 and EP0691101), the level control ? entirely entrusted to the user, who is entirely responsible for visually checking the quantity? of cleaning agent contained in the tank.

Furthermore, in solutions of the type described in the aforementioned US7845361 B1, there are not infrequent possible errors in filling or topping up a liquid washing agent in the relative tank, i.e. an erroneous topping up of detergent in a tank intended to contain a rinsing additive, or conversely, an erroneous topping up of a rinse aid in a tank intended to contain a washing detergent: such errors, particularly of the second type indicated, can have consequences such as to jeopardize the operation? of the dispenser or of the entire washing machine.

Purpose and summary of the invention

In its general terms, the present invention proposes to solve at least one or more? of the drawbacks mentioned above. This and still other objects, which will become clearer hereinafter, are achieved according to the present invention by a dispenser of washing agents having the characteristics of the attached claims. The claims form an integral part of the technical teaching provided herein in relation to the invention.

In accordance with a first inventive aspect, the present invention proposes to provide a dispenser of washing agents for washing machines, in particular dishwashers, which is comfortable to use for a user and in which the control of the dispensing of more? cleaning agents in liquid or semi-solid form are both efficient and economical.

In accordance with a second inventive aspect, the present invention proposes to provide a washing agent dispenser for washing machines, in particular dishwashers, in which the risks of dispersion of a liquid washing agent or detergent into the environment are reduced or avoided. semi-solid, following actions performed by a user on the dispenser itself.

In accordance with a third inventive aspect, the present invention proposes to provide a dispenser of washing agents for washing machines, in particular dishwashers, in which the use of detergent tablets is convenient for a user and the construction of the dispenser is economic.

In accordance with a fourth inventive aspect, the present invention proposes to provide a dispenser of washing agents for washing machines, in particular dishwashers, in which, even in the presence of movable parts intended to contain washing agents, a user clear and efficient signals in relation to the content of these moving parts, and more? in general, under conditions relating to the operation of the dispenser, in a simple and safe way.

In accordance with a fifth inventive aspect, the present invention proposes to provide a dispenser of washing agents for washing machines, in particular dishwashers, in which, in a simple and efficient way, the risks of error by a user are limited in the use of the dispenser, particularly as regards loading operations of washing agents.

In accordance with a sixth inventive aspect, the present invention proposes to provide a dispenser of washing agents for washing machines, in particular dishwashers, in which, even in the presence of movable parts intended to contain washing agents, it is possible to have in a simple and safe way of accurate information in relation to the contents of the dispenser and/or of these moving parts.

In accordance with a seventh inventive aspect, the present invention proposes to provide a washing agent dispenser for washing machines, in particular dishwashers, in which, in a simple and safe way, it is possible to prevent or correct any malfunctions due to errors in a user in relation to the use of a cleaning agent and/or is a more accurate control allowed? efficient than a treatment program performed by the washing machine on which the dispenser ? installed.

Brief description of the drawings

Further objects, characteristics and advantages of the invention will become clear from the following detailed description, made with reference to the annexed drawings, provided purely by way of non-limiting example, in which:

- figure 1 ? a schematic perspective view of a dishwasher machine, with a front door in the open position, the dishwasher being provided with a dispenser according to possible embodiments of the invention;

- figure 2 ? a schematic perspective view of part of a tank wall of a dishwasher, on which ? mounted a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

figures 3 and 4 are schematic perspective views of two parts of a dispenser according to possible embodiments, relative to an external side and an internal side of the tank wall shown in figure 2, respectively;

- figure 5 ? a schematic perspective view of a removable part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 6 ? a schematic perspective view of the inner side of a portion of a hollow body belonging to a removable part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

figure 7 is a partially sectioned perspective view of a hollow body belonging to a removable part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments, with highlighted possible levels of two different washing agents;

- figure 8 ? a view similar to that of figure 6, with possible levels of two different washing agents highlighted;

figures 9 and 10 are partially exploded schematic views, from different angles, of a fixed part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figures 11 and 12 are schematic perspective views of a front and a back of a fixed part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figures 13 and 14 are perspective views, partial and sectioned, of a removable part and a fixed part, coupled together, of a dispenser according to possible embodiments, in two different conditions;

- figure 15 ? a schematic perspective view of a removable part and a fixed part, decoupled from each other, of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figures 16 and 17 are schematic sections of a hollow body belonging to a removable part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments, according to a complex section plane, passing through two relative check valves;

- figure 18 ? a schematic vertical section of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 19 ? a schematic front view, in partial section, of a portion of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 20 ? a schematic rear view, in perspective, of a fixed part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments, with some components removed;

- figure 21 ? a schematic rear view, in elevation, of a dispenser according to possible embodiments in a first operating condition, with a related component shown only partially;

- figure 22 ? a partial and schematic perspective view of a portion of the dispenser part of figure 21, in the aforementioned first operating condition, with a relative component removed;

- figures 23-24, 25-26, 27-28 and 29-30 are views similar to those of figures 21-22, respectively, of the dispenser in a second, a third, a fourth and a fifth operating condition, respectively;

- figure 31 ? a partial sectional schematic perspective view of a dispenser according to possible embodiments in a first operating condition, with a relative locking/unlocking arrangement in a respective first condition;

- figure 32 ? a partial and schematic horizontal section of the dispenser of figure 31, with the relative locking/unlocking arrangement in said first condition;

- figures 33-34 and 35-36 are views similar to those of figures 31-32, respectively, of the dispenser in a second and a third condition of the relative locking/unlocking arrangement;

- figure 37 ? a partial and schematic section of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 38 ? a partial and schematic perspective view of a fixed part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figures 39-40 are schematic perspective views of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 41 ? a detail on a larger scale in figure 39,

- figure 42 ? a schematic perspective view showing in isolation some components of a signaling system a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figures 43 and 44 are partial and schematic sections, according to different section planes, of a dispenser according to possible embodiments:

- figures 45 and 46 are schematic partial views, respectively front and sectional perspective, of a lower area of a part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 47 ? a partial and schematic view, partially sectioned, of a portion of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figures 48 and 49 are views similar to those of figures 45-46, relating to shapes of a dispenser according to possible alternative embodiments;

- figures 50 and 51 are graphs which exemplify the results of measurements of an electrical quantity carried out by means of a sensor device which equips a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 52 ? a simplified diagram of a possible control circuit of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 53 ? a simplified diagram of a first possible driving circuit of a sensitive element of a sensor device of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figures 54 and 55 are graphs which exemplify the results of further measurements of an electrical quantity carried out by means of a sensor device which equips a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

- figure 56 ? a simplified diagram of a second possible driving circuit of a sensitive element of a sensor device of a dispenser according to possible embodiments;

figures 57 and 58 are schematic perspective views of a lower area of a part of a dispenser, equipped with a sensor device according to possible embodiments, figure 58 being in partial section;

- figure 59 ? a schematic perspective view of a body of a sensor device which equips the dispenser of figures 57-58;

- figures 60 and 61 are a schematic perspective view and an exploded view of a lower area of a part of a dispenser according to possible embodiments, equipped with a sensor body according to a possible variant;

- figure 62 ? schematic perspective view, in partial section, of a lower area of a part of a dispenser equipped with a sensor device according to possible embodiments;

- figures 63 and 64 are schematic views, respectively in perspective and in exploded view, of a part of a sensor device according to possible embodiments;

- figure 65 ? a view similar to that of figure 63, relating to a possible variant;

figures 66-67 are graphs which exemplify the results of measurements of an electrical quantity carried out by means of a sensor device provided with a part of the type shown in figures 63-64;

figures 68-69 are graphs which exemplify the results of measurements of an electrical quantity carried out by means of a sensor device provided with a part of the type shown in figures 63-64, but with an insulating coating removed;

- figure 70, ? a schematic perspective view of a sensor device for a dispenser, according to possible embodiments;

- figures 71 and 72 are a sectioned perspective view and an exploded view, both schematic, of the sensor device of figure 70;

- figures 73 and 74 are schematic representations intended to exemplify a possible operating principle of a sensor device of the type shown in figures 70-72;

- figures 75-77 are schematic sections of a lower zone of a dispenser equipped with a sensor device according to further possible embodiments;

- figure 78 ? a partial schematic perspective view, partially sectioned, of a dispenser according to possible embodiments; And

- figures 79-82 are schematic plan views of some components of a locking/unlocking arrangement which equips the dispenser of figure 71, in as many different conditions.

Description of preferred embodiments

Reference to an embodiment within this description indicates that a particular configuration, structure, or feature described in relation to the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. So, phrases like ?in one embodiment?, ?in various embodiments? and the like, possibly present in various places of this description, do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, particular shapes, structures or characteristics defined within this description can be combined in any suitable way in one or more? embodiments, even different from those shown. Numerical and spatial references (such as ?top?, ?bottom?, ?top?, ?bottom?, etc.) used herein are for convenience only. and therefore do not define the scope of protection or the scope of the forms of implementation. Unless otherwise specified, in the following description and claims, with ?detergent? is meant to designate a detergent substance intended for use during the washing phases in the strict sense of an operating program of a dishwasher, i.e. phases aimed primarily at removing dirt from the dishes, while with ?additive? it is intended to designate an accessory liquid or semi-solid substance, used in phases other than the washing phases or in special programs, such as for example a rinse aid (or rinse aid), or a perfuming substance, or an anti-limescale substance, or a sanitizing substance; with ?washing agent? it is intended to designate the detergent substance or the accessory substance indifferently. Unless otherwise indicated, with the term ?liquid?, when associated with terms such as ?detergent?, ?additive?, ?washing agent? (and plural), it is however intended to designate - in addition to a liquid substance - also a semi-liquid/semi-solid substance, such as for example a gel.

In the figures, the same reference numbers are used to indicate similar or technically equivalent elements. In various figures ? the representation of some components has been omitted, when not necessary for understanding the specific characteristics described with reference to these figures; for this reason, for example, in various figures connection conductors which pertain to electrical parts of the dispenser, particularly to its sensors and actuators, are not shown.

In figure 1 ? schematically represented a domestic washing machine, indicated as a whole with 1, equipped with a dispenser of at least one washing agent made according to possible embodiments. In the exemplified case, machine 1 ? intended for washing dishes, for which in the following will come? referenced for simplicity? to a dishwasher, it being understood that the invention? also applicable to other types of washing machines, such as for example washing machines and washer-dryers, in which case the dispenser could be located differently according to the type of machine (top loading or front loading).

The dishwasher 1 has a piece of furniture or structure 2 which internally defines a tub or washing chamber 3. With 4 ? shown as a whole a front door of the dishwasher 1, associated with the cabinet 2 so that it can be moved between an open position and a closed position. In various embodiments, such as the one exemplified, gate 4 ? angularly displaceable between the aforementioned positions, preferably but not necessarily according to a substantially horizontal axis. However, the dishwasher 1 could be of another type, for example with at least one translatable or sliding door on suitable guides, for example similar to FR-A-2.674.426 A, or with a crockery containment basket configured as a sliding drawer, the whose front wall forms a machine door, e.g. similar to WO9833426 A.

The inner face of the door 4 includes a movable tank wall 5 (also known as a ?counter-door?), having an outer side 5a which forms the front surface of the tank 3. The tank 3 ? also delimited by a plurality? of fixed tank walls, one of which is indicated with 6, which typically comprise two side walls, a rear wall, an upper wall or ceiling and a lower wall or bottom. In various embodiments, the walls delimiting the tank 1 are sheet-like walls, formed at least partially in sheet metal, such as stainless steel. Not ? in any case, the case of walls formed at least partially with plastic material, for example by injection molding of a thermoplastic material, is excluded from the scope of the invention.

In various embodiments, on one of the walls delimiting the tub 3 - here the wall 5 -? mounted a washing agent dispenser, globally indicated by 10 and only schematically shown in figure 1, made according to possible embodiments of the invention. Preferably, dispenser 10 ? mounted in correspondence with at least one through opening defined in the mounting wall 5. The dishwasher 1 comprises all the elements normally known for its operation, which are independent of the purposes? of the invention and which will therefore not be described here, among which a hydraulic circuit including a sprinkler system, at least one crockery holder basket in the tank, a control system which supervises the operation of the machine. In the case of figure 1 the control system ? schematized only, indicated with CS, and for example comprises a controller or control board, preferably including an electronic microcontroller, which can? be allocated within port 1.

The mounting on the wall 5 of the door 4 must be understood as an example since, in other embodiments, the dispenser 10 can be installed on any of the walls of the tank 3, including a stationary wall, such as the side wall indicated by 6: therefore, what is described below in relation to the assembly of the dispenser 10 on the wall 5 must also be understood as an example of the assembly of the dispenser 10 on any other wall of the tank 3, in particular a fixed vertical wall thereof. Side 5a here defined as ?external? of the mounting wall 5 of the dispenser 10 (whether it is a movable wall or a fixed wall) indicates the surface of this wall facing the inside of the tank 3, while the side defined as ?inside? (hereinafter designated by 5b) indicates the surface of the same wall opposite the external side 5a, for example corresponding to the internal side of a cavity of a wall of the machine.

In various embodiments, the dispenser, or its body as a whole, comprises at least two main functional parts, among which at least a first removable part which is configured to be coupled in a releasable way to at least a second part, which ? fixed on the mounting wall 5, particularly in correspondence with the aforementioned through opening. Each of the two main parts of the dispenser body in turn comprises more? elements, described below. In figure 2 the dispenser 10 ? shown in an assembled operating condition with respect to the wall 5, with the removable dispenser part coupled to the fixed dispenser part. Does the dispenser body as a whole have a width dimension X, a height dimension Y and a depth dimension? Z, the latter being identified by a front and a back of the body of the dispenser 10, its front being intended to be exposed or facing towards the inside of the tank 3 of the dishwasher.

The removable dispenser part and the fixed dispenser part, which form the dispenser body as a whole, are indicated respectively by 100 and 200 in figures 3 and 4, where they are shown in their decoupled condition, with respect to the outer and inner sides 5a 5b of wall 5, respectively. The same parts 100 and 200 are visible separately in figures 5 and 11, in front perspective view.

Referring in particular to figures 3 and 5, the removable dispenser part 100 comprises a hollow body 101 which mainly performs the functions of a reservoir for at least one washing agent in liquid or semi-solid form (or in gel form). In various preferential embodiments, the hollow body 101 defines internally at least two tanks, indicated schematically in Figure 2 with R1 and R2, each for a respective washing agent of the indicated type. In the following it will be assumed that the tank R1, with a greater capacity, is intended to contain a washing detergent, while the tank R2 is intended to contain a rinse aid, particularly a rinse aid. The tank R2 could however be intended to contain a different accessory substance, for example a perfuming substance, or an anti-limescale substance, or a sanitizing substance. It should be noted in any case that the removable dispenser part 100 could include a single tank, or three or more tanks. tanks, for additional cleaning agents. L?at least one tank R1 and/or R2 ? preferably of the multi-dose type, i.e. capable of containing a quantity? of its washing agent sufficient to carry out a plurality? of dishwasher operating programs 1.

Note that the terms ?removable part? or ?reservoir?, when referring to the component indicated as a whole with 100, are intended to designate a refillable component that stably equips the dispenser, constituting an essential part of it, and that? provided with at least one loading passage equipped with a respective removable closure means, to allow a user to periodically top up its contents. The body part 100 therefore does not represent a disposable (disposable) consumable component, such as a cartridge previously filled with the washing agent in the production phase and marketed in this ready-to-use version, which typically requires a puncture or tear of its body for the purpose of use, to then be thrown away when it is empty.

The hollow body 101 ? preferably formed of plastic material, for example a thermoplastic material. In various embodiments, the 101 body ? formed by at least two pieces or parts sealed together, for example a front piece 1011 and a rear piece 1012. The body pieces 1011 and 1012 can be for example molded in thermoplastic material and sealed together at relative interface surfaces, for example welded with a hot plate system.

In various embodiments, an upper portion 101a is identified in the hollow body 101, which is overall more? deep (dimension Z) and less high (dimension Y), and a lower portion 101b, overall more? thin (dimension Z) and more? high (dimension Y). The two portions 101a and 101b can have the same width (dimension X). The fact that the portion of the hollow body 101 having a greater surface area (that is, the lower portion 101b) is more? thin allows to limit the front dimensions of the dispenser 10, particularly when it is on door 4 of the dishwasher. In this way, for example, the dispenser 10 can be advantageously mounted in a position of the tub wall 5 such that - with the door closed - only the lower portion 101b faces a crockery rack housed in the tub 3, so avoiding having to prepare baskets more? short, and therefore having less capacity? of load. The presence of an upper portion 101a pi? deep can prove convenient to facilitate the definition of a loading passage for topping up the washing agent in the relative tank, with a relative closure element operable by a user, such as a cap or a flap.

Both portions 101a and 101b are internally hollow, at least for a substantial part thereof. Preferably, the depth dimension? maximum (Z) of the hollow body 101 in each of its zones? smaller than its width (X) and its height (Y). Always preferably, the height (Y) of the hollow body 101 ? smaller than its width (X). Obviously these relative dimensions could be different, for example according to the needs? load capacity and/or the dispenser assembly position.

As said, in various embodiments, the at least one tank R1 and/or R2 of the removable dispenser part 100 has a respective loading passage, or a respective passage for filling the respective tank, at which ? associated with a suitable closure element which can be opened and closed by a user, such as a cap or, as in the examples shown, a door. AND? It is also possible to provide a stopper in an area subtended by a movable flap.

Referring in particular to figure 5, in the non-limiting example shown, both tanks R1, R2 have a respective loading passage, indicated as a whole by 103, which includes a through opening 103a of the front wall 102 of the hollow body 101. example, the? opening 103a ? defined at a bottom of the passage 103, preferably shaped as a substantially cylindrical recess.

Again with reference to the example of figure 5, at each loading step 103 ? associated with a relative closing element, here constituted by a door 1041, 1042, formed for example in molded plastic material. In the example, each counter 1041, 1042 ? hinged to the hollow body 101, in order to be able to move angularly between an open position (figure 5), to allow access to the relative loading passage 103 for the purpose of topping up the washing agent in the relative tank R1 or R2, and a position closure (figure 3), in which the relative loading passage 103 ? closed by the door. As mentioned, passage 103 could also be associated with a cap, in addition to the door.

In the example, each counter 1041, 1042 ? hinged in its lower region (with reference to dimension Y), to the hollow body 101, but what about? it does not constitute an essential feature: at least one door could be hinged in one of its lateral regions, or it could be a door of the type that slides transversely with respect to the relative loading passage, according to known technique in the field of dishwasher dispensers. In figure 6, 104c indicates parts of the hinge means of the doors 1041, 1042.

Preferably, when the door acts directly as a closing element, sealing means are provided between the door itself and the relative loading passage, capable of cooperating when the door is closed. in closed position. In the example of figure 5, each loading passage 103 has a raised edge 103b, preferably having a circular profile, on which it is possible to frontally abutting a relative elastomer gasket 104a, in order to create a seal. Preferably the gasket 104a ? mounted in a relative seat defined on the inner side of the relative door 1041, 1042.

Always preferably, in the front of the hollow body 101 ? a receiving seat is defined, indicated by 103c in figure 5, particularly in the form of a recess of the aforementioned front, within which the loading passage 103 is located. The seat 103c is located. configured to be at least partially occupied by the relative counter 1041, 1042, when the latter ? in the respective closed position.

In various embodiments the dispenser ? mounted on a folding door of the dishwasher and at least one tank? associated with a withdrawal system for the respective washing agent which bases its operation on the movements of the door. Such a withdrawal system ? preferably associated with the tank of lesser capacity? R2, what? still likely to contain a quantity? of washing agent sufficient for the execution of pi? treatment programs performed by the dishwasher 1. From this point of view, in various embodiments, in the tank R2 ? defined as a sub-chamber or sampling volume, capable of containing at least a quantity? of cleaning agent sufficient to carry out a single treatment program. The withdrawal system comprises or has associated valve means, which comprise in particular a shutter member operating at the relative outlet passage for the washing agent. The aforesaid valve means can be controlled to allow the outflow of at least one dose of washing agent coming from the withdrawal volume towards the inside of the washing tub 3 of the dishwasher 1, through the aforesaid outlet passage. In various embodiments, the levy system ? conceived in such a way that, when the door 4 of the dishwasher 1 is brought to the open, substantially horizontal position, the withdrawal volume is filled by a corresponding part of the contents of the tank R2, and when the door 4 is subsequently brought to the closed position , substantially vertical, the withdrawal volume ? capable of retaining the relative content, at least until the aforesaid valve means are activated.

In figure 6 ? partially represented a possible internal structure of the hollow body 101, particularly of its front body piece 1011, where some of the elements belonging to the aforesaid withdrawal system are visible.

Inside the hollow body 101 ? defined a first set of walls, indicated as a whole with 106 (see also figures 16-17), arranged so as to delimit the tank R2 within the internal volume of the hollow body 101, in fluid communication with the opening 103a of the relative loading passage 103: in the example shown, the remaining part of the internal volume of the hollow body 101 substantially forms the tank R1 of greater capacity. In figure 6 ? only part of the wall assembly 106 integrally defined in the front body piece 1011 is visible, but of course the rear body piece 1012 can also be seen. define a respective part of this wall complex.

Inside the hollow body 101 ? otherwise defined? a second set of walls, indicated as a whole by 107 (see also figures 16-17), arranged so as to delimit, within the tank R2, a withdrawal volume indicated by R2a. The withdrawal volume R2a ? defined more above the bottom of the tank R2 (with reference to the height dimension Y) and ? in fluid communication with a discharge outlet of the tank itself (in figure 6 the aforementioned outlet is not visible, but it is in a position corresponding to the valve member indicated with 2302, described below). R2a volume? sized - particularly through an upper edge 107a - so as to be able to contain a fraction of the washing agent contained in the tank R2, this fraction being preferably greater than a single deliverable dose of this washing agent. Figure 6 shows only part of the wall assembly 107 integrally defined in the front body piece 1011, but of course the rear body piece 1012 can also be formed. define a respective part of that complex.

R2a volume? configured for its filling with the aforesaid fraction of the washing agent of the tank R2 when the arrangement plane of the dispenser 10 is? substantially horizontal (that is when the door 4 of the dishwasher 1 is open) and retain the same fraction when the arrangement surface of the dispenser 10 is. substantially vertical (ie when the door 4 of the dishwasher is closed), for the purposes of the subsequent dispensing, as described below. As mentioned, in the example shown, is the filling level of the sampling volume ? defined by an upper edge 107a of the second set of walls, which acts as a weir.

In the following figure 7 the removable dispenser part 100, ie the hollow body 101, is shown partially sectioned, in the presence of a maximum level of washing agents WD and WA contained in tanks R1 and R2 (as mentioned, the WD agent can be a washing detergent, while the WA agent can be an additive of Flushing). From this figure it can be seen how, after closing the door 4 of the dishwasher 1, i.e. when the hollow body 101 is brought from the horizontal position to the vertical position, the withdrawal volume R2a is substantially filled up to the level determined by the upper edge 107a of the second wall complex 107.

