ROUTING COMPONENT FOR A DISHWASHER APPLIANCE

Abstract

A dishwasher appliance includes a frame member defining a first attachment aperture and a second attachment aperture, a wash tub positioned adjacent the frame member and defining a wash chamber for receipt of a load of articles, and a routing component mounted to the frame member. The routing component includes a mounting structure for engaging the frame member through the first attachment aperture and the second attachment aperture, a hose retainer for retaining a drain hose of the dishwasher appliance, and a wiring harness retainer for retaining a wiring harness of the dishwasher appliance.

Claims

1. A dishwasher appliance defining a vertical direction, a lateral direction, and a transverse direction, the dishwasher appliance comprising: a frame member defining a first attachment aperture and a second attachment aperture; a wash tub positioned adjacent the frame member and defining a wash chamber for receipt of a load of articles; and a routing component mounted to the frame member, the routing component comprising: a mounting structure for engaging the frame member through the first attachment aperture and the second attachment aperture; a hose retainer for retaining a drain hose of the dishwasher appliance; and a wiring harness retainer for retaining a wiring harness of the dishwasher appliance.

2. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1, wherein the mounting structure comprises: a flat mounting face for engaging a front side of the frame member; a pivot hook extending from a first side of the flat mounting face and defining a hook for engaging the first attachment aperture; and a resilient clip extending from a second side of the flat mounting face, the resilient clip defining a locking lip for engaging the second attachment aperture, wherein the routing component is installed on the frame member by passing the hook of the pivot hook through the first attachment aperture and pivoting the routing component such that the flat mounting face seats against the front side of the frame member and the locking lip snaps into the second attachment aperture.

3. The dishwasher appliance of claim 2, wherein the routing component further comprises: a locking flange extending from flat mounting face between the pivot hook and resilient clip for engaging a side of the frame member.

4. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1, wherein the routing component is restrained in six degrees of freedom when the mounting structure engages the frame member.

5. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1, wherein the routing component is injection molded as a single, integral piece.

6. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1, wherein the hose retainer is an arcuate member positioned at a distal end of the routing component.

7. The dishwasher appliance of claim 6, wherein the routing component comprises retaining protrusions positioned at both open ends the arcuate member.

8. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1, wherein the wiring harness retainer is positioned between the mounting structure and the hose retainer.

9. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1, wherein the wiring harness retainer comprises: a connecting structure that extends between the mounting structure and the hose retainer; and a retention arm that extends from the connecting structure to define an opening to a wiring harness recess.

10. The dishwasher appliance of claim 9, wherein a distal end of the retention arm defines a locking flange to prevent removal of the wiring harness from the wiring harness recess.

11. The dishwasher appliance of claim 9, wherein the retention arm is flexible to permit insertion of the wiring harness into the wiring harness recess.

12. The dishwasher appliance of claim 9, wherein the frame member is mounted to the wash tub and the connecting structure defines an auxiliary recess between the connecting structure and the wash tub opposite the wiring harness recess relative to the connecting structure.

13. The dishwasher appliance of claim 9, wherein the retention arm defines a cutout aperture for receiving a fir tree connector clip.

14. A routing component for an appliance, the appliance comprising a frame member defining a first attachment aperture and a second attachment aperture, the routing component comprising: a mounting structure for engaging the frame member through the first attachment aperture and the second attachment aperture; a hose retainer for retaining a hose of the appliance; and a wiring harness retainer for retaining a wiring harness of the appliance.

15. The routing component of claim 14, wherein the mounting structure comprises: a flat mounting face for engaging a front side of the frame member; a pivot hook extending from a first side of the flat mounting face and defining a hook for engaging the first attachment aperture; and a resilient clip extending from a second side of the flat mounting face, the resilient clip defining a locking lip for engaging the second attachment aperture, wherein the routing component is installed on the frame member by passing the hook of the pivot hook through the first attachment aperture and pivoting the routing component such that the flat mounting face seats against the front side of the frame member and the locking lip snaps into the second attachment aperture.

