"Blocking system of the dishes or object and related dishwasher or object-washer" by GALLI Claudio, Via Giovanni XXIII, 7 - 64015 Nereto - (TE)- ITALY

Inventor: GALLI Claudio

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a system for blocking dishes and/or objects during treatment in dishwashers or objects-washer or in ware-washer with jets having preferably high pressure operating pressure.

BACKGROUND ART

In the washing systems of the dishwashers/object-washers of known type, the physical action of the jets to the dishes or objects can be distinguished in according to two different effects:

- a mechanical effect - exerted on the surface of the dishes in order to remove the dirt and perform the functions of the various treatment cycles;

- a dynamic effect - capable of imparting dynamic actions to the mass of the dishes and/or objects, said dynamic action in contrast to the gravity of the said dishes and/or objects.

For simply writing, in this treatise the set of the various stages of pre-wash, washing, drying, blowing, cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, etc. will be indicated, unless otherwise specified, with the term "treatment" depending on the composition of the sentence, while the individual phases of the treatment will be indicated as cycle .

For simply writing, in this treaty the liquids and the gases or the mixtures of liquids and gases and / or solids spraying through spray nozzles of dishwashers or objects-washers during the treatments will be indicated as fluids.

For simply writing, in this treatise for jets, unless otherwise specified, fluid jets will be considered.

For simply writing, in this treatise with the word dishes will also be indicated, only for exemplifying and no limiting purpose, mechanical parts, medical instruments, containers of any kind, etc.,.

For simply writing, in this treat the objects-washers or the pieces-washers or tools-washers, etc., will also be indicated as dishwashers.

For simply writing, during this treatise with the term basket, will be generally indicated the treatment position in the dishwashers.

The dishwashers of known type comprise a washing chamber, inside which one or more baskets are housed in a removal manner. One or more spraying components are operating inside the said washing chambers. The said spraying components have holes or output nozzles for the treatments fluids. The correct conclusion of the treatment provides a positive result both with regard to the cleaning and the hygiene of the dishes and the integrity of the dishes regarding to possible breakages and/or damages of the said dishes but also with regard to possible breakages and/or damages to parts or components located in the washing-chamber of the said dishwashers. In the dishwashers of known type, the pressure of the jets can reach maximum variables values, said values depending on several factors.

At least one condition that limits the maximum threshold value of the operating pressure of said jets is given by the degree of mechanics resistance of the materials that make up the dishes. At least another condition that establishes the maximum threshold value for the operating pressure of said jets is given by the specific mass or weight of the said dishes.

In the dishwashers on known type, the mechanical and dynamic forces exerted on the dishes through the pressure of the fluid jets are necessarily contained within certain safety limits. Regarding to the mechanical strength of the materials, the dishwashers of the known type include the choice of different washing programs which wash programs include different pressure values, different temperature values, different treatment life values, different detergent dosages, etc. depending on the types of dishes and the type of dirt.

Regarding, on the other hand, the maximum threshold of the dynamic action of jets related to the mass of the dishes, the known type of dishwashers only contain said pressure values of said jets within adequate safety limits.

Said safety limits corresponding to operating pressures of the jets to ensure an adequate stability of the dishes placed inside the basket during the treatment cycles.

In the dishwashers of known type, the pressure of the said jets within said safety limits is the only possible condition for ensuring the static balance of the dishes.

For descriptive simplicity in this discussion from now on for static balance of the dishes it is intended to define the state of quiet status of the dishes in relation to their position within the basket during the treatment. Said static balance of the dishes is intended when the position of each single dishes inside the basket during treatment is not subject to change and / or to move and the said dishes do not suffer damage and / or breakage due to displacements and / or bumps of other dishes caused by the dynamic action of the higher pressure jets or the greater centrifugal force in the case of treatments where rotating baskets are used. In known dishwashers having rotating basket, the use of higher pressure jets increases proportionally the strength of the basket rotation and thus the intensity of the centrifugal force. In the area of professional catering, hotels, restaurants, canteens, etc. most of the dishes are produced with materials having higher mechanical resistances. In such cases during the treatments in the dishwasher, jets with proportionally higher pressures could be advantageously used, for example, for those specific cycles that relate to the delicate and fundamental phase of removal of dirt, especially of remove of dry and encrusted dirt, by neutralizing suitably the said dynamic effects of said higher pressure jets with the use of the blocking system of the dishes according to the present invention. Most dishes have the main function of containing foods: glasses, pots, dishes, pans, etc. Said dishes generally have a three-dimensional shape comprising substantially a cavity whose surface is in direct contact with the food and / or the product to be contained. During their normal use, said dishes are preferably positioned with said upwardly facing cavity. For the purpose of an effective washing treatment, said dishes are preferably placed inside the basket in a preferably upside-down position so as to completely discharge the treatment liquids for the preferred action of the gravity force. In the said cavities there is a large part of the dirt to be removed. It is evident that during the treatment the jets directed to said dirty cavities have a fundamental function in removing the said dirt, especially the dry and encrusted dirt. It is equally evident that if said jets were sprayed at high pressure, they could generate dynamic forces that could change the static balance of the dishes, causing the movement and / or displacement of the dishes, in particular the lighter dishes or the dishes having a lower specific weight. It is thus clear the importance of an appropriate locking system of the dishes according to the present invention, said locking system of dishwashers which are capable of:

- to use high pressure jets, with the advantage of more effective removal of dirt;

- neutralizing the dynamic action of said high pressure jets causing movement and / or displacement and / or impact and / or damage and / or breakage of the dishes inside the basket or damage to certain components present inside the dishwasher's washing chamber during the treatment.

