EP2868622A1 - Removal device - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (10) for withdrawing a liquid comprises a lance (130-134) for removing the liquid from a container (20). The lance (10) comprises an antenna (30) for transmitting and / or receiving data. An arrangement comprises a device (10) for removing a liquid with at least one lance (10) comprising an antenna (30) and at least one container (20), wherein the container (20) has a transponder (21) which is connected to the antenna (30) is readable.

Description

Technical area

The invention relates to a device for removing a liquid, comprising a lance for removing the liquid from a container.

State of the art

Both in the industrial and in the commercial sector devices for the removal of liquids in various areas in use. For example, such devices are used in cleaning devices, whereby the liquids to be conveyed may be detergents, disinfectants, rinsing agents, which may be present in concentrates or as dilute solutions. Such cleaning devices can be used, for example, in hospitals for the cleaning and disinfection of surgical equipment, endoscopes and the like, and in particular as so-called RDGs (cleaning and disinfection device).

Such a cleaning device is for example from the EP 2 168 693 B1 (Dr. ) known. This discloses an arrangement and method for machine cleaning / disinfecting articles. The cleaning agents are provided in cans, drums or other containers and removed by means of suction lances and dosed via metering pumps of the machine. The device can be designed as a dishwasher for medical instruments and apparatus. It has connections for storage containers (canisters, barrels) containing cleaning / disinfecting agents.

The device has at least one RFID reader assigned to the connection or the connections for storage containers for the unique identification of each connected storage container provided with an RFID tag. The RFID tag may include information about the agent, the concentration, application, expiration dates, analysis data as well as lot number. The RFID readers are associated with the connection for storage containers. By placing the container at the intended removal location, the RFID tags automatically and inevitably fall into the area of the RFID readers assigned to the respective installation site. This is to ensure that, for example, reservoir for detergent on the one hand and disinfectant on the other hand when connecting to a dishwasher are not reversed. For this reason, each connection for a consumable storage container is assigned a separate RFID reader that selectively reads out the RFID tags of only one consumable storage container.

Suction lances are typically connected to a pumping device via flexible hoses, for example. This also applies to the solution according to Dr. med. Still, there is a risk that the containers will be correctly positioned and detected as being correct by the RFID device, but the user will inadvertently immerse a suction lance in a wrong container.

Presentation of the invention

The object of the invention is to provide a device belonging to the technical field mentioned above for the removal of a liquid, which is more flexible to handle.

The solution of the problem is defined by the features of claim 1. According to the invention, the lance comprises an antenna for transmitting and / or receiving data.

The fact that an antenna is connected to the lance, with this antenna in the immediate vicinity of the lance, data can be sent and / or received. The main advantage over the solution of the aforementioned patent of Dr. med. Weigert is thus an identification, or a data transfer at the effective location of the event, namely in the field of lance enabled. This is essential for a device for taking a liquid, since with the lance typically the liquid is removed from the container and it is thus closer to the scene, as for example a parking space of a container which is not in principle associated with the liquid removal ,

In particular, it should be noted that in the latter case three factors must be kept under control, namely that the correct container must be provided with the correct lance at the correct location.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention described below, one of these factors is now to be eliminated, namely the parking space.

The device is preferably used to remove a liquid in a device for cleaning objects, in particular for machine cleaning and / or disinfection of objects. Such cleaning devices may be, for example, RDG devices, instrument dishwashers, conventional washing machines, and the like. The cleaning device may be formed depending on the size of the objects to be cleaned, in particular a cleaning device could be relatively small only for scalpels, while a cleaning device for hospital bedsteads be sized accordingly large. Also, the cleaning device is independent of the type of machine cleaning operation. Thus, conventional techniques of an instrument dishwasher or a household dishwasher can be used. On the other hand, the cleaning device may also include a transport device for the objects to be cleaned, or even be transported over the objects to be cleaned (similar to a car wash).

In variants, however, the device can also be designed otherwise, for example for the dispensing of liquid medicaments or drinks. In particular, such a device may also be provided in the chemical industry for dispensing liquid chemicals. Many fields of application are known to the person skilled in the art.

An arrangement comprises a device for taking out liquids with at least one lance comprising an antenna and at least one container. The container comprises a transponder, which is readable with the antenna. The transponder is preferably designed as an RFID transponder. Under RFID below radiofrequency identification is understood. This technique and its modifications are familiar to those skilled in the art in principle. By means of the antenna is typically (but not necessarily) the transponder supplied with energy so that it can send data, which in turn can be received by the antenna.

The RFID transponder can be designed as NFC, so-called Near Field Communication, as HF according to ISO 14443 and ISO 15693 or as UHF according to ISO 18000-6.