16. The routing component of claim 15, wherein the routing component further comprises: a locking flange extending from flat mounting face between the pivot hook and resilient clip for engaging a side of the frame member.

17. The routing component of claim 14, wherein the routing component is restrained in six degrees of freedom when the mounting structure engages the frame member.

18. The routing component of claim 14, wherein the routing component is injection molded as a single, integral piece.

19. The routing component of claim 14, wherein the hose retainer is an arcuate member positioned at a distal end of the routing component, and wherein the routing component comprises retaining protrusions positioned at both open ends the arcuate member.

20. The routing component of claim 14, wherein the wiring harness retainer comprises: a connecting structure that extends between the mounting structure and the hose retainer; and a retention arm that extends from the connecting structure to define an opening to a wiring harness recess.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0010] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a dishwasher appliance, including a dishwasher door according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the example dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the example dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1 with the cabinet removed to reveal a drain hose and routing component according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0013] FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of the example routing component of FIG. 3 positioned in the dishwasher appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0014] FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of the example routing component of FIG. 3 positioned in the dishwasher appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0015] FIG. 6 provides a perspective view of the example routing component of FIG. 3 according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0016] FIG. 7 provides a side view of the example routing component of FIG. 3 according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0017] FIG. 8 provides a perspective view of the example routing component of FIG. 3 at the beginning of an installation process according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0018] FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of the example routing component of FIG. 3 after the installation process according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0019] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0021] As used herein, the terms first, second, and third may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. In addition, the term or is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., A or B is intended to mean A or B or both). Furthermore, as used herein, terms of approximation, such as approximately, substantially, or about, refer to being within a ten percent margin of error.

[0022] FIGS. 1 and 2 depict an exemplary domestic dishwashing appliance or dishwasher 100 that may be configured in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For the particular embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the dishwasher 100 includes a cabinet 102 having a tub 104 therein that defines a wash chamber 106. As shown, tub 104 extends between a top 107 and a bottom 108 along a vertical direction V, between a pair of side walls 110 along a lateral direction L, and between a front side 111 and a rear side 112 along a transverse direction T. Each of the vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T are mutually orthogonal to one another.

[0023] The tub 104 includes a front opening 114 and a door 116 hinged at its bottom for movement between a normally closed vertical position (shown in FIG. 2), wherein the wash chamber 106 is sealed shut for washing operation, and a horizontal open position for loading and unloading of articles from the dishwasher 100. According to exemplary embodiments, dishwasher 100 further includes a door closure mechanism or assembly 118 that is used to lock and unlock door 116 for accessing and sealing wash chamber 106.

[0024] As illustrated in FIG. 2, tub side walls 110 may accommodate a plurality of rack assemblies. More specifically, guide rails 120 may be mounted to side walls 110 for supporting a lower rack assembly 122, a middle rack assembly 124, and an upper rack assembly 126. As illustrated, upper rack assembly 126 is positioned at a top portion of wash chamber 106 above middle rack assembly 124, which is positioned above lower rack assembly 122 along the vertical direction V. Each rack assembly 122, 124, 126 is adapted for movement between an extended loading position (not shown) in which the rack is substantially positioned outside the wash chamber 106, and a retracted position (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) in which the rack is located inside the wash chamber 106. This is facilitated, for example, by rollers 128 mounted onto rack assemblies 122, 124, 126, respectively. Although guide rails 120 and rollers 128 are illustrated herein as facilitating movement of the respective rack assemblies 122, 124, 126, it should be appreciated that any suitable sliding mechanism or member may be used according to alternative embodiments.

[0025] Some or all of the rack assemblies 122, 124, 126 are fabricated into lattice structures including a plurality of wires or elongated members 130 (for clarity of illustration, not all elongated members making up rack assemblies 122, 124, 126 are shown in FIG. 2). In this regard, rack assemblies 122, 124, 126 are generally configured for supporting articles within wash chamber 106 while allowing a flow of wash fluid to reach and impinge on those articles (e.g., during a cleaning or rinsing cycle). According to another exemplary embodiment, a silverware basket (not shown) may be removably attached to a rack assembly (e.g., lower rack assembly 122) for placement of silverware, utensils, and the like, that are otherwise too small to be accommodated by rack 122.