For "high pressure" or "higher pressure jets" during this description they mean those jets having characteristics that may also slightly compromise the static balance of said dishes inside the basket during the treatment. In this description, as well, in analyzing the characteristics of the jets they are considered as a whole of the elements that determine the dynamic effect of these jets in relation to the dishes to be treated: the value of the working pressure, the nozzle flow, the nozzle opening angle, the specific weight of the sprayed liquid, the distance of said jets from the dishes, etc. From now on in the present description these jets will be indicated as high pressure jets or jets with higer pressure. The use of suitable temperatures of the sprayed fluids together with the use of suitable detergents and / or degreasers, and / or brilliant and / or disinfecting agents and the use of said high pressure jets

105 significantly improves the effectiveness of the treatments by decreasing the duration of the individual cycles of the treatment for the benefit of a considerable saving of water, chemicals detergents, energy, time and even manpower: the use of these pressure jets greatly reduces or eliminates the pre-washing steps preceding the placement of the dishes inside the basket before the treatment. In addition, in the particular cases where the current legislation required

110 mandatory certain minimum durability of the treatments, the greater effectiveness of the cycles carried out with the use of the locking system of the dishes of the present invention together with the use of high pressure jets , significantly reduces the duration of the specific cycle to remove dirt, allowing the residual treatment time to be used for other cycles: for example rinsing, disinfestation, sterilization, drying, etc. Further features and advantages of

115 the present invention will become clear from the following description, made with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided purely by way of non-limiting example. It should further be noted that, in the following description, only the elements useful for understanding the invention will be described, assuming that the dishwasher and / or lava-object according to the invention comprises all other elements of known typefor the normal operation of a

120 dishwasher and / or objects-washer of a known type. Furthermore, this description will be limited to the presentation of embodiments for purely explanatory and non-limiting purposes because the present invention lends itself to numerous forms of implementation.

The objects and advantages mentioned above, as well as others that may emerge in the following discussion, will become more apparent from the following descriptions relating to

125 exemplifying and preferred embodiments of said locking system with examples of operation of dishwasher comprising said locking system according to some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the present invention.

Summary of the Invention

As part of the dishwasher treatments, and more specifically in the case of baskets loaded with 130 mixed-type of dishes, to set the maximum working pressure of the jets following the principle of safety and the preservation of the said dishes , is like the setting of the pressure of the jets in function of the lighter dishes, giving up the use of higher pressures jets and therefore more effective treatments. In this regard, the known type of dishwashers only limit said jar pressure values within relatively low safety values, said limits being adjusted precisely to the specific 135 weight of the lighter dishes. The use of the said locking system according to the present invention allows the regulation of the pressure of the jets according to the limits imposed by the mechanical resistance of the materials rather than the limits imposed by the mass of the dishes.

There is a need for both professional and domestic dishwashers users, but also by users of 140 industrial washers used for the treatment of various types of mechanical parts and / or the treatment of medical instruments and / or the treatment of any other kind of object, to be able to employ, advantageously and without risk, greater pressures for one or more treatment cycles than the pressures used in known dishwashers or washers, with significant improvements in performance and performance final results of the treatments.

145 Further advantages of using the dishwasher machines provided with the blocking system according to the present invention are also apparent from the fact that said dishwashers and / or the object- washers are able to use both said normal pressure jet and also able to use wash programs comprising cycles where higher pressure jets are provided and cycles in which normal pressure jets are to be used, or wash programs comprising cycles in which the higher 150 pressure jets are intermittent, adjusted in according to the mechanical strength of the dishwares and / or the type of dirt to be removed.

For non-limiting purposes, the blocking system according to the present invention consists of at least one elastic device (1) having a substantially bulky shape, preferably shaped as cushion or as bag, suitable for occupying the spaces above and / or around the dishes placed in the 155 basket.

Said elastic device comprising at least one elastic and flexible outer membrane having a thickness suitable for the purpose, said elastic device comprising one or more elastic and flexible materials suitable for the purpose.

Said elastic device (1) resting and / or pushing and / or pressed in the direction of the dishes 160 placed inside the basket during the treatment, said elastic device (1) is subjected to one or more pressures which cause one or more consequent deformations of said at least one elastic device, adapting the its shape to the contact areas with said dishes and to any areas of contact with one or more parts of the basket, said contact areas outlined by the specific positioning of said dishes in the basket.

165 Said elastic device (1) pushed and / or pressed through the action of its own weight and / or through the action of at least one rigid device (2). Said at least one rigid device preferably shaped as a plate consisting of material resistant to deformation and / or preferably having a high specific weight, said at least one rigid device positioned preferably in contact with the elastic device by at least a push in the direction of said elastic device through at least its own

170 weight and / or preferably by the push exerted by at least one linear actuator, said at least one linear actuator associated with said at least one rigid device.

Said at least one elastic device forming substantially a negative impression and / or klick around the dishware to be blocked.

Said at least one elastic device blocking said dishes in their initial loading position inside the 175 basket by exercising one or more thrusts in the direction of preferred basket parts, avoiding the movement of said dishes caused by the dynamic action of the high pressure jets during the treatment in the dishwasher and / or object-washer.