The following figure 8 shows only the front piece 1011 of the hollow body 101, in the presence of a minimum level of the washing agents WD and WA contained in the tanks R1 and R2 (the representation of the washing agents WD and WA is here artificial, intended only to exemplify the condition discussed). As can be understood, even in the presence of a minimum level of the washing agent WA, also in the case shown, the movement of the door 4 from the horizontal open position to the vertical closed position determines the filling of the sampling volume R2a substantially up to the level of weir defined by the upper edge 107a of the second set of walls 107. In this way a constant filling of the withdrawal volume R2a is guaranteed, substantially up to the weir level, both in the case of the minimum level and in the case of the maximum or intermediate level of the washing agent WA in the respective tank R2.

In figures 6-8 ? also visible part of a sensor which, in various embodiments, ? usable to signal any drop of the washing agent WA below a predetermined minimum level.

Referring in particular to figure 6, the sensor comprises a floating body 110 constrained inside the tank R2 so as to perform displacements which are a function of the level of the liquid agent WA. In the example, the floating body 110 ? hinged to a pin 110a, for example integrally defined by the front piece 1011 of the hollow body 101, so as to be able to oscillate between a raised position, shown in the figures, and a lowered position. Of course, the floating body 100 could be constrained in another way, for example to slide linearly in the height direction of the dispenser (dimension Y), for example through special lateral guides defined in the hollow body 101.

To the floating body 110 pu? be associated with an element 110b for energizing an electric detector, placed outside the hollow body 101, particularly mounted on the fixed dispenser part 200 in a position at which ? intended to face the floating body 110, when the removable dispenser part 100 is mounted on the fixed dispenser part 200. Such a detector ? indicated by RD only in figure 3, in a position behind a wall of the front of the fixed dispenser part 200. In the example, it is assumed that the excitation element 110b is a magnetic element, and that the relative detector RD is outside the hollow body 101 is either a magnetic field detector, in particular with the Hall effect, or a magnetic contact or switch, for example of the Reed type. Naturally, for such a case, the walls of the hollow body 101 and of the front of the fixed dispenser part 200 which are interposed between the floating body 110e and the detector RD are formed with material permeable to the magnetic field generated by the excitation element 110b .

When in tank R2 ? present a quantity? of washing agent WA higher than a predetermined minimum level, the floating body 101 remains in its raised position, consequently energizing (or not energizing) the relative external electric detector RD. On the other hand, how much is the quantity? of the washing agent WA drops below the aforementioned predetermined minimum level, the floating body 110 ? led to assume its lowered position, consequently not exciting more? (or starting to excite) the relative external electric sensor RD. The level information cos? generated by the level sensor 110-RD pu? be used, for example, to activate a signaling system aimed at drawing the attention of a user of the dishwasher 1 regarding the need? di provides for topping up the washing agent WA in the relative tank R2. After such a topping up, of course, the float body 110 will return to life. in the respective raised position, canceling the warning.

Of course, the principle of detecting the movement of the floating body 110 can be different from that of the detection of a magnetic field, for example with an inductive or optical type detection (for example the wall of the hollow body 101 which separates the floating body 110 from the relative external electric detector can be transparent to an optical radiation, at least at the floating body, and the front wall of the stationary dispenser part 200 behind which an optical type detector RD is located is similarly transparent or has a transparent window, at least at the detector).

AND? clear that such a floating system ? which can also be used for tank R1. The level measurement in tank R1 and/or R2 could take place using other detection techniques, such as for example a system based on the use of an optoelectronic sensor, including a light emitter and a receiver. In the case of a dispenser according to possible embodiments of the invention, such an optoelectronic sensor can be arranged on the fixed dispenser part 200 (for example in correspondence with a transparent window provided in the front of the part 200) so that, when the removable dispenser part 100 is in the respective operating position, the optoelectronic sensor faces an optical prism defined by a transparent wall of the hollow body 101 (for example its rear wall) which delimits one side of the relative tank R1 and/or R2. For example, when the prism is immersed in the liquid washing agent, the light beam emitted by the emitter is partly reflected and partly refracted in correspondence with the inclined walls of the prism immersed in the liquid, not reaching the receiver, or reaching it with intensity? limited: in this way pu? the presence of liquid washing agent at a level corresponding to the position of the sensor can be inferred. Conversely, if the prism is not immersed in the liquid washing agent, the light beam will be substantially completely reflected at the inclined walls of the prism, reaching the receiver, or reaching it with intensity? high: in this way pu? the absence of liquid washing agent at a level corresponding to the position of the sensor can be inferred.

In various embodiments in which the removable dispenser part is provided with at least one door, the dispenser comprises at least one corresponding hooking/release device, which can be switched manually between a hooking position and a releasing position, to allow movement of the door itself between the closed position and the open position. For this purpose, at the counter can? also be associated with a spring or similar elastic element, according to the technique itself? note, operative to urge the door itself towards the respective open position.

In the example of figures 3 and 5, at each counter 1041, 1042 ? associated with a relative hooking/release device 1051, 1052, respectively. The two devices indicated by 1051, 1052 preferably have a similar structure and are mounted in a substantially specular way with respect to each other.

In various embodiments, such as in the example of figures 3 and 5, the at least one latching/release device 1051, 1052 is mounted on the hollow body 101, particularly so as to have an accessible portion, indicated with 105a, which is operable manually, e.g. can be moved with an angular movement. In the example, the operable portion protrudes beyond the upper edge (with reference to dimension Y) of the hollow body 101 and the device 1051, 1052 ? mounted at the rear of the hollow body 101.

Preferably, the operable portion 105a defines or has an associated hook element 105b, capable of cooperating with the relative door in order to keep it in the closed position. In the example shown, for this purpose, the body of the door 1041 and/or 1042 defines a seat 104b, in correspondence with an area thereof opposite to the hinged side, in which the coupling element 105b is? undertakes when the relevant counter ? closed (see figure 3).

In various embodiments, the at least one latch/release device 1051 and/or 1052 is essentially made up of a lever element, which ? hinge to rotate about a respective axis which extends substantially in the direction of depth? (dimension Z) of the dispenser 10. As can be seen for example in figure 4, the axis of rotation can? be defined by a pin 105c defined by or associated with the back of the hollow body 101, and the lever element 1051 and/or 1052 comprises a lever arm 105d which defines or has associated the operable portion 105a, with the relative hooking element 105b (figures 3, 5). Also to the lever element 1051 and/or 1052 can? also be associated with a spring or similar elastic element, according to the technique itself? known, operative to urge the element itself towards the respective hooking position relative to the corresponding door 1041 and/or 1042.

In various embodiments, the lever element 1051 and/or 1052 is substantially in the form of a lever of the first kind, and therefore also has another lever arm 105e, which extends on the generally opposite side with respect to the lever arm. 105d. The function of this possible further lever arm 105e will be? explained later, in relation to a locking / unlocking arrangement that can? equipping the dispenser according to various embodiments.

In various embodiments, in the front of the dispenser body ? defined a housing, configured to receive a tablet including one or more? washing agents, and therefore also tablets of the type known as ?2 in 1? or ?3 in 1?. The term ?tablet? ? intended to designate both tablets in solid form and tablets - also known as ?tabs? or ?pods? - of the type in which one or more? scrubbers in liquid or semi-solid form are enclosed in a shell formed from a water-soluble film (typically a polymer, such as polyvinyl acetate? PVA).

The aforementioned housing? directly exposed as a whole, in correspondence with the front of the dispenser, i.e. ? without flaps or similar movable locking elements. The housing has a front containment portion which is directly exposed at the front of the dispenser body, and has a bottom, which extends transversely to the height dimension Y and which has at least one drainage passage. Preferably, the? At least one drain passage ? defined between the front containment portion and the bottom of the housing. Still preferentially, the front containing portion has a perforated structure, i.e. defining one or more? openings, such as a grid structure.

In various embodiments, the containing portion defines a front of the housing and, preferably, also at least part of at least one of two opposite lateral sides of the housing. Preferably, the housing has an upper opening, i.e. generally opposite the bottom, configured to allow the insertion of a pad in the housing. There? makes loading and dissolving a tablet much easier.

Such a housing ? indicated with 300 in figures 2-5, while with 301, 302 and 303 the respective front containment structure, the respective bottom and a respective drainage channel are indicated (see also figure 18). A tablet of one or more? washing agents ? exemplified only in figure 5, where ? indicated with T. In the example, the slot 300 ? open at the top, to allow easy insertion of the tablet T.

As you can imagine, a T tablet can? be inserted into slot 300 before carrying out a washing programme. During this program, part of the water sprayed inside the tank 3 of the dishwasher 1, for example by means of a known system with rotating sprinklers, can reach the housing 300, facilitating the dissolution of the tablet T and the outflow of the corresponding water-washing agent mixture towards the inside of the tank 3. This effect? made possible by the presence of at least one drainage passage 303, defined between the front containment portion 301 and the bottom 302.

The effect of dissolving the tablet T and pouring the washing agent into the tank ? further favored by the presence of the front containment portion 301 provided with openings, preferably comprising a? alternation of solids and voids, such as a substantially grid structure, as in the case exemplified. The presence of one or more openings at the front of the housing 300 facilitate the passage of the incoming sprayed water, and of the outgoing water-detergent mixture. One or more? jets of water can also reach the opening or openings of the portion 301 with a certain energy, directly hitting part of the tablet T with a certain energy, which favors its dissolution. In various embodiments, a rotary sprinkler of the dishwasher 1 can be arranged to direct at least one jet of water to a height corresponding to that of the housing 300 (for this purpose, for example, a thrust nozzle of the sprayer could be used). Obviously ? It is also possible to equip the hydraulic system of the dishwasher with a suitable fixed nozzle, in order to direct a jet of water at the housing 300.

Naturally, the jets of water can directly strike the pad T through the upper opening or above the containment portion 301, when this forms a sort of ?parapet? for the pill itself. In other words, the front containment portion can? have a height (dimension Y) also lower than the overall height of the housing 300, or of the pads of various shapes that it can? receive, and particularly, a height sufficient to effectively retain a tablet T inside the housing 300 despite the typical operating vibrations of the dishwasher 1 during operation and despite the energy of any incident water jets. The holding function? performed by the portion 301 also during the closing and hooking movement of the door 3 of the dishwasher 1, when the dispenser 10 is mounted on the wall 5.

The presence of one or more drainage passages 303 between the containment portion and the bottom 302 ? likewise aimed at allowing the outflow of the water and/or of the water-washing agent mixture from the housing 300, in order to avoid stagnation inside the housing itself. For this purpose, in various preferential embodiments, the bottom 302 of the housing 300 extends generally inclined downwards from its rear towards its front (see also figure 18 ). The fund 302 can? be made inclined in the production phase, or can its inclination? be determined by mounting the dispenser 10 on the relative mounting wall 5.

The 302 fund? preferably defined by an imperforate surface of the dispenser body. In the base 302, reliefs extending in the dimension Y for the localized support of the pad T and/or recesses extending in the dimension Z can possibly be defined, in order to create drainage channels. The bottom 302 itself could have a structure having one or more? through openings or drainage passages: in embodiments of this type, the bottom 302 can therefore be in the form of a substantially cantilevered wall, and possibly, the front of the hollow body 101 can? be shaped so as to define a sort of chute below such a bottom wall, in order to facilitate the flow of the water-washing agent mixture towards the tank 3.

In various embodiments, the containing portion 301 defines at least one front of the housing 300. In various preferential embodiments, the containing portion 301 defines at least part of one of two opposite lateral sides of the housing. In the example shown, the portion 301 defines both the front and part of both side sides of the housing, such a part being indicated with 304 in figure 5. Still referring to the example shown, both the front and the part 304 of the sides they have a perforated structure, which further facilitates the water sprayed into the tank 3 to reach the inside of the housing 300 and the flow of the water-washing agent mixture towards the inside of the tank 3. In possible variations, only the front or only parts 304, or at least one of them, could be perforated.

At least one part of the two opposite sides of the housing 300 can? be defined by respective imperforate surfaces of the dispenser body, or of the hollow body 101, in the example. In the example, these imperforate side surfaces are indicated by 305 in figure 3. Similarly, also the rear of the housing 300 can be defined by an imperforate surface 306 of the dispenser body, here the removable dispenser part 100, i.e. its hollow body 101. Preferably, the imperforate surface 306 which defines the back and the imperforate surfaces 305 which define part of the sides are connected between them and/or with respect to the surface which defines the bottom 302 by means of rounded or inclined surface portions, in order to further facilitate the outflow of the liquid (two of these rounded portions are visible in figure 18, indicated with 307 and 308).

Preferably, the housing? integrally defined by a part of the dispenser body 10, here the removable dispenser part 100, or its hollow body 101. However, in possible variants, the housing can? be at least partly defined by walls or a structure associated with the dispenser body 10, such as for example a perforated or grid structure molded separately and then fixed to the dispenser body 10, for example by means of joints or hooks or by welding.

In various preferential embodiments the perforated structure of the front containing portion 301 (and/or of the bottom 302) is formed by one or more transversal parts (that is, which extend according to the dimension X) and/or from one or more? upright parts (i.e. that extend according to the Y dimension). If both transversal parts and upright parts are provided, the same can be connected or crossed with each other. This type of embodiment simplifies obtaining the housing 300 by molding the dispenser body, at the same time allowing to obtain a sturdy structure characterized by sufficiently large voids, preferably a substantially grid-like structure.

The above transverse and upright parts - some indicated in figure 18 with 301a and 301b, respectively - are preferably in the form of small rods or bars. Pi? in general, the structure described for the housing 300 and/or for the front containing portion 301 simplifies as a whole the obtainment by molding of plastic material, preferably in a single piece with the relative part of the dispenser body, without requiring the fastening of separate parts.

Obviously the front containment portion could have a different structure from the one exemplified, without prejudice to its functionality? to retain the tablet T inside the housing and facilitate the passage of water and the outflow of the water-washing agent mixture. In possible embodiment variants, the front containing portion, preferably comprising at least a part of at least one of the sides of the housing, is obtained separately by molding of plastic material, and subsequently associated or welded to the relative part of the dispenser body in which ? defined the remaining part of the housing.

Still preferentially, the? housing 300 ? defined in an upper region of the dispenser body, here the removable dispenser part 100, ie its hollow body 101, particularly with the relative upper opening for loading the tablet T pi? close to the upper edge (with reference to dimension Y) of the dispenser body; however the housing 300 could also be defined in a lower region of the dispenser body 10.

If two loading openings 103 with relative closure elements are provided at the front of the dispenser body, such as the doors 1041, 1042 of the example case, the housing 300? preferably defined in an intermediate position to them, and in any case in a position such as not to constitute an obstacle to their movements; however the housing 300 could also be defined in a lateral region of the dispenser body 10.

Of course the shape and position of the housing 300 as well as? the shape of the pad T, may vary from what is shown by way of example. In general terms, the housing will have? dimensions such as to be able to effectively receive and retain tablets of various shapes and sizes, as available on the market, without necessarily entailing a predetermined introduction direction. Indicatively, the? housing 300 potr? have a useful width (dimension X) between 50 and 60 mm, a depth? useful (dimension Z) between 20 and 30 mm, and a height (dimension Y) of the grid structure 301 between 30 and 40.

The presence of the housing 300 allows to use tablets T in combination with the dispenser 10, without however having to provide the latter with a specific compartment closed by a flap with an associated automatic opening system, as instead occurs in traditional dishwasher dispensers, where a compartment for containing a dose of a powder washing agent, equipped with its own door having an associated electrically controlled opening system must be used to contain the tablet.

How already? mentioned, in various embodiments the at least one tank R1 and/or R2 provided in the removable dispenser part 100 has a respective outlet, defined at the rear of the hollow body 101.

In figure 4 ? a rear wall of the hollow body is visible, indicated with 111, which defines the rear thereof, while with 112 and 113 the outlets of the tank R1 and R2 are indicated. Preferably, each output 112, 113 ? defined in a generally lower position (with reference to dimension Y) of the relative tank. Still preferably, each output 112, 113 ? defined at least in part by a tubular duct 112a, 113a, preferably with a cylindrical section, capable of coupling with a relative inlet, preferably also including a tubular duct with a congruent section, provided at the front of the fixed dispenser part 200.

In various embodiments, the back of the removable dispenser part 100, or of the hollow body 101, is shaped so as to be able to couple with, or receive, at least a corresponding portion of the front of the fixed dispenser part 200. In addition and/or alternatively, the front of the fixed dispenser part 200 can? be shaped so as to be able to mate with, or receive, at least a corresponding portion of the back of the removable dispenser part 100.

For example, referring again to figure 4, the rear wall 111 of the hollow body 101 is shaped so as to define a seat or recess 114, having a bottom surface 114a and a peripheral surface 114b; in the example the recess 114 has a generally circular shape, with the bottom surface 114a which is? substantially circular and the peripheral surface 114b which ? essentially cylindrical. As you will see, the recess 114 ? capable of being occupied at least partially by the front of the fixed dispenser part 200, particularly in order to reduce the overall dimensions in the Z dimension and/or in order to improve the coupling between the parts and/or in order to facilitate a user in repositioning of the removable part on the fixed part. The two outlets 112 and 113 can be defined at the bottom surface 114a of the recess 114 and project therefrom.

The rear wall 111 of the hollow body 101 can be conveniently shaped to at least partially house a component of the fixed dispenser part which ? particularly cumbersome in the dimension of depth? Z. For example, always with reference to figure 4, with 115 ? indicated a seat or recess of the rear wall 111 (also having a bottom surface and a peripheral surface, not indicated) which? intended to partially receive a housing of the corresponding section, which ? defined in the front of the fixed dispenser part 200 and in which ? partially housed an actuator device, such as an electric motor (see also with reference to figure 18, in which a motor is indicated with 404 and the relative housing is indicated with 204-204a). The recess 115 pu? be defined at the bottom surface 114a of the recess 114; the recess 115 can? therefore it also protrudes towards the inside of the volume defined by the hollow body 101, beyond the recess 114.

In the rear wall 111 of the hollow body 101 can be defined one or more? further seats or recesses suitable for receiving corresponding parts of the front of the fixed part of the dispenser 200. For example, again with reference to Figure 4, 116 indicates two seats or shaped recesses, preferably located in the upper part, which are intended to receive at least some respective parts of a locking/unlocking arrangement which, in possible embodiments, ? mounted on the dispenser 10. In the example, each recess 116 extends from the peripheral surface 114b of the recess 114 up to the upper edge of the hollow body 101, and houses part of a respective engagement/release device 1051, 1052 as previously described.

In various embodiments two lateral shaped seats 117a-117b are provided, particularly in substantially opposite diametrical positions of the peripheral surface 114b of the recess 114, each of these seats preferably comprising two different suitably shaped areas 117a and 117b.

The seats 117a-117b are intended to receive and allow the movement of respective angularly movable coupling elements (indicated for example with 220c in figure 11 and described below) which, in possible embodiments, form part of a coupling arrangement/ release (for example of the bayonet type) operative between the removable dispenser part 100 and the fixed dispenser part 200. In the example each seat 117-117b extends in a radial direction outwards, starting from the peripheral surface 114b of the recess 114.

With 118 ? indicated a seat or lower shaped recess, which ? intended to receive and allow the angular movement of a manually operable actuation element (indicated with 220d in figure 3, and described hereinafter) which, in possible embodiments, forms part of the aforementioned engagement/release arrangement. In the example, the recess 118 extends from the peripheral surface 114b of the recess 114 to the lower edge of the hollow body 101.

Other seats or recesses which extend from the peripheral surface 114b of the recess 114 up to the lower edge of the hollow body 101 can be provided, in possible embodiments, for example to partially house a delivery duct for a washing agent (such as the section of pipe indicated with 403c1 in figure 11, described below) or to allow the outflow of a washing agent (as described below): this ? the case of the recesses indicated with 118a and 118b, respectively, which in the example are defined in the direction of depth? Z starting from the bottom of the recess 118.

Will you appreciate it? in any case that, irrespective of the conformation chosen for the interface walls between the removable part 100 and the fixed part 200, the operation of the dispenser 10 during a treatment program does not imply any movement of the removable part 100, which? then coupled in stationary position on the fixed part 200.

The dispenser part fixes 200 ? visible in figures 3 and 4, relative to the external 5a and internal 5b sides of the relative mounting wall 5, in a partial exploded view in figures 9-10, and isolated in figures 11 and 12.

Referring initially to figure 3, the fixed dispenser part 200 includes a main body 201, intended to be mounted in correspondence with a through opening of the wall 5, preferably an opening with a substantially circular profile. Also the main body 201 ? obtainable in plastic material, for example by moulding; if necessary, also the body 201 pu? be formed in pi? parts joined together, for example welded together or coupled in a separable manner, possibly with the interposition of sealing elements.

Referring in particular to figures 9-11, in various embodiments the main body 201 has a bottom wall 201a and a peripheral wall 201b1-201b2 at which ? a radially outwardly projecting flange 201c is defined. Preferably, the main body ? mounted starting from the external side 5a of the mounting wall 5, with the flange 201c destined to abut against the aforementioned external side 5a, with the possible interposition of a sealing element, indicated with 202 in figures 9-10 (see also figure 18) , for example an elastomer sealing ring.

In various embodiments, in the assembled condition, a front portion of the main body 201, indicated as a whole with 203 in figure 3, protrudes frontally with respect to the external side 5a of the wall 5, particularly to be received in the recess 114 described above (figure 4 ), of the back of the removable dispenser part 100. This protruding portion 203 of the main body 201 ? made by the bottom wall 201a and by the peripheral wall part 201b1 which extends frontally to the flange 201c. In the example, for this purpose, the back wall 201a ? substantially circular and the peripheral wall 201b1-201b2, or at least its part 201b1, is essentially cylindrical.

In various embodiments, a further hollow protrusion, indicated by 204, extends forwards from the back wall 201a. In the non-limiting example shown, this further protrusion 204 is intended for coupling with the recess 115 (figure 4) of the back of the removable dispenser part 100 (see also figure 18 for reference), and for this purpose the protrusion 204 preferably has a generally cylindrical shape, or another shape substantially complementary to the recess 115.

In various embodiments, the dispenser is associated with at least one of a signaling arrangement and a locking/unlocking arrangement, possible embodiments of which will be described below: in various embodiments, at least one first functional element of such an arrangement ? mounted on the part of the fixed dispenser and ? intended to cooperate with at least one second functional element mounted on the removable dispenser part. In these embodiments, the at least one first functional element ? accessible in the front area of the stationary dispenser part, in order to be able to operatively couple, respectively decouple, with the at least one second functional element. The front portion of the fixed dispenser part can? be shaped to support and/or guide and/or position said first functional element.