The RFID transponder can be designed in accordance with ISO 15693, such as Ti's Taglt system. These transponders operate at a frequency of 13.56 MHz and are available with memory sizes up to 2k bits. However, it is clear to the person skilled in the art that this is only an example and that various other RFID systems are suitable for the present application. It should be noted that the range is sufficiently large that the data between the lance and the transponder are transferable when the lance is arranged in the container, that is, during operation of the device or the arrangement. On the other hand, the range should be sufficiently low, so that no data of an adjacent container can be read with the antenna of the suction lance.

The RF transponders are preferably integrated in a self-adhesive label, which additionally allows printing with human readable information. The labels are preferably designed so that they are destroyed in a peel attempt. Thus, they can not be transferred to other containers.

The data on the transponder are preferably suitably encrypted or obfuscated, so that they can not be readily interpreted and changed by unauthorized persons. Certain areas of the transponder are preferably write-protected after programming, so that a subsequent change of the corresponding values is no longer possible at all.

Preferably, the transponder of the container and the antenna of the lance are arranged such that when positioned in the container lance, data between the antenna and the transponder are transferable. Thus, a data transfer between the two systemically relevant areas, namely the lance and the container is achieved with the liquid to be delivered. In particular, the data transfer is not coupled to a position of the container. The data transfer is thus only dependent on the position of the lance and the container with the transponder. In other words, a data transfer between antenna and transponder is independent of the position of the container.

Preferably, a batch can be read out via the antenna, whereby a specific liquid can be released for the lance. This can be with the antenna and others Transponders are read out. For example, with the separate batch, a controller may release a lance for a particular liquid, preferably permanently, after judging the lance and judging it to be compatible with the particular liquid. In principle, a lance can also be released for several different liquids, for example if they are compatible with each other. This can be baptized in a particularly simple manner, a lance to a particular chemical or liquid.

In variants, the device may be programmed as such, for example using a laptop with a corresponding program.

Preferably, data from the antenna to the RFID transponder and data from the transponder to the antenna are transferable. More preferably, data may also be written to the transponder and, if necessary, write-protected. Thus, for example, in the case of a transponder of a container, the fill level and / or the withdrawn amount, in particular the status "empty", can be recorded in read-only fashion, so that it is not refilled and connected without authorization. The intelligent lance would immediately recognize that the status is set to "empty" and thus does not record any operation, for example a cleaning device, with this container. For example, an error message could be output.

In variants, the transponder may also be designed for reading only, so that no data can be stored on the transponder.

1. a. Inhalt des Behälters, insbesondere Verwendungszweck. Der Inhalt des Behälters kann mit der Art der Chemikalie, Produktcode der Chemikalie, Konzentration der Chemikalie, Abfüllmenge (Volumen, Gewicht) des Inhaltes angegeben werden. Weiter können Reinheitsgrade, einzelne Stoffkonzentrationen, pH, elektrische Leitfähigkeit und weitere chemische oder physikalische Eigenschaften gespeichert werden.
2. b. Anwendungshinweise. Diese können Hinweise zur Verwendung des Inhalts wie Reinigung, Desinfektion, etc. umfassen. Aber auch Gefahrenhinweise, R/S-Sätze, Transporthinweise, Hinweise bei unsachgemässer Handhabung, Allergiker Informationen, Länderregistrierung, etc. können auf dem Transponder festgehalten werden.
3. c. Herstellungsdaten. Diese Daten können insbesondere Lotnummer, Abfüllort, Abfüllanlage, Hersteller, etc. umfassen.

Preferably, the transponder contains one or more of the following information:

1. a. Contents of the container, in particular purpose. The contents of the container may be indicated by the type of chemical, product code of the chemical, concentration of the chemical, amount of filling (volume, weight) of the contents. Furthermore, purity levels, individual substance concentrations, pH, electrical conductivity and other chemical or physical properties can be stored.
2. b. Application Notes. These may include instructions for using the content such as cleaning, disinfection, etc. But also hazard warnings, R / S phrases, transport instructions, instructions for improper handling, allergy information, country registration, etc. can be recorded on the transponder.
3. c. Manufacturing data. This data may include, in particular, lot number, filling location, bottling plant, manufacturer, etc.

These data are preferably data written by the manufacturer on the transponder, which are preferably write-protected.

It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the transponder can also include further data. For example, the buyer can also be stored on the transponder, so that the delivery can be easily coordinated.