Said at least one elastic device (1) comprises at least one cavity capable of being inflated and deflated by introducing and/or discharging at least one fluid. Only for exemplifying purposes

180 and not limiting, said at least one elastic device comprising one or more cavities comprising one or more external openings associated with one or more nozzles capable of spraying one or more fluids during processing in the direction of said dishes. Said cavity in fluid communication with at least one manual and / or automatic injection and / or suction system of said at least one fluid. Only for exemplifying purposes and non-limiting, a significant

185 advantage of the present blocking system according to the present invention is represented by the reduction of the volume of the washing chamber due to the bulkiness of the volume of the said at least one elastic device. Said reduction of the volume of the washing chamber is proportional to bulkiness of said at least one elastic device and is particularly related to the reduction of the empty spaces above and / or around the basket - above and / or around the

190 dishes. Said reduction of said empty spaces reduces the length of the jets by improving the concentration and effectiveness of the treatment. The greater propagation concentration of these jets also greatly reduces the amount of water and / or fluids to be used, reducing treatment costs and improving environmental impact parameters. These advantages can be found both during normal pressure jets and during using high pressure jets. Furthermore, the

195 blocking system of the dishes according to the present invention can be validly used both for the purpose of locking the dishes as previously described and for the purpose of reducing the volume of the washing chamber and then the propagation volume of the jets.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following 200 description, made with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided purely by way of non-limiting example, wherein:

Figure 1 is made up of:

- an exploded perspective view (A), a view (B), (C), (D) partially sectioned of the first preferred embodiment of the present blocking system of the dishes according to the present

205 invention, with parts removed for a greater clarity;

Figure 2 is a partially sectioned perspective view of a dishwasher (200) having a blocking system for the dishes according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity; in particular the elastic membranes (1M) and (lm) are both sectioned; said view associated with step A of said first embodiment, according to the

210 description hereinafter described;

-Figure 3 is a sectional perspective view of said dishwasher (200), having a blocking system according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity; said view associated with step C of said first embodiment, hereinafter best described;

- Figure 4 is a perspective view of the dishwasher (200) of a dishwasher having a blocking 215 device according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity; in particular the membrane (1M) is not sectioned; said view associated with the step D of said first embodiment further better described;

- Figure 5 comprises:

- Scheme (A) referring to step A of the first embodiment, hereinafter described;

220 - scheme (B) referring to step B of the first embodiment, hereinafter described;

- Scheme (C) referring to step C of the first embodiment, hereinafter described;

- scheme (D) referring to step D of the first embodiment, hereinafter described;

- Figure 6 is a scheme of a second preferred embodiment of the present blocking system of the dishes according to the present invention, with parts removed for clarity;

225 - Figure 7 is a detailed scheme of a portion of the blocking system of the dishes depicted in said figure 6 according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity;

PREFERRED BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

In the Figures 1-2-3-4-5 is represented a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, 230 according to an automated embodiment, .

Some of the figures represent the object- washer machine (200) as a whole. Some figures represent some parts of said object- washer (200) in some distinct operating steps, described below.

Figures 2-3-4-5, show an object- washer machine (200), which machine has a bearing box 235 structure (11B) inside which a wash chamber (26B) is defined. Within the said washing chamber (26B) there is provided a fixed basket (3B), intended to hold the load of objects (6B). The said basket (3B) is supported on respective guides (81, 82d).

In particular, in correspondence to said guide (82d)is fixed a weight sensor not shown, said weight sensor interacting with the control system (84) Fig. 3, said sensor reporting the weight

240 of the basket and the weight of dishes to said control system (84) Fig. 3.

The basket and guides are associated with a clamping system not shown, able to bind said basket to said guides and to prevent any kind of movement to said basket caused by the higher pressure of the jets coming from the nozzles in the sprayers (R2) and (R3) mounted in the washing chamber (26B) Fig. 2, said sprayers placed below the basket (3B).

245 However, the present industrial invention is also applicable to object- washer machines provided with rotating baskets or any other type of basket or to object- washer provided with sprayers placed laterally and / or above the basket. Said basket (3B) positioned in a known manner, suitable to be extracted and / or removed by means of a front opening (27B) Fig.2, associated with said washing chamber (26B), opening and closing the door (9B ) Fig.2,

250 associated with said opening (27B). In this embodiment, a door (9B) with a front opening is considered only for exemplifying and non-limiting purposes, as the present industrial invention is applicable to ware-washer machines having any other form of opening.

The ware-washer (200) is connected to the water distribution network through the collector 255 (not visible) and electric distribution through an appropriate grip not illustrated.

The ware-washer comprises a drain pump (89) of the water in the wash chamber (26B), said pump being of a known type, and also having its drain pipe (131) therein.

The ware-washer (200) has the means for loading and unloading the treatment fluids, said loading and unloading means of any known type, such as, for example, the pump (P3), the 260 solenoid valve 103, the filter drain (104), a dirt removal device (not shown), loading and unloading filters.

The machine provides a system of known type to heat treatment liquids, not shown.

The ware-washer includes spraying devices (Rl) (R2) (R3) having nozzles of a known type suitable for spraying also high pressure fluids. Said sprayers (Rl) (R2) (R3) are respectively

265 associated with the linear actuators (Tl) (T2) (T3). Only for exemplifying and non-limiting purposes, said actuators in the present embodiment are of the pneumatic type connected to the compressed air system contained in said lava-object (200). Said compressed air delivery system comprising a compressed air reservoir (102), a pump with respective motor (PI). Said reservoir (102) having pressure gauges, solenoid valves, gate valves, safety valves, filters, etc.

270 of the known type suitable for the purpose, not illustrated. It should also be noted that in the following description only the elements useful for understanding the invention will be described, assuming that the ware-washer (200) and the associated implants thereof according to the present invention include all the elements of known type for the normal operation of a ware-washer and its associated accessories. The dishwasher machine according to this

275 embodiment forms comprises a high pressure pump (P4) capable of sending the treatment fluid to the sprayer (R2). Also, in the following preferred embodiment of the present invention, the object- washer (200) provides a pump (P3) of a known type suitable for moving fluids to normal treatment pressures. The object- washer(200) includes a dispenser (87) containing a detergent type, a dispenser (86) containing a disinfectant and a dispenser (88)

280 containing a degreaser type. Moreover, said lava-object machine (200) comprises a high- pressure blowing blowing pump (P5) of a known type capable of blowing hot air at high pressure.

