DE102010002674A1 - Method for operating a metering system inside a water-conducting household appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

Method and device for operating a dosing system in the interior of a water-bearing household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, comprising a water-bearing household appliance, comprising at least one household-appliance-side transmitter (Sh) and at least one household-appliance-side receiver (Eh), a dosing appliance which can be positioned inside the water-bearing household appliance , comprising at least one metering device-side transmitter (Sd) and at least one metering device-side receiver (Ed), wherein at least one metering device-side receiver (Ed) is alternately switched such that it does not transmit any signals from a corresponding household device-side transmitter in a first interval (ΔT1, d, e) (Sh) and that it can receive signals from a corresponding household appliance-side transmitter (Sh) within a second interval (ΔT2, d, e), the first interval (ΔT1, d, e) being the second interval (ΔT2, d, e) is and least ns a household device-side transmitter (Sh) is configured to send out a signal that can be received by a corresponding metering device-side receiver (Ed), the signal having a duration (ΔT1, d, s) that is greater than the first interval (ΔT1, d, e), within which the corresponding metering device-side receiver (Ed) cannot receive any signals from the corresponding household-device-side transmitter (Sh).

Description

The invention relates to a method and a system for energy-optimized operation of a particular energy self-sufficient metering system inside a water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher.

State of the art

Dishwashing detergents are available to the consumer in a variety of forms. In addition to the traditional liquid hand dishwashing detergents, machine dishwashing detergents are particularly important with the spread of household dishwashers. These automatic dishwashing agents are typically offered to the consumer in solid form, for example as powders or as tablets, but increasingly also in liquid form. For some time now, the main focus has been on the convenient dosing of detergents and cleaning agents and the simplification of the steps necessary to carry out a washing or cleaning process.

Further, one of the major goals of the machine-tool manufacturers is to improve the cleaning performance of these agents, with a recent focus on the cleaning performance of low-temperature cleaning cycles and reduced-water consumption cleaning cycles. For this purpose, the cleaning agents were preferably added to new ingredients, for example, more effective surfactants, polymers, enzymes or bleach. However, since new ingredients are available only to a limited extent and the amount of ingredients used for each cleaning cycle can not be increased to any extent for ecological and economic reasons, this approach has natural limits.

In this context, in particular, devices for the multiple dosing of detergents and cleaners have recently come into the field of vision of the product developers. In these devices, it is possible to distinguish between dosing chambers integrated in the dishwasher or textile washing machine on the one hand and independent devices which are independent of the dishwasher or textile washing machine on the other hand. By means of these devices, which contain the multiple of the amount of detergent necessary for carrying out a cleaning process, portions of washing or cleaning agents are metered into the interior of the cleaning machine in an automatic or semi-automatic manner in the course of several successive cleaning processes. For the consumer eliminates the need for manual dosing with each cleaning or washing cycle. Examples of such devices are disclosed in the European patent application EP 1 759 624 A2 (Reckitt Benckiser) or in the German patent application DE 53 5005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch and Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH).

Furthermore, it is off DE102008033108 a dosing device that can be positioned inside a dishwasher and which is configured to exchange signals between the dosing device and the dishwasher. Dosing devices of this type, however, usually have only a capacitively limited power source, so it is desirable to make the operation of the dosing in the way that the energy source, eg. B. in the form of a battery, as long as possible life. Furthermore, it is basically desirable for cost reasons as well as aspects of resource conservation and environmental protection that dosing systems of the type described, consume as little energy.

Object of the invention

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a method and a system for operating a metering device of the type described above, which ensures the lowest possible energy consumption of the energy source of the metering device.

This object is achieved by a method for operating a metering system in the interior of a water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, comprising a water-conducting household appliance, comprising at least one household appliance side transmitter S _h and at least one household appliance side receiver E _h , and a dosing device inside the can be positioned, which comprises at least one dosing device side transmitter S _d and at least one dosing device side receiver E _d , and which is characterized in that at least one dosing device side receiver E _{d is} alternately connected to the way that it in a first interval .DELTA.T _{1, d , e} no signals one S _{h can} receive corresponding household appliance-side transmitter and that he within a second interval .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} signals of a corresponding home appliance-side transmitter S _{h can} receive wherein the first interval .DELTA.T _{1, d, e} ≥ the second interval .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} and at least one home appliance-side transmitter S _{h is} configured to emit a signal that can be received by a corresponding dispenser-side receiver E _d , the signal having a duration ΔT _{1, h, s} that is greater than the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e} , within which the corresponding dosing device-side receiver E _{d can} not receive signals from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h .