For this purpose, in various embodiments, in the front portion 203 ? at least one positioning and/or guide formation 205 is defined, preferably formed integrally with the main body 201. In the example of figure 11, two formations 205 are provided, in specular positions, which extend upwards (with reference to the dimension Y ) starting from the peripheral wall part 201b1 of the main body 201. In the example, each formation 205 performs positioning and/or guiding functions for at least one locking element, belonging to the aforementioned locking/unlocking arrangement, and for at least one element of light transmission, belonging to the aforementioned signaling arrangement, which are preferably substantially parallel to each other and extend axially in the height dimension Y of the dispenser; in figure 11, two of the aforementioned blocking elements are indicated with 2061 and 2062, while two of the aforementioned light transmission elements are indicated with 207.

Again with reference to Figure 11, according to possible embodiments, at least one inlet for a washing agent opens at the front of the fixed dispenser part 200 (i.e. at the back wall 201a of its main body 201), intended for connection with a corresponding outlet of a tank defined in the part of the removable dispenser 100. In the example shown, a first inlet 210 and a second inlet 211 are provided, preferably defined by tubular and positioned ducts, to which the outlets 112 and 113 (figure 4) of tanks R1 and R2, respectively.

Still with particular reference to Figure 11, in possible embodiments, at least one dispensing passage 212 for a washing agent opens at the front of the fixed dispenser part 200 (that is, at the wall 201a of its main body 201). Preferably, this passage 212 opens in correspondence with a groove or recess 213 of the front surface of the bottom wall 201a, which extends downwards (with reference to the dimension Y) at least between the same passage 212 and the part of the peripheral wall 201b1 of the main body 201, for the purpose described below. In the example shown, passage 212 ? associated with a dispensing arrangement of the washing agent coming from the tank R2. In various embodiments, the dispenser has a dispensing arrangement for the scrubbing agent contained in a reservoir of the removable dispenser part, comprising a pump which is used for dispensing. preferably mounted on the fixed dispenser part. In various embodiments of this type, at least part of the pump ? arranged within a relative housing defined at the front of the fixed dispenser part. In various preferential embodiments, at least part of this housing extends towards the inside of the washing tub 3, i.e. it extends beyond a plane identified by the mounting wall 5 of the dispenser 10. In this way the housing, and therefore at least part of the pump, can be located outside the door 3 of the dishwasher 1 or in any case in an easily accessible position, which is useful? for example ? for maintenance/repair/cleaning purposes.

In the example shown in figure 11 such a housing ? indicated with 214 and ? defined in the wall 201a of the main body part 201. As can be seen, at least part of the housing extends frontally beyond the flange 201c used for mounting the fixed dispenser part 200.

Housing 214 ? preferably closed by a relative removable cover, indicated with 215 for example in figures 3 and 9-10, with possible interposition of sealing means, not shown. In various embodiments, the lid 215 is removably mounted, to facilitate cleaning of the housing 214 and/or the pump; in particular, the cover 215 can? then be removed from the tub side. In the example, the lid 215 ? shaped to define a passage 215 for the inlet 210. Advantageously, at the outer surface of the bottom wall 201a of the main body 201 is defined a seat 216 for the lid 215.

Pi? in general, in various embodiments, at least part of the peristaltic pump ? mounted or accessible at a front portion of the fixed dispenser part, which in the example is? represented by the protruding front portion 203 (as it has been seen, this portion 203 can be received in the corresponding seat 114 defined in the back of the removable dispenser part 100).

In various embodiments, the peripheral wall portion 201b2 of the main body 201 which extends rearwardly of the flange 201c and which is intended for insertion through the corresponding through opening of the mounting wall 5, ? arranged for coupling with at least one retaining element, for fixing the fixed dispenser part 200 to the wall itself. Referring in particular to the example of figures 9-10 , for this purpose the peripheral wall part 201b2 has a male thread (not shown) on its outer surface, on which ? intended to be screwed in a retaining ring nut, indicated as a whole with 217, provided with relative female thread 217a (see also figure 4, for the assembled condition of the two parts in question). As an alternative to a threaded coupling, the peripheral wall part 201b2 of the main body 201 and the retention element - here represented by the ring nut 217 - could have another shape and/or be provided with other mutual coupling means, for example in the form of attachment of the bayonet type and/or means at least partly elastic for reciprocal hooking and/or provided with holes and relative fastening screws. Even the retention element 217 can? be made of plastic material.

The bottom wall 201a and the peripheral wall 201b1-201b1 of the main body 201 define a cavity, globally indicated with C for example in figures 4, 9 and 12, within which one or more are mounted or defined? functional elements of the dispenser 10, described hereinafter.

In various embodiments, the dispenser comprises an arrangement operable by a user, for causing engagement and disengagement of the removable dispenser part with respect to the fixed dispenser part. In various embodiments, the hooking/unhooking arrangement comprises at least one element which, although mounted on the fixed dispenser part, ? operable in the front area of the dispenser, i.e. the part intended to protrude towards the inside of the tank of the machine 1.

In various embodiments, the above arrangement includes a movable hooking/unhooking member. Referring in particular to figures 9-11, this member ? indicated overall with 220, here of the mobile type angularly, which ? mounted at the front portion 203 of the main body 201. The member 220 can? be made of plastic material.

As can be seen in figures 9-10, the member 220 has a ring-shaped body, including a generally cylindrical peripheral wall 220a, from which preferably but not necessarily - a flange 220b protrudes radially outwards. The ring body 220a-220b has a slightly larger internal diameter than the peripheral wall part 201b1, in order to be constrained thereon so as to be able to rotate. For this purpose, in possible embodiments, on the peripheral wall part 201b1 can be provided a special seat, not shown, in which the revolving member 220 ? engageable snap with the possibility? of rotation.

In various embodiments, the revolving member 220 has at least two hooking elements 220c, particularly in the form of tabs, preferably in opposite diametrical positions, which protrude in a radial direction, preferably starting from the peripheral wall 220a. In various embodiments from the revolving member 220, particularly from its flange 220b if provided, a manually operable element protrudes radially, in the form of a lever, indicated with 220d. Preferably, the operable element 220d extends downwardly (relative to dimension Y) substantially at its bottom dead center, at an angular distance of approximately 90? with respect to each latch element 220c. Still preferentially, the element 220d has such a length and shape that it can be operated from the front of the dispenser 10 even when the removable dispenser part 100 is? coupled to the fixed dispenser part 200 (see for example figures 2 and 18).

In various embodiments, the member 220 has one or more? discharges or recesses, in order to avoid, in the course of its angular displacement, possible interference with one or more? corresponding fixed elements of the main body part 201. These recesses can extend on the peripheral wall 220a and/or on the flange 220b.

For example, referring to figures 9 and 10, two recesses are indicated with 220e, intended to be located in correspondence with the formations 205 which extend starting from the peripheral wall part 201b1 of the main body 201. As can also be seen in figure 11, the recesses 220e have a greater angular extension than that of the formations 205 and are disposed with respect to them in order to allow the angular movement of the revolving member 220. A recess having a similar function, indicated with 220f, is provided in the lower area of the revolving member 220, particularly to avoid movement interference with a delivery outlet (see the elements indicated with 219 and 403c1 in figure 11, described below) which extends beyond the outer surface of the peripheral wall 201b1 of the main body 201 of the stationary dispenser part 200.

Again with reference to figures 9-11, with 220g ? finally, a recess is indicated which, in the operating condition of the dispenser 10, i.e. with the removable dispenser part 100 hooked onto the fixed dispenser part 200, is aligned at the end? outlet of the discharge recess 213 previously described, in order to allow the outflow by gravity? of a dose of a dispensed washing agent.

In figures 13 and 14 ? exemplified the mode? of operation of the hooking/unhooking arrangement including the rotating member 220. As previously indicated, in the operating condition of the dispenser 10, inside the recess 114 (see also figure 4) of the back of the hollow body 101 of the removable dispenser part 100 the protruding front portion 203 (see also figure 3) of the main body 201 of the fixed dispenser part 200 is housed; likewise, the positioning and/or guide formations 205 are located within the recesses 116 (figure 4) of the back of the hollow body 101.

In this hooked condition, as shown in figure 13, the hooking elements 220c of the revolving member 220 are engaged in the respective shaped seats defined in the peripheral surface 114b of the recess 114, particularly in their engagement area 117a (see also figure 4): thereby ? the firm coupling between the removable dispenser part 100 and the fixed dispenser part 200 is guaranteed. As mentioned, in the example of figures 4 and 13-14, the aforementioned seats are shaped to achieve a coupling substantially of the bayonet type, and have then each an engagement zone 117a and a release zone 117b (not visible in figures 13-14 but indicated in figure 4) for the hooking elements 220c.

As represented in figure 14, when ? necessary to proceed with the removal of the removable dispenser part 100 from the fixed dispenser part 200, must a user cause a rotation? counterclockwise here? of the revolving member 220 with respect to the main body 201 on which the same element 220 ? mounted, as indicated by the arrow UL. For this purpose ? the operable part 220d of the revolving member 220 can be used, protruding downwards beyond the hollow body 101. In this way, following the rotation imparted to the revolving member 220, the hooking elements 220c are freed from the respective engagement areas 117a of the relative seats, going to occupy the corresponding release zones (117b - see figure 4): in this condition of manual release, the removable dispenser part 100 can? then be removed from the fixed dispenser part 200 (except for the possible presence of further locking elements, as exemplified below).

Will you appreciate it? that, starting from the condition of figure 14, after having repositioned the part 100 on the part 200, the manual re-engagement will be able be obtained simply by causing an opposite rotation of the revolving member 200, i.e. a rotation in the opposite direction to that indicated by the arrow UL in figure 14.

In various preferential embodiments, the coupling and uncoupling movements between the removable dispenser part and the fixed dispenser part occur in a substantially linear direction, particularly in the depth dimension (Z). of the dispenser. In these embodiments, a hooking/unhooking arrangement of the type exemplified is particularly advantageous, in view of its simplicity. of realization.

However, it should be noted that the hooking/unhooking arrangement between the parts 100 and 200 of the dispenser 10 can be different from the one exemplified, according to modality? which appear clear to the person expert in the sector. It should be noted, for example, that a mechanism with a bayonet coupling could have an inverted configuration to that exemplified, or with a revolving member functionally analogous to the one indicated with 220 which ? mounted on the back of the mobile thinker body part 100 and with the respective coupling seats defined in correspondence with the front of the fixed dispenser part. In other embodiments, the engagement/release arrangement between the parts 100 and 200 could be based on the use of at least one engagement/release member that is linearly movable, instead of? angularly, for example comprising a slider.

How to ? seen, in various embodiments, the removable dispenser part includes at least one tank, having a respective outlet in its lower part, at the back of the hollow body intended to face the front of the fixed dispenser part, and with the ?exit that ? coupled in a separable way to a corresponding input that ? at the front of the fixed dispenser part. In realizations of this type, the entrance? connected in fluid communication with a relative dispensing arrangement, configured to dispense quantity? dose the washing agent from the relative tank. In particularly advantageous embodiments of this type, on the hollow body ? mounts at least one check valve, in correspondence with the tank outlet, which ? configured to assume a respective open position following the coupling between the output and the input and to assume a respective closed position following the decoupling between the output and the input. The check valve? then a valve which automatically switches from the open position to the closed position when the mobile dispenser part is removed from the fixed dispenser part, and switches from the closed position to the open position when the mobile dispenser part is coupled to the dispenser part fixed. Thereby ? It is possible to avoid unwanted leakage of the washing agent when the removable dispenser part is removed.

In various embodiments, such as those exemplified in the figures, the hollow body defines two tanks, each with its own outlet, and with two corresponding inlets on the fixed dispenser part: in such cases, a aforementioned check valve can be mounted at each outlet.

The concept, with reference to the examples described so far, ? illustrated in schematic form in figure 15, where it can be seen how the outputs 112 and 113 of the hollow body 101 are intended for insertion into the inputs 210 and 211, respectively, of the main body 201. As mentioned, the outputs 112 and 123 are preferably , on the one hand, and the inlets 210 and 211, on the other hand, have at least partially a tubular configuration, in order to facilitate mutual engagement in the coupling direction of the removable dispenser part 100 on the fixed dispenser part 200. At the outlets or the inlets can possibly be associated with respective annular gaskets, in order to improve - if necessary - the fluid seal.

The tubular arrangement of the outlets 112 and 123 and the inlets 210 and 211 ? preferably such as to facilitate a respective seal, for example by means of respective sealing elements, particularly in annular form, wherein said seal could be of the axial type or of the radial type. For example, for an axial-type seal, an annular sealing element could be provided which operates between the head between each outlet and an abutment wall in the corresponding inlet, while in the case of a radial-type seal, an annular seal element could be provided. operating between the tubular wall of the outlet and the tubular wall of the corresponding inlet. Preferably, the outlets 112 and 123 and the inlets 210 and 211 have a circular section, i.e. a substantially cylindrical shape, to which respective circular annular sealing elements, for example in the form of an O-ring, can be associated; however the tubular shape of the outlets and inlets could have a different section (for example polygonal), but preferably with rounded corners.

The aforementioned first and second check valves are only partially visible in figure 15, indicated with 2301 and 2302, associated with the outlet 112 and with the outlet 113, respectively. From the figure it can also be understood how, in various embodiments, the front of the fixed dispenser part 200 comprises one or more? guide elements (such as the protruding portion 203, the tubular inlets 211, 212, the protrusion 204, the formations 205) and the back of the removable dispenser part 100 comprises one or more? guided elements (the recess 114, the tubular outlets 112, 113, the seat 115, the recesses 116), to define a univocal coupling direction and/or position between the aforementioned mobile and stationary parts of the dispenser. How to ? seen, preferably, the coupling occurs substantially according to the dimension of depth? Z of the dispenser, i.e. in a direction substantially orthogonal to the face of the stationary dispenser part or the dispenser mounting wall.

The check valves 2301 and 2302 are each configured to assume a respective open position following coupling between the outlets 112 and 113, on the one hand, and the inlets 210 and 211, and to assume a respective closed position at following the decoupling between the outputs 112 and 113, on the one hand, and the inputs 210 and 211, on the other hand. In the example, the check valves 2301 and 2302 determine an automatic closing and/or opening of the outlets 112 and 113 of the tanks R1 R2: in the case of further tanks, further check valves can be provided on the respective outlets.

A possible design of the 2301 and 2302 check valves? visible in figures 16 and 17, which represent a schematic section of the hollow body 101 only.

In the example, each valve 2301 and 2302 includes a valve member 231 which is inserted at least partially inside the relative tubular outlet part 112a or 113a and which ? urged by an elastic element 232, particularly a spring, towards the closed position of the outlet itself. Preferably, the spring 232 extends within the relative reservoir R1 or R2 and has a first end? abutting against an internal surface of the tank itself, opposite the relative tubular outlet part 112a or 113a; possibly, inside the tank can? be defined as a formation of support for the first extremity? of spring 232, as exemplified for valve 2302.

The valve member 231 has a first portion 233 generally opposed to the spring 232, which extends axially through its tubular outlet portion 112a or 113a and which defines an end of the spring 232. actuation element 233a of the valve member 230. Preferably, the first portion 233 of the member 231 has a series of radial fins (not indicated, but clearly visible for example in figure 6), in order to facilitate centering and/or guiding of the organ itself inside the relative tubular outlet, however allowing its axial sliding and the passage of the washing agent. Always preferably, the? extremity? actuating element 233a of the valve member 231 projects beyond the proximal edge of the associated tubular outlet portion 112a or 113a.

The valve organ 231 ? provided with sealing means, capable of interacting with the relative tubular outlet part 112a or 113a to determine its opening or closing. In the example, for this purpose, the valve member 231 defines a flange 234 in its internal part of the respective tank R1 or R2, projecting radially outwards. In the example, in correspondence with the side of the flange 234 facing the relative outlet 112 or 113? mounted a sealing gasket, indicated with 235, preferably a sealing ring having a larger diameter than the internal diameter of the relative outlet, and therefore capable of realizing a frontal or axial seal with respect to the area of the internal surface of the tank R1 or R2 which surrounds the ?entrance of the exit itself.

In the example, the member 231 of the check valve 2302 has a second portion 236, which extends axially from the flange 234, in the opposite direction to the first portion 233, on which it can? be suitably fit, and therefore guided, a part of the relative spring 232, the second end? of the spring being preferably abutted on the side of the flange opposite the relative gasket 235. Again with reference to the example, the flange 234 of the member 231 defines, in correspondence with its side opposite the gasket 235, a seat ? not indicated? in which ? received, and therefore guided, a part of the relative spring 232, the second extremity? of the spring being abutted on the bottom of this seat.

Of course, the check valves 2301 and 2302 could also be of the same construction. In the example, the different realization ? motivated by the fact that the valve 2302 ? mounted in a deeper area (dimension Z) of the hollow body, or of the tank R2, with the valve member 231 which ? axially more long and for which it is cos? it is advisable to provide a guide portion 236 of the axially extended spring 232.

Figure 16 represents an operating condition of the check valves 2031 and 2302 equivalent to that which occurs when the removable dispenser part 100 is coupled to the fixed dispenser part. In this condition, the? extremity? of actuation 233a of the valve organ 231 ? abutting on a corresponding abutment surface defined in the fixed dispenser part 200, particularly in correspondence with the relative inlet 210 or 211: in this way, the valve member 231 is maintained in a retracted position against the action of the spring 232, which corresponds to the open position of the check valve 2301 or 2302. In this condition, the sealing means including the gasket 235 are spaced from the internal surface of the tank R1 or R2 surrounding the mouth of the tubular outlet portion 112a or 133a, so allowing the passage of the washing agent in the respective inlet 210 or 211 of the fixed dispenser part 200.

The abutment surface against which you expect the? of actuation 233a of the valve organ 231 ? preferably defined within the corresponding inlet 210 or 211 of the stationary dispenser part 200. For example, this surface can? be represented by the internal surface of a bottom of the inlet 210 or 211 (the bottom of the inlets 210 and 211 is visible in figure 12, where it is indicated by 210b and 211b, respectively), or defined by a suitable element defined inside the ?entrance 210 or 211: this second case ? exemplified in figure 18 for the check valve 2301, where an abutment element 210c extends inside the inlet 210, on the front surface of which the end? of actuation of the respective valve organ, thus maintaining it in the retracted opening position of the outlet 112 or 113, in a compressed condition of the relative spring.

As can be seen instead in figure 17, when the removable dispenser part 100 is instead decoupled from the fixed dispenser part 200, the valve organ 231? pushed and maintained in an advanced position under the action of the relative spring 232, which corresponds to the closed position of the check valve 2301 or 2302. In this condition, the sealing means including the gasket 235 are pressed by the effect of the spring 232 on the inner surface of the tank R1 or R2 surrounding the mouth of the tubular outlet part 112a or 113a, thus preventing the outflow of the washing agent through the respective outlet 112, 113.

In various preferential embodiments, such as those exemplified in the figures, at least two tanks R1 and R2 are defined in a single body 101, but in possible embodiment variants, two or more? tanks could be distinct from each other, or each belong to a respective removable hollow body: in embodiments of this type the fixed dispenser part would have a structure adapted accordingly, in order to allow the separable mechanical and fluidic coupling of the hollow bodies, using for example means of the type gi? described above. Also in solutions of this type each hollow body could be equipped with a check valve of the type described, at a relative outlet.

In various embodiments, the removable dispenser portion includes first and second reservoirs for first and second scrubbing agents, respectively, and the dispenser includes first and second dispensing arrangements, each configured to dispense specific amounts. doses of the respective first or second scrubbing agent, respectively. In particularly advantageous embodiments of this type, the first dispensing arrangement comprises a peristaltic pump, which has associated a drive arrangement of the second dispensing arrangement, the peristaltic pump being configured to actuate in a first direction to cause dispensing of first quantities? dosed of the first washing agent, and operable in a second direction, to actuate the command arrangement, so as to cause the supply of second quantities? dosing of the second scavenging agent, particularly via the second dispensing arrangement.

In these embodiments, each dispensing arrangement preferably comprises a dispensing duct, which extends between the outlet of the relevant tank and a dispensing outlet for the quantities used. dosed of the first and second washing agent, respectively, with at least a part of the delivery conduit of the first arrangement which is deformable of the peristaltic pump.

A possible realization of such a peristaltic pump? visible for example in figures 11, 12 and 18, in the latter figure the dispenser 10 being shown in an operative condition.

The peristaltic pump? indicated as a whole with 400 in figure 11, although in this figure only a part of the pump is visible, arranged within the housing 214 defined in correspondence with the front of the fixed dispenser part 200, or of its main body 201. In this figure, with 401 ? indicated a rotating unit of the pump 400, which bears one or more? compression elements 402, for example constituted by rollers mounted to rotate, according to a circumference, on a structure (401a, figure 18) of the head 401. The pump 400 further comprises a duct or tube 403 that is at least partially deformable, hereinafter also indicated only as a ?tube?. Preferably, the tube 403 has at least one intermediate portion 403a in contact with and/or wrapped around the compression elements 402 of the rotating group 401 and which ? in deforming contact with these elements. For this purpose, in various embodiments, the housing 214 defines a curved contact surface 214a, against which the part of the intermediate pipe portion 403a opposite the compression elements 402 rests.

In the example, the intermediate tube portion 403a is defined between a first portion of tube 403b, here defined as ascending, and a second portion of tube 403c here defined as descending, these two portions of tube 403b, 403c preferably extending at least partly substantially parallel, particularly in the height dimension (Y) of the dispenser 10. The output flow rate of the pump 400, or the quantity? of dispensed washing agent, pu? be determined according to the technique per se? note, as a function of parameters such as the number of compression elements 402, the dimensions of the circumference according to which these elements are arranged, the passage section of the deformable tube 403, the speed? of rotation of the motor 404 and/or the number of rotations of the motor 404.

In the non-limiting example described, the extremity? bottom of the ascending tube portion 403b ? coupled to a relative attachment 218 defined by the main body 201 of the fixed dispenser part 200, particularly inside the housing 214, with this attachment 218 which is? in fluid communication with the tubular inlet 210, through the opening indicated by 218a, defined on the tubular wall of said inlet (see for example also figures 46 and 49).

The end? lower part of the descending tube portion 403c instead defines a dispensing opening 219 for the first washing agent. In the example, the tube portion 403c is passing through the peripheral wall 201b1 of the main body 201, provided for the purpose with a relative recess, not shown, with the section of pipe 403c1 protruding beyond said peripheral wall which is intended to be at least partially received in the recess 118a of the rear of the hollow body 101 (see figure 4). It should be noted that the outlet 219 could also be defined by a tubular element associated or integrally defined by the main body 201 (similarly to the coupling 218), to which one end bottom of the tube portion 403c.

