[0001] The subject of the present invention is a method of washing dishes by means of a
dishwasher.
[0002] A dishwasher is known comprising a plurality of racks positioned one above another
and located in a washing compartment.
[0003] In order to perform the washing of the dishes the user arranges them by distributing
them over the various racks. During washing the liquid on the bottom of the washing
compartment is taken by a pump and made to travel through two rotating sprayers equipped
with holes which direct the jets of water towards the dishes.
[0004] An object of the present invention is to make available to a user the possibility
of carrying out specific washing cycles so as to permit better flexibility of use.
[0005] This object and others besides, which will more fully emerge during the course of
the description which follows, are achieved, in accordance with the present invention,
by a method of washing dishes having structural and functional characteristics in
accordance with the accompanying independent claims, further embodiments of the invention
being identified in the accompanying and corresponding dependent claims.
[0006] The invention is illustrated in greater detail below, with the aid of the drawings,
which represent a purely exemplary and non-limiting embodiment thereof.
[0007] Figures 1-4 show examples of washing cycles according to the present invention and
show a qualitative pattern of temperature as a function of time (expressed in minutes
and shown on the horizontal axis).
[0008] The subject of the present invention is a method of washing dishes by means of a
dishwasher. This dishwasher comprises a plurality of racks positioned in a washing
compartment. These racks are designed to support the dishes during washing. Opportunely
the dishwasher comprises a first and a second rack, the second rack being situated
above the first rack. The first rack is the lowest rack of the dishwasher. The second
rack is typically the second rack from the bottom. Opportunely the dishwasher also
comprises a first and a second sprayer. The first sprayer is positioned below the
first rack.
[0009] The second sprayer is positioned between the first and the second rack.
[0010] Opportunely there could be a third rack positioned above the second rack. Opportunely
there could be a third sprayer positioned above the third rack (usually the third
sprayer is shaped like a sprinkler).
[0011] The method provides for the dishwasher selecting the washing parameters according
to at least:
- a first input relating to the type of cycle to be implemented, said first input being
selectable from a discrete list;
- a second input relating to which is the rack in which are positioned the dishes to
be washed (or at any rate on which it is intended to concentrate the washing action).
[0012] The method furthermore provides for performing the washing.
[0013] Selecting said second input makes the cycle identified by the first input more intensive
or faster or more economical (in terms of washing liquid and energy consumption).
By introducing the second input the cycle becomes faster or more economical or more
intensive depending on the type of cycle selected with the first input.
[0014] At the base of the method according to the present invention is the fact that the
dishes to be washed are positioned on a specific rack selected through the second
input. In this way the cycle will be reparametrized to allow optimum washing of the
dishes in the selected rack. The dishwasher will concentrate its resources on carrying
out the washing of the dishes placed in the selected rack, neglecting the wash, however,
in other areas of the washing compartment. In order to carry out this optimisation
the second input preferably makes it possible to select one rack at a time. The second
input therefore makes it possible to select one washing area inside the washing compartment.
The step of performing the wash therefore provides for performing a wash wherein the
dishes are positioned on only one of the racks of the dishwasher.
[0015] The first input can be selected from a predetermined list of washing cycles. This
predetermined list can comprise one or more of the following cycles: fast cycle (in
which speed of execution of the cycles is privileged), intensive cycle (which will
have a longer duration than the fast cycle and which constitutes a vigorous cycle
to optimise the cleaning of the dishes), and normal cycle (a cycle which allows a
compromise between the two indicated above). The intensive cycle is the most vigorous
selectable among those selectable in the predetermined list.
[0016] In an exemplary, but not limiting, solution the first input can be selectable using
a first dedicated selector (for example a knob or keys).
[0017] The introduction of said second input in the case in which said fast cycle is selected
as first input causes a shortening of the washing cycle (compared with the cycle in
which the fast cycle is selected as first input and the second input is not selected).