In Figure 2 with (84) there is shown a machine control system, preferably of the type employing an electronic microprocessor, which comprises or to which memory means are

285 operatively associated. As is known from the prior art, the control system (84) is configured to supervise the operation of the object-washer (200), and therefore oversees the execution of the program or the treatment programs that can be performed by the machine also in relation to the operation of the system locking of the dishes according to the present invention., In the memory means of the control system (84) is preferably contained the data necessary for

290 executing a plurality of possible processing and locking programs of the dishes and the system includes control means in a control panel indicated by (184 ). It is to be noted that in this discussion with "blocking system" is meant a clamping system according to the present invention, which can be used during any kind of treatments, irrespective of dishes and / or objects of any kind and at any pressure of the jets. In this preferred embodiment of the present

295 invention, according to the independent claim 1, the elastic device (1) is represented by a first elastic membrane (1M) having a bag-shaped cavity, said membrane (1M) positioned orthogonal to the vertical axis (a), as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Said membrane (1M) horizontally positioned, the section of which, according to the horizontal plane passing through (the axis of the edge of said membrane 1M), the center of the edge of said membrane

300 (1M) has the shape of a square with rounded vertices, as shown in figure (1-A). Said membrane (1M) containing a volume (VI). The elastic device (1) of the present embodiment according to the present invention includes a second elastic membrane (lm) having a bag- shaped cavity, said membrane (lm) contained in the elastic membrane (1M), said membrane (lm) having the edge coplanar to the edge of membrane (1M). The said membrane (lm)

305 containing a volume (V2).

In the present embodiment of the clamping system according to the present invention, said clamping system comprises a rigid device (2) represented by a plate (2k). Said plate (2k) has a horizontal projection with perimetric shape inscribed on the inner edges of the horizontal section of the basket walls, said basket (3B) correctly positioned within the washing chamber

310 (26B), said basket walls having the cross section (3B) permitting the vertical unobstructed movement of said rigid device (2), which rigid device can translate through the linear actuator (72) Fig. 1 , 5, within the basket volume (3B). Said plate (2k) has in the lower surface a first support (2S), also shown in Figure 1, integral and orthogonal to said plate (2k), said support (2S) suitable to be coupled to the flanges (71). Said support 2S is adequately inscribed on the

315 perimeter outline of said plate (2k), said support (2S) and flanges (71) suitable to hold hermetically and sealed the edge of said elastic membrane (1M), also shown in Figure 1. The said plate (2k) has a second support (2s) in the same lower surface, Fig. 1-C, positioned orthogonally to said plate (2k), integral with said plate (2k). Said support (2s) suitable to be coupled to the flanges (70), said device has the edges adequately spaced and inscribed on the

320 edges of the first support (2S). Said support (2s) and flanges (70) suitable to hold hermetically and sealed the edge of said elastic membrane (lm).

The said membranes (1M) and (lm) are hermetically fixed in said seats (2S) and (2s) coupled to respective flanges (70) and (71) in the lower surface of said plate (2k).

For purely explanatory and non-limiting purposes, said elastic membranes (1M) and (lm) are

325 constructed of suitably deformable and soft elastic materials, such as latex, silicone rubber, etc. Such materials are used with appropriate thicknesses. Said membranes (1M) and (lm) constituing the elastic device (1) of the present embodiment of the blocking system according to the present invention. The proper functionality of said membranes in the present blocking system of the dishes according to the present invention is susceptible to numerous

330 embodiments, underlining the purely explanatory and non-limiting title of this description.

In the present embodiment of the present invention, in the washing chamber (27B) of the object-washer (200), above and centrally, there is a linear actuator (72) of any known type suitable for the purpose, of which illustrated Figures 1,2,3,4,5. In this preferred embodiment, it is only for illustration and non-limiting purposes, an electromechanical screw actuator. Said

335 actuator (72) having vertical movement along the axis (a). The actuator is fixed to the upper part of the supporting structure (11B) Fig. 2 and 3, of the objects-washer (200) through the support plate (73) Fig. 1. This actuator (72) is positioned axially in a vertical direction of the center of the washing chamber (26B), according to the axis (a), said actuator having a vertical axis orthogonal to the base of the basket (3B), said basket correctly positioned in the

340 respective guides and properly secured through the fastening device (81) Fig. 1-C, said vertical axis (a) of the actuator (72) passing through the center of the base of the basket (3B). Said actuator (72) capable of performing vertical movement from top to bottom and from bottom to top appropriately suitable for the purpose according to the present invention, said movement best described below. At the lower end of said actuator, orthogonally respect to the

345 vertical axis (al) is mounted said rigid device (2) represented by said plate (2k).

The said rigid device (2) represented in this embodiment of the plate (2k) has a central cavity at which the central cavity is joined together by the actuator piston (72). On the surface of said plate (2k) there are through holes shown in Figure 1-A. Some of the holes communicating with the volume (VI) associated with the membrane (1M), and other holes

350 communicating with the volume (V2) associated with the membrane (lm). In the present embodiment of the present invention, which is also illustrated only for exemplifying and not limiting, as in Figures 5-A, 5-B, 5-C, 5-D, the membrane (1M) is connected to a circuit water. According to this embodiment, the membrane (lm) is associated with a compressed air circuit. At the top of said plate (2k) in the area corresponding to the 355 volume (VI) associated with the membrane (1M), said holes are associated with:

- a solenoid valve (93), in interaction with the control system (84);

- an exhaust pump (94), in interaction with the control system (84);

- an electronic pressure sensor (91), in interaction with the control system (84);

- a safety valve (92), in interaction with the control system (84);

360 The solenoid valve (93), normally closed, is connected to fluid with the pump (P2) and the volume (VI) pertaining to the membrane (1M). In the present embodiment, said pump (P2) drives the water contained in the tank (101) within the volume (VI) pertaining to the membrane (1M). For information purposes it is useful to specify that other types of fluids may be injected into said volume (VI) according to the different needs and different characteristics

365 of the treatments and objects to be treated and blocked.