[0026] Dishwasher 100 further includes a plurality of spray assemblies for urging a flow of water or wash fluid onto the articles placed within wash chamber 106. More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 2, dishwasher 100 includes a lower spray arm assembly 134 disposed in a lower region 136 of wash chamber 106 and above a sump 138 so as to rotate in relatively close proximity to lower rack assembly 122. Similarly, a mid-level spray arm assembly 140 is located in an upper region of wash chamber 106 and may be located below and in close proximity to middle rack assembly 124. In this regard, mid-level spray arm assembly 140 may generally be configured for urging a flow of wash fluid up through middle rack assembly 124 and upper rack assembly 126. Additionally, an upper spray assembly 142 may be located above upper rack assembly 126 along the vertical direction V. In this manner, upper spray assembly 142 may be configured for urging or cascading a flow of wash fluid downward over rack assemblies 122, 124, and 126. As further illustrated in FIG. 2, upper rack assembly 126 may further define an integral spray manifold 144, which is generally configured for urging a flow of wash fluid substantially upward along the vertical direction V through upper rack assembly 126.

[0027] The various spray assemblies and manifolds described herein may be part of a fluid distribution system or fluid circulation assembly 150 for circulating water and wash fluid in the tub 104. More specifically, fluid circulation assembly 150 includes a pump 152 for circulating water or wash fluid (e.g., detergent, water, or rinse aid) in the tub 104. Pump 152 may be located within sump 138 or within a machinery compartment located below sump 138 of tub 104, as generally recognized in the art. Fluid circulation assembly 150 may include one or more fluid conduits or circulation piping for directing water or wash fluid from pump 152 to the various spray assemblies and manifolds. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a primary supply conduit 154 may extend from pump 152, along rear 112 of tub 104 along the vertical direction V to supply wash fluid throughout wash chamber 106.

[0028] As illustrated, primary supply conduit 154 is used to supply wash fluid to one or more spray assemblies (e.g., to mid-level spray arm assembly 140 and upper spray assembly 142). However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, any other suitable plumbing configuration may be used to supply wash fluid throughout the various spray manifolds and assemblies described herein. For example, according to another exemplary embodiment, primary supply conduit 154 could be used to provide wash fluid to mid-level spray arm assembly 140 and a dedicated secondary supply conduit (not shown) could be utilized to provide wash fluid to upper spray assembly 142. Other plumbing configurations may be used for providing wash fluid to the various spray devices and manifolds at any location within dishwasher appliance 100.

[0029] Each spray arm assembly 134, 140, 142, integral spray manifold 144, or other spray device may include an arrangement of discharge ports or orifices for directing wash fluid received from pump 152 onto dishes or other articles located in wash chamber 106. The arrangement of the discharge ports, also referred to as jets, apertures, or orifices, may provide a rotational force by virtue of wash fluid flowing through the discharge ports. Alternatively, spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 may be motor-driven, or may operate using any other suitable drive mechanism. Spray manifolds and assemblies may also be stationary. The resultant movement of the spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 and the spray from fixed manifolds provides coverage of dishes and other dishwasher contents with a washing spray. Other configurations of spray assemblies may be used as well. For example, dishwasher 100 may have additional spray assemblies for cleaning silverware, for scouring casserole dishes, for spraying pots and pans, for cleaning bottles, etc. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments discussed herein are used for the purpose of explanation only and are not limitations of the present subject matter.