[0018] The introduction of said second input, in the case in which said intensive cycle
is chosen as first input, causes: an increase in the maximum temperature reached by
the washing liquid and/or a lengthening of the washing cycle time and/or an increase
in particular steps or sub-steps of the dispensing pressure to the sprayers (even
in this case the variations are to be considered as referring to a similar cycle without
the second input being specified).
[0019] Please refer to the cycle indicated in figure 1 which refers to a situation where
the second input has been selected and in which the above-indicated "normal cycle"
has been selected as first input.
[0020] In this case the step of performing the wash comprises in turn a plurality of steps.
[0021] A first step (indicated by the reference number 11 in figure 1) provides for performing
a pre-wash comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading into the washing compartment a washing liquid (see reference 11a; it is emphasised
that in figures 1-4 the steps of loading and unloading have been schematised respectively
as dashed lines and as down arrows; do not refer to the temperature values shown during
the above steps);
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from
the washing compartment (see reference 11b);
- unloading said washing liquid from the washing compartment (see reference 11c).
[0022] Opportunely the step of performing the pre-wash is carried out without performing
a heating of the washing liquid; opportunely the pre-wash is carried out without the
use of detergents in the washing liquid; opportunely during the pre-wash the duration
of the step of spraying the dishes is comprised between 9 and 12 minutes.
[0023] A second step (see reference 12 in figure 1) provides for performing a removal of
dirt from the dishes. This comprises the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 12a).
- heating the washing liquid until a sensor detects a predetermined target temperature
less than or equal to 51 C; the sensor is positioned in the washing compartment; opportunely
this sub-step has a duration comprised between 15 and 17 minutes; said sub-step is
at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the
washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the bottom of the washing compartment
(see reference 12b);
- performing temperature maintenance of the washing liquid in a predetermined range
containing the predetermined target temperature; opportunely this sub-step has a duration
comprised between 23 and 30 minutes; said sub-step is at least partially accompanied
by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the
washing liquid from the washing compartment (see reference 12c) ;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 12d).
[0024] A third step provides for performing a first rinse of the dishes (see reference 13);
opportunely this step provides for the use of network water, opportunely the network
water used during the first rinse is not heated by the use of a heating element located
in the washing compartment (as it enters the compartment which is still hot, it does
however undergo heating nevertheless).
[0025] A fourth step provides for performing a second heating of the dishes (see reference
14) comprising the steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 14a);
- heating the washing liquid until the sensor detects that a predetermined target temperature
comprised between 65 °C and 70 °C, and preferably about 68 °C, has been reached; the
duration of the heating sub-step is opportunely comprised between 18 and 20 minutes;
opportunely during said heating sub-step, finisher is added to the washing liquid;
said heating sub-step is at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying
the dishes positioned in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the
washing compartment (see reference 14b);
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 14c).
[0026] The cycle of figure 1 is particularly effective when it is necessary to wash only
a few dishes. In this way, without having to wait for the full load, it is possible
to wash the cutlery and plates used for cooking for rapid reuse, avoiding the formation
of bad odours.
[0027] In the above-indicated cycle (exemplified in figure 1), when the first (lower) rack
is selected as second input, the dishes are sprayed for over 75% of the time by the
first sprayer. The second sprayer is used only sporadically to dissolve the detergent
better in the dispenser and to assist the washing of any cutlery positioned vertically
in the first rack. When the second rack is selected as second input, spraying is carried
out for most of the time by the second sprayer, possibly alternating with the third
sprayer (which as described above is located above the second rack). The first sprayer
is not used.
[0028] When the third rack is selected as second input, spraying is carried out by alternating
between the second and the third sprayer. The first sprayer is not used.
[0029] Please refer now to the solution schematised in figure 2. It refers to a situation
where the second input has been selected and in which the above-indicated "fast cycle"
has been selected as first input.
[0030] The step of performing the wash comprises a plurality of steps as described below.