This makes it possible to set the dosing device with respect to the communication with the household appliance during the interval .DELTA.T _{1, d, e} in a sleep or stand-by mode and only intermittently in a receive mode .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} , so that the energy consumption of the dosing device can be reduced by the method according to the invention.

A receiver can be put into a state in which it can not receive signals, for example, by power-down or voltage reduction. Furthermore, a receiver can be placed, for example, by energization in a state in which it can receive signals. For example, the change between the two states can be realized by an on / off circuit.

It is preferred that the dosing device-side receiver is connected in such a way that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} constant. It is particularly preferred that the dosing device-side receiver is connected in such a way that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} less than 30 seconds, preferably less than 20 seconds, more preferably less than 10 seconds.

In order to make the method particularly advantageous with respect to energy consumption, it is preferred that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} at least twice, preferably at least three times, more preferably at least four times as long as the second interval ΔT _{2, d, e} ,

According to a further development of the method according to the invention, the dosing device-side receiver E _{d is connected} after receiving the household appliance-side signal ΔT _{1, h, s} in such a way that it can receive signals from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h .

In a preferred further development of the invention, the transmitter-side transmitter S _h sends at least one further signal, preferably at least two further signals, after the transmission of the signal ΔT _{1, h, s} . As a result of these signals, which follow ΔT _{1, h, s} , the dosing device can recognize that the signal is a signal of the household appliance and not a z. B. incidental light, as z. B. may occur when opening a dishwasher door.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention sends the dosing device side transmitter S _d after receiving the household appliance side signal .DELTA.T _{1, h, s} by the dosing device at least one signal, the signal in particular information about the operating status of the dosing device such as the number of remaining doses or the battery status. Of course, it is possible to transmit any information or measurand present in the dosing device to a corresponding signal.

It is furthermore preferable that at least one home appliance-side transmitter S _h , at least one home appliance-side receiver E _h and at least one doser-side transmitter S _d and at least one doser-side receiver E _d are configured for transmitting or receiving optical signals. It is particularly preferred that at least one household appliance-side transmitter S _h , at least one household appliance-side receiver E _h and at least one doser-side transmitter S _d and at least one doser-side receiver E _d configured for transmitting or receiving light in the visible range and / or infrared signals are.

It is preferred that the metering system according to the invention is mobile. Movable in the sense of this application means that the dosing is not permanently connected to a water-bearing device such as a dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer or the like, but for example from a dishwasher by the user removable or positionable in a dishwasher, so independently handled, is According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is also conceivable that the metering device for the user is not detachably connected to a water-bearing device such as a dishwasher, washing machine, laundry dryer or the like and only the cartridge is movable.

dosing

The dosing system according to the invention comprises a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, and a dosing device for dispensing at least one preparation into the interior of the household appliance during a rinsing, washing and / or drying program, wherein the dosing device can be positioned inside a domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher. The household appliance and the dosing device further comprise transmitters and receivers for the preferably optical transmission of signals between the household and dosing device.

dosing

In the dosing are necessary for the operation of the dosing unit control unit, dosing device side transmitter and receiver and at least an actuator integrated. Preferably, an energy source is also arranged in the metering device.

The dosing device is able to dose at least one preparation inside the household appliance. For this purpose, it can be coupled in particular with a preparation-storing cartridge. The dosing device and the cartridge as well as the basic functionality of the dosing device are in WO2010 / 006761 whose disclosure content is added by this reference of the present application.

It is particularly preferred that the dosing device comprises at least a first interface, which cooperates in or on a water-conducting household appliance, preferably a dishwasher, formed corresponding interface in such a way that a transfer of electrical energy from the water-conducting household appliance to the dosing device is realized.

In one embodiment of the invention, the interfaces are formed by connectors. In a further embodiment, the interface cells can be designed in such a way that a wireless transmission of electrical energy is effected.

In this case, it is particularly preferred that the interfaces are inductive transmitters or receivers of electromagnetic waves. Thus, in particular, the interface of a water-conducting device, such as a dishwasher, can be designed as an alternating-current transmitter coil with iron core and the interface of the dosing device as a receiver coil with iron core.