1. a. Status "Leer", "nicht leer", insbesondere Füllstand des Behälters. Damit kann die Vorrichtung eine Warnung ausgeben, wenn in nächster Zeit der Behälter geleert sein wird. Insbesondere kann die Vorrichtung damit angeben, für wie viele Anwendungen der Inhalt des Behälters noch ausreichen wird.
2. b. Zeitstempel der Erstverwendung. Damit kann die Haltbarkeit überwacht werden, insbesondere wenn diese nach der Öffnung des Behälters beschränkt ist.
3. c. Identifikation der Vorrichtung, insbesondere der Lanze. Damit kann auch anhand des Behälters nachvollzogen werden, an welcher Lanze dieser angeschlossen war. Insbesondere kann dies relevant sein, wenn eine falsche Lanze in den Behälter eingetaucht wurde und damit eine Kontamination des Inhalts verursacht wurde, so dass der Inhalt des Behälters nicht mehr freigegeben werden darf.

In use, one or more of the following information can preferably be stored on the transponder:

1. a. Status "empty", "not empty", in particular level of the container. Thus, the device can issue a warning if the container will be emptied in the near future. In particular, the device may indicate for how many applications the contents of the container will still be sufficient.
2. b. Timestamp of first use. Thus, the durability can be monitored, especially if this is limited after the opening of the container.
3. c. Identification of the device, in particular the lance. This can also be understood from the container on which lance this was connected. In particular, this may be relevant if a false lance has been immersed in the container and thus contamination of the content has been caused, so that the contents of the container may not be released.

This data is preferably data written by the RDG. These are typically changeable. Preferably, however, the state "empty" is read-only, so that the container can not be reused thereafter.

Again, the skilled person more data are known, which can be written on the transponder.

Preferably, the device comprises at least a second lance with an antenna for taking a liquid from a container. Typically, in cleaning devices, which may include such devices, several different liquids are used, for example a pre-rinse solution, a cleaning agent and a disinfectant. In this case, the device would have at least three lances, with which the means can be removed from three containers. It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the device can in principle have a largely arbitrary number of lances.

Now that the antenna is arranged on the lance, the container can be placed anywhere, as long as the lance can be guided into the container. This results in different operating options. In the simplest case, any lance is guided into the container. The antenna of the lance captures the data of the transponder of the container and independently recognizes which means it is. If the lance was previously in a container with another agent, it may, if appropriate, a rinse before the first operation with the current agent are made.

In a second mode of operation, the user can select the correct lance and insert it into the container. The antenna of the lance reads the data of the transponder of the container so that it can be identified if the right lance is in the container. If not, for example, a warning signal can be issued. This mode of operation can also be optimized by, for example, providing the lance with an LED signal lamp which lights green near the container once the antenna has identified the correct container. If it is the wrong container, a red LED lamp may light up or a beep may sound, especially before the lance is contaminated with the wrong fluid.

In variants, the device may also have exactly one lance, in particular if it is a cleaning device, which manages with exactly one cleaning agent. This could be a cleaning agent which leaves no residue during drying, for example distilled water, alcohol, ether, etc.

Preferably, the device per lance comprises at least one parking space for a container, wherein at least two different parking spaces can be reached with at least one lance. This achieves a higher degree of freedom in the arrangement of the containers. The device may also include more parking spaces than lances, so that containers can be placed in stock. Once a container is empty, the lance can easily be used to move to the next container without having to rethatch the containers. For a particularly ergonomic operation of the device is achieved.

In variants, more lances may also be provided as pitches, especially if a limited number of different means are used in the use (= number of pitches), but more different means can be combined, with one lance being used only for one agent.

Preferably, each pitch can be reached with each lance. This makes the device particularly easy to handle. In particular, when the lances, as described above, independently recognize which means are in the container. In the application can be easily positioned on the next free space a container and the lance are introduced. As already mentioned, this can either be any lance, which then reads the agent out of the transponder via the antenna, or the correct lance can be selected and inserted into the container.

In variants, not every pitch can be reached with each lance (see above).

Preferably, the lance comprises a pipe part, wherein the antenna is connected to the pipe part. About the pipe part, the liquid is typically sucked from the container. Instead of the pipe part may also be a hose.

The arrangement of the antenna on the pipe part is particularly advantageous because it allows the antenna in use close to the transponder, which is connected to the container, can be arranged. This in turn largely prevents a transponder of an adjacent container from being read out by the antenna.

In variants, the antenna can also be connected to another area of the lance.

Particularly preferably, the antenna is connected to the lance in such a way that the antenna is arranged inside the container when the lance is inserted into the container. In this way, inadvertent readout of a transponder of an adjacent container can be further prevented. In these variants, the container is preferably made of non-metallic materials, in particular of plastic, so that the transponder can be mounted outside the container. In principle, a metallic container would also be conceivable, provided that the transponder is likewise arranged inside the container. This would further avoid a modification of the container, since a mounted inside the container transponder can be less well manipulated or lost.