[0031] A first step (see reference 21) provides for removing the dirt from the dishes and
this first step comprises the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 21a);
- heating the washing liquid (see reference 21b) until a sensor detects that a predetermined
target temperature comprised between 45 °C and 50 °C has been reached, said sensor
being positioned in the washing compartment; the heating sub-step is at least partially
accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment,
taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment; sub-step 21b has a duration
comprised between 14 and 16 minutes; the liquid used for spraying the dishes opportunely
comprises water and detergent;
- performing temperature maintenance (see reference 21c) of the washing liquid in a
predetermined range containing the predetermined target temperature; said sub-step
is at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes positioned
in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment;
sub-step 21c has a duration comprised between 1 and 3 minutes;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 21d).
[0032] A second step (see reference 22) provides for rinsing the dishes and in turn comprises
the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 22a);
- heating the washing liquid (see reference 22b) until the sensor detects that a predetermined
target temperature comprised between 60 °C and 65 °C, preferably about 62 °C, has
been reached; said heating sub-step takes a time interval of less than 13 minutes;
said sub-step is at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes
placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment;
- possibly performing temperature maintenance of the washing liquid in a predetermined
range containing the predetermined target temperature (see reference 22c); the temperature
maintenance sub-step is at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying
the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the washing
compartment; the temperature maintenance sub-step 22c has a duration of less than
1 minute;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 22d).
[0033] The cycle of figure 2 allows a significant time saving when it is necessary to wash
only a few dishes. In this way, without having to wait for the full load, it is possible
to wash the cutlery and plates used for cooking for rapid reuse, avoiding the formation
of bad odours.
[0034] Please refer now to the cycle described in figures 3 and 4.
[0035] The cycle of figure 3 is performed when the intensive cycle indicated above is selected
as first input and the lower rack or the third rack (always assuming it is present)
is selected as second input. The cycle of figure 4 is performed when the intensive
cycle indicated above is selected as first input and the second rack from the bottom
of the dishwasher is selected as second input.
[0036] Opportunely the selection of said second input causes a lengthening of the intensive
cycle comprised between 10% and 50%.
[0037] The selection of said second input causes furthermore an increase in the maximum
temperature of the washing cycle (preferably this increase is comprised between 3
°C and 7 °C). The cycles of figures 3 and 4 make it possible to obtain a vigorous
treatment for eliminating with maximum efficiency even the incrustations which are
hardest to defeat, such as dirt nestling in pans and certain cutlery, without carrying
out a hand prewash.
[0038] The step of performing the wash comprises a plurality of steps described below.
[0039] A first step (see reference 31) provides for removing the dirt from the dishes and
this first step comprises the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 31a);
- performing a first heating of the washing liquid until a sensor detects a first target
temperature greater than or equal to 45 C, said sensor being positioned in the washing
compartment (see reference 31b); opportunely carrying out the first heating has a
duration greater than or equal to 13 minutes;
- performing a first maintenance of the temperature of the washing liquid in a first
predetermined range containing the first target temperature, said first maintenance
having a duration greater than or equal to 10 minutes (see reference 31c);
- performing a second heating of the washing liquid until the sensor detects a first
target temperature greater than or equal to 55 °C, said sensor being positioned in
the washing compartment (see reference 31d);
- performing a second maintenance of the temperature of the washing liquid in a second
predetermined range containing the second target temperature, said second maintenance
being greater than or equal to 12 minutes (see reference 31e);
- performing a third heating of the washing liquid until a sensor detects a third target
temperature greater than or equal to 70 °C, said sensor being positioned in the washing
compartment (see reference 31f);
- performing a third maintenance of the temperature of the washing liquid in a third
predetermined range containing the third target temperature; said third maintenance
having a duration greater than or equal to 22 minutes (see reference 31g);
- at least partially unloading the washing liquid; said first, second and third heating
and said first, second and third temperature maintenance being at least partially
accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment,
taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment (see reference 31h);
[0040] A second step (see reference 32) provides for performing a first rinse of the dishes
comprising the steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 32a);
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from
the washing compartment (see reference 32b); opportunely the duration of this sub-step
is comprised between 9 and 11 minutes;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 32c).