[0030] In operation, pump 152 draws wash fluid in from sump 138 and pumps it to a diverter assembly 156 (e.g., which may be positioned within sump 138 of dishwasher appliance 100). Diverter assembly 156 may include a diverter disk (not shown) disposed within a diverter chamber 158 for selectively distributing the wash fluid to the spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 or other spray manifolds or devices. For example, the diverter disk may have a plurality of apertures that are configured to align with one or more outlet ports (not shown) at the top of diverter chamber 158. In this manner, the diverter disk may be selectively rotated to provide wash fluid to the desired spray device.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, diverter assembly 156 is configured for selectively distributing the flow of wash fluid from pump 152 to various fluid supply conduits, only some of which are illustrated in FIG. 2 for clarity. More specifically, diverter assembly 156 may include four outlet ports (not shown) for supplying wash fluid to a first conduit for rotating lower spray arm assembly 134 in the clockwise direction, a second conduit for rotating lower spray arm assembly 134 in the counter-clockwise direction, a third conduit for spraying an auxiliary rack such as the silverware rack, and a fourth conduit for supply mid-level or upper spray assemblies 140, 142 (e.g., such as primary supply conduit 154).

[0032] The dishwasher 100 is further equipped with a controller 160 to regulate operation of the dishwasher 100. The controller 160 may include one or more memory devices and one or more microprocessors, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller 160 may be constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry, such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

[0033] The controller 160 may be positioned in a variety of locations throughout dishwasher 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 160 may be located within a control panel area 162 of door 116, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In such an embodiment, input/output (I/O) signals may be routed between the control system and various operational components of dishwasher 100 along wiring harnesses that may be routed through the bottom of door 116. Typically, the controller 160 may be in operative communication with a user interface panel 164 through which a user may select various operational features and modes and monitor progress of the dishwasher 100. In one embodiment, the user interface 164 may represent a general purpose I/O (GPIO) device or functional block. In certain embodiments, the user interface 164 includes input components 166, such as one or more of a variety of electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including capacitive touch screens/buttons, rotary dials, push buttons, and touch pads. The user interface 164 may further include one or more display components 168, such as a digital display device or one or more indicator light assemblies designed to provide operational feedback to a user. The user interface 164 may be in communication with the controller 160 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

[0034] It should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to any particular style, model, or configuration of dishwasher 100. The exemplary embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 is for illustrative purposes only. For example, different locations may be provided for user interface 164, different configurations may be provided for rack assemblies 122, 124, 126, different spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 and spray manifold configurations may be used, and other differences may be applied while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. Moreover, aspects of the present subject matter may be applied to other appliances as well, such as refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, etc.

[0035] Referring now generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, door 116 will be described according to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. Although door 116 is described herein as being used with dishwasher 100, it should be appreciated that door 116 or variations thereof may be used on any other suitable residential or commercial appliance. As described herein, door 116 may share a coordinate system with dishwasher 100, e.g., when door 116 is in the closed position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2). Specifically, door 116 may define a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T. Therefore, these directions may be used herein to refer to features of door 116 and its various components and sub-assemblies.

[0036] As shown, in the normally closed position, door 116 extends from a top end or top edge 180 to a bottom end or bottom edge 182 along the vertical direction V; from a front end 184 to a rear end 186 along the transverse direction T; and between two lateral ends 188 along the lateral direction L. According to exemplary embodiments, door 116 may be formed from one or more exterior panels that define an interior chamber of door 116. According to exemplary embodiments, the exterior panels of door 116 may be panels that are stamped from stainless steel or may be formed from any other suitably rigid material, such as thermoformed plastic, other metals, etc. In general, the exterior panels of door 116 may be assembled in any suitable manner, e.g., may be secured together using any suitable mechanical fastener, welding, snap-fit mechanisms, etc. In addition, it should be appreciated that an insulating material (not shown), such as fiberglass or foam insulation, may be positioned within door 116 to provide thermal and/or sound insulation to dishwasher 100.

[0037] Referring still to FIGS. 1 and 2, user interface panel 164 is positioned proximate top edge 180 of door 116 along the vertical direction V. In this manner, user interface panel 164 may be partially hidden below a countertop when dishwasher appliance 100 is installed below the countertop and door 116 is closed. Accordingly, dishwasher appliance 100 may be referred to as a top control dishwasher appliance. However, it should be appreciated that aspects of the present subject matter may be used with dishwasher appliances having other configurations or any other suitable appliance. For example, user interface panel 164 may be alternately positioned on front face or front end 184 of door 116.