In various preferential embodiments where ? If a peristaltic pump of the type exemplified with reference to figure 11 is used, the outlet of the tank R1, or the corresponding inlet 210 on the fixed dispenser part 200, is used. at a lower height than the rotating group 411 of the pump, i.e. at a lower height than the tube portion 403a and/or the curved contact surface 214a, with reference to the height dimension Y of the dispenser 10 when this is? in operating condition (that is arranged vertically, as in figure 11). This arrangement avoids losses of the corresponding washing agent in the tank 3. This arrangement, associated with the fact that the corresponding dispensing outlet 219 ? preferably at a lower height than the rotating unit 411 of the pump, it also allows to avoid stagnation of the corresponding washing agent in the portion of the delivery duct (here the portion 403c of the hose 403) downstream of the unit 401 of the pump 400.

In the operation of the pump 400, the rotation of the group 401 determines the pumping of the first washing agent through the tube 403, with the compression elements 402 which progressively crush and release consecutive sections of the tube portion 403a, with respect to the curved contact surface 214a .

The rotation of the 401 group ? determined by an electric actuator having an angularly rotatable shaft, such as the motor designated generally at 404 in FIG. 12 , mounted on the stationary dispenser portion 200. In the example, a rear portion of the motor 404 is housed within the hollow protrusion 204 (see FIG. 11) of the front of the main body 201. A front portion of the motor 404 is housed within. preferably housed inside a relative tubular seat 204a, defined within the cavity? C of the main body 201 and that ? aligned with the aforementioned hollow recess 204 of the front (see figure 18).

Preferably, the 404 motor has a drive shaft which is rotating according to an axis substantially parallel to an axis of rotation of the rotating unit 401, between the drive shaft and the rotating unit being provided one or more? transmission bodies. Referring to the illustrated example, the drive shaft of the 404 motor ? partially visible in figure 18, indicated with 404a, with the relative axis of rotation indicated with 404b, and in the same figure with 401b ? a shaft of the rotating unit 401 is indicated, which identifies its respective axis of rotation, indicated with 401c. In the example, the shaft 401b of the rotating group 401 ? mounted passing through a relative opening defined on the bottom of the housing 214; at this opening, from the bottom of the housing 214 protrudes - towards the inside of the cavity? C of the main body 201 a relative cylindrical seat 214b, for supporting and guiding the shaft 401b. Preferably, in an intermediate section of the shaft 401b housed in the relative cylindrical seat 214b? mounted a sealing ring, not shown.

At? tree 404a of the motor 404 ? keyed a first toothed wheel 405 and to the shaft 401b of the rotating unit 401? a second gear wheel 406 is keyed, the two gear wheels 405 and 406 being mutually meshed so that the rotation of the shaft 404a causes a rotation of the shaft 401b, and therefore of the rotating unit 401. In the example, the wheel 405 has a diameter, and therefore a number of teeth, which ? smaller than the diameter, and therefore the number of teeth, of the 406 wheel.

As mentioned, the pump 400 belongs to the dispensing arrangement of the first washing agent, which also includes a dispensing duct which extends between the outlet of the relative tank R1 and the dispensing outlet 219. In the example, the dispensing duct is? defined on the fixed dispenser part 200 and includes the inlet 210, the attachment 218 and the deformable tube 403. As mentioned, alternatively, the dispensing outlet of this duct could be defined by a tubular part of the main body 201, to which the?exit of the tube 403 ? connected.

In various embodiments, the dispensing arrangement of the second scrubbing agent contained in the second tank, i.e. tank R2, includes a dosing valve, which is operating along the respective delivery duct. Referring in particular to figure 12, such a metering valve ? indicated overall by 410. In general, the metering valve 410 can? be made according to the known technique in the field of dispensers for dishwashers, and for example comprise a dosing chamber which partially houses a valve member, wherein this member is movable between a first position, in which the member itself closes an inlet of the dosing chamber and at the same time allows the outflow of the second washing agent from the dosing chamber through a respective outlet, and a second position, in which the The valve opens the inlet to the dosing chamber and at the same time prevents the outflow of the second cleaning agent from the dosing chamber through the respective outlet.

A possible realization of the 410 metering valve? exemplified in figure 19. In this figure, with 411 ? indicated a dosing chamber, defined by the main body 201 of the fixed dispenser part 200, in which ? a valve member indicated as a whole by 412 is partially housed in a linearly sliding manner. A portion of the valve member, indicated by 412a always extends outside the chamber 411, through a through hole of a front cover 411a of the chamber itself. The 411a lid? preferably fixed in correspondence with a front opening of the chamber 411 by means of screws (one indicated with 411b), with the possible interposition of a sealing gasket, but in possible variants (as for example visible in figure 12), the screws can be absent and the cover welded directly in correspondence with the aforementioned front opening. The outer portion 412a of the member 412 ? preferably provided with an enlarged head 412b, through which the member itself can? traction be imparted.

On at least a portion of the portion of member 412 which extends into metering chamber 411 ? fitted a sealing element 413 formed in a resilient material, for example in an elastomer. The sealing element 413 includes a flange portion 413a, intended to operate a seal with respect to a valve seat 411 defined within the chamber 411. An end portion? 413b of the sealing element 413 instead covers the end? of the member 412 opposite the lid 411a, in order to seal an inlet 411e of the dosing chamber 411. This inlet ? made by a through opening of a wall belonging to a lower hollow extension 411c of the rear part of the inlet 211 defined in the fixed dispenser part 200. The sealing element 413 is otherwise? shaped to define a bellows portion 413c, at the end? opposite to the portion 413b. This bellows portion 413c has the purpose of realizing a seal with respect to the inner side of the lid 411a (and therefore avoiding leakage of liquid from the opening of the lid 411 through which the valve member passes), and at the same time allowing linear movements of the valve member 412. Inside the bellows portion 413c? housed a spring, not visible, which tends to push the member 422 into a closed position of the valve seat 411e.

As previously indicated, also the inlet 211 preferably comprises at least one cylindrical tubular portion, to allow the coupling of the corresponding tubular outlet 113 of the tank R2. In figure 12, for example, the aforementioned cylindrical tubular portion, indicated with 211a, as well as the a relative back wall 211b, which ? in common with the aforementioned lower extension 211c, which is located in a rear part of the portion 211a. The lower extension 2011c preferably has an approximately prismatic shape, or in any case comprising a rectilinear wall which defines the bottom of the dosing chamber 411 and is provided with the through opening which creates the entrance 411e of the same chamber.

The dosing chamber 411 also has a?exit 411f, that ? defined in one of its peripheral walls and that ? in fluid communication with a relative conduit 240 present on the main body 201 of the fixed dispenser part 200. The outside of this conduit 240 is partially visible in figures 12 and 20 (see also figure 71, in which the conduit 240 is partially sectioned), and preferably comprises a part 240a defined integrally with the main body 201 and a relative lid 240b fixed in a sealed manner, for example welded. The duct 240 extends at least between the outlet 411f of the dosage chamber of figure 19 and between the dispensing passage 212 which opens on the front of the main body 201 (figure 11). Preferably a part of the duct 240 also extends above the outlet 411e of the dosing chamber 411, to fulfill a vent function.

Figure 19 illustrates the aforementioned first position of the metering valve 410, in which the valve member 412 with the relative sealing element 413 is? pushed by the relative spring - present inside the bellows portion 413c - to close the inlet 411e. Assume that in this condition the chamber 411 is empty and that in the inlet 211 and in the relative lower extension 211c - which are in direct fluid communication with the second tank R2, and more - particularly with its withdrawal volume R2a of figures 6-8 - the second washing liquid is present. The flange portion 413a of the sealing element 413 is spaced from the related valve seat 411d.

For the purpose of dispensing a dose of the second washing agent, the valve member 412 is made to retract against the action of the relative bellows portion, so that the inlet 411e of the chamber 411 is opened, and at the same time the flange portion 413a of the sealing element moves towards the relative valve seat 411d. In this way, a certain volume of the second washing agent can penetrate the dosing chamber 411. Preferably, however, the retraction of the member 412 continues for a certain distance even after the flange portion 413a has reached the valve seat 411d, possibly causing an ?accordion? of the sealing element 413 on the valve member 412 (see for example figure 28), and so? also producing a suction effect of the second washing agent inside the dosing chamber 411. Since the valve seat is closed, the fluid cannot? however, go to exit 411f of room 411.

Subsequently, the valve member 412 is left to return to the initial condition shown in figure 19, under the action of the relative spring, with the flange portion 413a of the sealing element 413 which detaches from the valve seat 411d and allows the outflow of the dose of washing agent from the chamber 411 through the outlet 411f , and with the end? of the member 412 (or of the relative part 413b of the sealing element 413) which closes the inlet 411e, preventing the further flow of the second washing agent. The dose of the second washing agent then flows downwards along the duct 240, until it reaches the discharge passage 212 (figure 11), and then the recess 213 and the recess 220g which allow it to pass towards the inside of the washing tank 3 of the dishwasher 1.

In the example, therefore, also the dispensing duct of the second dispensing arrangement ? defined on the fixed dispenser part 200, and includes the inlet 211, the extension 211c, the dosing chamber 411 of the valve 410, the conduit 240, as well as the - preferably - the recess 213 and the recess 220g.

As previously explained, in advantageous embodiments, the peristaltic pump, or at least one of its parts, is used to deliver both washing agents, and for this purpose the pump is used. of the reversible type, or rather its actuator ? operable in a first direction to allow the delivery of the first washing agent, and operable in a second opposite direction to allow the delivery of the second washing agent, thanks to a control arrangement interposed between the pump and the second delivery arrangement , that in? the example ? including the dosing valve 410. The control arrangement can? be operated by a relative rotary member associated with the pump, as in the example described below, or the control arrangement can? be shaped so as to be driven by, or comprise, one of the parts of the pump 400, for example its rotating assembly 401 and/or one of its compression elements 402 and/or one of its transmission members interposed between the rotating assembly 401 and the 404 engine.

In various embodiments, the control arrangement comprises a transmission lever which is angularly rotatable around a respective axis and ? operatively associated with a valve member of a metering valve forming part of the aforesaid second dispensing arrangement, such as for example the member 412 of the valve 410. This transmission lever is configured in such a way that:

- an angular movement in a first direction of the transmission lever, induced by the actuation of the peristaltic pump in the first direction of rotation, does not cause a movement of the valve member such as to cause the delivery of a second quantity? dosing of the second washing agent, e

- an angular movement in a second direction of the transmission lever, induced by the actuation of the peristaltic pump in the second direction of rotation, causes a displacement of the valve member such as to cause the delivery of at least a second quantity? dosing of the second washing agent.

According to what is indicated above, the transmission lever could be actuated by one of the parts of the peristaltic pump, such as for example its rotating assembly or one of its compression elements. However, in other embodiments, the actuation of said metering valve could be obtained by means of a member associated with the peristaltic pump, such as a cam member which defines a cam profile and which is? capable of being set in rotation by means of the pump actuator.

In the example of figure 20, the control arrangement includes such a cam member, indicated with 420, while the relative cam profile ? indicated with 420a; preferably, but not necessarily, the cam profile 420a ? a multilobed profile, for example trilobed as in the example.

Preferably the cam organ 420 ? coaxial and integral in rotation with the rotating assembly 411 of the peristaltic pump 400, although there is does not constitute an essential feature. The cam member 420 - visible separately in figure 20 and in figures 22, 24, 2628 and 30 - can? be defined integrally by, or associated with, the sprocket 406 at the rear thereof (see Fig. 18 ).

In various embodiments, the aforementioned transmission lever belonging to the control arrangement has a first portion which defines a cam follower configured to interact with the cam profile of the cam member, and a second portion which is constrained or associated with the valve member of the dosing valve. Such a transmission lever ? indicated as a whole with 430 in figures 19 and 20. In the same figures, with 431 ? indicated the relative rotation pin, which can? be defined integrally by the main body 201 of the fixed dispenser part 200, in correspondence with the relative cavity? rear C. In the example, the axis of rotation identified by the pin 431 ? generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the cam member 420.

In the example, the transmission lever 430 comprises a first lever arm 430a and a second lever arm 430b, which extend in generally opposite directions relative to the axis of rotation identified by the pin 431. A first end portion belongs to the arm 430a ?, defining the above cam follower ? indicated with 430c in figure 19 ? intended to cooperate with the profile 420a of the cam member 420, while a second end portion belongs to the arm 430b, which is? constrained - preferably loosely? to the portion 412a of the valve member 412 of the valve 410 which extends outside the dosing chamber 411. Again with reference to the non-limiting example shown, the two lever arms 430a and 430b form an angle between them greater than 90 ?.

In various embodiments of this type, the cam profile 420a of the cam member 420 and the transmission lever 430 are configured such that:

- an angular movement in a first direction of the transmission lever 430, induced by the rotation in a first direction of the cam member 420, does not cause a movement of the valve member 412 such as to cause the dispensing of a quantity? dosing of the second washing agent, e

- an angular movement in a second direction of the transmission lever 430, induced by the rotation in a second direction of the cam member 420, causes a displacement of the valve member 412 such as to cause the dispensing of a quantity? dosing of the second washing agent.

The concept ? exemplified in figures 21-30. Figures 21-22 exemplify a possible condition which precedes the start of rotation of the motor 400 - or of the relative shaft and the gear wheel 405 associated with it - in a clockwise direction, which corresponds to an anti-clockwise rotation of the gear wheel 406, and therefore of the cam member 420 associated therewith.

In this condition, the transmission lever 230 ? in an angular position such that the? extremity? cam follower of the lever arm 430a is located on a straight section of the cam profile 410a, while the? opposite of the lever arm 430b is against the enlarged head 412b of the valve member 412 of the metering valve 410, but without exerting any traction thereon. This valve member 412 ? then maintained by the relative spring in the closed position of the inlet 411 and of the relative dosing chamber (see figures 19-20).

After the start of the clockwise rotation of the motor 400, with the consequent counterclockwise rotation of the cam member 410, the end? follow-cam of the lever arm 430a will come? to be in contact with a curved portion of the cam profile 420a, such as to induce a clockwise angular movement of the transmission lever 430: the end? of the lever arm 430b, therefore, will it move away? from the enlarged head 412b of the valve member 412, possibly reaching close of the front surface of the cover 411a of the valve 410, and therefore without exerting any traction on the valve member 412. This condition is shown in figures 23-24.

The 430 transmission lever ? preferably made of polymer or substantially rigid plastic material: however, given the particular shape and type of material, the lever itself could possibly be capable of flexing slightly in an elastic way, thus being able to return to the original shape. In other words, the substantially rigid structure of the transmission lever 430 can be such as to allow the relative drive function, but pu? allow, if necessary, slight elastic bending, for example to compensate for dimensional tolerances such as to cause mechanical interference. During the sliding of the cam profile 410a on? cam follower of the arm 430a, the latter (and/or the lever arm 430b) could be temporarily flexed in an elastic way, in the event that the end? opposite of the lever arm 430b should be pressed on the cover 411a of the valve 410.

The angular displacement of the lever 430 therefore does not cause a displacement of the valve member 412 or a stress on it, therefore without causing any delivery of the second washing agent by the dosing valve 410. As mentioned, the end? of the arm 230b pu? be loosely coupled to the portion of the valve member 412 which protrudes outside the valve metering chamber; the effect can? be obtained by providing for example a fork shape on the lever arm 230b, as visible for example in figure 24. The condition shown in figures 21-24 occurs during the continuous operation of the motor 404 of the pump 400 in the clockwise direction, during which - through the pump itself - ? obtained the dosage of the first washing agent coming from the first tank R1, in accordance with what was previously described with reference to figures 11, 12 and 18 in relation to the operation of the peristaltic pump 400.

When ? when the delivery of a dose of the second washing agent coming from the second tank R2 is requested, the motor 404 of the pump is operated in the opposite direction to the previous one, ie in the counterclockwise direction. After the start of rotation of the motor 404, with the consequent clockwise rotation of the cam member 420, the end? cam follower of the lever arm 430a comes into contact with a rectilinear section of the cam profile 420a, such as to induce an angular counterclockwise movement of the transmission lever 430: the end? of the lever arm 430b then returns to rest on the enlarged head 412b of the valve member 412, without causing the latter to move. This condition? shown in figures 25-26.

As the rotation of the member 420 continues, the end? cam follower of the lever arm 430a comes into contact with a curved section of the cam profile 420a, such as to induce a further counterclockwise angular movement of the transmission lever 430: in this way, the end? of the lever arm 430b exerts a traction on the enlarged head 412b of the valve member 412, thereby determining? the withdrawal of the valve member 412 against the action of the relative spring. This condition? shown in figures 27-28. Thus, as explained previously; the valve member 412 frees the inlet 411e of the dosing chamber 411 (figure 19), allowing the flow into the chamber itself of a certain quantity? of the second washing agent, while the contact of the sealing flange 413a carried by the member 412 with the relative valve seat 411d prevents the outflow of this quantity? of the washing agent through the outlet 411f of the dosing chamber 411 (see again figure 19).

The further rotation of the organ 420fa s? that the? extremity? cam follower of the lever arm 430a returns to contact with a straight section of the cam profile 420a, now inducing an angular clockwise movement of the transmission lever 430, and therefore allowing the advancement of the valve member 412 under the? action of its spring. This condition? shown in figures 29-30. Thus, as explained above. the valve member 412 returns to close the inlet 411e of the dosing chamber 411, preventing further flow of the second washing agent, and the sealing flange 413a separates from the valve seat 411f, allowing the contents of the dosage to flow out through the relevant outlet 411f.

It will be appreciated, with reference to the illustrated example, that a rotation of 360? in the clockwise direction of the cam organ 420 will correspond? the? disbursement of pi? quantity? dosed of the second washing agent (three, in the specific example).

Will you appreciate it? otherwise? that during the counterclockwise rotation of the 404 engine will be? determined a corresponding rotation of the rotating unit 401 of the peristaltic pump 400, which however will not determine? no delivery of the first cleaning agent from tank R1.

This rotation of the motor in the secondary direction, with respect to the primary pumping direction in the tank, is however also useful in relation to the tank R1, since pumping in the secondary direction can allow to rebalance the volume of ?air ? washing agent? in the tank, or compensate for the volume of a first dose of the first washing agent previously dispensed by means of a rotation in the primary direction of the motor 404: thanks to this feature, the tank R1 can? possibly be without vent openings.

Advantageously, pumping in the secondary direction makes it possible to pump towards the inside of this tank at least a large part of the washing agent left in the pipe 403, in particular in the sections 403a and 403b, thus avoiding stagnation, which for example in the case of prolonged inactivity, could cause anomalies, such as clogging of the pipe.

Will you appreciate it? therefore that, in various embodiments, the function of rebalancing the pressure inside the tank and/or of emptying the dispensing tube of a dispensing arrangement is obtained simultaneously with the actuation of another dispensing arrangement, in particular allowing with what? overall reduction of pump activation times, also to the advantage of reducing energy consumption.

Will you appreciate it? moreover that the rotating assembly 401 of the pump 400, and in particular at least one element 402 thereof, is configured in such a way as to keep a portion of the deformable tube 403 constantly compressed, even when the pump 400 is inactive, thus avoiding the risk of anomalies, such as for example an unwanted passage of the WD washing agent. This characteristic allows for example to avoid accidental emptying of the tank R1 and/or consequent washing anomalies due to the excess of WD agent accidentally poured into the tank. The continuous compression of the tube 403 also prevents unwanted entry of air into the tank, which can be useful for reducing the risk of degradation of the washing agent.

The 404 actuator of the 400 pump ? therefore preferably a reversible electric motor, whose operation can? be managed by means of a suitable circuital arrangement, for example a control circuit or controller, per se? known, implemented on an electronic board mounted on the fixed dispenser part 200, particularly inside the cavity C of its main body 201. Such a card ? for example indicated with 250 in figure 12, and pu? include a 251 microcontroller. The 404 motor can? be a stepping motor, or a different motor, preferably equipped with a position sensor, such as an encoder or resolver type sensor; to this end, the control circuit or card 250 can? comprise a control circuit for the motor 404 and/or a circuit for the control of the relative position sensor. To the card 250 pu? the detector RD (figure 3) associated with the floating body 110 of the level sensor described in relation to figures 6-8 can be connected in signal communication. The controller or card 250 pu? include memory means, in which data and control parameters of the motor 404 can be contained, for the purpose of dosing the first washing agent, with rotation in the primary direction, and the second washing agent, with rotation in the secondary direction.

Note, however, that a dispenser control circuit arrangement could be implemented in whole or in part in the CS control system of the dishwasher 1. In various embodiments, an on-board circuit arrangement of the dispenser 10 is implemented. configured for connection with the CS control system of the dishwasher on which the dispenser itself? installable, and the circuit arrangement of the dispenser ? configured to allow control of the pump actuator according to electrical signals provided by the aforementioned CS control system. For example, the 250 card of dispenser 10 can? be provided with communication means, in order to receive and/or transmit electric signals with respect to a controller of the CS control system of the dishwasher 1, for example to receive data and control parameters of the motor 404, for the purpose of dosages of washing agents, and/or to send electrical signals supplied by sensor devices on board the dispenser, and/or to receive commands for other actuation devices on board the dispenser. The on-board circuit arrangement of the dispenser could however also include only a wiring and/or electrical connectors, electrically connected to at least one actuation device and/or an on-board sensor device of the dispenser, for direct control by the control system CS of the dishwasher 1.

As seen previously, in various embodiments, the dispenser has a dispenser body in which ? defined at least one containment volume, capable of containing a washing agent in liquid or semi-solid form, as well as? a provision of delivery, configured to deliver one or more? quantity? dosing of? washing agent, as well as? a circuit arrangement, configured for connection to a washing machine control system on which the dispenser itself is installable. In various embodiments of this type, the dispenser further comprises at least one operable part, configured to be manually moved by a user from at least one first position to a second position. Referring, for example, to the examples described above, such an operable part can? be represented by a plug or a door for opening or closing the inlet passage of a tank R1, R2, or by the actuation element 220 (figures 9-11) belonging to the above described coupling/release arrangement operative between the removable dispenser part 100 and the fixed dispenser part 200.

In particularly advantageous embodiments of this type, the dispenser also comprises a locking/unlocking arrangement, which includes a locking mechanism that can be operated by a relative electric actuator, to assume at least one operating condition and at least one inoperative condition, in which the mechanism block prevents or allows, respectively, a displacement of the aforementioned operable part from its first position to its second position. The aforementioned electric actuator ? configured to be controllable as a function of an electrical signal supplied by at least one of a sensor device belonging to the circuit arrangement of the dispenser and the control system of the washing machine on which the dispenser ? installed, in order to cause the locking mechanism to switch from at least one operating condition to at least one inoperative condition.

The electrical signal used to operate the lock/unlock arrangement can for example be a signal representative of a level of the washing agent in the relative containment volume, supplied by a suitable sensor of the dispenser 10, or representative of a suitable command generated by the CS control system of the machine 1 (think of a suitable key on the control panel of the dishwasher, provided for enabling or preventing the removal of the dispenser part 100 from the dispenser part 200, by means of the hooking/unhooking arrangement described above).