The discharge pump (94) connected to the volume (VI) through the probe (99) Fig. 1-A and Fig. 1-C, said probe provided at the lower end of a non-return valve, said pump (94) in fluid communication with the reservoir (101) through the solenoid valve (130), also shown in Figure 3. The pump having the function of aspirating the water contained within the

370 membrane (1M) and pushing it towards the reservoir (101).

In the rigid device (2) represented in the present embodiment of the plate (2k), the said through holes in said plate (2k) pertaining to the volume (V2) of the elastic membrane (lm) are associated with:

- a solenoid valve (95), in interaction with the control system (84);

375 - an electronic pressure sensor (90), in interaction with the control system (84).

The said solenoid valve communicates with the reservoir (102). According to the present embodiment only for exemplifying and not limiting purpose, said reservoir containing compressed air. The solenoid valve (95) is connected to the volume (V2). Said solenoid valve having the double function of opening and closing the inlet of compressed air into the

380 membrane (lm) and opening and closing the output of said compressed air from said membrane (lm).

According to the present embodiment of the present invention in the lower part inside the washing chamber (26B), three sprayers (Rl) (R2) (R3) of the preferably linear type are mounted under the basket (3B), each of which consisting of a plurality of nozzles having 385 different jet direction towards the dishes, said sprayers having a length to be sprayed throughout the width of the basket.

From the left side, said sprayers are horizontally fixed on three levels and associated with three respective horizontal pneumatic actuators (Tl) (T2) (T3), which actuators having horizontal displacement along the horizontal axis x also shown in Figure 1. From right side, 390 said sprayers (Rl) (R2) (R3) run on three respective support guides (Gl) (G2) (G3). These pneumatic linear actuators (Tl) (T2) (T3) are suitably spaced apart.

The lava objects (200) of the present embodiment according to the present invention can be used to select wash programs via the user interface control means or control panel (184) having means for selecting a program of available ones and start execution through the

395 control system (84).

One or more treatment programs include the use of the said blocking system. One or more processing programs performed by the object- washer (200) comprise several operating cycles that are performed using water, for example one or more washing cycles and one or more rinsing cycles. At least some of these cycles carried out with water may in turn include a

400 loading step, at least one heating step, at least one step of treating and a discharge step. It should be noted, however, that cycles are also possible in which water that is already present in the wash chamber tank (26B) is reused or in which the water is not heated. One or more treatment programs include one or more drying cycles with hot and / or cold air high pressure blow molding.

405 With respect to the innovative features of the lava objects of the present invention, it is necessary to specify that the objects-washer can use treatments with high pressure jets and jets with normal pressure, meaning for ordinary jets whose operating pressure does not require use of the blocking system of the dishes and / or objects to be washed according to the present invention.

410 A wash program according to the use of the clamping system according to the present invention is described below.

Phase (A) of Figures 1-A, 1-B, 2, 5-A.

After the correct positioning of the dirty dishes (6B) inside the basket (3B), the said basket of said dirty dishes is placed inside the washing chamber (26B) on the respective support 415 devices: taking into account the possible values rather high pressure treatment jets, the positioning of the basket containing the objects (6B) to be treated is set in such a way as to meet all the necessary safety conditions, in order to adequately lock the basket on said support.

The correct positioning of the basket (6B) on the supporting devices makes possible the 420 correct and complete actuation of the clamping device (81), which clamping device (81), in the case of incorrect positioning of the basket, is not operable. The complete and correct actuation of said clamping device (81) confirms that the basket positioning has been carried out in a conforming manner.

The basket alignment with the actuator (72) and the dish clamping system is in compliance

425 with the activation of the treatment program. In the guide (82d) there is a weight sensor not shown, capable of communicating to the control system (84) the weight data for the load of objects, allowing a correct adjustment of the operating pressures of the fluid jets of the sprayers and a suitable operating pressure of the elastic membranes (lm) and (1M), the following procedure, described in detail in this discussion. The correct positioning of the

430 basket (3B) and the correct closure of the door (9B) is signaled by the appropriate sensor, not shown, to the control unit (84), which control unit (84) opens the connection for program management, selected and initiated via the control device (184). The selection of a washing program through the control means (184) of the user interface or control panel equipped with means for selecting a program from among those available allows the starting of the treatment

435 program and the execution of the various stages of the cycle of washing according to which is the application and execution of the blocking system, according to the present invention and according to the parameters operated by the operating system, according to the variable data provided by the sensors present in the objects-washer (200); various temperature, pressure, weight sensors, etc. are in signal communication with the control system (84).