[0041] A third step (see reference 33) provides for carrying out a second rinse of the dishes
and in turn comprises the steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 33a);
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from
the washing compartment (see reference 33b); opportunely the duration of this sub-step
is comprised between 7 and 9 minutes;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 33c). With reference to the solution of
figure 3, the step of performing a second rinse is followed by a step of performing
a third rinse of the dishes, in turn comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 34a);
- heating the washing liquid until the sensor detects that a predetermined target temperature
less than or equal to 71 °C is reached (see reference 34b); said sub-step is at least
partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing
compartment, taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment;
- possibly (see reference 34c) performing temperature maintenance of the washing liquid
in a predetermined range containing the predetermined target temperature; the maintenance
sub-step is at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes
placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment;
the temperature maintenance sub-step 34c has a duration of less than 1 minute;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 34d).
[0042] With reference to figure 4 the step of removing the dirt from the dishes is preceded
at least by the step of performing a pre-wash (see reference 36) in turn comprising:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 36a);
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from
the washing compartment; said step being at least partially simultaneous with or subsequent
to the step of heating the washing liquid by means of an electrical heating element
(see reference 36b); the step of heating the washing liquid provides for increasing
the temperature of the washing liquid (preferably up to about 45 °C), but also a step
(see reference 36c) of maintaining a predetermined target temperature (during this
maintenance step the heating element is connected/disconnected as commanded by the
temperature sensor);
- unloading said washing liquid from the washing compartment (see reference 36d).
[0043] Still with reference to figure 4, the step of performing the first rinse (see reference
32) provides for heating the washing liquid placed in the compartment until the sensor
detects a predetermined target temperature greater than or equal to 60 °C (see reference
32b).
[0044] Possibly this heating is followed by a maintenance of the temperature of the washing
liquid in a first predetermined range containing the predetermined target temperature
(see reference 32d); opportunely said temperature maintenance has a duration comprised
between 4 and 6 minutes.
[0045] Still with reference to figure 4, the step of performing the second rinse (see reference
33) provides for heating a washing liquid placed in the compartment at least until
a sensor detects a predetermined target temperature comprised between 65 °C and 75
°C (see reference 33d).
[0046] Possibly this heating is followed by a maintenance of the temperature of the washing
liquid in a predetermined range containing the predetermined target temperature (see
reference 33e); opportunely said temperature maintenance has a duration of less than
1 minute; preferably it is about 30 seconds.
[0047] In the above-indicated cycle (exemplified in figure 3), when the first (lower) rack
is selected as second input, the dishes are sprayed for over 75% of the time (preferably
for 100%) by the first sprayer. The second sprayer, however, is not used. When the
second rack is selected as second input, spraying is carried out for most of the time
by the second sprayer, possibly alternating with the third sprayer (which as described
above is located above the second rack). The first sprayer is not used.
[0048] When the third rack is selected as second input, spraying is carried out by performing
an alternation between the second and the third sprayer. The first sprayer is not
used.
[0049] The present invention enables many advantages to be achieved.
[0050] In the first place it makes it possible to concentrate the washing action on a specific
rack, and this makes it possible to obtain an action aimed at the dirt, reducing wastes
of time and energy.
[0051] The invention as conceived is susceptible to numerous modifications and variants,
all falling within the scope of the inventive concept which characterises it. Furthermore
all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements. In practice,
all the materials used, as well as the dimensions, can be any according to requirements.
[0052] Please refer to figure 4.
[0053] A subject of the present invention is a method of removing dirt from dishes placed
on a first rack of a dishwasher. Opportunely the first rack inside a washing compartment
is located above a lower rack of the dishwasher. Dishwashers are in fact known comprising
a plurality of racks: for example, besides the lower rack and the first rack there
could also be an upper rack located above the first rack. Typically the dishwasher
comprises:
- a first sprayer located in the washing compartment below the lower rack;
- a second sprayer located in the washing compartment between the first rack and the
lower rack.