Preferably, the antenna is disposed around the pipe part. Thus, the lance with respect to a rotation about the tube part axis can be arranged arbitrarily, without changing the toroidal field lines. This ensures that data can be exchanged between the transponder and the antenna with constant signal strength. Particularly preferably, the antenna is arranged annularly around the pipe part, in particular coaxially with the pipe part.

In variants, the antenna can also be otherwise connected to the pipe part (see below).

In a further preferred embodiment, the antenna is arranged along a longitudinal axis of the tubular part. Thus, the antenna dimension can be largely freely chosen.

In variants, the antenna can also be otherwise connected to the pipe part (see above).

Preferably, the antenna on the outside of the pipe part, that is arranged on the Rohraussenwandung. This embodiment can be provided both for the arrangement of the antenna around the pipe part, as well as for the arrangement of the antenna along a longitudinal axis of the pipe part. This allows a particularly simple lance with antenna can be achieved.

In variants, the antenna can also be arranged inside the tube part, so that the antenna can not be damaged when the lance is inserted into a container. However, the antenna can also be arranged within the pipe part wall, whereby an optimal protection of the antenna when inserting the lance is ensured in the container as well as in front of the medium in the container. This can be achieved, for example, by pouring the antenna into the pipe part. Furthermore, the pipe part can also be produced in two parts, so that the antenna can be positioned in the connection area. The connection can be designed as a plug connection, screw connection, bayonet connection or the like. The variants mentioned in the present paragraph can be provided both for the arrangement of the antenna around the pipe part, as well as for the arrangement of the antenna along a longitudinal axis of the pipe part. The skilled person are also known to other variants.

The lance preferably comprises in a proximal region a closure part enclosing the lance for closing a container, the antenna being connected in the region of the closure part, in particular to the closure part. The closure part is preferably designed as a plug. It is preferably an at least slightly flexible plastic plug. The formation of the closure member as a cone-shaped plug has the advantage that it can be easily inserted into the opening of the container. In particular, no rotation as in a bayonet lock or the like is necessary. In addition, the cone can be used variably, since the openings of the container does not necessarily have to be identical. Thus, the same cone can be used for example, different sized containers, provided that the cone has the appropriate diameter range.

The fact that the antenna is arranged in the region of the closure part, is largely prevented that the antenna is in a filled container in the liquid. On the one hand can to avoid that the field lines of the antenna change by the liquid. In addition, corrosion of the antenna can be avoided.

The connection of the antenna with the closure part has the advantage that, in the case of containers of different heights, the closure part can be displaced along the tube part without influencing the position of the antenna.

In variants, the antenna can also be arranged such that, when the container is filled, it is below the liquid level, so that the antenna is not necessarily located in the region of the closure part. Further, instead of the cone-shaped closure part and a screw cap can be provided.

Preferably, the antenna is arranged in a distal region of the closure part. Thus, the antenna can be arranged inside the container.

As already mentioned above, the antenna can alternatively also be connected to the pipe part.

Preferably, the antenna is arranged on a distal end face of the closure part. This has the advantage over an antenna arranged externally around the closure part that no pressure is exerted on the antenna when the closure part is inserted into the opening of the container, in particular so that the antenna is not damaged when the closure part is clamped in the opening. In addition, the antenna is so easy to attach.

In variants, the antenna can also be arranged inside the closure part, for example in a cavity, or else be cast in the closure part.

In a further variant, the antenna is arranged in a proximal region of the closure part. Thus, the antenna is placed outside the container when introduced into the container lance. This arrangement is particularly advantageous when the container is formed of metal.

In variants, the antenna can also be arranged as described above. In particular, the antenna can also be arranged on a fluid pipe leading away.

In a further preferred embodiment, the antenna, preferably via a spacer, is arranged in a proximal region of the closure part. This represents a further variant which is particularly advantageous in the case of metal containers in which the transponder is arranged on the outside of the container. But even for plastic containers, this represents a particularly simple embodiment, since the antenna can be dimensioned almost arbitrarily and externally attached to the container transponder data transmission is particularly optimal reach. The antenna need not necessarily be formed with the closure part itself, but may also be connected to a proximal to the closure part arranged laxative tube or laxative tube. This also achieves a fixed assignment of the antenna to the lance.

The optionally provided spacer can be designed and arranged such that when introduced into the container lance, the antenna is placed in the vicinity of the transponder.

Preferably, the spacer is flexible. This largely prevents the spacer from being damaged. The spacer may be formed of a flexible plastic. The flexibility can be very great, so that the spacer, for example, is designed only as a cord, or else it can be elastic, so that it can in each case assume a substantially constant rest position.

Alternatively, the spacer can also be rigid, for example, be formed of solid plastic.