Transmitter and receiver of dosing and water-conducting household appliance

Both the dosing device and the water-conducting household appliance have mutually corresponding transmitter and receiver, so that a transmission of information between the dosing and the water-conducting household appliance is possible.

The dosing device is thus configured such that it can receive signals from a household appliance-side transmitter and send signals to a household appliance-side receiver. The dosing device-side transmitter and dosing device-side receiver can be positioned at a suitable location on the dosing device.

The household appliance side transmitter and / or receiver can be arranged at any suitable location within the household appliance. Preferably, the household appliance side transmitter and / or receiver in the door of the household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, integrated in the way that the household appliance side transmitter and / or receiver is directed into the interior of the household appliance. It is particularly preferred that the transmitter-side transmitter and / or receiver is arranged in a detergent dispenser, a dispenser for rinse aid or salt or a Kombidosiergerät.

The domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, and the dosing device advantageously comprise at least one transmitter and at least one receiver for the wireless transmission of signals to the interior of the dishwasher or for the wireless reception of signals from the interior of the dishwasher.

It is particularly preferred that the household appliance and metering device side transmitters and receivers are configured to transmit or receive optical signals. It is very particularly preferred for the household appliance and metering device-side transmitters and receivers to be configured to emit or receive light in the visible range. Since darkness usually prevails in the interior of the dishwasher during operation of a dishwasher, signals in the visible, optical range, for example in the form of signal pulses or light flashes, can be emitted and detected.

Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the household appliance and metering device side transmitters and receivers are configured to transmit or receive infrared signals. In particular, it is of advantage that the household appliance and metering device side transmitters and receivers are configured to emit or receive infrared signals in the near infrared range (780 nm-3,000 nm).

In particular, the household appliance-side transmitter comprises at least one LED. The household appliance-side transmitter particularly preferably comprises at least two LEDs. In this case, it is particularly advantageous that at least two LEDs are arranged in a staggered emission angle, which is particularly preferably approximately 90 °. As a result, the danger of signal shadows, in which a freely positionable receiver of the signals, in particular a dosing device, could be due to the generated multiple reflections within the dishwasher reduce.

Also, according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is possible to provide at least two household appliance-side LEDs which emit light in a mutually different wavelength. This makes it possible, for example, to different signal bands define on which information can be sent or received.

Furthermore, in a further development of the invention, it is advantageous that at least one metering and / or household appliance-side LED is an RGB LED whose wavelength can be set. For example, with an LED different signal bands can be defined which emit signals at different wavelengths. Thus, for example, it is also conceivable that light is emitted at a different wavelength during the drying process, during which there is a high level of atmospheric humidity (mist) in the washing compartment, than, for example, during a washing step.

The household appliance-side transmitter can be configured in a dispensing device such as a Kombidosiergerät so that the LED both for transmitting signals to the inside of the dishwasher, especially when the dishwasher door is closed, as well as for visual display of an operating condition, such as the level of salt or Rinse aid storage container of a dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door is open.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the household appliance-side transmitter is configured such that it emits an optical signal when the dishwasher is closed, that a mean illuminance E between 0.01 and 100 lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux measured at the the Spülraum limiting Causes walls.

The dosing and / or household appliance-side receiver may in particular comprise a photodiode.

dishwasher

A dishwashing machine suitable for the method according to the invention has, in particular, a closable washing compartment. Usually, the washing compartment of a dishwasher is opened or closed by a door or drawer. Usually, the flushing chamber is protected against the entry of ambient light.

The walls of the washing compartment have in particular a degree of gloss of at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, more preferably at least 45 gloss units measured after DIN 67530 with a 60 ° geometry. As a result, multiple reflections of the emitted optical signals on the walls of the washing compartment are made possible, whereby the danger of possible signal shadows, in particular for optical signals in the visible and / or IR range in the interior of the washing compartment of the dishwasher, is reduced.

Average gloss level means the gloss level averaged over the entire surface of a wall. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the average gloss level of Spülraumwände is at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, more preferably at least 45 gloss units measured according to DIN 67530 with a 60 ° geometry.

Mean washroom gloss level means the gloss level averaged over the entire surface of all washroom walls. In a further preferred development of the invention, the average dishwashing gloss degree is at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, particularly preferably at least 45 gloss units measured according to DIN 67530 with a 60 ° geometry.