440 Example of starting and running a high pressure treatment type.

In the first step (A) of the treatment, said step depicted in the diagram of Figure 5-A, the membrane (lm) is associated with a resting phase. For resting phase in this discussion, a membrane configuration (lm) is defined in which the internal pressure in the relevant volume (VI) is substantially equal to atmospheric pressure. The said membrane (lm) is connected to a

445 compressed air circuit through the solenoid valve (95), said solenoid valve being connected to the compressed air reservoir (102). During this phase (A), said membrane (lm) containing air at atmospheric pressure. The membrane (1M) is also at rest, said membrane (1M) being in water communication through the solenoid valve (93) and the pump (P2) with the water tank (101). Said water circuit is also provided with components such as gate valve, safety valves,

450 filters, etc. not shown. It should also be noted that, in the following description, only the elements useful for understanding the invention will be described, assuming that the dishwasher or object- washer and its associated installation according to the present invention include all elements known for the normal operation of a dishwasher or object-washer and that accessory installations such as the compressed air system associated with it are also

455 equipped with all the necessary elements for the correct operation of said compressed air system. Accordingly that the basket positioning stage (3B) and the closure of the door (9B) of the object- washer (200) comply with the safety parameters in accordance with the use of washing and / or treatment programs using the high pressure, the control system (84) orders the opening of the solenoid valve (95) and allows the passage of compressed air into the

460 volume (V2) contained in the membrane (lm), shown in the diagram of Figure 5-A . The compressed air provided within the tank (102), said compressed air supply operated by the control unit (84) through pressure sensors, solenoid valves, pressure gauges, filters, etc. associated with the compressed air circuit. Said availability of compressed air, preferably independently of the start of the various types of washes, since said compressed air is always

465 provided within the reservoir (102) at pressures also provided for said compressed air also used in the present embodiment for the handling of pneumatic actuators (Tl), (T2), (T3) as described below. According to this washing program, simultaneously with the proper closing of the door (9), the control unit (84) controls the opening of the solenoid valve (103) shown in Figure 2, said solenoid valve communicating with the water tank in the wash chamber (26B)

470 and the pump (P3), said water heated to a temperature of 65 degrees. The said control unit simultaneously commands the start of the pump (P3) capable of pushing said water to the sprayer (Rl) associated with said pump (P3) at a normal operating pressure.

At the same time, the control unit (84) commands the start of the pneumatic actuator (Tl) associated with said sprayer (Rl), said sprayer suitable for spraying the water contained in

475 said tank in the wash chamber(26B) pushed by the pump (P3). Such washing cycle is carried out at normal pressure of the jets, said pressure values such as not to render necessary the use of the blocking system of the dishes, since the operating pressure of the jets is contained within the safety parameters so as not to alter the said static equilibrium of the objects (6B). This wash cycle includes a number of complete actuator (Tl) displacements together with the

480 sprayer (Rl), which sprayer sprays said mixed hot water with detergent in the direction of the dishes, exerting a first soaking treatment of dirt present in the said dishes (6B).

During said first wash cycle, the blocking device according to the present invention is in a rest phase, i.e. within the associated volume of said membrane (1M), the pressure value is equivalent to atmospheric pressure; within the volume (V2) associated with the membrane

485 (lm) the pressure has an equivalent value to the atmospheric pressure. This washing program, chosen through the control device (84), provides high pressure treatment cycles. To this end, the control unit commands the start of a pre-alarm operating step of the clamping device according to the present invention.

Phase B; of Figure 5-B.

490 During this phase (B), shown in the diagram of FIG. 24B, the control unit (84) orders the opening of the solenoid valve (95) in compressed air communication with the volume (V2) associated with the membrane (lm) and the compressed air tank (102), allowing compressed air to enter the volume (V2) contained in the membrane (lm). The membrane (lm) increases its volume by reaching the preset pressure value, measured by the electronic pressure sensor

495 (90). Said electronic pressure sensor (90) upon reaching the pressure value set in the treatment program, according to the treatment characteristics, orders the closure of the solenoid valve (93), the introduction of compressed air into the volume (V2) it stops.

Phase C; as shown in Figures 1-C, 3, and 5-C.

In this phase C of this embodiment of the blocking system of the dishes, illustrated in the 500 diagram of Figure 5-C, the control unit (84) commands the start of the electromechanical actuator (72). The said actuator (72) moves vertically along the axis (a) in the direction of the dishes, in conjunction with the elastic device (1) and the rigid device (2), and to the components previously described to it solidarity, clearly illustrated in the figure 1-D. The said components are properly connected through their respective hoses (96), (97) and (98). In

505 particular, the solenoid valve (93) is associated with the hose (90), the solenoid valve (95) is connected to the hose (96), the pump (94) is associated with the hose (98). The vertical downward movement of the linear actuator (72) approaches the membrane (lm) in the direction of the underlying objects (6B) positioned inside the basket (3B). The contact of the membrane (lm) with the first support sector of the first object, according to said downward

510 movement, in order of height, causes compression within the volume (V2) associated with said membrane (lm). This compression is measured by the electronic pressure sensor (90). Said electronic sensor communicates to the control unit (84) the reach of the preset value of the pressure within said volume (V2), the control unit, interacting with said pressure sensor (90), orders the actuator's stop (72). During this pre-alarm stage of the object blocking system,

515 according to the present invention, the sprayer (Rl) continues, in conjunction with the normal pressure washing cycle, by means of the linear actuator (Tl) and the guide (Gl), completing the soak cycle associated with it, facilitating the subsequent execution of high pressure treatment cycles, as described below.

Phase D; as shown in Figures 1-D, 4 and 5-D.

520 The control unit (84) controls the opening of the solenoid valve (93) and the start of the pump (P2) into water communication with the reservoir (101), permitting the passage of said water to the volume (VI) in the membrane (1M).

The said elastic membrane (1M) through the action of the weight of the water injected by the pump (P2) begins to deform by increasing its volume (VI) and pressing on the underlying 525 objects (6B), exercising a first advantageous blocking action of the objects (6B).

The said membrane (1M) adapting its shape to that of the support sectors composed of the objects (6B), exerting a pressure according to gravity, increasing the push down and blocking the objects (6B) to the basket (3B) .