[0054] Possibly the dishwasher can comprise a sprinkler for spraying the washing compartment,
which is located above the first rack (and usually also the upper rack). The method
envisages that the dishwasher should implement a programme of dirt removal comprising
the step of carrying out a wash (see reference 31) of the dishes.
[0055] The step of carrying out said wash in turn comprises the sub-step of:
- loading into the washing compartment a washing liquid (see reference 31a; it is emphasised
that in figure 4 the steps of loading and unloading have been schematised respectively
as dashed lines and as down arrows; do not refer to the temperature values shown during
the above steps);
- performing a first heating of the washing liquid until a sensor detects a first target
temperature, said sensor being positioned in the washing compartment (see reference
31b);
- performing a first temperature maintenance of the washing liquid, during said first
maintenance the temperature detected by the sensor being maintained within a first
predetermined range containing the first target temperature (see reference 31c);
- performing a second heating of the washing liquid until the sensor detects a second
target temperature (see reference 31d);
- performing a second temperature maintenance of the washing liquid, during said second
maintenance the temperature detected by the sensor being maintained within a second
predetermined range containing the second target temperature (see reference 31e);
- performing a third heating of the washing liquid until the sensor detects a third
target temperature (see reference 31f);
- performing a third temperature maintenance of the washing liquid, during said third
maintenance the temperature detected by the sensor being maintained within a third
predetermined range containing the third target temperature (see reference 31g);
- at least partially unloading the washing liquid (see reference 31h); said first, second
and third heating and said first, second and third maintenance being at least partially
accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment,
taking the washing liquid from the bottom of the washing compartment.
[0056] As exemplified in the accompanying drawing during the sub-step of performing the
first heating (see reference 31b), said first target temperature is greater than or
equal to 45 °C; Opportunely performing the first heating has a duration greater than
or equal to 13 minutes.
[0057] The first maintenance (see reference 31c) has a duration greater than or equal to
10 minutes.
[0058] During the sub-step of performing the second heating (see reference 31d) said second
target temperature is greater than or equal to 55 °C. The second heating has a duration
greater than or equal to 5 minutes.
[0059] The second maintenance (see reference 31e) has a duration greater than or equal to
12 minutes.
[0060] During the sub-step of performing the third heating (see reference 31f) said third
target temperature is greater than or equal to 70 °C. Opportunely the third heating
has a duration greater than or equal to 7 minutes.
[0061] The third maintenance (see reference 31g) has a duration greater than or equal to
22 minutes.
[0062] The programme for removing dirt from the dishes comprises the step of performing
a pre-wash. The pre-wash precedes said wash and in turn comprises the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 36a);
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from
the washing compartment (see reference 36b); this sub-step being at least partially
simultaneous with or subsequent to a sub-step of heating the washing liquid by means
of an electrical heating element (opportunely the spraying occurs during the entire
pre-wash); the sub-step of heating 36b the washing liquid provides for increasing
the temperature of the washing liquid (preferably up to about 45 °C), but also a sub-step
(see reference 36c) of maintaining a target temperature (during this maintenance sub-step
the heating element is connected/disconnected as commanded by the temperature sensor);
- unloading said washing liquid from the washing compartment (see reference 36d).
[0063] Performing a pre-wash with a heated washing liquid is in fact very important for
the dishes placed on the first rack. In fact the Applicant has verified that typically
there are dishes placed on the first rack such a breakfast cups with residues of milk
or coffee, or glasses with lipstick residues etc. In such cases in order to be able
to carry out an effective wash it is very important to be able to carry out a hot
pre-wash immediately, a cold pre-wash however proving ineffective and indeed counterproductive.
[0064] With reference to figure 4, the method comprises furthermore the step of performing
a first rinse of the dishes (see reference 32), in turn comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 32a);
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from
the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 32c).
[0065] The method comprises furthermore the step of performing a second heating of the dishes
(see reference 33) comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment (see reference 33a);
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from
the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid (see reference 33c).