[0038] User interface panel 164 is positioned on door 116 such that a user can engage or interact with user interface panel 164, e.g., to select operating cycles and parameters, activate/deactivate operating cycles, or adjust other operating parameters of dishwasher appliance 100. User interface panel 164 may include a printed circuit board (not shown) that is positioned within door 116. According to exemplary embodiments, printed circuit board may include or be operatively coupled to controller 160 and/or user interface panel 164. In addition, user interface panel 164 may include or be operably coupled to one or more user inputs or touch buttons (e.g., identified generally herein as user inputs 166) for receiving user input, providing user notifications, or illuminating to indicate cycle or operating status.

[0039] Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, user inputs 166 include a plurality of capacitive sensors that are mounted to user interface panel 164 and are operable to detect user inputs. For example, these capacitive sensors may be configured for triggering when a user touches a top edge 180 of user interface panel 164 in a region associated with a particular user input 166. In particular, these capacitive sensors can detect when a finger or another conductive material with a dielectric different than air contacts or approaches user interface panel 164, along with the precise location, pressure, etc. of the finger interaction.

[0040] When a user touches top edge 180 of user interface panel 164 adjacent one of user inputs 166, the associated capacitive sensors may be triggered and may communicate a corresponding signal to controller 160. In such a manner, operations of dishwasher appliance 100 can be initiated and controlled. According to exemplary embodiments, the capacitive sensors may be distributed laterally on user interface panel 164. It will be understood that other any suitable number, type, and position of capacitive sensors may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. Indeed, any suitable number, type, and configuration of user inputs 166 may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0041] User interface panel 164 may define a plurality of surfaces that are intended to be illuminated for various purposes. For example, user inputs 166 may be illuminated by light sources to inform the user of the location of the button or to provide some other status indication. Notably, this illumination is typically achieved by directing a light beam along the vertical direction V onto top edge 180 of user interface panel 164. Door 116 may further include a plurality of light sources or lighting devices that are configured for illuminating one or more surfaces of user interface panel 164. It should be appreciated that these light sources may include any suitable number, type, configuration, and orientation of light sources mounted at any suitable location to illuminate status indicators or buttons in any suitable colors, sizes, patterns, etc. In other words, the light sources may be provided as any suitable number, type, position, and configuration of electrical light source(s), using any suitable light technology and illuminating in any suitable color. For example, the light sources may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), which may each illuminate in a single color (e.g., white LEDs), or which may each illuminate in multiple colors (e.g., multi-color or RGB LEDs) depending on the control signal from controller 160.

[0042] However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, the light sources may include any other suitable traditional light bulbs or sources, such as halogen bulbs, fluorescent bulbs, incandescent bulbs, glow bars, a fiber light source, etc. Moreover, the light sources may be operably coupled (e.g., electrically coupled) to controller 160 or another suitable control board to facilitate activation or illumination of the light sources (e.g., to indicate a user input, state of the dishwasher appliance, state of the wash cycle, or any other relevant information to a user).

[0043] According to exemplary embodiments, user interface panel 164 may be any suitable transparent or semitransparent feature for diffusing, directing, or otherwise transmitting light from a light source. For example, user interface panel 164 may be formed from a suitable transparent or translucent material configured to direct light energy, such as a dielectric material, such as glass or plastic, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyacrylic, or any other suitable material.

[0044] In addition, user interface panel 164 may be a dead fronted panel. As used herein, the term dead front and the like is generally intended to refer to portions of a control panel which may be used as indicators, buttons, interactive control surfaces, or other user-interaction features without exposing the user to the operating side of the equipment or live parts and connections, i.e., lights, electrical connections, etc. For example, user interface panel 164 may include a transparent or translucent body and an opaque masking material that is selectively printed on top edge 180 of the translucent body to define capacitive touch buttons or user inputs 166.