How to ? seen, the at least one containment volume of the washing agent, which one of the tanks R1, R2 has a loading passage, and the aforementioned operable part can? include a closure element associated with the loading step. This closing element can? be a cap or, as in the examples illustrated, a door to which ? associated with a latch release device. One possible embodiment of a locking/unlocking arrangement will be therefore now described with reference to a dispenser 10 according to various examples described up to now, in which the removable part 100 of the dispenser 10 includes two tanks R1 and R2, each having its own loading passage 103 equipped with a relative door 1041 and 1042, respectively, which ? associated with a respective hooking/release device 1051 and 1052. How is it? As seen, the tanks R1 and R2 can be associated with respective level sensors, for example of the type described in relation to Figures 6-8, or of another type (such as those described below).

Referring particularly to Figs. 31 and 32 , the locking/unlocking arrangement includes a locking mechanism, which is operable by the electric actuator indicated with 450 in figure 31 , particularly a motor or an electromagnetic actuator, having an angularly movable drive shaft 450a, arranged here substantially according to the height dimension (Y) of the dispenser 10. With 451 ? indicated a cam organ that ? intended to be rotated through the shaft 450a of the motor 450; for this purpose, the body 451 can? be keyed to the aforesaid shaft 450a. Cam member 451 defines a peripheral cam profile 452a-452b. References 4531 and 4532 indicate a first and a second mechanism member, each of which defines at one end a related cam follower 453a. For simplicity?, hereinafter, the members 4531 and 4532 will also be referred to as ?sliders?. In the example, the two sliders 4531 and 4532 are arranged with their respective cam followers in opposite positions, relative to the cam profile 452a-452b.

In the example, the cam profile ? defined by two opposite sections which each extend according to a respective arc of a circumference, the two circumferences being one greater than the other; for example, the section of the profile 452a can you? extend for more than 180? of a respective circumference pi? small, while the stretch profile 452b you can? extend to less than 180? of a circumference pi? great. In general terms, cam member 451 has at least a portion of its peripheral cam profile which is suitable for causing the displacement of at least one cursor 4531 or 4532, and at least another part of the peripheral cam profile which ? suitable for not causing displacements of the cursors 4531 and 4532. The cam member 451 could therefore also be of the lobed type, for example with three similar lobes, two of which are opposite each other and the third at 90? compared to each of the others.

Each cursor 4531 and 4532 ? biased by a related elastic element, such as a coil spring 454 (see Figures 33 and 35), towards the member 450, so that each cam follower 453a is constantly in contact with the cam profile 452a-452b during the rotation of the member 450. Preferably, therefore, each slider 4531 and 4532 ? constrained to perform linear displacements, here according to the width dimension (X) of the dispenser 10; for this purpose, suitable guide supports, not indicated, are provided in the main body 201 of the fixed dispenser part 200.

Each cursor can be formed in pi? set off. In the non-limiting example shown, the cursor 4531 ? formed in two parts coupled together, indicated only in figure 31 by 4531a and 4531b, where the part 4531a has a structure similar to the slider 4532 and the part 4531b, which defines the relative cam follower 453a, ? conveniently shaped so as to be able to slide without hindering other components of the removable dispenser part (such as the motor of the previously described peristaltic pump).

The locking mechanism further comprises a locking member, configured to interact with a respective movable member of the hooking/release device 1051 or 1052 of a relative door 1041 or 1042. Referring to the illustrated case, two locking members are therefore provided, indicated with 2061 and 2062, already? previously mentioned in relation to figure 11, mounted passing through the aforementioned positioning and/or guide formations 205, which rise from the peripheral wall of the main body 201 of the fixed dispenser part 200, in its portion facing towards the inside of the tank washing (it should be noted that in figures 32, 34 and 36 the formations 205 are not represented, for reasons of greater clarity). As previously indicated, part of these formations 205, with a relative extremity? protruding of the locking members 2061 and 2062, ? receivable in the recesses or seats 116 mentioned in relation to Figure 4. The locking members 2061 and 2062 therefore preferably extend in the height dimension (Y) of the dispenser 10, i.e. in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the sliders 4531 and 4532 .

Each blocking member 2061 and 2062 ? displaceable between a locked position and an unlocked position, relative to the respective movable member, represented here by the coupling/release device 1051 and 1052 which can be operated manually. As previously indicated, in various embodiments, each latch/release device 1051 and 1052 consists essentially of a lever member which ? angularly rotatable about a respective fulcrum or axis 105c and defining a first lever arm 105e and a second lever arm 105d, the second lever arm defining or having associated a respective element operable by a user. In embodiments of this type, each lock member 2061 and 2062 has one end? - indicated with 206a in the figures - configured to interact with an end portion? of a respective first lever arm 105e, to prevent or allow, respectively, an angular movement of the lever member which implements the engagement/release device 1051 and 1052. In preferred embodiments, the aforementioned end? 206a of the blocking organ 2061 or 2062? an? end? superior.

Preferably each a locking member 2061 and 2062 ? mounted to rotate about its longitudinal axis. For this purpose, with reference to the illustrated examples, each member 2061 and 2062 ? rotatably constrained in a through seat defined in the respective positioning and/or guide formation 205, with its end portion upper 206a and its end portion? lower that protrude at the two ends? of training 205.

In various embodiments, in order to obtain the rotation of the blocking member, the blocking mechanism includes a transmission comprising toothed parts meshed with each other, preferably for a transmission of the pinion-rack type. For this purpose, preferably, each member 2061 and 2062 includes a respective toothing which extends according to a circumference or part thereof, and which is meshed with a corresponding toothing of a respective slider 4531 or 4532. In the example shown, the end portion? bottom of each locking member 2061 and 2062 has a respective gear wheel 206b which ? meshed on lateral toothing 453b of the respective cursor 4531 or 4532, substantially with a pinion-rack type transmission. In this way, as can be understood, a linear movement of each slider 4531 or 4532 causes a rotation of the respective locking member 2061 and 2062 around the respective longitudinal axis.

In various preferred embodiments, the end portion? 206a of each locking member 2061 and 2062, intended to interact with the respective first lever arm 105e of the corresponding engagement/release device 1051 or 1052, has a substantially semi-cylindrical profile, with this locking member having an angular stroke between the lock and unlock position about 90?. Note that the semi-cylindrical shape of the profile of the end portion? 206a of each locking element 2061 and 2062, must be understood as merely an example and preferentially, as this end portion? could it also have a profile in the shape of a circular sector with an extent less than 180? (for example an?extension of only 90?), without prejudice to the functionality? described below.

In figures 31-32 the locking/unlocking arrangement ? shown in a condition such that ? prevented the opening of both doors 1041 and 1042, or ? prevented switching of both latch/release devices 1051 and 1052.

In the example shown, in this condition, the cam member 451 ? in an angular position such that both cursors 4531 and 4532 are kept by the member itself in their respective retracted conditions, with a maximum compression of the relative springs 454. This contemporary retracted position is? determined by the fact that the cam followers 453a of both sliders 4531 and 4532 interact with the same section of the cam profile, and in particular its most? extended 452a, of smaller radius.

This position of the cursors 4531 and 4532 corresponds to an angular position of the locking members 2061 and 2062 such that the relative ends? upper portions 206a are arranged with their semi-cylindrical portion extending below the end region? of the first lever arms 105e of the hooking/release devices 1051 and 1052. As can be understood, in this condition the devices 1051 and 1052 cannot be operated manually, i.e. they cannot? sufficient angular motion be imparted to permit release of the associated door 1041 or 1042. The condition shown is? obtained through the appropriate positioning of the shaft 450a of the electric motor 450, which can? be for example a stepper motor, or a different motor, possibly equipped with a position sensor, such as an encoder or resolver type sensor. To this end, the circuit or card 250 can? comprise a circuit for controlling the motor 405 and/or a circuit for controlling the relative position sensor.

The control of the motor 405, or of the cam member 451, in the position shown in the figures 31-32 is preferably determined by the electrical signal supplied by the sensors equipping the two tanks R1 and R2, in particular the level sensors. Pi? particularly, in the specific case illustrated, these signals will be representative of the presence inside both tanks R1 and R2 of a volume of washing agent which exceeds a predetermined minimum level, or a level indicative of the need for cleaning. tank refill.

In figures 33-34 the locking/unlocking arrangement ? shown in a condition such that ? prevented the opening of door 1042 and allowed instead the opening of door 1041, or ? the switching of the hooking/release device 1052 is prevented and that of the device 1051 is allowed. This condition occurs when the volume of washing agent contained in the tank R1 falls below the predetermined minimum level, with the signal provided by the relative level sensor That ? representative of this condition. Assume that, at the same time, the volume of washing agent contained in the tank R2 exceeds the relative minimum top-up level, and that the relative level sensor supplies a corresponding signal.

In the example shown, in this condition, the cam member 451 ? in an angular position such that the cursor 4532 ? maintained by the member itself in the respective retracted condition, with a maximum compression of the relative spring 454. On the other hand, the slider 4531 ? pushed by the action of the relative spring 454 into a respective advanced condition. These different positions are determined by the fact that the cam followers of the two cursors interact with different portions of the cam profile: in particular, the cam follower 453a of the cursor 4532 interacts with the profile portion 452a, more? extended and with a smaller radius, while the cam follower 453a of the slider 4531 interacts with the section of the profile 452b, which is less extended and with a greater radius. This position of the cursors 4531 and 4532 corresponds to an angular position of the locking members 2061 and 2062 such that the end? superior 206a of? organ 2062 ? arranged with its semi-cylindrical portion extending below the end zone? of the lever arm 105e of the coupling/release device 1052, while the end? superior 206a of? organ 2061 ? arranged with its semi-cylindrical portion that ? staggered with respect to the area of extremity? of the lever arm 105 and of the coupling/release device 1051. As can be understood, in this condition, only the device 1052 cannot? be operated manually, as already? described above, while the 1051 device can? be operated manually, or to it pu? an angular movement sufficient to allow the release of the relative door 1041 to be imparted.

Also in this case the condition shown ? obtained by suitable positioning of the shaft 405a of the electric motor 450, according to the signal supplied by the level sensors which equip the two tanks R1 and R2. As said, in the specific case illustrated, the signal of the sensor that equips the tank R2 will be? representative of the presence inside the tank itself of a volume of washing agent which exceeds the relative predetermined minimum level, while the signal of the sensor which equips the tank R1 will be? representative of the presence inside the tank itself of a volume of washing agent lower than the relative predetermined minimum level. The door 1041 of the tank R1 will be able to then be opened by acting on the coupling/release device 1051 and it will be possible to provides for the topping up of the relative washing agent.

In figures 35-36, the locking/unlocking arrangement ? finally shown in a condition opposite to that shown in figures 33-34, ie such that ? door 1041 is prevented from opening and door 1042 is allowed to open, i.e. a condition in which the volumes of washing agents contained in the tanks R1 and R2 are above and below, respectively, the relative predetermined minimum levels , as indicated by the signals provided by the relative level sensors.

In the example shown, therefore, the cam organ 451 ? in an angular position opposite to that of figures 33-34, with the cursors 4531 and 4532 maintained in the retracted condition and in the advanced condition, respectively. This position of the cursors 4531 and 4532 corresponds to an angular position of the locking members 2061 and 2062 such that the end? superior 206a of? organ 2061 ? arranged with its semi-cylindrical portion extending below the end zone? of the lever arm 105e of the coupling/release device 1051, while the end? superior 206a of? organ 2062 ? arranged with its semi-cylindrical portion that ? staggered with respect to the area of extremity? of the lever arm 105 and of the latch/release device 1052.

In this way, the 1051 device cannot? be operated manually, while the 1052 device can? be operated manually to allow the opening of the relative door 1042. Naturally, this condition shown is also? obtainable by suitable positioning of the shaft 450a of the electric motor 450, according to the electric signal supplied by the level sensors. In the specific case illustrated, the signal of the sensor that equips the tank R1 will be? representative of the presence inside the tank itself of a volume of liquid which exceeds the relative predetermined minimum level, while the signal of the sensor which equips the tank R2 will be? representative of the presence inside the tank itself of a volume of liquid lower than the relative predetermined minimum level. The door 1042 of the R2 tank will be able to then be opened by acting on the coupling/release device 1052 and it will be possible to provides for the topping up of the relative washing agent.

As previously indicated, the closure element that equips the loading passage of a tank, i.e. the operable part with which the locking/unlocking arrangement interacts, could be a cap, rather than a cap. a door (without prejudice to possible combinations of the two elements). For such a case, the locking/unlocking arrangement could be similar in concept to the one described above: for example, it can? be provided a hooking/release system similar to one of those indicated with 1051 and 1052, where a hooking element of the type indicated with 105b in figure 3 ? configured to interact with the cap (for example by partially overlapping it or insinuating itself into one of its seats or peripheral teeth) in order to prevent its rotation or removal.

As explained above, in various embodiments, the dispenser comprises a fixed dispenser part and a removable dispenser part, which is removably coupled to the stationary dispenser part and defining at least one reservoir for a washing agent. In embodiments of this type, the dispenser can? also comprising a signaling arrangement, which includes at least one emitting device mounted on the fixed dispenser part, capable of emitting visible radiation and including a light source, as well as at least one light guide element configured to transfer the visible radiation emitted by the emitter device towards an area of the dispenser intended to face inside the washing chamber, the at least one light guide element being on the removable dispenser part and being optically coupled in a separable manner with respect to the emitter device mounted on the fixed dispenser part. Preferably, the light guide element extends between a front and a back of the removable dispenser part, most preferably within a related passage or mounting seat defined in the hollow body.

The dispenser can comprise at least one sensor device, configured to provide an electrical signal representative of at least one condition of the content of the at least one tank, such as for example a level thereof or, as also described below, a characteristic thereof other than the level, in particular one thereof qualitative characteristic, such as a chemical-physical characteristic or linked to its composition and/or type.

In such embodiments, the reporting provision can be controllable according to the electrical signal provided by at least one sensor device. Moreover, the reporting provision can? belong to a circuital arrangement of the dispenser, which ? configured for connection to a washing machine control system on which the dispenser itself? installable: in such cases, the on-board circuit arrangement of the dispenser can? be configured to allow control of the signaling arrangement as a function of an electrical signal provided by said washing machine control system.

A possible implementation of the aforementioned signaling provision will be described with reference to a dispenser 10 according to various examples described so far, in which the removable part 100 of the dispenser 10 includes two tanks R1 and R2, with which respective level sensors are associated, for example of the type described in relation to figures 6-8 , or of another type (for example of the types described below).

Referring in particular to figures 37-38, in various embodiments, on the fixed dispenser part ? at least one emitter device capable of emitting visible radiation is mounted: in the example shown, each emitter device comprises a respective light source, indicated with 260, for example a source of the LED type. The 260 light source can be mounted, for example, on a dispenser control board, such as the electronic board previously indicated with 205.

In various embodiments, each emitter device can also comprise a respective light transmitting element on the stationary dispenser part 200, such as the elements already? previously indicated with 207, for example in figure 11. How is it? already seen, each light transmitting element 207 can? be mounted in a respective housing defined in the positioning and/or guide formations 205. Each element 207 can? be formed of any material suitable for the transmission of light, for example polycarbonate.

As seen in Fig. 37 , such a light transmitting element 207 can be extend axially according to the height dimension (Y) of the dispenser 10, above the light source 260. Thus, the light transmitting element has one end? entrance 207a facing the light source 260 and one? outlet 207b, through which the emitter device - here constituted by the source 260 and by the element 207 ? emits visible radiation.

The signaling arrangement includes a first light guide element, indicated generally at 261 in Figure 37 (see also Figures 3 and 5 ), which ? configured to transfer the visible radiation emitted by the emitter device 260, 207 towards the front area of the dispenser 10, intended to face the inside of the washing tub 3 of the dishwasher 1. Also each element 261 can? be formed of any material suitable for the transmission of light, for example polycarbonate. The light guide elements 261 are preferably mounted in the upper portion 101a (Figures 3 and 5) of the hollow body 101.

Each first light guide element 261 ? mounted on the removable dispenser part 100, and particularly on its hollow body 101. For this purpose, in various embodiments, on the hollow body 101 ? a relative through assembly seat is provided, preferably substantially cylindrical, which extends between the front and the back of the hollow body 101. Such a seat is provided. indicated with 262a-262b in figure 37. As explained, in various embodiments, the hollow body 101 is formed by the union of at least one front piece and one rear piece (see for example figure 3, in which these pieces are indicated with 1011 and 1012): it is therefore assumed that the seat part 262a is defined in the aforementioned front piece, while the seat part 262b is defined in said rear piece. Seat portions 262a are also visible in Figs. 6-8 .

Advantageously, each first light guide element 261 is intended to be optically coupled in a separable manner with respect to the emitter device 260, 207. For this purpose, referring to figure 37, the end? outlet 207b of each light transmitting element 207 ? facing the end? outlet 207b of the corresponding light guide element 261, preferably at a certain distance therefrom. On the other side, the extremity? outlet 261b of the light guide element 261 faces frontally towards the outside of the relative mounting seat 262a-262b, preferably but not necessarily substantially flush with a front surface of the removable dispenser part 100, or of its body cable 101.

The end? input port 261a of the first light guide element 261 ? preferably an inclined surface, if the emission axis of the emitter device extends transversely to the axis of the light guide element. In the exemplified case, the emitter 260, 207 has an emission axis which extends overall substantially vertically, while the light guide element 261 extends substantially horizontally between its ends. d? entry and exit: for such a case, the? extremity? of? output 207b of? element 207 pu? be substantially flat, and the? extremity? of? input 261a of? element 261 pu? have an inclination of about 45?. Obviously, if the transmission element 207 extends more? higher than in the case shown in the figures, and the light guide element 261 was at the same time more? shorter than the one shown, it would be possible to have a reverse configuration, i.e. with the extremity? of? output 207b of? element 207 inclined and the? extremity? entrance 261a of the substantially flat element 261. Obviously the extremities? outlet 207b and inlet 261a could also both be inclined. In general terms, at least one of the ends? of? entrance 261a and the? extremity? d?exit 207b ? shaped to allow optical coupling between element 261 and element 207.

As can be understood, the fact that each light guide element 261 is optically coupled in a separable manner with respect to the emitter device 260, 207 allows the removable dispenser part 100 to be freely removed from the fixed dispenser part 200, ensuring on the other hand an efficient and precise transmission of light signals when the two parts in question are instead coupled together.

How already? indicated, the management of the light source 260 of the emitter device can? be performed by a controller that equips the dispenser 10, such as for example the previously indicated card 250, according to the signals supplied by the level and/or quality sensor? that equips each tank R1 and/or R2, or can? be performed by the CS control system of dishwasher 1.

In advantageous embodiments, the source 260 of the emitter device can be controllable for? emission of radiations at different frequencies? wave and / or different intensity?, and therefore with different colors and / or different intensity? light, in order to provide signals of a diversified type according to the information to be made available to a user of the dishwasher. For example, the emission of a green light could be intended to mean the presence of a volume of cleaning agent higher than a predetermined minimum level and/or the presence of a correct cleaning agent in the tank (if the sensor that equips the tank is able to detect the quality and/or type of cleaning agent); a yellow light could be understood to mean the need for refilling the washing agent; a red light could mean the presence of an incorrect and/or contaminated washing agent inside the tank (think of a user who fills or tops up tank R1 dedicated to a washing detergent with a rinse additive) . Alternatively or in addition, for these or other signals, you could also use lights of the same color that vary in intensity, for example with lights more? or less intense or flashing lights, or that alternately increase and decrease the intensity? bright.

Will you appreciate it? therefore that, in various embodiments, the same signaling provision can? be exploited to convey information of different types, through at least two modalities? different signals (colours/flashes).

In various embodiments, the signaling arrangement which equips the dispenser comprises at least a second light guide element, preferably located at a front of the removable dispenser part, with this second light guide element which is? optically coupled to the at least one first light guide element and ? configured to scatter the visible radiation received by the at least one first light guiding element.

A realization of this type? shown in figures 39-44, in relation to a dispenser 10 whose removable part 100 is provided with at least one door, particularly two doors 1041 and 1042. As explained previously, in solutions of this type, in the front of the dispenser part 10 there can be defined reception seats 103c (figure 40) which are at least partially occupied by the relative door when This ? in the closed position of the corresponding loading passage 103.

In the example shown in figures 39-41, the aforementioned second light guide element intended for the diffusion of visible radiation, indicated as a whole with 263, is arranged at least partially inside an aforesaid seat 103c and preferably extends along at least part of a perimetric area of this seat which is not ? occupied by the door. According to alternative embodiments, the second light guide element can be at least partly arranged under a relative door 1041, 1042, with the latter formed at least partly in transparent material and/or provided with an opening able to allow viewing of the optical signal. The light guide elements could also be arranged in a position other than those exemplified, such as a position in any case close to a loading opening of a tank, for example located close to a tank? or alongside a seat of the type indicated with 103c and/or of a door of the type indicated with 1041 or 1042, or again alongside a plug which closes a loading opening.

Going back to the example shown, the second light guide element 263 therefore extends at least partially in correspondence with an interstice existing between the facing side surfaces of the seat 103c and of the door 1041 or 1042, so as to have at least one respective surface directly exposed , even when the counter ? in the closed position within its seat. Will you appreciate it? therefore that in embodiments of this type not ? necessary that the? extremity? outlet of each first guide element 260 is directly visible at the front of the removable dispenser part 100, as instead in the case shown in figures 3 and 5.

In preferential embodiments, the second light guide element 263 extends along more? contiguous sides of seat 103c and door 1041 or 1042, for example in the form of a frame or frame. Obviously the chosen form can? vary widely with respect to the one exemplified, also as a function of the position chosen for the second light guide element 263 (for example a U, L, circular, semicircular, polygonal, etc. shape).

In figure 42 ? illustrated the case of an element 263 shaped like a frame with four sides, comprising two relatively thin upright parts 236a and two transversal parts 263b, to define a substantially quadrangular shape. As can be seen for example in figures 40 and 41, such a frame element 263 is mounted in a fixed position (for example glued, or hooked, or welded, or inserted with interference, or fixed by riveting parts), inside a a seat 103c, with the upright parts 263a abutting corresponding side surfaces of the seat 103c; preferably the upright parts 263a have an exposed surface, between the upper portion 101a of the hollow body 101 and the relative door 1041 or 1042.

The upper transverse portion 263b is at the end? upper edge of the seat 103c, set against its bottom, in any case with an exposed surface at the upper edge of the hollow body 101. The lower transverse part 263b is instead at the end? bottom of the seat 103c, set against its bottom, also with its bottom surface possibly exposed between the seat 103c and the door 1041 or 1042, in correspondence with the step D (figure 41) defined between the upper and lower portions 101a, 101b of the body cable 101. In the example, given the presence of the lower transverse part 263b, its connection regions with the upright parts 263a have a suitable shape 263c, to avoid interference with the lower hinge means of the door 1041 or 1042.

