TimeLight Adapter

This is an adapter for the mirror for the TimeLight display for dishwashers by Siemens (and maybe by other manufacturers such as Bosch). The problem with the original setup is that the original mirror (see picture) is mounted in such a way that much of the reflection hits the panels mounted at the bottom of the dishwashers (if this is relatively wide such as for dishwashers set up higher than normal), so that it is partially invisible. Three images with the black panels and the wood-like floor (courtesy of Mark van der Hurk) show this effect.

Solution to the problem: the small adapter in this thing. What needs to be added to it is a small mirror that is glued on top of it. Alternatively (what I did), it also works to use a very flat (as planar as possible) piece of metal from the junk everybody likely has in the garage, cut to the respective size, and glued (I used a piece from the cover of an old PC power supply, glued to the adapter with epoxy) on top of it. Then one can add self-adhesive reflection foil that can be purchased for little money from our Chinese friends, also cut to size (one image shows the final adapter in a version with the reflective foil attached directly to the 3D-printed adapter; courtesy of Mark van der Hurk). And now it works again as shown in the pictures, also with the panel mounted (see the images with the white panels and the beige tile floor).

To install, remove the original little metal mirror that comes with it (see the picture) from below the machine. It sits under the front side. I did not have to open the machine or remove any screws. The place is a bit difficult to access but if you lay flat on the floor on your back then you can see it (you will have to remove the wooden panel/baseboard at the bottom of the machine first, but this is relatively easy; this is in fact the panel that blocks the normal reflection). The original metal mirror has a small rectangular hole in it that clicks into something in the plastic holder (see the three-image sequence of the removal; courtesy of Mark van der Hurk). The adapter is modeled the same way that it also clicks into the holder. You may have to use a small screw-driver or tooth pick (like in Mark's image) to allow it to slide out. The plastic holder recesses into the machine at an angle to ensure that the mirror reflects the light at the correct angle (well, if it was mounted lower). I did not want to damage the mirror to have a fall-back position (and also not void the warranty of my dishwasher). This is why I created the adapter and attached the mentioned custom-made metal plate, onto which I attached the mirror foil. But you could also use the original mirror and glue it onto the adapter, I guess (but maybe the original mirror has to be cut a bit on both sides a bit then to allow the adapter with the mirror on top to slide in). The adapter then simply slides into the place formerly occupied by the mirror.

I modeled it with OpenSCAD, so I am also adding that file to allow you to adjust the angle to your situation if needed. Please use these instructions on your own risk, I do not take any responsibility for potential damages.