[0045] The opaque material may be deposited on the translucent body to define any suitable number, size, and configuration of illuminated features. These illuminated features may be shapes or include other forms such as symbols, words, etc. that are visible on user interface panel 164. More specifically, when light sources are energized, capacitive touch buttons or user inputs 166 on top edge 180 may be illuminated. Thus, the dead fronted top edge 180 may be the surface that is contacted for controlling dishwasher appliance 100 or which may be illuminated for purposes of indicating operating status or other conditions to the user of the dishwasher appliance 100.

[0046] Referring still to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an external communication system 190 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. In general, external communication system 190 is configured for permitting interaction, data transfer, and other communications between dishwasher appliance 100 and one or more external devices. For example, this communication may be used to provide and receive operating parameters, user instructions or notifications, performance characteristics, user preferences, or any other suitable information for improved performance of dishwasher appliance 100. In addition, it should be appreciated that external communication system 190 may be used to transfer data or other information to improve performance of one or more external devices or appliances and/or improve user interaction with such devices.

[0047] For example, external communication system 190 permits controller 160 of dishwasher appliance 100 to communicate with a separate device external to dishwasher appliance 100, referred to generally herein as an external device 192. As described in more detail below, these communications may be facilitated using a wired or wireless connection, such as via a network 194. In general, external device 192 may be any suitable device separate from dishwasher appliance 100 that is configured to provide and/or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user. In this regard, external device 192 may be, for example, a personal phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or personal computer, a wearable device, a smart home system, or another mobile or remote device.

[0048] In addition, a remote server 196 may be in communication with dishwasher appliance 100 and/or external device 192 through network 194. In this regard, for example, remote server 196 may be a cloud-based server 196, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. According to an exemplary embodiment, external device 192 may communicate with a remote server 196 over network 194, such as the Internet, to transmit/receive data or information, provide user inputs, receive user notifications or instructions, interact with or control dishwasher appliance 100, etc. In addition, external device 192 and remote server 196 may communicate with dishwasher appliance 100 to communicate similar information.

[0049] In general, communication between dishwasher appliance 100, external device 192, remote server 196, and/or other user devices or appliances may be carried using any type of wired or wireless connection and using any suitable type of communication network, non-limiting examples of which are provided below. For example, external device 192 may be in direct or indirect communication with dishwasher appliance 100 through any suitable wired or wireless communication connections or interfaces, such as network 194. For example, network 194 may include one or more of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a personal area network (PAN), the Internet, a cellular network, any other suitable short- or long-range wireless networks, etc. In addition, communications may be transmitted using any suitable communications devices or protocols, such as via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, wireless radio, laser, infrared, Ethernet type devices and interfaces, etc. In addition, such communication may use a variety of communication protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g., HTML, XML), and/or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

[0050] External communication system 190 is described herein according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the exemplary functions and configurations of external communication system 190 provided herein are used only as examples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subject matter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more associated appliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented, etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0051] Referring now generally to FIGS. 3 through 9, dishwasher appliance 100 may further include a frame member 200 that is positioned adjacent wash tub 104 and is generally configured for providing structural support to various components of dishwasher appliance 100. For example, as illustrated, dishwasher appliance 100 may include a drain hose 202 that is routed between the wash tub 104 and cabinet 102. In addition, as shown for example in FIGS. 4 and 5, a wiring harness 204 is illustrated which may be one of the various wiring harnesses routed throughout dishwasher appliance 100 to interconnect various components. Notably, it is desirable to secure drain hose 202, wiring harness 204, and other components between wash tub 104 and cabinet 102, e.g., to prevent undesirable movement upon installation, to prevent damage during installation, etc.