Preferably, the closure part is designed as a cone, in particular as a clamping cone, with a coaxial opening for the tube part, wherein the tube part is preferably arranged completely in the coaxial opening of the cone and in particular partially protrudes through the cone. Particularly preferably, the closure part is displaceably guided along the tube part, so that the length of the region of the tube part which is distal with respect to the closure part can be varied. Thus, the lance can be used in a very simple way for different sized containers. The design of the closure part as a cone also different sized openings of containers can be operated.

As already mentioned, the closure part can also be designed as a screw cap, with the disadvantage that only containers with a corresponding opening can be operated.

Preferably, the lance comprises a sensor. A variety of sensors are known to those skilled in the art, which can be used in this application, for example, pH sensor, conductivity sensor, refraction sensor, etc.

In variants, the sensor can also be dispensed with.

Preferably, the sensor is designed as a level sensor. This can be designed in a variety of ways known in the art. On the one hand, this can be designed as a binary sensor, which can distinguish "empty" and "not empty". Such sensors may be formed as a vibration sensor, pressure sensor or the like. Furthermore, it is also possible to use sensors which can directly or indirectly determine the fill level, for example a pressure sensor which is fastened to the end of the lance, etc.

In variants, the level sensor can also be dispensed with.

Preferably, the level sensor is arranged at the distal end of the pipe part. This enables a quantitative level measurement. For this purpose, a sensor can be used which can directly or indirectly determine the filling level, for example a pressure sensor which is fastened to the end of the lance, etc.

In variants, a Lotsystem can be used, which is arranged for example directly below the closure part.

Preferably, the device comprises a data processing unit connected to the antenna via a data line. This is preferably designed such that the data received from the transponder can be processed for shipment to a central processing unit. This data processing unit is preferably arranged near the antenna, in particular at the proximal region of the closure part, so that fluid contact can be largely avoided.

The container is preferably designed in such a way and the transponder is arranged on the container such that the transponder lies completely within a convex end of the container. In principle, the convex finish is understood to mean that a container can be placed in any position on a flat surface without the transponder coming into contact with the surface. Thus, the transponder is largely protected during transport of the container from damage.

In variants, this training can also be dispensed with. On the other hand, the transponder can also be protected against damage with a protective layer, for example with a plastic film or the like.

Preferably, the container has a recess or a contrasting from the outer wall of the container edge, in which the transponder is arranged. Thus, the transponder can be arranged essentially arbitrarily. The contrasting edge may be in the form of a frame encircling, or even only partially formed.

In variants already existing indentations of the container, for example in the region of a carrying handle can be used. It is also conceivable to arrange the RFID transponder within the container, whereby the RFID transponder can also be protected against damage by, for example, pointed objects. In particular, this embodiment can be provided in metallic containers and, with the suction lance inserted inside the container arranged antenna. This makes it possible to hide interference fields from neighboring stations.

The aim of the so-called Detergent Identifier System is to prevent confusion of cleaning chemicals in the RDG. For this purpose, each chemical container can be provided with an RFID transponder, which contains information about the contents of the container. In return, the RDG may have reading units that can read and evaluate the container information. Preferably, only chemicals approved for the process are released.

• Jeder Chemiebehälter wird mit einem RFID-Transponder ausgestattet.
• Der Chemiehersteller verfügt in seiner Abfüllanlage über eine Druck- und Programmierstation mit welcher er Informationen auf die selbstklebenden RFID-Transponder aufbringen kann.
• Auf dieser Station wird der RFID-Transponder mit folgenden Informationen programmiert:
  • Art der Chemikalie (Reiniger alkalisch, neutral, sauer, Neutralisationslösung, Desinfektionsmittel etc.);
  • Produkt-Identifikationsnummer (kann ev. zur Versionierung der Formulierung dienen);
  • Herstellercode;
  • Empfohlene Untergrenze der Konzentration in der Reinigungslösung;
  • Empfohlene Obergrenze der Konzentration in der Reinigungslösung;
  • Abfüllanlage;
    • Losnummer;
    • Produktions- oder Abfülldatum;
    • Abfüllmenge;
    • Ablaufdatum der Chemie.
• Das RDG beim Kunden kann über RFID Lese- und Auswerteeinheiten auf jeder Sauglanze verfügen. Diese können die relevanten Informationen der Transponder auf den Chemie Behältern lesen.
• Anhand der Konfiguration der Auswerteeinheit kann diese autonom entscheiden, ob es sich um die richtige Reinigungschemie handelt oder sie übermittelt die Relevanten an eine übergeordnete Steuerung.
• Wurde die korrekte Reinigungschemie eingesetzt, so wird der folgende Reinigungsprozess freigegeben.
• Es besteht auch die Möglichkeit, dass das RDG Informationen auf den Tag des Behälters schreibt:
  • Zeitstempel der Erstverwendung;
  • ID der Anlage und Nr. der Lanze;
  • Angaben über den Füllstand (wenn Information vorhanden);
  • Information, wenn Behälter leer ist (verhindert unautorisiertes Nachfüllen).