Figure 42 also shows separately some of the other elements belonging to the signaling arrangement, i.e. the light source 260 (again mounted on the board 250), the light transmission element 207 and the first light guide element 261.

In embodiments of this type, and as visible in Figures 43-44 , the first light guide element 261 can be more short compared to the case shown in figure 37 and ? preferable that its extremity? of the outlet 261b is inclined, in order to direct the visible radiation at the outlet in the second light guide element 263. From figures 43-44 it can also be seen how, in embodiments of this type, the mounting seat 262a-262b of the first light guide element 261 can be closed frontally by a corresponding portion of the front wall of the hollow body 101. From figure 44 it can be seen how in the hollow body 101, particularly in its front body piece (1011, figures 3-4) it is defined an internal passage 120, which allows you to overlook at least part of the end? of the first light guide element 261 to a corresponding portion (here belonging to an upright part 263a) of the second light guide element.

In various embodiments, the first light guide element 261 and the second light guide element 263 extend substantially transversely with respect to each other, as in the case exemplified in Figure 44. For this reason, ? preferable that the? extremity? of the outlet 261b of the first element 261 is inclined, for example with an inclination of about 45?. In general terms, the first light guide element 261 will have? an? end? outlet 261b at least partially facing a corresponding portion of the second light guide element 263, the end? outlet 261a being in any case shaped to allow optical coupling between the elements 261 and 263. The two light guide elements 261 and 263 could in any case also be made integral with each other (for example snap-fitted) or formed in a single piece.

Referring for example to figures 42 and 43, and similarly to the case of the embodiments of 37-38, the light emitted by the source 206 affects the end? entrance 207a of the transmission element 207, then exiting from the relative end? d?exit 207b to affect on?extremity? input port 261a of the first light guide element 261a. In this case, the visible radiation ? then addressed by? of the outlet 261b of the first light guide element 261 towards the second light guide element 263, thanks to the presence of the internal passage 120 (figure 44). The radiation, preferably a light radiation of color or intensity? variable, is then propagated inside the second element 263 and diffused along at least part of the perimeter of the seat 103c (figure 40), or of the door 1041 or 1042, in order to be perceivable at the front of the removable dispenser part.

It should be noted that, while preferable, the emitter device placed on the fixed dispenser part 200 need not include a light transmission element of the type indicated by 207, particularly if the light source 260 is mounted on this fixed part directly facing all?Extremity? input port 261a of the first light guide element 261.

The configurations exemplified in figures 39-44 allow for example to clearly highlight to a user, preferably with radiations or lights of different color and/or intensity, when a loading opening of a tank is? freely openable, for example for topping up or filling, and/or when a loading opening is not? freely openable. In this way, for example, it is possible to avoid the risk of excessive manual stresses on a door or cap whose opening or removal? prevented by the locking/unlocking arrangement described above, to avoid breakage of the dispenser or of its parts. Similarly, the exemplified light guide configurations can be employed to clearly highlight any abnormal conditions, such as a tank where ? an incorrect or contaminated cleaning agent has been entered, so that the user can intervene promptly, for example by removing and washing the tank in question.

As also indicated above, in various embodiments, the dispenser includes at least one reservoir, to which ? preferably operatively associated with a level sensor; in addition or alternatively, in various preferential embodiments, the at least one tank can? be operatively associated with a sensor of at least one characteristic of the substance contained in the tank other than the level, and particularly one of its qualitative characteristics. In the present description and in the attached claims, with ?qualitative characteristic? does it mean to indicate a characteristic or property? linked to the type or composition of the substance, such as a chemical or physical or electrical characteristic. The detection of a qualitative characteristic pu? be useful for the purpose of recognizing the type of substance, or its possible contamination or mixing with another substance, or its possible deterioration. This detection can for example, allowing to limit any risks that could derive from incorrect operations carried out by a user when topping up a tank, which could result in damage to the dispenser, or in damage to the washing machine, or in a poor washing result .

A sensor of quality? for example, it proves to be useful for recognizing whether the substance contained in the tank is the correct one, or corresponds to the one to which ? actually dedicated the tank in question. Consider, for example, the case in which a user inserts a liquid rinse aid (rinse aid) by mistake and without realizing it into a tank dedicated instead to a liquid washing detergent: any subsequent start of a washing program for the crockery in this condition would have extremely negative effects, both in terms of lack of washing efficiency and in terms of an abundant production of foam, which is difficult to remove, inside the tank 3, which could even jeopardize the functionality? of the dishwasher 1 (the foam could infiltrate the ventilation ducts, until it penetrates the dishwasher door, where the foam formed by an electrically conductive liquid - such as a rinse aid - could create short circuits between the dishwasher's electrical components, or this foam could escape in the domestic environment. Similar considerations can be made in relation to mixing two different cleaning agents in the same tank, or again in relation to contamination of a cleaning agent with a different substance, for example its dilution with water, which could reduce the washing efficiency, or a mixing with two different washing agents, where an uncontrolled reaction between different chemical compounds could produce harmful substances.It should be noted in any case that such a quality sensor is associated with the dispenser body and is intended to detect the characteristics of a substance it contains, before its dispensing.

The signal provided by a quality sensor? of the type indicated pu? be conveniently used by a circuit arrangement of the dispenser or of the dishwasher to provide a suitable signal for the user (obviously with an electrically powered machine), such as an audible signal (for example via a buzzer) and/or a signal of the type visual (for example by using a light signaling system of the types previously exemplified).

In various embodiments, the quality sensor device is comprises a sensing element having at least two electrodes, arranged to be in contact with the respective washing agent, and a circuit arrangement configured to measure the value of at least one electrical quantity between the at least two electrodes. The circuit arrangement, implemented on board the dispenser or in the machine control system, is configured to compare the value of the at least one electrical quantity measured with at least one respective reference value, and consequently generate information representative of a qualitative characteristic of the washing agent. Such a sensor pu? be eventually predisposed to realize also a measurement of the level, as sar? exemplified later.

A possible realization of a quality sensor? of the type indicated? shown schematically in figures 45-46, which are partial views, respectively front and sectioned perspective, of a lower area of the fixed dispenser part 200, and particularly of its main body 201. described with reference to figure 11. It should be noted that in these figures, for the sake of clarity, ? the representation of the previously described peristaltic pump has been omitted; ? however clearly visible the?attack 218 to which ? the deformable tube of such a pump can be connected.

As previously indicated, the inlet 210 preferably comprises at least one cylindrical tubular portion, to allow the corresponding tubular outlet 112 of the tank R1 to be engaged (see for example figure 4). Thus, under operating conditions? of dispenser 10, input 210 ? filled with the cleaning agent from tank R1. Figure 46 shows the aforementioned cylindrical tubular portion, indicated with 210a, as well as a relative back wall 210b (see also figure 12). In various embodiments, such as those shown in figures 45-46, at the input 210 ? positioned the sensitive element 270 of a sensor device configured for the detection of at least one qualitative characteristic of the washing agent coming from the tank R1.

In the example, the sensitive element 270 comprises at least two electrodes 2701 and 2702, which protrude inside the volume of the inlet 210. The electrodes are preferably metallic and intended for direct contact with the washing agent, for example when the electrical quantity being surveyed ? impedance or conductivity? or the capacity?.

Preferably, the at least two electrodes 2701 and 2702 each have a respective axis which extends substantially in the depth dimension. Z of the dispenser 10; in such embodiments, the electrodes extend substantially parallel to each other. The axes of the at least two electrodes are preferably at a distance between 2 and 20 mm from each other, preferably between 3 and 7 mm. In various embodiments, such as the one exemplified, the sensitive element 270 comprises two electrodes 2701 and 2702 substantially at the same height, with reference to the height dimension Y of the dispenser 10. Of course, the length and position of the electrodes 2701 and 2702? such that they occupy in depth? (dimension Z) only a part of the inlet 210, in order not to hinder the insertion in the inlet itself of the tubular portion (112a, figure 4) which realizes the corresponding outlet of the tank R1, provided on the back of the removable dispenser part 100 .

In the example the electrodes 2701 and 2702 are hermetically planted in respective through holes provided in the bottom 210b of the inlet, and have for this purpose an abutment flange 271, which can possibly also perform sealing functions. In addition or as an alternative to the flange, the electrodes 2701 and 2702 could be equipped with respective sealing rings. Instead of a driving, the fixing between the dispenser body and the electrodes could be obtained by overmoulding the former over the latter. The electrodes 2701 and 2702 could comprise an electrically conductive polymer, such as a polymer filled with electrically conductive substances, such as metal and/or carbon-containing powders or fibers. The electrodes 2701 and 2702 could also have a different shape from the one exemplified. Possibly, the electrodes could be isolated from the liquid substance, for example covered by a layer of electrically insulating material, if they are intended for the measurement of an electrical quantity which does not involve direct contact with the substance, for example a measurement of capacitance ?: in such a case ? sufficient that the coated electrodes are arranged so that they can be at least partially immersed in the substance.

In yet other embodiments, could the sensing element be configured as a module on its own? free-standing, sealed to the rear of the inlet, provided for this with a suitable installation opening (variants of this type will be described later).

Again with reference to the example shown in figure 46 (see also figure 12) the part of the electrodes 2701 and 2702 which protrudes rearwardly from the inlet 210 can? be at least partially surrounded by shaped formations 210c, preferably cylindrical, for example to define an electrical connector used for connecting the sensitive element 270 to the on-board circuit arrangement of the dispenser 10 or to the CS control system of the washing machine.

In various embodiments, the value of the electrical quantity measured between the electrodes 2701 and 2702 of the sensitive element 270 is used by the circuit arrangement of the dispenser 10 or by the CS control system of the dishwasher 1 to evaluate the correctness or quality? of the substance present at the inlet 210, or rather of the washing agent contained in the relative tank. For this purpose, the aforementioned circuit arrangement of the dispenser or of the control system CS of the machine 1 preferably includes memory means in which values or fields of reference values (for example in tabular form) of the electrical quantity in question are coded, representative of those cleaning agents which are considered correct for the specific tank, here tank R1.

The circuit arrangement therefore compares the value of the quantity detected by the sensitive element 270 with the memorized reference values, and consequently commands the generation of a suitable sound and/or visual signal, as previously indicated. For example, if the washing agent detected corresponds to one of those encoded in the memory means, the signaling system is not activated, or is it activated in a first mode? (for example a short intermittent sound or a green light); in the opposite case, the signaling system is activated, or is it activated in a second modality? (for example a continuous sound or a red light). As mentioned, the aforementioned circuit arrangement can? for example be implemented in the card previously indicated with 250, including the microcontroller 251, or be implemented in the CS control system of the dishwasher 1.

In particularly advantageous embodiments, the electrical quantity detected between the at least two electrodes 2701 and 2702 of the sensitive element 270 ? the impedance: some possible modalities? detection methods based on impedance measurements will be described later, also with reference to alternative versions of the sensor.

Naturally a sensor of quality? of the type described with reference to figures 45-46 pu? be foreseen in correspondence with the entrance 211 which ? intended to be connected to the tank R2, for example at the rear of its tubular part 211a, 211b (see for example figure 12).

How to ? seen, in various embodiments, the dispenser includes a fixed dispenser part and a removable dispenser part, the latter comprising a hollow body defining at least one reservoir, where at least one first wall of the hollow body ? intended to at least partially face at least one second wall of the fixed dispenser part, and the dispenser comprises at least one sensor device, configured to provide an electrical signal representative of at least one of a level and a qualitative characteristic of the content of the at least one tank . In embodiments of this type, the at least one sensor device is arranged at least partially on the stationary dispenser part. In preferred embodiments, the sensor device is entirely placed on the fixed dispenser part.

In various embodiments, the at least one tank has, preferably in a lower part thereof, an outlet in a wall of the hollow body, which is separably coupled to a respective inlet present in a wall of the fixed dispenser part: in particularly advantageous embodiments, the sensor device is arranged substantially at the inlet, or in a relative housing in fluid communication with the inlet.

This solution can also be explained with reference to figures 45-46 already? considered, in which the sensitive element 270 ? located at the tubular inlet 210 of the fixed dispenser part 200, which ? intended to receive in a removable way the corresponding tubular outlet 112 (figure 4) of the removable dispenser part 100. In this way, as can be understood, the sensor device can be entirely mounted on the fixed part 200 of the dispenser 10, thus allowing the removal without problems of the removable part 100, and without necessarily having to provide other components of the sensor on this removable part (such as the floating body of figures 6-8). Naturally, for this purpose, the sensitive element 270 does not necessarily have to be mounted in correspondence with the inlet 210, as it can in fact be arranged at least partially in a relative housing separate from the inlet 210, for example a special chamber defined by the main body 201 and connected in fluid communication with the input 210 (such a solution will be described later, in relation to a sensor of the piezoelectric type).

The preferential version with at least one sensor device arranged on the fixed part of the dispenser makes it possible to facilitate and/or ensure reliability? of the relative electrical connections, since a fixed electrical connection (for example a wiring) is provided between the washing machine and the fixed dispenser part, while allowing the content of the removable dispenser part to be detected, i.e. the content of at least one tank R1 or R2. AND? also clear that the concept of assembling the entire sensor on the fixed part of the dispenser ? also valid in relation to the gi? mentioned possibility? to mount a sensitive element 270 at the inlet 211, for example at the back of its tubular part 211c, 211c (see for example figure 47).

The solution of providing a sensitive element with at least two electrodes intended to be at least partially immersed in the washing agent? usable with advantage also for the realization of a level sensor.

A form of implementation of this type ? exemplified in figure 47, in relation to the mounting of a sensitive element 270 at the inlet 211 for the contents of the tank previously indicated with R2. Naturally, additionally or alternatively, a similar sensing element could be mounted at the inlet 210 for the contents of the tank previously indicated by R1.

In the example of figure 47 the sensitive element 270 includes two electrodes 2701 and 2703, arranged at the bottom 211b of the inlet 210 and of the relative lower extension 211c, already previously described, these electrodes being at different heights, with reference to the height dimension (Y) of the dispenser 10. The electrodes 2701 and 2703 can be of similar construction to the electrodes already described. described above, and therefore formed for example of metallic material or other electrically conductive material (possibly coated with an insulator, for example in the case of capacitive measurements) and each having a respective axis which extends substantially in the depth dimension? (Z) dispenser 10, preferably parallel to each other and at a distance indicatively between 3 and 7 mm. Also in this case the part of each electrode 2701 and/or 2703 which extends inside the input 211 will have? length and position such as not to constitute an obstacle to the insertion of the tubular outlet 113 of the corresponding tank R2 (see figure 4).

Also in the case of the level sensor exemplified in figure 47, the value of the electrical quantity measured between the electrodes 2701 and 2703 of the sensitive element 270 ? used by a circuit arrangement of the dispenser 10 or of the dishwasher 1 to evaluate the level of the washing agent present in the inlet 211, which ? representative of a level of the washing agent also contained in the relative tank R2, particularly a threshold level.

The aforementioned circuit arrangement can? then include storage media where ? at least one reference value of the electrical quantity in question is encoded, for example a value representative of the simultaneous contact of both electrodes 2701 and 2703 with the washing agent in question (or, more generally, with a liquid or semi-solid substance) ; this representative value of the simultaneous contact of both electrodes 2701 and 2703 with the washing agent could therefore indicate for example a level of the washing agent which exceeds a minimum level value.

The circuit arrangement therefore compares the value of the quantity detected by the electrodes 2701 and 2703 of the sensitive element 270 with the at least one stored reference value. Will you appreciate it? that, when both electrodes 2701 and 2703 are in contact with the washing agent, the measured electrical quantity will have a first value; on the other hand, when the level of the washing agent in the inlet 211 and the relative lower extension 211c will be at a height lower than the electrode 2703 or between the two electrodes 2701 and 2703 (that is, with the upper electrode 2703 in the air), or with both the electrodes 2701 and 2703 in the air, the electrical quantity measured will have a second value, clearly distinguishable from the first value.

This intermediate level condition between the two electrodes, therefore lower than the upper electrode, can? be considered representative of a low level of the washing agent in tank R2 (given that the outlet 113 is located in the lower area of tank R2), and therefore of the need? to proceed with a top-up; in this perspective, the point pi? bottom of the electrode 2703, with reference to the height dimension (Y) identifies a minimum level of the washing agent, below which it will be? necessary to top up the washing agent.

Depending on the comparison made between the measured value and the at least one reference value, the control arrangement will provide? to consequently command the generation of a?suitable sound and/or visual signal, similarly to what is already? previously indicated. Even in the case of a level detection, the electrical quantity detected between the at least two electrodes 2701 and 2703 of the sensitive element 270 can be the impedance, or the conductivity, or the capacitance?.

Will you appreciate it? that the level sensor described with reference to figure 47 ? usable as an alternative to the float level sensor previously described with reference to figures 6-8; on the other hand, such a float level sensor ? usable in combination with a sensor of quality? of the type described with reference to figures 45-46.

How to ? seen, in various embodiments, the dispenser comprises a body in which ? defined at least one tank, capable of containing a corresponding washing agent in liquid or semi-solid form, and at least one sensor device, configured to provide information representative of at least one of a level and a qualitative characteristic of the washing agent. In advantageous embodiments of this type, the sensor device comprises a sensitive element which includes at least two electrodes, arranged to be in contact with the washing agent, and a circuit arrangement, which is configured to measure a value of at least one electrical quantity between the at least two electrodes and to compare the value of the at least one electrical quantity measured with at least one respective reference value, to generate representative information of at least one of a level and a qualitative characteristic of the ?washing agent.

In various preferential embodiments, the sensitive element of the sensor device includes at least three electrodes, and particularly a first electrode and a second electrode preferably at the same height, and a third electrode at a higher height than the first and second electrodes . In this type of embodiment, the circuit arrangement associated with the sensitive element can be configured for:

- measure the value of the at least one electrical quantity between the first electrode and the second electrode, and compare the measured value with the at least one respective reference value, to generate representative information of a qualitative characteristic of the washing agent, and

- measure the value of at least one electrical quantity between the third electrode and one between the first electrode and the second electrode, and compare the measured value with the at least one respective reference value, to generate representative information of an agent level of washing.

As you can imagine, such a sensor device can? be achieved by combining the concepts previously expressed with reference to figures 45-46, on the one hand, and 47 on the other hand. A realization of this type? precisely shown in figures 48-49, according to which the sensitive element 270 of the sensor device includes the electrodes 2701, 2702 and 2703, the electrodes at the same height 2701 and 2702 being usable for the detection of quality, according to the principles in previously explained with reference to figures 45-46, and the upper electrode 2703 being usable in combination with any of the lower electrodes 2701 and 2702 for level detection, according to the principles previously explained in relation to figure 47.

Such a sensor device ? therefore able both to detect an incorrect topping up or filling of the tank (for example by inserting an additive instead of a detergent), and to detect the approaching exhaustion of the washing agent.

As can be seen in figures 48-49, in embodiments of this type the electrodes can be positioned substantially in the form of a triangle, in which one side (corresponding to the electrodes 2701 and 2702) is arranged horizontally, while the upper vertex (corresponding to the electrode 2703) is? placed at a higher level high. A first of the two electrodes 2701 and 2702 at the base vertices, for example the electrode 2701, is? used as a common or reference electrode, while the second electrode placed at the other base vertex, for example the electrode 2702, ? used with the common or reference electrode for quality detection; the third electrode, here the electrode 2703 at the upper vertex, ? used with the common or reference electrode for level detection. Note that, instead of a common electrode for carrying out the functions? level detection and quality detection, the sensor could provide at least two separate electrodes for each of these functions.

The electrodes of the sensitive element 270 can be made in various ways, for example by means of elements as exemplified in the figures. However, in other embodiments, the at least two electrodes of the sensitive element can be obtained by silk-screen printing with metallic inks on a relative electrically insulating substrate (for example of alumina, plastic or vetronite), or by techniques typical of the construction of circuits , for example made up of photo-etched copper multilayers and vetronite. Alternatively, thin film deposition techniques such as vacuum evaporation, sputtering, and the like, on a suitable electrically insulating substrate can be used. There? naturally it also applies to the sensitive elements 270 of figures 44-46 and 47. As mentioned, the electrodes can also be covered by an electrically insulating layer.

How already? explained the electrical quantity measured between the two pairs of electrodes (2701-2702 and 2701-2703), for example? impedance, sar? different depending on the fluid interposed between them, so the different characteristics of the fluid will cause a different response between the electrodes of each pair. The fluids considered are those typically of interest for a dishwasher dispenser, such as liquid or semi-solid (gel) detergents and additives, water, vinegar and air.

Figures 50 and 51 exemplify in graphic form the result of impedance measurements carried out using a sensitive element structure 270 of the type shown in figures 48-49, with steel electrodes with a diameter of about 2 mm placed at a distance of about 5 mm (measured between the central axes of the electrodes). On the abscissa ? indicated the frequency, in hertz, while in the ordinate ? impedance indicated, in ohms. The reported values cover a wide frequency range, from 200 Hz to 10 MHz.

The graph in figure 50 shows the result of readings carried out between the two base electrodes 2701 and 2702, i.e. a quality reading, for three different substances, namely water (H2O curve), a commercial liquid detergent (WD) and a commercial liquid rinse aid (WA). How can you? note, the impedance value measured in the three cases allows you to clearly distinguish the detergent from the rinse aid and from the water. Note that a curve almost? identical to the one indicated with WD yes ? obtained by measuring a commercial gel detergent.

The graph in figure 51 instead shows the result of measurements carried out between the common or reference electrode at the base (electrode 2701, in the example considered) and the upper electrode 2703, i.e. a level measurement, for the same three substances indicated above. Measurements were made with each of the three substances at an intermediate level between the base electrodes and the top electrode, i.e. electrodes 2701 and 2702 in contact with the substance and top electrode 2703 in air. As can be seen, the impedance values measured between the reference electrode 2701 at the base and the upper electrode 2703 are clearly more? higher than the result shown in the graph of figure 50, with the three curves tending to overlap as the frequency increases. Note that also in this case a curve almost? identical to the one indicated with WD yes ? obtained by measuring a commercial gel detergent.

Will you appreciate it? therefore that a possible level detection logic based on the use of a sensitive element of the type shown in figures 48-49 can? first provide an impedance measurement step between electrodes at the same height (2701-2702), followed by an impedance measurement between two electrodes at different heights (2701-2703) and, in case the two measured values differ significantly net (beyond a certain tolerance) can you? assume that the level of the substance is in an intermediate position between the two electrodes at different heights. In the event that the level falls below the electrodes 2701 and 2702, the measured values will be comparable, but much more? higher than those measured in the case of the presence of liquids of interest, and therefore the situation will? identified as an empty tank based, for example, on stored tables.

The circuit arrangement associated with the sensitive element 270 can comprise a microcontroller and at least one driver circuit of the sensitive element.