[0052] Accordingly, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to a simple and effective means for securing multiple hoses, pipes, conduits, wiring harnesses, or other components of dishwasher appliance 100. As will be explained in more detail below, the components for routing these hoses and wiring harnesses, referred to generally herein as routing components, are simple, single piece components that may be installed in a single act by a single hand of the installation technician. Accordingly, these routing components save time and money while reducing complexity. By contrast, conventional methods for attaching such wiring harnesses are often complex and costly, requiring multiple components, fasteners, and an elongated installation time. An example routing component 210 will now be described according to an example embodiment, but it should be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

[0053] According to the illustrated embodiment, routing component 210 may be mounted directly to frame member 200. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, frame member 200 extends substantially along the vertical direction V behind door 114 and is a rigid structural member. In addition, frame member 200 may define a first attachment aperture 212 and a second attachment aperture 214 that are separated along the vertical direction V. First attachment aperture 212 and second attachment aperture 214 may pass through frame member 200 from a front side 216 to a rear side 218. In addition, frame member 200 may define lateral sides 220.

[0054] As best shown in FIGS. 4 through 9, routing component 210 may generally define a mounting structure 230 that is configured for engaging frame member 200 through first attachment aperture 212 and second attachment aperture 214. Moreover, as explained above, mounting structure 230 may engage frame member 200 without the use of mechanical fasteners, adhesives, or other complex assembly components. To facilitate explanation of features of routing component 210, the directional orientation of dishwasher appliance 100 will be used, assuming that routing component 210 is in the installed position.

[0055] According to the illustrated embodiment, mounting structure 230 defines a flat mounting face 232 that is configured for seating flat against front side 216 of frame member 200 when routing component 210 is in the installed position. In addition, mounting structure 230 may include a pivot hook 234 and a resilient clip 236 that extend from opposite sides of flat mounting face 232. More specifically, flat mounting face 232 may define a first side 238 and a second side 240 that are spaced apart along the vertical direction V on opposite sides of flat mounting face 232. Pivot hook 234 may generally extend downward along the vertical direction V away from first side 238 and may define a hook 242 at its distal end for engaging first attachment aperture 212. In addition, resilient clip 236 may generally extend upward along the vertical direction V away from second side 240 of flat mounting face 232 and may define a locking lip 244 for engaging second attachment aperture 214.

[0056] As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, installation of routing component 210 involves passing hook 242 of pivot hook 234 through first attachment aperture 212 and then rotating or pivoting routing component 210 upward until flat mounting face 232 seats against front side 216 of frame member 200 and locking lip 244 snaps into second attachment aperture 214. In this regard, resilient clip 236 may be flexible to permit deformation until locking lip 244 may pass through second attachment aperture 214. In the installed position, hook 242 and locking lip 244 may engage rear side 218 of frame member 200 to secure routing component 210 in the installed position.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 4 through 9, routing component 210 may further include a locking flange 246 that extends along a transverse direction T from the backside of flat mounting face 232. For example, locking flange 246 may extend toward frame member 200 and between pivot hook 234 and resilient clip 236. As illustrated, locking flange 246 may engage one of the lateral sides 220 of frame member 200 when routing component 210 is in the installed position. Notably, when routing component 210 is installed as described above, routing component 210 may be restrained in six degrees of freedom when the mounting structure 230 engages the frame member 200. In other words, routing component 210 may be prevented from translating along and rotating about the vertical direction V, the lateral direction L, and the transverse direction T when in the installed position.

[0058] Notably, routing component 210 may be injection molded as a single, integral piece. In addition, it should be appreciated that routing component 210 may be formed from any suitably rigid material. For example, according to exemplary embodiments, routing component 210 may be formed by injection molding, e.g., using a suitable plastic material, such as injection molding grade Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), Nylon 6, high impact polystyrene (HIPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or any other suitable blend of polymers. Alternatively, according to the exemplary embodiment, these components may be compression molded, e.g., using sheet molding compound (SMC) thermoset plastic or other thermoplastics. According to still other embodiments, portions of routing component 210 may be formed from any other suitable rigid material.