The increase of the quantity of water injected by the pump (P3) increases the deformation of 530 said membrane (1M), which membrane (1M) occupying the interspaces between one object and the other through the formation of corresponding elastic sacs, said bags which can increase the blocking action against said objects by contrasting with the dynamic action generated by the high pressure of the jets coming from the sprayers positioned below the basket (3B).

535 This countervailing function can also be used positively in treatment systems in which rotary baskets or any other washing or treatment system are used where forces are generated and everywhere directed, which forces cause the movement of the objects causing damage and / or breakage of said objects and / or parts and / or components of the object- washer, said components exposed to said risk of breakage or damage;

540 taking into account the data provided by the weight sensor relative to the weight of the basket and the dishes when loading said basket (3B) inside the washing chamber (26B) during the described step A;

- taking into account of the data relating to the type of treatment activated, said treatment according to the type of objects, in according to the mechanical resistance of the materials of

545 said objects, in according to the type of dirt;

- taking into account the physical properties of the membrane (1M) in the degree of deformability of the material of said membrane (1M),

the control unit (84) commands the start of the program for the complete activation of the blocking system according to the present invention, setting the parameters of the optimum 550 pressure values that the water must reach within the membrane (1M) for an appropriate object blocking function according to the present invention.

The control of this operating phase is also supported by the vent valve (92) placed in the plate (2k) having the function of releasing the air present within the membrane (1M) in case the pressure value to reach of the water within said membrane required such a need.

555 The value of the injected water weight inside the membrane (1M) is controlled by the weight sensor positioned below the drum on the guide (82d), the value of the said weight proportional to the pressure value of the jets, said value set by the control unit (84) depending on the weight of the objects and the type of treatment being activated.

The pressure inside the membrane (1M) is measured and controlled by the pressure sensor

560 (91), said sensor able to measure the pressure inside said membrane (1M), said sensor ensuring pressure control and measurement of the water within the previuos safety limits, with respect to the type of membrane, with respect to the position of the rigid device (2k) relative to the previous membrane contact stage C (lm) with the objects placed inside the basket (3B ), in relation to the volumes that the membrane (1M), through the deformation due

565 to the introduction of water, tends to occupy the empty volume left free, said volume interposed between the rigid device (2k) and the objects (3B). Said free volume having variable dimensions for each load of objects carried inside the basket (3B), said loads referring to each treatment, said variable volumes referring to cases where said loads are represented by mixed objects. This concept to emphasize the particular flexibility of use and

570 adaptability of the present blocking system of the object/dishes according to the present invention. This phase is particularly representative of the concept described with regard to the reduction of the washing chamber and the concentration of the propagation of the fluids jets during certain treatment cycles. The said weight sensor and said pressure sensor (91) communicate to the control unit (84) when the set values have been reached, said control unit

575 (84) orders the stop of the pump (P2) and the closing of the solenoid valve 93). The diagram of Figure 5-D graphically illustrates the conformation of the blocking system during said step D. In this scheme, the membrane (1M) and the membrane (lm) are illustrated in the present operating phase. In this scheme, the membrane (1M) is deformed and appropriately resting on the dishes (6B), and also the lower elastic membrane bags (1M) are clearly represented, which

580 bags extend downwards in the direction of the basket support plane. Objects (6B) are properly locked. Depending on the needs of the treatment, the thrust exerted by the elastic device (1) and in particular by the water-filled membrane (2M) can be increased or decreased even through programmed and controlled joint motions of the linear actuator (72). It should be noted that between the surface of the adequately deformed membrane (1M) and the sprayers

585 (Rl), (R2), (R3), not shown in Scheme 5-D, a secondly concentrated washing chamber, in which the spraying (R2) (R3) performs the treatment function in a particularly effective manner, furthermore, it results apparent the lower fluid consumption required to perform the various treatment cycles, because the volume of the secondary washing chamber is very smaller than the volume of the washing chamber (26B). Only for exemplifying and non

590 limiting purposes, it should also be noted that the membrane (1M), in the following embodiment, has a smooth surface. Said surface in other embodiments may have a surface having uniformly distributed pads which have the function of creating an irregular support surface between said membrane (1M) and the support surface of the dishes, creating an interspace that acts positively and effectively the flow of treatment fluids. Said irregular

595 surface effectively depicted in the second following embodiment. The control unit (84) orders the opening of the solenoid associated with the sprayer (R2), the start of the high pressure pump (P4), the opening of the solenoid associated with the actuator (T2), which actuator (T2 ) associated with the sprayer (R2). The said sprayer begins a washing cycle that runs along the guides (G2) at a rate corresponding to the type of program in relation to the type of

600 object/dishes and the type of dirt, said sprayer by spraying high pressure water. Objects are positively blocked by the blocking system made up of the rigid device (2) consisting of the plate (2k) and the elastic device (1) represented by the membranes (1M) and (lm). At the same time, the sprayer (Rl) continues the washing cycle by spraying the detergent from the dispenser (87) together with the sprayer's high pressure washing action (R2). The overflow

605 valve inside the wash chamber (26B), which is not shown, ensures proper water level management within the said washing chamber tank (26B). During this high pressure cycle, dirt that is particularly dry and encrusted or particularly greased is efficiently treated and removed. Upon termination of said high pressure washing cycle, the control unit (84) commands the stop of the high pressure pump (P4), said control unit (84) orders the closure of

610 the solenoid valve associated with the actuator (T2). The control unit (84) controls the opening of the solenoid valve (93) and the discharge pump (94) connected to the membran (1M) through the probe (99), said pump (94) for aspirating the water contained in said membrane (1M) and push it towards the water tank (101).