In order to further reduce the risk of signal shadows in the washing compartment, in particular for optical signals in the visible or IR range, it is particularly advantageous that the walls of the washing compartment have a reflectance of at least 50%.

Average reflectance means the reflectance averaged over the entire surface of a wall. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the mean reflectance of the Spülraumwände is at least 50%.

Average washdown reflectance means the reflectance averaged over the entire surface of all washroom walls. In a further preferred development of the invention, the average Spülraumreflexionsgrad is at least 50%.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the walls of the washing compartment on optical reflection elements. The reflection elements serve the most homogeneous possible distribution of the optical signals, in particular in the visible and / or IR range within the washing compartment, so that reduced or completely avoided by the corresponding reflections zones of optical signal shadow within the washing compartment. It is particularly preferred that the reflection elements are formed integrally with the Spülraumwänden. According to an advantageous embodiment, the optical reflection elements protrude out of the plane of the Spülraumwände and into the washing compartment inside. However, it is also conceivable that the optical reflection elements are formed as depressions in the Spülraumwänden. The optical reflection elements can take any suitable spatial form, in particular, the optical reflection elements are, for example dome-shaped, cup-shaped, frusto-conical, square-shaped, cube-shaped, with rounded or pointed edges and / or formed from combinations thereof.

The reflection elements can be arranged in particular approximately in the middle of a Spülraumwand. However, it is also conceivable additionally or alternatively, to provide reflection elements at the edges or corners of a Spülraumwand to reduce the risk of signal shadows in particular in the rear, lower and upper corners of the washing compartment (viewed from the dishwasher door of).

preparation

• a) eine erste wässrige tensidhaltige Zubereitung, bzw.
• b) eine Zubereitung, die einen pH-Wert von kleiner 5,5, bevorzugt kleiner 4, insbesondere bevorzugt kleiner 3,5 (10-ige Lösung, 20°C) aufweist oder
• c) eine wässrige Zubereitung, die sowohl Tensid enthält und einen pH-Wert von kleiner 5,5, bevorzugt kleiner 4, insbesondere bevorzugt kleiner 3,5 (10-ige Lösung, 20°C) aufweist.

The metering system according to the invention comprises at least

• a) a first aqueous surfactant-containing preparation, or
• b) a preparation which has a pH of less than 5.5, preferably less than 4, particularly preferably less than 3.5 (10% solution, 20 ° C) or
• c) an aqueous preparation which contains both surfactant and a pH of less than 5.5, preferably less than 4, more preferably less than 3.5 (10-ige solution, 20 ° C).

The use of surfactant or the acidic setting of the preparation, in particular limescale deposits on the walls of the washing compartment can be prevented, which can reduce the gloss and the reflectivity of the walls.

Furthermore, it has surprisingly been found that the transparency of optical transmitter and / or receiver surfaces of the dosing device or the dishwasher can also be kept constant over a large number of rinsing cycles by means of such a surfactant preparation or acid preparation. Particularly advantageous effects are achieved when an aqueous, acidic surfactant preparation is used.

• a) einer spezifischen, im Klarspülgang freizusetzenden tensidhaltigen Zubereitung oder
• b) einer spezifischen, im Klarspülgang freizusetzenden sauer Zubereitung oder
• c) einer spezifischen tensidhaltigen, sauren Zubereitung gewährleistet.

As stated at the outset, the securing and improvement of an optical signal transmission for controlling the dosing systems positioned in the washing compartment is inventively by means of

• a) a specific surfactant-containing preparation to be released in the rinse cycle or
• b) a specific acidic preparation to be liberated in the rinse cycle or
• c) ensures a specific surfactant-containing, acidic preparation.

• – Eine Geschirrspülmaschine mit einem zur Aufnahme von Spülgut vorgesehenen, verschließbaren Spülraum,
• – Wobei die Geschirrspülmaschine eine optische Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit umfasst, die optische Signale in den Spülraum aussendet und/oder aus dem Spülraum empfängt,
• – Wobei die Wände des Spülraums einen Glanzgrad von wenigstens 10 Glanzeinheiten, bevorzugt wenigstens 20 Glanzeinheiten, insbesondere bevorzugt wenigstens 45 Glanzeinheiten gemessen nach DIN 67530 mit einer 60°-Geometrie aufweisen,
• – ein Dosiergerät, das im Inneren des Haushaltsgeräts und beabstandet von der optische Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit der Geschirrspülmaschine angeordnet ist,
• – Wobei das Dosiergerät eine optische Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit umfasst, die optische Signale in den Spülraum aussendet und/oder von der optischen Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit der Geschirrspülmaschine empfängt,
• – wobei das Dosiergerät mit wenigstens einem Behälter, insbesondere einer Kartusche, verbunden ist, in dem diese Zubereitung bevorratet ist,
• – Wobei die Geschirrspülmaschine und das Dosiergerät in der Art zusammenwirken, dass wenigstens eine Abgabe der Zubereitung aus dem Dosiergerät in den Spülraum im Klarspülprogramm der Geschirrspülmaschine erfolgt,