The identification system preferably comprises one or more of the following components or properties:

• Each chemical container is equipped with an RFID transponder.
• In its bottling plant, the chemical manufacturer has a printing and programming station with which it can apply information to the self-adhesive RFID transponders.
• On this station, the RFID transponder is programmed with the following information:
  • Type of chemical (cleaner alkaline, neutral, acidic, neutralization solution, disinfectant, etc.);
  • Product identification number (can possibly serve for versioning of the formulation);
  • Manufacturer Code;
  • Recommended lower limit of the concentration in the cleaning solution;
  • Recommended upper limit of concentration in the cleaning solution;
  • filling;
    • lot number;
    • Production or filling date;
    • Filling quantity;
    • Expiration date of the chemistry.
• The customer's RDG can have RFID reading and evaluation units on each suction lance. These can read the relevant information of the transponder on the chemistry tanks.
• On the basis of the configuration of the evaluation unit, it can autonomously decide whether it is the right cleaning chemistry or it transmits the relevant to a higher-level control.
• If the correct cleaning chemistry has been used, the following cleaning process is released.
• There is also the possibility that the RDG writes information on the day of the container:
  • Timestamp of first use;
  • ID of the system and number of the lance;
  • Information on the level (if there is information);
  • Information if container is empty (prevents unauthorized refilling).

The RFID reader preferably consists of antenna and electronics. He is preferably integrated into the chemical sampling device, resp. connected directly to this. In this way, the RFID reader can be permanently assigned to a chemical line. Integrated in the RFID reader version, the antenna is permanently connected to a clamping cone or the suction lance, or integrated into one of these parts. The height may vary according to the container design. The field lines generated by the antenna pass through the magnetically non-conductive container and read the RFID tag. The antenna may be arranged to provide a field axisymmetric to the lance or cone, thereby requiring a special orientation of the reader antenna relative to the day. This arrangement is only one option. The associated electronics are preferably mounted in the immediate vicinity of the antenna and may also be integrated into the cone. It should be noted that the distance antenna -Electronics is not too long. If several containers with an RFID reader are set up in such a way that they also recognize tags that do not belong to them, the reader recognizes this and does not release the dosing line, resp. reports corresponding information to the RDG controller.

In the "RFID reader connected" version, the antenna is mounted outside the container but still connected to the lance or cone. This connection can be rigid or flexible. This arrangement is preferably used in metallic containers or when the containers and lances have a shape that does not allow an integrated antenna. The antenna is permanently assigned to a dosing line in the connected version. A read / write of the RFID tag is preferably independent of the installation location of the container.

The chemical manufacturer programs the RFID transponders, prints them and applies them to the chemical containers. A PC software is typically available to collect the data and to program and print the transponder labels. Preferably, each suction lance in the RDG is equipped with a reader / evaluation unit (hereinafter referred to as reader). This reader is preferably integrated with RF antenna either in the cone or in the suction lance. The reader prefers to feed directly from the RDG; it is typically between 5V and 24V DC. The reader preferably displays his current operating status locally via LEDs. As soon as the suction lance is guided into the container, the reader recognizes the RFID transponder on the container and reads it out. Depending on the reader version, different functions are now possible.

In the basic version, the reader is preconfigured so that it knows the permissible cleaning chemicals. The release relay of the reader is connected in the line between dosing pump and control of the RDG and can thus interrupt the control of the pump. The basic version is particularly suitable for retrofitting existing RDG. If the reader detects a container with permissible cleaning agent, it releases the control of the pump. If the pump is not released due to an inadmissible cleaning chemical, the controller of the RDG reports an error during the metering. (A direct error message due to wrong chemistry is not possible in this variant).

In the comfort version, the reader forwards all or part of the data read from the transponder to the controller of the RDG via an interface. The controller can now also use the data to decide if the conditions for the Cleaning process are fulfilled. Alternatively, it can request and evaluate further information about the approval of the cleaning agent used by a control system. Furthermore, it can use a display to inform about the exact system status when the dispensing line is not approved. The RDG controller can use the information provided by the reader to document the process data.

It is clear to the person skilled in the art that variants other than the basic variant and the comfort variant may be used in the context of the invention.

• Der ermittelte Füllstand kann zur Plausibilisierung der Füllstandüberwachung in der Lanze (Signal wenn Behälter leer) genutzt werden: Spricht der Schalter nach Entnahme des Behältervolumens nicht an, so kann entweder die Füllstandüberwachung defekt sein oder der Behälter wurde unerlaubt nachgefüllt.
• Informationen über den aktuellen Füllstand können über den Leser auf dem RFID-Transponder gespeichert werden.