Upon reaching the pre-set values for the drainage of the water contained within the volume

615 (VI) pertaining to the membrane (1M), the control unit orders the shutdown of the discharge pump (94) and the closure of the associated solenoid valve (130) to the membrane (1M). In the present stage, the membrane (1M) according to the elastic properties of the material or materials with which the elastic membrane (1M) is made up, said membrane (1M) resumes the initial form relating to the shape according to the phase of rest period described in phase A

620 previously represented by the pressure inside the relevant volume (VI) equivalent to atmospheric pressure. The control unit orders the actuator (72) to be started which moves the actuator vertically upward, returning to the initial position according to the step A described above. The membrane (lm) remains in pre-alarm mode. The control unit (84) controls the closure of the solenoid valve 103 associated with the washing chamber tank (26B) and opens

625 the solenoid valve associated with water from the water supply network to perform the rinsing step. The sprayer (Rl) performs normal pressure rinse cycles with disinfectant (86). Upon the normal pressure rinse step is completed, the control unit (84) orders the stop of the actuator (Tl) to close the solenoid valve associated with the sprayer (Rl) and commences the start of the drying phase through the pump start blower (P5). Said pump can blast hot or cold air at

630 high pressure or hot or cold air at normal pressure. In the case of a high pressure air drying program, the control unit orders the positioning start of the blocking system according to the present invention, as described above with respect to step C of the high pressure treatment cycle reported using the sprayer (R2).

In the case of running the drying phase in the normal pressure mode, the control unit (84) 635 simultaneously commands the interruption of the membrane (lm) pre-alarm state at the start of said drying step by commanding the opening of the drain of the membrane 'solenoid valve (95) by triggering the air outlet contained in the membrane (lm) until the volume pressure (V2), corresponding to said membrane (lm), is equivalent to that value of the pressure to the substantially atmospheric pressure.

640 Figures 6 and 7 show a second preferred embodiment of the present blocking system according to the present invention. This form of implementation is only for exemplifying and not limitative purpose. Said preferred embodiment according to claim 1 and the secondary claims 2,3,4,5,6,7,8.

This second embodiment forms represent a dishwasher (210) having the same configuration 645 as the objects-washer (200), said objects-washer referring to the preceding first embodiment of the present locking system of the dishes according to the present invention.

The said dishwasher (210) has in particular a blocking system consisting of a rigid device (2k) which in its structural form has the same conformation according to the previous embodiment of the object-washer (200) described above.

650 The dishwasher (210) has an elastic device composed of a membrane (lm) as described in the previous embodiment described above. Said dishwasher (210) has a second elastic membrane (IMM) having dimensions and encumbrances equivalent to the membrane size (1M) according to the first embodiment described above. In particular, said membrane (IMM) has an outer surface comprising a plurality of preferably elastic protrusions and/or elastic pads 655 (lb) designed to create a plurality of contact's surfaces with the surfaces of the dishes placed in the basket (3B) said elastic pads which facilitate the outflow and propagation of the treatment fluids essentially during the steps in wich the blocking system is activated, according to the present invention.

Said basket (3B) according to the first embodiment described above. The said membrane

660 (IMM) also has a plurality of openings associated with a plurality of nozzles (U10) positioned adequately between said elastic pads (lb), said nozzles (U10) for spraying the treatment fluids in the direction of the dishes 6B) through the jets (G5) suitably positioned in the spaces between said elastic pads (lb). It is important to specify that said elastic pads having the main function of spacing the surface of the elastic membrane (IMM) from the surface of the dishes

665 to be treated. The said elasticity of the pads depending on the elastic properties of the material associated with said pads (lb) being said pads which can be joined to the same membrane material (IMM) or associable, said pads (lb) to different materials, said materials having greater or less elasticity depending on the characteristics of the treatment, the type of dishes, the types of fluids used. The membrane (IMM) can be connected with the treatment fluids

670 through one or more valves, said valves of any known type suitable for the purpose. The said membrane (IMM) can spray the treatment fluids through the nozzles (U10) with the jets (G5), creating, in conjunction with the jets from the sprayers (Rl), (R2), (R3), some particularly effective and concentrated treatment's fluxes within the reduced volume of the secondary wash chamber (26S) Fig. 7, said secondary chamber partially delimited by the membrane

675 surface (IMM). It is important to specify that the fluid spraying action of the membrane (IMM) of the treatment's fluids is also positively achieved even in the absence of contact between the outer surface of said membrane (IMM) / pads (lb) and the surface of the dishes (3B ), said membrane (IMM) may also have the sole function of spraying the treatment fluids at adjustable distances from the dishes, said conformation being suitably controllable also

680 through the actuator (72) and through appropriate fluid control injected within the volume (VI) pertaining to said membrane (IMM). It is also important to specify that the fluid spraying pressure of the membrane (IMM) can also be adjusted by means of elastic action of the membrane (lm) in accordance with adequate immissions and / or fluid emissions within the relevant volume (V2) of said membrane (lm), through the increase and / or decrease of

685 the pressure value within said membrane (lm).

The blocking action of the dishes according to this preferred embodiment is carried out according to the same steps as described in the preceding embodiment. In the present embodiment, the blocking action of the dishes is basically performed by the contact of the elastic pads (lb) uniformly distributed on the outer membrane surface (IMM) in conjunction

690 with the treatment action of the treatment fluids through the nozzles (U10 ) in the direction of the dishes (3B) positioned inside the basket (6B).

In the present description of this preferred embodiment, it is not shown to perform a treatment in accordance with this embodiment, since said representation, in general, conforms to the principles of implementation of the previous first embodiment. Moreover, the present 695 blocking system of the dishes is suitable for innumerable types of applications according to the claims of the present invention. It should also be noted that the embodiments described in this discussion are purely for exemplifying and non-limiting purpose.