ist ein weiterer Gegenstand der vorliegenden Anmeldung.The use of the listed preparations in a dosing system according to the invention for dispensing this preparation into the interior of a dishwasher comprising

• A dishwasher with a closable washing compartment provided for receiving items to be washed,
• The dishwashing machine comprises an optical transmitting and / or receiving unit which emits optical signals into the washing compartment and / or receives them from the washing compartment,
• - Wherein the walls of the washing compartment a degree of gloss of at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, particularly preferably at least 45 gloss units measured according to DIN 67530 having a 60 ° geometry,
• A dosing device, which is arranged inside the domestic appliance and at a distance from the optical transmitting and / or receiving unit of the dishwasher,
• - Wherein the dosing device comprises an optical transmitting and / or receiving unit which emits optical signals in the washing compartment and / or receives from the optical transmitting and / or receiving unit of the dishwasher,
• - wherein the dosing device is connected to at least one container, in particular a cartridge, in which this preparation is stored,
• The dishwashing machine and the metering device interact in such a way that at least one delivery of the preparation from the metering device into the washing compartment takes place in the final-dishwashing program of the dishwasher,

is a further subject of the present application.

• a. Positionierung eines Dosiergeräts im Inneren der Geschirrspülmaschine,
• b. Verschluss der Geschirrspülmaschinentür,
• c. Auswahl und Start eines Waschprogramms an der Geschirrspülmaschine,
• d. Aussenden wenigstens eines optischen Signals ins Innere der Geschirrspülmaschine mittels einer mit der Geschirrspülmaschine gekoppelten optischen Sendeeinheit zumindest im Klarspülprogramm des gewählten Waschprogramms der Geschirrspülmaschine,
• e. Reflektion des optischen Signals an den den Spülraum begrenzenden Wänden der Geschirrspülmaschine
• f. Detektion des optischen Signals an dem Dosiergerät mittels einer optischen Empfangseinheit,
• g. Wandlung des optischen Signals im Dosiergerät in einen Steuerbefehl zur Abgabe wenigstens einer in den vorherigen Tabellen aufgeführten Zubereitung aus dem Dosiergerät ins Innere der Geschirrspülmaschine

Claimed is also a method for dispensing at least one listed preparation inside a dishwasher, in particular by a metering system according to the invention, comprising the steps

• a. Positioning a dosing device inside the dishwasher,
• b. Closure of the dishwasher door,
• c. Selection and start of a washing program on the dishwasher,
• d. Emitting at least one optical signal into the interior of the dishwasher by means of an optical transmitter unit coupled to the dishwasher, at least in the rinse program of the selected washing program of the dishwasher,
• e. Reflection of the optical signal on the washing compartment walls delimiting the dishwasher
• f. Detection of the optical signal at the dosing device by means of an optical receiving unit,
• G. Conversion of the optical signal in the dosing device in a control command for dispensing at least one listed in the previous tables preparation from the dosing device inside the dishwasher

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments representing figures. Show it:

1 Self-sufficient dosing device with two-chamber cartridge in separated and assembled state

2 Self-contained dosing device with two-chamber cartridge arranged in a drawer of a dishwasher

3 Procedure for controlling a dosing device and dishwasher shown using the temporal switching states of household appliances and dosing equipment side transmitters and receivers

4 Signal and sensitivity curve at a receiving unit

5 Three-chamber cartridge with dosing device in the separated state in a perspective view

6 Combined dosing unit with sender and receiver unit

7 Combined dosing unit with sender and receiver unit with opened dosing chamber lid

1 shows a self-sufficient dosing device 2 with a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the separated and assembled state.