As shown in Figure 52, this circuit arrangement can also be implemented in the controller or electronic card that eventually equips the dispenser, such as the one indicated previously with 250, equipped with the relative microcontroller 251. In the example, the controller or card 250 ? configured to be connected in signal communication with the CS control system of machine 1.

In accordance with the schematic example of figure 52, two driving circuits 252a and 252b can also be implemented in the controller or card 250, one for the pair of electrodes 2701 and 2702 and the other for the pair of electrodes 2701 and 2703. In the case of a sensitive element 270 including only two electrodes can? a single driver circuit is sufficient.

Each driver circuit ? achievable in various ways.

For example, figure 53 schematically illustrates a case in which the microcontroller used can generate a frequency signal, where the driving element of each pair of electrodes of a sensitive element 270 can include an operational amplifier OA.

The amplifier OA has an input (here the inverting input -) to which ? connected in series the sensitive element 270, and a known reference resistance Rr ? connected in parallel between this input (-) and the output of the operational amplifier OA. With such a scheme, Zx ? the unknown impedance to be measured between the pair of electrodes of the sensitive element 270. The effective driving voltage generated by the microcontroller, indicated by Vs ? constant, while the value of the voltage in output from? amplifier operation OA will depend? then from the value of Zx. The value of Vu pu? be, for example, read using an analog input of the microcontroller, which will calculate? the ratio between Vs and Vu, proportional to Zx.

Conversely, if the microcontroller 250 is not set up to generate an?output in frequency, ? possible to use an oscillating circuit, whose resonance frequency ? function of an impedance value measured between the at least two electrodes of the sensitive element 270, with the microcontroller arranged to detect this impedance value on the basis of said resonance frequency.

Such an oscillating circuit pu? be realized in any known way, such as an RC network, an LC resonant circuit, a crystal or dielectric resonator to define its oscillation frequency. RC oscillators are generally used in low frequencies (up to hundreds of kHz). This category includes the following oscillators: Wien bridge, T-bridge (Bridged-T Oscillator), with double-T network (Twin-T Oscillator) and with phase-shift network (Phase-Shift Oscillator). In LC oscillators, an LC network determines its oscillation frequency. In this category we find, for example, the Colpitts, Hartley, Clapp, Armstrong, Meissner oscillators.

The electrical characteristics between two electrodes of the sensitive element will vary the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit, which could be read with an analog input or with a digital input of the microcontroller: in this case the? unknown impedance will come? read on the basis of a frequency measurement.

In order to verify whether it was possible to exploit the variation of the capacitive component of a sensitive element 270, measurement tests were carried out by means of an impedance meter in mode? capacity? parallel, by inserting in series with the sensitive element 270 a capacitance? of 10nF. The graphs of figures 54 and 55 represent precisely the trend of capacity measurements? in mode? parallel, for a liquid rinse aid WA and a liquid detergent WD of the same types mentioned in relation to figures 50-51. Curves WA1 and WD1 represent the measurements made with a level of the related cleaning agents covering two electrodes at different heights, while the curves WA0 and WD0 represent the measurements made for the same cleaning agents, but with an intermediate level at the two electrodes . As can be seen from the graph, in which the WA0 and WD0 curves are practically superimposed, the measurement shows a clearly detectable differentiation of the different situations (full/empty and type of cleaning agent) in a fairly wide frequency range, at relatively low frequencies . For this purpose, figure 55 shows a detail of the graph of figure 54 in the frequency range 10 kHz-500 KHz.

With the electrodes described above ? therefore it is possible to have an excellent differentiation for frequencies around 100 kHz. At these frequencies, many circuit solutions are feasible, both with LC circuits suitable for frequencies lower than the others. high, that with RC circuits, or better still with solutions already? integrated into microcontrollers. AND? it is also possible to use quartz oscillators for this purpose. Quartz crystal oscillators use a piezoelectric crystal that has a natural resonant frequency. The resonant frequency? determined by the type of cut and the shape of the material in the feedback network. To check the stability? of the frequency, the crystal used generally ? that of quartz (SiO2), which has the shape of a hexagonal prism and can? be natural or artificial. Platelets are cut from the crystal, according to different arrangements with respect to the crystallographic axes, with the different types of cut which give the crystal different electrical and mechanical characteristics. A pair of electrodes of the sensitive element 270, placed in series with a capacitance? fixed and note, pu? be connected in parallel to the quartz. Variations in the type of cleaning agent and level result in a variation in the oscillation frequency of the circuit.

For example, in figure 56 ? represented a Pierce oscillator using a CMOS inverter as an amplifier. The Pierce oscillator ? a modified version of the Colpitts oscillator, in which instead of an inductor ? placed a quartz crystal, indicated in the figure with Oq. so that does the circuit work correctly? it is necessary that the quartz Oq behaves inductively, and therefore? the working frequency must be between the series resonance frequency and the parallel resonance frequency. The resistances Rf and R1 are used to fix the working point of the CMOS inverter. C3 indicates the aforementioned capacity? note connected in series to the sensitive element 270, capacity? C3 and element 270 being parallel to the Oq quartz.

Will the circuit resonate? to the resonance pulsation of the parallel between the L and C of the quartz and C0 C1 * C2/(C1 C2). because the capacity? C? more small of the other three capacities?, it? dominant and the resonant pulsation is therefore f=1/(LC)<1/2>.

A sensitive element of any of the types previously indicated with 270 can? belong to a sensor module intended for mounting on the dispenser body. From this point of view, the at least two electrodes of such a sensitive element can be associated with the same sensor body, configured for hermetic assembly on the dispenser body.

An example of this kind? shown in figures 57-59, where with 280 ? indicated as a whole a sensor body 280, preferably formed in electrically insulated material, to which ? associated a sensing element 270 including three electrodes 2701, 2702 and 2703. like that of the following figures 60-61, ? usable also in the case of sensitive elements 270 having only two electrodes, as in figure 45-46 and/or in figure 47.

In the example the sensor body 280 has a tubular peripheral wall 280a, here substantially cylindrical, and a bottom wall 280b at which the electrodes are mounted. The end? of the peripheral wall 280a opposite the bottom wall 280b can? conveniently define a radially outwardly projecting flange 280c, optionally provided with one or more? biasing and/or latching elements 280d, i.e. elements configured to allow the sensor body 280 to be mounted in a predetermined orientation within the rear portion of the inlet 210 of the dispenser body part 201.

In this case, the rear portion of entrance 210 is without its own back wall and ? preferably shaped to receive a corresponding portion of the sensor body 280, possibly also shaped to define one or more? hooking elements. One or more? biasing and/or latching elements, such as the one indicated by 221 in figure 57, can also be provided on the body part 201 which defines the input 210. The peripheral wall 280a of the sensor body 280 can? conveniently define a seat 280e (figure 58) for a relative annular sealing element 281 (figure 59). The sensor body 280 can? be planted with interference inside the rear portion of the inlet 210, or welded or glued to the back of the inlet 210 in correspondence with the flange 280c, or fixed by means of respective fastening means, such as for example a bayonet coupling.

A substantially similar realization? shown in Figures 60-61 , in which the flange 280c of the sensor body 280 is equipped with an extension 280d which, in addition to acting as a polarization element, has a through hole for a fastening element 210e, for example a screw, intended to be received in a corresponding extension 210d of the inlet 210, provided at the back of the same entrance.

Naturally, a sensor body made according to the concepts expressed in relation to figures 57-59 or 60-61, even with only two electrodes, could be mounted in correspondence with the inlet 211 of the fixed dispenser part 200.

In figure 62 ? shown in schematic form a possible embodiment of a sensor device whose sensitive element 270? it includes at least one piezoelectric element, indicated with 270a, disposed between two relative connection electrodes 270b. The piezoelectric element 270a and the electrodes 270b can be arranged on a relative electrically insulating substrate, arranged inside a sensor body 280, here having a substantially cylindrical shape. In various embodiments, such as the one exemplified, the sensor body 280 is frontally provided with a dielectric or electrically insulating layer, indicated with 270c, intended for contact with the liquid and suitable for insulating the electrical parts with respect to the substance being measured, this layer 270c preferably covering at least the piezoelectric element 270a and the relative terminals .

Figure 62 also lends itself to highlighting how, in various embodiments, a sensor device which equips the dispenser need not necessarily be arranged at an inlet of a fixed dispenser part, but instead be arranged at a housing in fluid communication with that inlet. In the example shown, in the back of the body 201 of the stationary dispenser part ? defined a housing, indicated by 222, here having a generally cylindrical shape which includes a bottom wall 222a (here formed by a section of the bottom wall of the housing 214 for the pump) and a peripheral wall 222b, at which ? mounted sensor body 280.

As can be seen, the housing 222 ? connected in fluid communication with the inlet 210, in particular through an opening in the bottom wall 222a. Suitable sealing means can be provided between the sensor body 280 and the housing 222: in the example, the body 280 is? frontally provided with an annular sealing element 290a, to create an axial or head seal with respect to a relative seat 222c defined within the housing 222; in the example the? housing 222 ? further shaped to define an annular part 222d for abutting or supporting the front of the sensor device, here the layer 270c. The sensor body 280 can? be fixed in correspondence with the housing 222 according to any modality? Note.

In figures 63 and 64 ? shown a possible embodiment of the active part of a sensor of the type shown in figure 62. In these figures, with 270d ? an electrically insulating substrate is indicated, for example of the ceramic type, preferably with a thickness of less than one millimetre. The substrate can be for example in alumina and have a thickness between 0.5 and 1 mm, particularly between 0.6 and 0.7 mm. In the example the substrate ? provided with holes 270e, in correspondence with which respective electrical terminals 270f, preferably metallic, are mounted or deposited on the rear side of the substrate 270d. At the front side of the substrate 270d, ie the one intended to face the washing agent, ? a piezoelectric element 270a is provided, placed between two electrodes 270b. In the example, the element 270a has the shape of a disc and the electrodes 270b have a corresponding disc-shaped part, from which a respective connection portion 270b1 extends radially intended for contact with the terminals 270f, via the holes 270e. The piezoelectric material used to make the 270a element can? be for example a solid lead zirconate and lead titaniate (PZT) mixture; its thickness can? be between 50 and 150 microns, particularly about 100 microns; the electrodes 27b are preferably formed with a noble metal, for example platinum, having a thickness of between 5 and 30 microns, preferably about 10 microns.

In various embodiments, the group formed by the piezoelectric element and by the relative electrodes ? isolated from the washing agent. The insulation does not necessarily have to involve the entire front side of the substrate: in the case exemplified in figures 63-64, for this purpose? a localized layer 270c of dielectric material is provided, ie a layer which covers a limited region of the front side of the substrate 270d and under which the element 270a and the electrodes 270b are located. Stratum 270c can? have a thickness of between 10 and 30 microns, particularly about 15 microns, and be formed with any dielectric material suitable for the purpose, even of the glassy type. For example, in the case of an alumina substrate, the 270c layer can be formed with the material identified commercially by the acronym ?G-485-2?, based on bismuth, silicon and boron.

The layers which form the piezoelectric element 270a, the electrodes 270b and the insulating coating 270c can be formed with any known technique, for example deposition techniques usually used in the electronic field.

In any case, it should be emphasized that the provision of the dielectric layer 270c must be understood as optional, since the group formed by the piezoelectric element 270 could be provided for direct contact with the washing agent: an example in this sense? shown schematically in figure 65, where two groups are associated with the front side of a substrate 270c - each comprising a piezoelectric element 270a and two electrodes 270b - which are directly exposed. The provision of insulation must be considered preferable in order to increase the useful life of the sensor.

A piezoelectric sensor of the type indicated pu? be used both for level survey purposes and for quality survey purposes.

In the case of a sensor having a sensing element 270? of the indicated type, a characteristic electric value of the piezoelectric element 270a, what is it? for example, its impedance, will? influenced - as well as by the electrical characteristics of the medium in which ? possibly immersed - also by the mechanical characteristics of the substance being surveyed, in particular by its viscosity? and from its density?: there? in consideration of the fact that the vibration frequency of the element 270a will result? different depending on whether the layer 270c, which ? placed against the same element 270a, whether in contact with the liquid substance or not (in the air), and depending on the type of substance, more? or less viscose or more? or less dense. Therefore, on the basis of the inverse piezoelectric effect, the circuit considerations set forth above can substantially also be applied to a sensitive element of this type. For example, in the case of use of a piezoelectric element of the type indicated with 270a, will it be? It is possible to use the same piezoelectric element instead of a quartz, in a circuit configuration of any quartz oscillator, for example the one shown in figure 56 (where therefore, essentially, the quartz Oq will be omitted).

Very schematically, therefore, the vibration frequency of the piezoelectric element 270a will be? different depending on whether the front layer 270c of the sensor 270? is in contact or not (or in contact to a greater or lesser extent) with the liquid substance, being able with what? discriminate whether the level is higher or lower than a given threshold. On the other hand, on the basis of the vibration frequency it will be? also possible to discriminate whether the aforementioned layer 270c ? in contact with a substance pi? thick/viscous or with a less dense/viscous substance.

Figures 66 and 67 exemplify in graphical form the result of impedance measurements made using a sensing element structure 270? of the type shown in figures 63-64, having the preferential characteristics indicated above. On the abscissa ? indicated the frequency, in hertz, while in the ordinate ? impedance indicated, in ohms. The reported values cover a wide range of low frequencies from 200 to 300 Hz.

The graph in figure 66 shows the result of quality surveys? for the same three liquid substances shown in figure 50, namely water (H2O curve), a commercial liquid detergent (WD) and a commercial liquid rinse aid (WA). How can you? note, the impedance value measured in the three cases allows you to clearly distinguish the detergent from the rinse aid and from the water. From the top side, the graph of figure 67 shows the result of a detection carried out with the group formed by the piezoelectric element 270a and the electrodes 270b not immersed in a liquid, ie in air: from the comparison between figures 66 and 67 ? therefore it is easy to detect how the sensitive element 270? allows to clearly distinguish the presence or absence of liquid, or to discriminate whether the liquid substance is above or below a threshold level substantially determined by the position of the piezoelectric element.

As previously indicated, the provision of the layer of dielectric material 270c, although preferable, does not constitute an essential feature. Are the graphs of figures 68-69 similar to those of figures 66-67, but relating to impedance readings carried out with a sensitive element 270? analogous to that of figures 63-64, but first of the relative layer 270c: how can it be deduced, also in these cases? possible to discriminate the type of liquid substance and its presence or absence in front of the piezoelectric element.

In possible variants of implementation? possible to make a sensor whose sensitive element is 270? exploit both the direct piezoelectric effect and the reverse piezoelectric effect. Such a case ? shown schematically in figure 65, where two piezoelectric elements 270a are associated with the substrate 270d? with relative connection electrodes 270b: a first of the two elements 270a will come? supplied with a predefined voltage, in order to cause its vibration due to the reverse piezoelectric effect, while the second element 270a will be? exploited to generate, taking advantage of the direct piezoelectric effect, a potential difference whose value will depend? by the vibration frequency of the first element 270a. Even such a type of sensor - obtainable according to modality? circuital per se? notes - can? therefore be exploited to obtain both level information and information relating to a qualitative characteristic of the washing agent. In the case of figure 65, the two groups each formed by the piezoelectric element 270a and by the relative electrodes 270b ? without the 270c layer, but in other versions such a layer may be provided.

The use of a piezoelectric sensor can? for example be advantageous in order to discriminate the type of washing agent on the basis of its physical characteristics, such as the viscosity? or the density? which, as mentioned, affect the response of the sensor. In this way, for example, it is possible to discriminate whether a WD detergent or WA additive is of the liquid or semi-solid (gel) type. Such information can be used, for example, by the CS control system of the dishwasher 1 to adapt a previously started washing program to a user (this naturally applies to any qualitative characteristic detectable by means of the other types of sensor described here).

Naturally, a piezoelectric sensor can? equip each of the two tanks R1 and R2.

In various embodiments, at least one sensor device which equips the dispenser ? a sensor of the optical type, ie having a sensitive element which comprises at least one emitter and at least one receiver of an electromagnetic radiation.

A possible embodiment of this type? shown in schematic form in Figures 70-72. Referring to the exemplified case, the optical sensor, indicated as a whole with 500, ? preferably configured in the form of a module intended for assembly on the fixed dispenser part 200, for example at one of the inlets 210 or 211 or at a relative housing 222, as previously described, preferably with the interposition of at least one annular sealing element. In other embodiments, at least part of the sensor body may be integrated or defined by the body of the fixed dispenser part 200.

In the non-limiting example, the sensor body comprises two main parts, indicated by 501 and 502, preferably sealed together, for example formed of plastic material. In the example, the body part 501 has a generally cylindrical shape, possibly provided at one end distal of a flange 501b. At the end proximal body part 501 ? mounted a sensing element, including at least one emitter 270a? of electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light radiation, and at least one radiation receiver 270b?; the emitter can? be, for example, an emitter diode, while l?at least a receiver can? comprise at least two distinct receivers, for example photo-detectors or photo-diodes suitable for detecting the light emission generated by the emitter. In alternate embodiments, the receiver 270b? can? be a single receiver of the C-Mos array type, comprising a linear series or matrix (array) of independent pixels and each consisting of a photo-detector.

In the example, the body part 502 mainly performs casing functions and for this purpose it has a hollow cylindrical shape, so as to be able to receive the cylindrical portion of the body part 501 inside itself. The part 502 therefore has a peripheral wall 502a and a back wall 502b, which ? provided with a through opening 502c, the two body parts 501 and 502 are coupled together, preferably with the interposition of sealing means. In the example, the coupling between the two parts ? a threaded coupling, and for this purpose the cylindrical portion of the part 501 ? provided externally with a male thread, intended for engagement with a corresponding female thread (not visible) provided on the inner side of the peripheral wall 502a of the body part 502.

At the top? of the body part 501 ? an optical element 503 is provided, particularly having the functions of an optical prism. For this purpose, body part 501 can be shaped to define positioning elements or spacers 501c for the optical element 503. The optical element 503 can? be formed, for example, in polycarbonate or other material which is transparent to the luminous radiation emitted by the emitter 270a?. In the example, the element 503 has a front wall 503a, a peripheral wall 503b and a rear wall 503c, the latter being intended to face the emitter 207a? and to the receiver 207b?. In the example, the optical element has at least an approximately truncated cone shape, but what? it is not an essential feature.

With 504 ? a shaped annular sealing element is indicated, intended to be interposed between the optical element 503 and the body part 502; the through hole of this sealing element 504 preferably has a profile congruent with that of the peripheral wall 503b of the optical element 503, and therefore ? in the example ? a substantially truncated cone profile. As can be understood from the figures, in the assembled condition of the sensor 500, the sealing element 504 ? arranged to create a seal between the body parts 501, 502 and the optical element 503, so that the front surface 503a of the element 503 can face a liquid, through the opening 502c of the body part 502, without risk of infiltrations towards the inside of the 500 sensor.

In various embodiments, the operation of the sensor 500 is based on the optical laws related to the refraction/reflection of optical radiation, and in particular on the principle of the critical angle of total reflection. Pi? particularly, such an operating principle is based on the dependence of the refractive index of the liquid substance on its composition or concentration: the measurement is therefore based on the difference in index between the liquid to be analysed, i.e. the washing agent, and the material solid of the optical element 503, exploiting the principle of total internal reflection at the interface between the two media.

In figures 70-72, the emitter 270a? and the receiver 270b? are arranged according to the same plane arrangement, also for representation needs; in this configuration the optical element 503 can? be suitably shaped to define suitable reflection/refraction angles between the emitter 270a?, the receiver 270b? and the interface wall represented by the front surface of the optical element 503.

In various embodiments, the emitter 270a? and the 270b receiver? instead they have the respective active emitting and receiving parts, respectively, which are generally directed towards each other, but arranged at an angle to each other, preferably in such a way that the respective axes intersect. The concept ? illustrated in schematic form in Figures 73-74, in which the emitter 270a? and the 270b receiver? are arranged according to respective planes of arrangement which form an angle ?, which ? preferably less than 90?; on the other hand, the two planes passing through the axes ? of the receiver and of the emitter, respectively (meaning by this? two planes orthogonal to the axis of the sheet of the figure 73-74), form an angle between them which ? preferably greater than 90?. The aforesaid angles can be predefined at least according to the plastic material used to make the optical element 503 and the type of emitter, according to the technique per se? Note.

From figures 73-74 ? It is also possible to note how, preferably, the rear surface of the body of the optical element 503 defines two faces 503c?, 503c? which are inclined with opposite orientations, so that the emitter 207a?, on one side, and the receiver 207b?, on the other side, are facing and generally parallel to a respective said inclined face. The inclination of the faces 503c?, 503c? ? preferably calculated so that the optical signal crosses them in one direction as much as possible? possible orthogonal to the surfaces of entry and exit of light, cos? to minimize reflection at the air-solid and solid-air interfaces, respectively.

In operation, the emitter 207a? it illuminates the interface surface - represented by the front surface 503a of the element 503 - at the angles of interest around the critical angle, and therefore with greater and lesser incidence than the critical angle. In this way there will be two areas: an area affected by totally reflected rays (linked to those with incidence greater than the critical angle) and an area affected by less intensity, which is? illuminated by partially reflected rays (related to those with incidence lower than the critical angle). Can you? obtain so?, in output, a field of intensity? in which the separation between the highly illuminated area for total internal reflection and the less illuminated area (partial reflection) ? liquid concentration variable.

The rays used for the purely explanatory and schematic representation in figures 73-74 are part of an illuminating field which changes its configuration according to the variation of the critical angle, i.e. the refractive index of the liquid substance, i.e. its composition or concentration.

In the presence of a washing agent or other substance having a first composition or concentration, you can? have the schematization of Figure 73: assuming that the rays of beam R impinge on the interface surface 503a with an angle equal to the critical angle, some of these rays will be obtained as total reflection of the incident rays, while other rays will be partially refracted (in R1) and partially reflected, with the ?inferior? 207b? what will result? most illuminated by the resulting beam R2. Figure 74 schematises the case of a substance or washing agent having a second composition or concentration (for example lower than the previous one): the rays of the illuminating beam R produced by the emitter 720a? they always affect with the same angle, while the critical angle varies (decreases), depending on the composition of the substance. Also in this case the resulting bundle R2 will include? therefore fully reflected rays and partially reflected rays, but with a greater intensity? illuminant on the ?upper? receiver 270b?.

Ultimately, as can be seen, the optical element 503 is configured to contribute to the propagation of the optical radiation by refraction and/or reflection from the at least one emitter 270a? to? at least one receiver 270b?, in such a way that the radiation ? at least partially propagated through the element 503 towards the at least one receiver 270b? with an angle and/or with a? intensity? That ? variable according to a qualitative characteristic of the liquid substance.