[0059] As explained above, routing component 210 may further include features for retaining one or more hoses, conduits, pipes, wires, cables, or other components of dishwasher appliance 100. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, routing component 210 may include a hose retainer 250 that is configured for retaining drain hose 202 of dishwasher appliance 100. Specifically, hose retainer 250 may include an arcuate member 252 that is positioned at a distal end of routing component 210. As shown, arcuate member 252 may have a diameter that is equal to or slightly less than a diameter of drain hose 202 (e.g., in the relaxed position). In addition, routing component 210 may include retraining protrusions 254 positioned at the open ends of arcuate member 252. Accordingly, an installation technician may press drain hose 202 into hose retainer 250 and arcuate member 252 may flex slightly to permit entry of drain hose 202 into hose retainer 250, where it is captured and secured by retaining protrusions 254.

[0060] In addition to hose retainer 250, routing component 210 may include a wiring harness retainer 260 that is configured for retaining wiring harness 204 of dishwasher appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, wiring harness retainer 260 is positioned between mounting structure 230 and hose retainer 250 along the transverse direction T. In general, wiring harness retainer 260 may include a connecting structure 262 that extends between mounting structure 230 and hose retainer 250. More specifically, connecting structure 262 may define an arcuate profile or wiring harness recess 264 that is configured for receiving wiring harness 204. In addition, wiring harness retainer 260 may include a retention arm 266 that extends from connecting structure 262 to define an opening 268 of wiring harness recess 264.

[0061] In this manner, a user may pass wiring harness 204 through opening 268 and into wiring harness recess 264 where it may be secured by retention arm 266. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiment, a distal end of retention arm 266 may define a locking flange 270 that extends through opening 268 to prevent removal of wiring harness 204 from wiring harness recess 264. Notably, retention arm 266 may be flexible to permit insertion of wiring harness 204. In other words, a user may need to deflect retention arm 266 slightly to get wiring harness 204 into wiring harness recess 264 where it is retained permanently by retention arm 266 and a locking flange 270.

[0062] Referring still generally to FIGS. 4 through 9, frame member 200 may be mounted to wash tub 104 and connecting structure 262 of wiring harness retainer 260 may define an auxiliary recess 280 that is positioned between connecting structure 262 and wash tub 104 opposite wiring harness recess 264 relative to connecting structure 262. In addition, arcuate member 252 of hose retainer 250 may at least partially define auxiliary recess 280. In this manner, installation of routing component 210 may define a number of locations for routing pipes, hoses, wires, etc. These additional components may be routed through auxiliary recess 280 where they may be retained between the wash tub 104 connecting structure 262 and arcuate member 252.

[0063] According to still other embodiments, retention arm 266 may define a cutout aperture 282 configured for receiving a fir tree connector clip 284 (e.g., an example of which is identified by reference numeral 284 in FIGS. 4 and 5). Notably, fir tree connector clip 284 may be configured for supporting still another wiring harness or cable of dishwasher appliance 100. Accordingly, routing component 210 generally provides a single, simple to install component that can serve as a routing hub for facilitating easy and safe routing of various pipes, conduits, wires, cables, etc.

[0064] As explained above, aspects of the present subject matter are generally directed to a combined cable retainer and drain hose retainer clip with a locating and mounting feature for use in a dishwasher. The clip may include a round hook feature on one side that is inserted into a hole of a J-collar component (e.g., the frame member), wherein the clip is rotated into position to snap a flexing part on the other side of the clip to the J-collar component. As the clip is rotated into place, a flange (anti-rotation feature) of the clip may slide under the J-collar in the space between the J-collar and tub to prevent rotation. This design allows installing by hand using a rock-in motion that is friendly to ergonomics, while constraining all 6 degrees of freedom of the component. Having a single component eliminates the need of features on a harness, reduces cost with components, as well as streamlines and reduces assembly time. The wire harness retainer may be flexed up to allow the wire to pass the retaining feature (a lead in a slot) of the clip. Once the wire is past the retaining feature, the flexible geometry may be relaxed to its nominal position, in which the retaining feature acts as a mechanical stop to prevent the harness from backing out.

[0065] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.