If the controller has the option of determining the current level of the chemical container, the following additional functions are possible:

• The determined level can be used to check the plausibility of the level monitoring in the lance (signal if container empty): If the switch does not respond after removal of the container volume, then either the level monitoring can be faulty or the container was refilled without permission.
• Information about the current level can be stored on the RFID transponder via the reader.

Via the level monitoring (signal if container empty) of the suction lance it is possible to mark a container once emptied electronically in the RFID transponder. Thus, the use of a refilled container (even on other RDG which have the RFID system) made impossible, since the corresponding container was marked as empty.

• Antenne/Leser ist direkt mit der Lanze/Konus verbunden.
• Unabhängig vom Aufstellplatz.
• Die Antennenanordnung muss horizontal nicht speziell zum Tag ausgerichtet sein.
• Die Rückmeldung "Behälter leer" kann auf den RFID Tag geschrieben werden. So ist sichergestellt, dass sich dieser Tag auch an einem anderen Leser nicht wieder betreiben lässt.
• Es können mehrere Tags im Empfangsfeld empfangen werden, so dass verhindert werden kann, dass eine Entnahme bei unklarer Zuordnung von Behälter und Dosierlinie erfolgt.
• Entscheid über Freigabe kann in der Version Komfort in der Steuerung des RDG erfolgen.
• Aufzeichnung der Prozessdaten kann in der RDG Steuerung erfolgen, statt in der Leserelektronik.

Embodiments of the invention may be characterized by one or more of the following advantages:

• Antenna / reader is connected directly to the lance / cone.
• Regardless of the location.
• The antenna array does not have to be horizontally aligned with the daylight.
• The response "Container empty" can be written to the RFID tag. This ensures that this day can not be repeated on another reader.
• Several tags can be received in the receive field, so that it can be prevented that a removal takes place with unclear assignment of container and dosing line.
• Decision on release can be made in the version comfort in the control of the RDG.
• The process data can be recorded in the RDG controller instead of in the reader electronics.

From the following detailed description and the totality of the claims, further advantageous embodiments and feature combinations of the invention result.

Brief description of the drawings

Fig. 1

eine schematische Darstellung einer ersten Ausführungsform einer Sauglanze mit einer Antenne in einem Behälter mit einem RFID-Tag;

Fig. 2

eine schematische Darstellung einer zweiten Ausführungsform einer Sauglanze mit einer Antenne in einem Behälter mit einem RFID-Tag;

Fig. 3

eine schematische Darstellung einer dritten Ausführungsform einer Sauglanze mit einer Antenne in einem Behälter mit einem RFID-Tag;

Fig. 4

eine schematische Darstellung einer vierten Ausführungsform einer Sauglanze mit einer Antenne in einem Behälter mit einem RFID-Tag;

Fig. 5

eine schematische Darstellung einer Anordnung umfassend eine Pumpstation mit jeweils fünf Stellplätzen, Behältern und Sauglanzen;

Fig. 6

eine Darstellung gemäss Figur 5, wobei Sauglanzen, respektive Behälter vertauscht sind.

The drawings used to explain the embodiment show:

Fig. 1

a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a suction lance with an antenna in a container with an RFID tag;

Fig. 2

a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a suction lance with an antenna in a container with an RFID tag;

Fig. 3

a schematic representation of a third embodiment of a suction lance with an antenna in a container with an RFID tag;

Fig. 4

a schematic representation of a fourth embodiment of a suction lance with an antenna in a container with an RFID tag;

Fig. 5

a schematic representation of an arrangement comprising a pumping station with five parking spaces, containers and suction lances;

Fig. 6

a representation according to FIG. 5 , Suction lances, respectively containers are reversed.

Basically, the same parts are provided with the same reference numerals in the figures.

Ways to carry out the invention

The FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a suction lance 10 with an antenna 30 in a container 20 with an RFID tag 21st

The container 20 is in the FIG. 1 , as well as in the following FIGS. 2 to 4 each shown as a canister with a carrying handle. At the front, the container 20 comprises an RFID tag 21 or a transponder, as described above.

In the present case, the suction lance 10.0 comprises a tube part 12 which comprises a fill level sensor 14 at the distal end. In a proximal region, a cone 11 is arranged on the tube part 12, which serves as a closure for the container 20. In the present case, the pipe part 12 is passed through the cone 11. On the front side, an annular antenna 30 is arranged on the cone 11, via which data can be received by the RFID tag. On the cone 11, the electronics 13 is arranged for data processing, which is connected to the antenna via a data line, not shown here. From the electronics 13, the received data may be sent either via a data line or wirelessly (radio, Bluetooth, infrared) to the pumping station 140 (see below) or other central data processing unit, for example a computer.

The FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a suction lance 10.1 with an antenna 30 in a container 20 with an RFID tag. In contrast to FIG. 1 the antenna 30 is connected to the tube part 12 of the suction lance 10.1. The antenna 30 can thus be optimally aligned with the RFID tag.

The FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of a third embodiment of a suction lance 10.2 with an antenna 30 in a container 20 with an RFID tag. In contrast to FIG. 1 For example, the antenna 30 is embedded within the clamping cone 11, for example. This can damage the antenna can be avoided.

The FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of a fourth embodiment of a suction lance 10.3 with an antenna 30 in a container 20 with an RFID tag. In contrast to FIG. 1 the antenna 30 is not directly connected to the suction lance 10.3, but via a spacer 31 with the cone 11 of the suction lance 10.3. This embodiment is advantageous when using metallic containers 20. The spacer is designed substantially as a plastic strip.

The FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 100 comprising a pumping station 140, each with five parking spaces 110-114, containers 120-124 and suction lances 130-134. The plots 110-114 are arranged semicircular around the pumping station 140. In the illustration, each pitch 110-114 is a suction lance 130-134, but not fixed, but variably assigned. Namely, the individual suction lances 130-134 can be assigned to any desired locations 110-114. In the present example, the container 12X is in each case on the parking space 11X, and in the container 12X the suction lance 13X is inserted, wherein X = 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4.

• die Sauglanze 130 dem Stellplatz 111 zugeordnet;
• die Sauglanze 131 dem Stellplatz 110 zugeordnet;
• der Behälter 123 auf dem Stellplatz 112 positioniert und
• der Behälter 122 auf dem Stellplatz 113 positioniert.

The FIG. 6 shows a representation according to FIG. 5 , Wherein suction lances 130-134, respectively containers 120-124 are reversed. Specifically,

• the suction lance 130 assigned to the pitch 111;
• the suction lance 131 associated with the parking space 110;
• the container 123 is positioned on the parking space 112 and
• the container 122 is positioned on the parking space 113.

It will be readily apparent that any conceivable permutation may be accomplished between the suction lances 130-134 and the containers 120-124. In particular, the assignment between the suction lances 130-134 and the containers 120-124 according to FIG. 5 also can be achieved by regrouping the containers 120-124 along with suction lances 130-134 in any way on the plots 110-114.

It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the specific design of the suction lance - these can be varied in many ways without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The skilled person is also clear that any container can be used. In particular commercial canisters for cleaning agents.

In summary, it should be noted that according to the invention a device for the removal of liquids is provided, which is particularly flexible and easy to use.

Claims (15)

Device (10) for removing a liquid, in particular a cleaning agent, comprising a lance (130-134) for withdrawing the liquid from a container (20), characterized in that the lance (10) has an antenna (30) for transmitting and / or or receiving data. Device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least one second lance (10) with an antenna (30) for withdrawing a liquid from a container (20). Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the lance (10) comprises a pipe part (12), wherein the antenna (30) is connected to the pipe part (12). Device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the antenna (30) is arranged around the tube part (12). Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the lance (10) in a proximal region of a lance (10) enclosing closure part (11) for closing a container (20), wherein the antenna (30 ) in the region of the closure part (11), in particular with the closure part (11) is connected. Device (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the antenna (30), preferably via a spacer (31) in a proximal region of the closure part (11) is arranged. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises at least one parking space (110-114) for a container (20) per lance (10), wherein at least one lance (10) has at least two different parking spaces (110-114) are reachable. Device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that with each lance (10) each parking space (110-114) can be reached. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the lance (10) comprises a sensor (14), wherein the sensor (14) is designed in particular as a level sensor. Arrangement comprising a device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 9 with at least one lance (10) comprising an antenna (30) and at least one container (20), the container (20) having a transponder (21), preferably an RFID Transponder (21) which is readable with the antenna (30). Arrangement according to claim 10, characterized in that the RFID transponder (21) of the container (20) and the antenna (30) of the lance (10) are arranged such that when in the container (20) positioned lance (10), Data between the antenna (30) and the RFID transponder (21) are transferable. Arrangement according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the RFID transponder (21) contains one or more of the following information: a. Contents of the container (20), in particular intended use; b. Application notes; c. Manufacturing data. Arrangement according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that in use one or more of the following information on the RFID transponder (21) are storable: a. Status "empty", "not empty", in particular level of the container (20); b. Timestamp of first use; c. Identification of the device (10), in particular the lance (10). Arrangement according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that container (20) is formed and the RFID transponder (21) on the container (20) is arranged such that the RFID transponder (21) completely within a convex termination of the Container (20) is located. Arrangement according to one of Claims 10 to 14, characterized in that a batch can be read out via the antenna (30), with the result that a specific liquid can be released for the lance (10).

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