[0066] The step of performing the first and/or the second rinse is subsequent to the step
of performing said wash.
[0067] In more detail, the step of performing the first rinse provides for heating the washing
liquid placed in the compartment until the sensor detects a target temperature greater
than or equal to 60 °C (see reference 32b); Possibly this heating is followed by a
maintenance of the temperature of the washing liquid in a first predetermined range
containing the target temperature (see reference 32d); opportunely said temperature
maintenance has a duration comprised between 4 and 6 minutes. The spraying of the
dishes during the first rinse is at least in part simultaneous with the heating and/or
temperature maintenance of the washing liquid.
[0068] The step of performing the second rinse provides for heating the washing liquid placed
in the compartment until a sensor detects a target temperature comprised between 65
°C and 75 °C (see reference 33d). Possibly this heating is followed by a maintenance
of the temperature of the washing liquid in a predetermined range containing the target
temperature (see reference 33e); opportunely said temperature maintenance has a duration
of less than 1 minute, preferably being about 30 seconds. The spraying of the dishes
during the second rinse is at least in part simultaneous with the heating and/or temperature
maintenance of the washing liquid.
[0069] The sub-step of spraying the dishes during said pre-wash and during said wash is
performed for at least 75% of the time by means of the sprayer interposed between
the first rack and the lower rack.
[0070] Preferably the sub-step of spraying the dishes during said washing is performed by
alternating the spraying of the liquid by the first sprayer and by the sprinkler located
above the first rack. In this way the dishes are successfully hit both from below
and from above, thus improving the washing action.
[0071] In order to achieve the programme of dirt removal indicated above, the method comprises
furthermore a step of selecting the parameters of said programme of dirt removal,
said step of selection providing at least for:
- selecting, as a first input, a prestored program from a discrete list of selectable
programs (opportunely the most intensive available);
- selecting as second input a command to concentrate the cleaning action on the dishes
positioned in said first rack.
[0072] During the washing of the dishes, the dishes inside the washing compartment are in
fact placed only on said first rack.
[0073] The dishes to be washed are in fact positioned on a specific rack selected through
the second input. In this way the standard cleaning programme selected through the
first input will be reparametrized to allow an optimal cleaning programme for the
dishes in the selected rack (in the case of the cleaning programme of the present
invention, this means the first rack). The dishwasher will concentrate its resources
on carrying out the cleaning of the dishes placed in the selected rack, neglecting
however the washing in other areas of the washing compartment.
[0074] The discrete list from which the first input is selectable can comprise for example
one or more of the following cycles: fast cycle (in which speed of execution of the
cycle is privileged), intensive cycle (which will have a longer duration than the
fast cycle and which constitutes a vigorous cycle to optimise the cleaning of the
dishes), and normal cycle (a cycle which allows a compromise between the two indicated
above). The intensive cycle is the most vigorous program among those selectable in
said list. In an exemplary, but not limiting, solution the first input can be selectable
using a first dedicated selector (for example a knob or keys).
[0075] Opportunely the selection of said second input causes a lengthening of the intensive
cycle comprised between 10% and 50%.
[0076] The selection of said second input causes furthermore an increase in the maximum
temperature of the washing cycle (preferably this increase is comprised between 3
°C and 7 °C). The cleaning programme for the dishes of figure 4 makes it possible
to obtain a vigorous treatment to eliminate with maximum efficacy even the incrustations
which are hardest to defeat, such as dirt nestling in pans and certain cutlery, without
carrying out a hand prewash.
[0077] The present invention enables many advantages to be achieved. In the first place
it makes it possible to concentrate the washing action on a specific rack, and this
makes it possible to obtain an action aimed at the dirt, reducing time wasting.
[0078] The invention as conceived is susceptible to numerous modifications and variants,
all falling within the scope of the inventive concept which characterises it. Furthermore
all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements. In practice,
all the materials used, as well as the dimensions, can be any according to requirements.