Of course, based on the principles set out above, the 500 optical sensor can? also be used as a level sensor. In fact, in the absence of liquid at the interface wall 503a, the light beam emitted by the emitter 270a? will be almost completely reflected towards the receiver 270b?, while in the presence of liquid at the interface, part of the light beam will come? refracted in the liquid, investing with intensity reduced the receiver270b?: in this way it is possible to discriminate whether the liquid substance is above or below a predetermined threshold level. Of course the functionality level detection could also be obtained without exploiting the principle linked to the critical angle of total reflection, i.e. being based on the simple reflection/refraction of the optical radiation.

In various embodiments previously described, a level sensor device and/or at least one qualitative characteristic of a washing agent ? disposed at least partially at an inlet of a dispenser part, or at a housing thereof connected in fluid communication with that inlet. In other embodiments, such a sensor device may instead be arranged at least partially in correspondence with a relative detection chamber, even in a remote position with respect to said inlet, and not connected directly to a relative dispensing arrangement of the washing agent. In embodiments of this type, a tank has a sensing aperture, which is? separable and hermetically coupled to an inlet opening present in the fixed dispenser part, this inlet opening being in fluid communication with the sensing chamber. The detection opening and the inlet opening of the detection chamber are defined in respective walls of the removable and fixed parts of the dispenser, respectively, intended to face each other in the operating condition of the dispenser.

Embodiments of this type are exemplified in figures 75 and 76, in which with 112? the aforementioned detection openings are indicated, preferably defined by tubular portions of the hollow body 101 having a structure similar to that previously described with reference to the outlets 112 and 113. With 210? on the other hand, the aforementioned detection chambers are indicated, which here are not in fluid communication with the inlets of the fixed part 200. Also the chambers 210? are preferably defined by tubular portions of the body 201 having a structure similar to that previously described with reference to the inlets 210 and 201, having a peripheral wall part 210a? and a back wall 210b?, at which ? sensitive element 270 mounted: in this case, however, the chambers 210? they do not belong to and are not directly related to a dispensing arrangement of the cleaning agent in question.

In the case of figure 75, the sensitive component 270 of the sensor device includes electrodes 2701, 2703 (and possibly 2702) of the type already previously described, designed to be in direct contact with the liquid substance, for example for conductivity measurements? or impedance, while in the case of figure 76 the sensitive component 270 includes electrodes 2701, 2703 (and optionally 2702) which are isolated with respect to the liquid substance by an electrically insulating layer 2704, for example for measurements of the capacitive type. Also the openings 210 can be provided with automatically operated check valves of the type previously described.

Of course, the concept of allocating at least part of a sensor device in correspondence with a detection chamber? usable also in the case of other types of sensor, such as the piezoelectric sensors or the optical sensors previously described.

In various embodiments, a level and/or quality sensing device it has a first part mounted on the removable dispenser part and a second part mounted on the fixed dispenser part, the first part and the second part interacting preferably by means of an electromagnetic or inductive signal or field.

A form of implementation of this type ? shown in schematic form in Fig. 77 , according to which the sensor device shown has a sensing element 270? mounted at a 112 slot? defined in the hollow body 101, particularly at a closure bottom 112b?. The element 270? does it include for example a 270a circuit? connected to electrodes 2701, 2703 (and possibly 2702) which extend towards the inside of the tank, here the tank R1. A second sensor communication part, denoted 270b? ? instead mounted at the outer side of a closing bottom 210b? of a housing 210?, defined in the body 201. Also the communication part 270b? includes a respective circuit and connection terminals 2705 for electrical connection to an on-board circuit arrangement of the dispenser or washing machine.

Bays 112? and 210? can have a tubular structure similar to that previously described with reference to the outlets 112, 113 and the inlets 210, 2011, and therefore capable of coupling in a releasable manner, so that - in the coupled condition between the removable dispenser part 101 and the dispenser part fixed 200 - the back walls 112b? and 210b? are essentially facing each other. How can we see, in this case, the slots 112? and 210? are therefore closed at the rear and, given the presence of the bottom walls 112b? and 210b2, the housings themselves are not connected in fluid communication and do not belong to an arrangement for dispensing the scrubbing agent contained in reservoir R1.

The principle of data transmission/reception between the sensitive element 270?, or its circuit 270a?, and the communication part 270b?, or its circuit, can? be of a type analogous to that of radiofrequency passive electrical devices without autonomous power supply, for example RFID devices, for this purpose comprising respective antennas. These radio frequency devices are in s? known and do not require a detailed description here.

Suffice it here to specify that the supply voltage of the circuit 270a? ? supplied by the circuit of the part 270b?, which ? operative for generating an electromagnetic field in a known way, for example through a 125 KHz signal; in practice, the electromagnetic field induces a voltage that feeds, which can? in turn transmit data to the circuit of the 270b part?. On this basis, therefore, through the sensitive element 270? Can level and/or quality surveys be carried out? similar to those previously described, and communicated in mode? wireless to the reading part 270b?, which in turn makes them available to the on-board circuit arrangement of the dispenser or dishwasher 1.

As previously indicated, in various embodiments, the dispenser includes at least one part manually operable by a user, and a controllable locking/unlocking arrangement for preventing or allowing a movement of the operable part between two positions thereof. An implementation of this type? previously exemplified in relation to the doors 1041, 1042 which equip dispensers according to various embodiments described.

Such a locking/unlocking system ? usable with advantage also in order to prevent or allow, depending on the case, the removal of the removable part of the dispenser with respect to its fixed part, the removable part realizing the part operable by the user. In this case the locking mechanism of the arrangement includes at least one holding element mounted on the displaceably fixed dispenser part, between a holding position and a release position, relative to a counter-holding element present on the removable dispenser part .

A possible implementation in this sense? schematically illustrated in Figures 78-82.

Referring initially to Fig. 78 , the exemplified arrangement includes a locking mechanism which is basically similar to the one already? previously described with reference to figures 31-36. In this case, each element 2061 and 2062 has associated or defines a relative retaining element 206c, exemplified here in the form of a hook, which protrudes frontally (in the Z dimension) beyond the front side of the positioning and/or guide formations 205. From On the other hand, corresponding housings or seats 121 are defined at the rear of the hollow body 101, which act as counter-retention elements, with respect to which the elements 206c are capable of assuming at least one retention position and one release position.

The seats 121 are configured and positioned in such a way that, when the mobile dispenser part 100 is coupled on the fixed dispenser part 200, at least a part of each holding element 206c can? protrude within the relative seat 121, with the possibility? of angular movement between the hold position and the release position. This angular motion? obtained through the corresponding angular movement of the block elements 2061, 2062, with which the retaining elements are integral in rotation. In the example, an element 206c and the relative seat 121, on one side, and the other element 206c, and the relative seat 121, on the other side, are shaped differently, in consideration of the fact that the angular retention positions and release of the two elements 206c are different: however, in possible variant embodiments, the retention elements, on the one hand, and the relative counter-retention elements, on the other hand, could be identical to each other.

As can also be seen in figures 79-82, in this case the cam member 451 defines a profile of the cam that is more? complex compared to the case of figures 31-36. In the schematic example, this profile includes two opposite sections 452a and 452b which each extend according to a respective arc of a circumference, the two circumferences being preferably one greater than the other, and two intermediate connecting sections 452c and 452d, more? long, one of which (452c) marked by a recess, and the other (452d) marked by a protrusion.

Figure 79 exemplifies a condition corresponding to that of figures 31-32, with the cam member 451 which is? in an angular position such that the locking members 2061 and 2062 do not allow the engagement/release devices 1051 and 1052 to be operated. In this condition, both the retaining elements 206c are in an angular engagement position with respect to the counters retention elements represented by the seats 121: in this condition, the removable dispenser part 100 cannot? therefore be removed from the stationary dispenser part 200.

Figure 80 exemplifies a condition corresponding to that of figures 33-34, with the cam member 451 which is? in an angular position such that the blocking members 2061 and 2062 prevent the actuation of the latch/release device 1052 and instead allow the actuation of the latch/release device 1051, respectively. In this condition, the left holding element 206c ? in an angular hooking position with respect to the relative seat 121, while the right-hand retaining element 206c is? in an angular release position with respect to the relative seat 121: therefore, also in this condition, the removable dispenser part 100 cannot? be removed from the fixed dispenser part 200.

Figure 81 exemplifies a condition corresponding to that of figures 35-36, with the cam member 451 which is? in an angular position such that the locking members 2061 and 2062 prevent the actuation of the latch/release device 1051 and instead allow the actuation of the latch/release device 1052, respectively. In this condition, the right holding element 206c is? in an angular release position with respect to the relative seat 121, while the left-hand retaining element 206c is? in an angular hooking position with respect to the relative seat 121: even in this condition, therefore, the removable dispenser part 100 cannot? be removed from the fixed dispenser part 200.

Finally, figure 82 exemplifies a condition in which the cam member 451 is in an angular position such that the blocking members 2061 and 2062 allow the actuation of both the latching/release devices 1051 and 1052. In this condition, both the retaining elements 206c are in a release angular position with respect to the relative counter-elements represented by the seats 121: in this condition, therefore, the removable dispenser part 100 can? be removed from the fixed dispenser part 200.

The control of the actuator 450 for the purposes of obtaining the positions of figures 79, 80 and 81 can be carried out according to the methods? substantially similar to those previously described with reference to figures 31-36, and therefore for example as a function of level information inferred from sensor devices that equip the dispenser and/or as a function of signals supplied by the CS control system of the dishwasher 1. The achievement of the position of figure 82 pu? be determined, for example, when the condition occurs (moreover statistically rare) in which inside both tanks R1 and R2 there is a volume of washing agent lower than a relative predetermined minimum level, indicative of the need? to top up. Another condition that can determine the achievement of the position of figure 82 ? for example, the detection, by a sensor of quality? of the dispenser, of an anomalous condition in relation to the contents of any of the two tanks, for example if the presence of a rinse additive WA is detected in tank R1 for washing detergent WD: in this case, regardless of the level of filling of the tanks R1, R2, it is advisable to allow the removal of the removable dispenser part 100, for the purposes of washing the erroneously contaminated tank. Naturally, obtaining the position of figure 82 could also be obtained following a special command given by the user, for example using a special key provided in the control panel of the machine 1.

The operating condition of the locking/unlocking arrangement of figures 78-82 (as well as that of figures 31-36) could also be signaled to the user by means of any of the signaling arrangements, for example one of those previously described.

In the example of figures 78-82, is the locking/unlocking arrangement ? conceived to perform a double function, in relation to the possibility? opening of doors 1041, 1042a and the possibility? removal of the removable dispenser part 100, preferably in order to use a single electric actuator 450 to perform both functions: ? however it is clear that the two functions could be separated, for example by using respective electric actuators, or the dispenser could include only the locking/unlocking function of the removable dispenser part.

It should also be noted that, in possible embodiment variants, the locking/unlocking arrangement could be designed to interact with the operative coupling/release arrangement between the removable dispenser part and the fixed dispenser part (see for example what is described with reference to figures 13-14), which as mentioned ? switchable manually at least from a latching position to a latching position, to prevent or allow the removal of the removable dispenser part. For such a case, the lock/unlock arrangement can? for example be configured in such a way that, in its operative and inoperative conditions, the locking mechanism prevents and allows, respectively, the switching of the latch/release arrangement from its latch position to its latch position.

For example, referring to Figure 78, retaining elements similar to those indicated at 206c could be arranged more? below with respect to the case exemplified in the figure, and mounted movably to assume a first angular locked position, in which they mechanically interfere with the rotation of the engagement/release member 220 (see figures 9-11), for example at the relative recesses 220e, and a second angular unlocking position, in which their angular position is such as not to constitute an obstacle to the rotation of the member 220.

From the description given, the characteristics and advantages of the washing agent dispenser according to the proposed embodiments are clear, among which the following should be underlined:

i) the solution of providing a reversible peristaltic pump, with an associated control arrangement, allows the pump itself to be exploited for the purpose of dispensing two different washing agents, by means of two different dispensing arrangements;

ii) the solution of providing a removable dispenser part defining at least one tank, the outlet of which? provided with an automatically operated check valve, it allows to avoid risks of dispersion of the relative washing agent in the environment, when the removable dispenser part is removed from a fixed dispenser part;

iii) the solution of providing on the front of the dispenser a suitable directly exposed housing for a tablet of washing agent simplifies the construction of the dispenser with respect to the prior art and simplifies at the same time the activity of the dispenser. loading the tablet by the user;

iv) the solution of providing a signaling system, with a light generating element on a fixed dispenser part, and one or more? light transmission elements on a removable part of the dispenser, allows to effectively transfer information of an optical type at the front of the dispenser, for the benefit of the user, and at the same time allows the components subject to electrical voltage to be positioned in a protected area of the dispenser;

v) the solution of providing a locking/unlocking arrangement for a part of the dispenser which ? operable by a user, with this provision that ? managed by a relative logic implemented in a control circuit, it allows to reduce the risk of error by a user in the use of the dispenser, particularly as regards the refilling of washing agents or the removal of a part of the dispenser to allow interventions on it only when actually necessary;

vi) the solution of providing at least part of a sensor device on a fixed dispenser part, particularly in correspondence with an inlet thereof for a washing agent, allows to carry out measurements of the quantitative and/or qualitative type with respect to the content of a tank defined in a part of the removable dispenser, and at the same time allows to simplify the electrical connections, as well as? place these connections in a protected area of the dispenser;

vii) the solution of equipping the dispenser with a sensor device arranged for the detection of one or more? qualitative characteristics of a washing agent allows you to have available related to the type or quality? of a washing agent contained in a relative tank, which are useful for example in order to prevent or correct any malfunctions due to errors by a user in relation to the washing agent or to a degradation of the latter, or in order to allow a control more? efficient than a treatment program performed by the washing machine on which the dispenser ? installed.

It should also be specified that the technical solutions referred to in points i), ii) and vii) are also susceptible of implementation in dispensers which do not include removable parts, or having a dispenser body which as a whole ? intended for mounting in a fixed position.

AND? it is clear that numerous variants are possible for the person skilled in the art to the dispenser described as an example, without thereby departing from the scope of the invention.

Previously ? reference has been made to a system for dispensing a washing agent, particularly the washing agent contained in the tank R2, the operation of which ? partly based on the movement of the mounting wall of the dispenser 10 between a substantially vertical position and a substantially horizontal position (see in particular what is described with reference to figures 6-8). AND? however clear that there? it does not constitute an essential feature, since the dispenser 10 could be designed for mounting on a fixed tank wall, such as the wall indicated by 6 in figure 1. For these cases, the aforementioned dispensing system will be? modified accordingly, for example by using any of the techniques described in WO02069779 A1, US2002153029A1 and WO0173182A2 in the name of the same Applicant.

Pi? sensitive elements previously described with reference to different types of sensor can be combined in a single sensor device. From this point of view, for example, the same sensor device could include both electrodes for detecting an electrical quantity, and a piezoelectric element for detecting a physical characteristic (viscosity or density), or at least one emitter and at least one receiver of light for optical detection.

Claims (15)

A washing agent dispenser for washing machines, for dispensing washing agents into a washing chamber of a washing machine, the dispenser (10) having a dispenser body (100, 200) having a size of width (X), a height dimension (Y) and a depth dimension? (Z), in which a front and a back of the dispenser body (100, 200) identify the depth dimension? (Z), wherein the dispenser body (100, 200) comprises a stationary dispenser part (200), intended for mounting on a wall (5) delimiting a washing chamber of washing machine (3), and a removable dispenser part (100), removably coupled to the fixed dispenser part (200), wherein the removable dispenser part (100) comprises a hollow body (101) defining at least one reservoir (R1, R2) for a substance (WD, WA) in liquid or semi-solid form, at least one first wall (114a, 114b) of the hollow body (101) being intended to at least partially face at least one second wall (201a, 201b1, 220a) of the fixed dispenser part (200), wherein the dispenser (10) further comprises at least one sensor device (RD, 110; 270; 270?; 270?; 500), configured to provide at least one electrical signal representative of at least one of a level and a qualitative characteristic of the substance ( WD, WA) contained within at least one tank (R1, R2), and in which the at least one sensor device (RD, 110; 270; 270?; 270?; 500) ? disposed at least partially on the fixed dispenser part (200). 2. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the at least one tank (R1, R2) has an outlet (112, 113) in the at least one first wall (114a), the outlet (112, 113) being connectable separably to a respective inlet (210, 211) present in the at least one second wall (201a), the inlet (210, 211) being connected in fluid communication with a corresponding dispensing arrangement configured to dispense quantities dosed of the substance (WD, WA), and in which the at least one sensor device (270; 270?; 500) ? arranged substantially at the inlet (210, 211), or substantially at a related housing (222) in fluid communication with the inlet (210, 211). 3. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the at least one tank (R1, R2) has a detection opening (112?) in the at least one first wall (114a), the detection opening (112?) being separably coupled to a respective inlet opening present in the at least one second wall (201a), the inlet opening being in fluid communication with a sensing chamber (210?) at which it is located. at least partially arranged the at least one sensor device (270?; 270?; 500). 4. The dispenser according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein: - the outlet (112, 113), or the detection opening (112?), ? defined in a lower portion of the hollow body (101), with reference to the height dimension (Y), and/or - the at least one first wall (114a) ? a rear wall of the hollow body (101) and the at least one second wall (201a) ? a front wall of the stationary dispenser part (200). 5. The dispenser according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the at least one sensor device (270; 270?; 270?; 500) is? entirely mounted on the fixed dispenser part (200). The dispenser according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the at least one sensor device (RD, 110; 270; 270?; 270?; 500) has a first part (110; 270a) mounted on the dispenser part removable (100) and a second part (RD; 270b) mounted on the fixed dispenser part (200), the first part (110; 270a) and the second part (RD; 270b) interacting preferably via a magnetic field or signal or electromagnetic or inductive. 7. The dispenser according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the at least one sensor device (500) is an optical sensor, having a sensitive element comprising at least one emitter (270a) and at least one receiver (270b) of an electromagnetic radiation. 8. The dispenser according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the at least one sensor device (270; 270?; 270?) is? a sensor for detecting at least one electrical quantity, the sensor having at least one sensitive element comprising at least one of a plurality of electrodes (2701, 2702, 2703) and a piezoelectric element (270a). 9. The dispenser according to any one of claims 1-8, comprising a circuit arrangement configured to compare a value of the at least one electrical signal with at least one respective reference value and thereby generate representative information of at least one of a level and a qualitative characteristic of the substance (WD, WA). The dispenser according to claim 8, wherein the at least two electrodes (2701, 2702, 2703) each have a respective axis intended to extend in a direction generally parallel to a coupling direction between the removable dispenser part (100) and the fixed dispenser part (200), the axes of the at least two electrodes (2701, 2702, 2703) being preferably at a distance between 2 and 20 mm from each other, most preferably between 3 and 7 mm. The dispenser according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the at least two electrodes (2701, 2702, 2703) comprise at least one of: - at least two electrodes at different heights (2701, 2703), with reference to the height dimension (Y), - at least two electrodes (2701, 2702) substantially at the same height, with reference to the height dimension (Y). The dispenser according to claim 11, wherein the at least two electrodes comprise at least three electrodes, (2701, 2702, 2703), among which: - a first electrode (2701) and a second electrode (2702), for measuring between them a first value of the at least one electrical quantity which ? representative of a qualitative characteristic of the substance (WD, WA), e - a third electrode (2703), for measuring between the third electrode (2703) and one between the first electrode (2701) and the second electrode (2702) of a second value of the at least one electrical quantity which ? representative of a substance level (WD, WA), where preferably the first electrode (2701) and the second electrode (2702) are substantially the same height, and the at least one third electrode (2703) is at a different height with respect to the first electrode (2701) and the second electrode (2702). The dispenser according to any one of claims 1-12, further comprising at least one of: - a signaling arrangement (207, 260, 261; 207, 260, 261, 263) which includes at least one emitting device (207, 260) selected from light emitting devices and acoustic emitting devices, - a locking/unlocking arrangement comprising a mechanism (2061, 2062, 451, 4531, 4532, 454; 121, 2061, 2062, 206c, 4531, 4532, 451, 454) operable by a relative electric actuator (450) to assume at least one operating condition and at least one inoperative condition, in which the mechanism prevents or allows, respectively, a displacement of an operable part (1041, 1042; 100) of the dispenser (10) which ? configured to be manually moved by a user from at least one first position to a second position, in which the at least one of the signaling arrangement and the locking/unlocking arrangement ? configured to be controlled according to an electric signal supplied by the at least one sensor device (RD, 110; 270; 270?; 270?; 500). 14. A washing agent dispenser for washing machines, for dispensing washing agents into a washing machine washing chamber, the dispenser (10) having a dispenser body (100, 200) comprising at least one stationary dispenser part (200), intended for mounting on a wall (5) delimiting a washing chamber of washing machine (3), wherein the dispenser body (100, 200) defines at least one holding volume (R1, R2) for at least one washing agent (WD, WA), particularly a washing agent in liquid or semi-solid form, the dispenser (10) further comprising at least one dispensing arrangement which is configured to dispense quantity? dosed with the at least one washing agent (WD, WA), and which comprises a duct (210, 403, 218; 211, 240, 411) between an outlet (112; 113) of the at least one tank (R1, R2) and a dispensing outlet (219, 212-213) of the quantities? dosing of the at least one cleaning agent (WD, WA), the dispenser also comprising at least one of: - a peristaltic pump (400) forming part of the at least one dispensing arrangement, - at least one removable dispenser part (200), associated in a removable way to the fixed dispenser part (200) and defining the at least one tank (R1, R2), the at least one outlet being associated with a check valve (2301, 2302), - at least one exposed housing (300) at a front of the dispenser body (100, 200), configured to receive a tablet (T) including at least one washing agent (T), - at least one signaling arrangement (207, 260, 261; 207, 260, 261, 263), comprising an emitter device (207, 260) and means for transferring a visible radiation emitted by the emitter device (207, 206) towards a zone of the dispenser body (100, 200) intended to face towards the inside of the washing machine washing chamber (3), - at least one locking/unlocking arrangement (2061, 2062, 451, 4531, 4532, 454; 121, 2061, 2062, 206c, 4531, 4532, 451, 454), operable by an electric actuator to prevent or allow a movement of a part (1041, 1042; 100) of the dispenser (10) which ? operable manually by a user, - at least one sensor device (RD, 110; 270; 270?; 270?; 500) of at least one of a level and a qualitative characteristic of the at least one cleaning agent (WD, WA), - means for coupling and/or fixing and/or guiding and/or positioning each other between a fixed dispenser part (200) and at least one removable dispenser part (200) which ? removably associated with the fixed dispenser part (200), - hydraulic coupling means (112, 113, 210, 211) between a fixed dispenser part (200) and at least one removable dispenser part (100) which ? removably associated with the fixed dispenser part (200) and defining at least one reservoir (R1, R2). 15. A household washing machine, in particular a dishwasher, comprises a washing agent dispenser according to any one of claims 1-14.