An object of the present invention is to make available to a user the possibility
of performing a specific wash cycle so as to permit a more effective washing action
for dishes placed in predetermined areas of the washing compartment.
1. A method of washing dishes by means of a dishwasher comprising a plurality of racks
placed in a washing compartment and intended to support the dishes during the wash,
said method being
characterised in that the dishwasher implements a procedure comprising the steps of:
a) selecting the wash parameters according to at least:
- a first input concerning the type of cycle to be implemented, said first input being
selectable from a discrete list;
- a second input concerning which is the rack on which the dishes to be washed are
positioned;
b) performing the wash.
2. The method according to claim 1, characterised in that the indication of said second input makes the wash cycle identified by the first
input more intensive, or quicker or more efficient in terms of washing liquid and
energy consumption.
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the step of performing the wash envisages performing a wash wherein the dishes are
only positioned on one of the dishwasher racks.
4. The method according to claim 1 or 2 or 3, characterised in thatsaid first input can
be selected from a predetermined list of wash cycles comprising a fast cycle and an
intensive cycle; the introduction of said second input in the event in which as the
first input said quick cycle is selected shortens the wash cycle; the introduction
of said second input in the event in which as the first cycle said intensive cycle
is chosen increases the maximum temperature reached by the washing liquid, lengthens
the wash cycle and increases, at least at predetermined times of the wash cycle, the
washing liquid dispensing pressure within the compartment.
5. The method according to any one of the previous claims,
characterised in that performing the wash step comprises the steps of:
a) performing a pre-wash comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the washing compartment;
- unloading said washing liquid from the washing compartment;
b) performing the removal of the dirt from the dishes comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- heating the washing liquid until a sensor detects a predetermined target temperature
less than or equal to 51 °C, said sensor being positioned in the washing compartment,
said sub-step being at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the
dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the bottom
of the washing compartment;
- performing temperature maintenance of the washing liquid in a predetermined range
containing the predetermined target temperature, said sub-step being at least partially
accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment,
taking the washing liquid from the bottom of the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid;
c) performing a first rinse of the dishes;
d) performing a second rinse of the dishes comprising the steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- heating the washing liquid until the sensor detects that a predetermined target
temperature less than or equal to 70 °C is reached; said sub-step is at least partially
accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment,
taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid.
6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
characterised in that performing the wash step comprises the steps of:
a) performing the removal of the dirt from the dishes, comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- heating the washing liquid until a sensor detects a predetermined target temperature
comprised between 45 and 50 °C, said sensor being positioned in the washing compartment,
said sub-step being at least partially accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the
dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid from the washing
compartment;
- performing temperature maintenance of the washing liquid in a predetermined range
containing the predetermined target temperature; said maintenance taking place for
a period comprised between 1 and 3 minutes, said sub-step being at least partially
accompanied by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment,
taking the washing liquid from the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid;
d) performing a rinse of the dishes comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- heating the washing liquid until the sensor detects that a predetermined target
temperature comprised between 60 °C and 65 °C is reached; said step affecting a time
interval of less than 13 minutes, said sub-step being at least partially accompanied
by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the
washing liquid from the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid.
7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
characterised in that performing the wash step comprises the steps of:
a) performing the removal of the dirt from the dishes, comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- performing a first heating of the washing liquid until a sensor detects a first
target temperature greater than or equal to 45 °C, said sensor being positioned in
the washing compartment;
- performing a first maintenance of the temperature of the washing liquid in a first
predetermined range containing the first target temperature, said first maintenance
having a duration greater than or equal to 10 minutes;
- performing a second heating of the washing liquid until the sensor detects a second
target temperature greater than or equal to 55 °C.
- performing a second maintenance of the temperature of the washing liquid in a second
predetermined range containing the second target temperature, said second maintenance
being greater than or equal to 12 minutes;
- performing a third heating of the washing liquid until the sensor detects a third
target temperature greater than or equal to 70°C;
- performing a third maintenance of the temperature of the washing liquid in a third
predetermined range containing the third target temperature; said third maintenance
having a duration greater than or equal to 22 minutes;
- at least partially unloading the washing liquid; said first, second and third heating
and said first, second and third maintenance being at least partially accompanied
by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the
washing liquid from the washing compartment;
b) performing a first rinse of the dishes comprising the steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid;
c) performing a second rinse of the dishes comprising the steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid.
8. The method according to claim 7,
characterised in that the step of performing a second rinse is followed by a step of performing a third
rinse of the dishes, in turn comprising the steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the washing compartment;
- heating the washing liquid until the sensor detects that a predetermined target
temperature less than or equal to 71 C has been reached;
- unloading the washing liquid.
9. Method according to claim 7,
characterised in that the step of removing the dirt from the dishes is preceded at least by the step of
performing a pre-wash in turn comprising:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the washing compartment, said step being at least partially simultaneous with
or subsequent to the step of heating the washing liquid through an electrical heating
element;
- unloading said washing liquid from the washing compartment.
10. The method according to claim 7 or 9,
characterised in that:
- the step of performing the first rinse envisages heating the washing liquid placed
in the compartment until the sensor detects a predetermined target temperature greater
than or equal to 60 °C;
- the step of performing the second rinse envisages heating the washing liquid placed
in the compartment until the sensor detects a predetermined target temperature comprised
between 65 °C and 75 °C.
11. Method for removing dirt from dishes placed on a first rack of a dishwasher; said
method envisaging that the dishwasher performs a dirt removal program comprising the
step of performing a wash of the dishes, said wash comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into a washing compartment;
- performing a first heating of the washing liquid until a sensor detects a first
target temperature, said sensor being positioned in the washing compartment;
- performing a first temperature maintenance of the washing liquid, during said first
maintenance the temperature detected by the sensor being maintained within a first
predetermined range containing the first target temperature;
- performing a second heating of the washing liquid until the sensor detects a second
target temperature;
- performing a second temperature maintenance of the washing liquid, during said second
maintenance the temperature detected by the sensor being maintained within a second
predetermined range containing the second target temperature;
- performing a third heating of the washing liquid until the sensor detects a third
target temperature;
- performing a third temperature maintenance of the washing liquid, during said third
maintenance the temperature detected by the sensor being maintained within a third
predetermined range containing the third target temperature;
- at least partially unloading the washing liquid; said first, second and third heating
and said first, second and third maintenance being at least partially accompanied
by the sub-step of spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment taking the
washing liquid from the bottom of the washing compartment; characterised in that the programme for removing the dirt from the dishes comprises the step of performing
a pre-wash that precedes the step of performing said wash; the step of performing
the pre-wash in turn comprises the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the bottom of the washing compartment, this sub-step being at least partially
simultaneous with or subsequent to the heating of the washing liquid through an electrical
heating element;
- unloading said washing liquid from the washing compartment.
12. The method according to claim 11,
characterised in that it comprises the steps of:
a) performing a first rinse of the dishes in turn comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid;
b) performing a second rinse of the dishes comprising the sub-steps of:
- loading a washing liquid into the washing compartment;
- spraying the dishes placed in the washing compartment, taking the washing liquid
from the washing compartment;
- unloading the washing liquid.
13. The method according to claim 12,
characterised in that:
- the step of performing the first rinse envisages heating the washing liquid placed
in the compartment until the sensor detects a target temperature greater than or equal
to 60 C;
- the step of performing the second rinse envisages heating the washing liquid placed
in the compartment until the sensor detects a target temperature comprised between
65 °C and 75 °C.
14. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterised in that during the wash of the dishes, the dishes within the washing compartment are only
placed on said first rack.
15. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 14,
characterised by comprising a selection step of said dirt removal program, said selection envisaging:
- selecting, as a first input, a prestored program available from a discrete list
of selectable programs;
- selecting, as a second input, a command for concentrating the cleaning action of
the dishes placed in said first rack, said second input modifying the parameters of
the program selected with the first input.