The dosing device 2 has two Dosierkammereinlässe 21a . 21b for repeatedly releasably receiving the corresponding outlet openings 5a . 5b of the chambers 3a . 3b the cartouche 1 on. On the front are display and controls 37 indicating the operating status of the dosing device 2 show or act on this.

The Dosierkammereinlässe 21a . 21b also have means that when plugging the cartridge 1 on the dosing device 2 the opening of the outlet openings 5a . 5b of the chambers 3a . 3b cause, so in the coupled state of dosing 2 and cartouche 1 the interior of the chambers 3a . 3b communicating with the Dosierkammereinlässen 21a . 21b connected is.

The cartouche 1 can be from one or more chambers 3a . 3b consist. The cartouche 1 Can be made in one piece with several chambers 3a . 3b or be formed in several pieces, in which case the individual chambers 3a . 3b to a cartouche 1 be joined together, in particular by cohesive, positive or non-positive connection methods.

In particular, the fixation by one or more of the types of compounds from the group of snap-in compounds, compression joints, fusions, adhesive bonds, welded joints, solder joints, screw, wedge, clamp or bounce joints can be done. In particular, the fixation can also be formed by a shrink sleeve (so-called sleeve), which is pulled in a heated state at least in sections over the cartridge and firmly encloses the cartridge in the cooled state.

To advantageous residual emptying properties of the cartridge 1 can provide the bottom of the cartridge 1 funnel-shaped to the discharge opening 5a . 5b be inclined. Furthermore, the inner wall of the cartridge 1 be formed by suitable choice of material and / or surface design in such a way that a low material adhesion of the product is realized on the inner cartridge wall. Also by this measure, the residual emptying of the cartridge can be 1 continue to optimize.

The chambers 3a . 3b the cartouche 1 may have the same or different filling volumes. For a two-chamber configuration 3a . 3b the ratio of the chamber volumes is preferably 5: 1, in a three-chamber configuration preferably 4: 1: 1, these configurations being particularly suitable for use in dishwashers.

A connection method can also be that the chambers 3a . 3b in one of the corresponding Dosierkammereinlässen 21a . 21b of the dosing device 2 stuck and thus fixed against each other.

The connection between the chambers 3a . 3b In particular, it can be made detachable to allow a separate exchange of a chamber.

The chambers 3a . 3b each contain a preparation 40a . 40b , The preparation 40a . 40b may have the same or different composition.

Advantageously, the chambers are 3a . 3b Made of a transparent material, so that the level of the preparations 40a . 40b from the outside by the user is visible. However, it may also be advantageous to manufacture at least one of the chambers from an opaque material, in particular when the preparation contained in this chamber contains light-sensitive ingredients.

The outlet openings 5a . 5b are designed so that they with the corresponding Dosierkammereinlässen 21a . 21b form a positive and / or non-positive, in particular liquid-tight, connection.

It is particularly advantageous that each of the outlet openings 5a . 5b is designed so that it only on one of the Dosierkammereinlässe 21a . 21b fits, preventing a chamber from being accidentally plugged into a wrong dosing chamber inlet. This can be achieved, for example, by outlet openings of different sizes or different in terms of the basic shape 5a . 5b and / or Dosierkammereinlässe 21a . 21b be realized.

The cartouche 1 usually has a filling volume of <5,000 ml, in particular <1,000 ml, preferably <500 ml, more preferably <250 ml, most preferably <50 ml.

The dosing unit 2 and the cartouche 1 can be adapted in the assembled state in particular the geometries of the devices or in which they are applied to ensure the lowest possible loss of useful volume. To use the dosing unit 2 and the cartouche 1 in dishwashers it is particularly advantageous to use the dosing unit 2 and the cartouche 1 in accordance with dishes to be cleaned in dishwashers. So the dosing unit 2 and the cartouche 1 for example, plate-shaped, be formed in approximately the dimensions of a plate. As a result, the dosing unit can be positioned to save space in the lower basket. (see also 4 )

The outlet openings 5a . 5b the cartouche 1 are preferably arranged on a line or in a flight, whereby a slender, plate-shaped design of the dosing dispenser is possible.

The dosing device also has a dosing device-side transmitter S _d and a dosing device-side receiver E _d , each in the lateral surface of the dosing unit 2 are arranged. The dosing device-side transmitter S _d is preferably a light source, such as an LED or a laser diode, which emits light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range. The dosing device-side receiver E _d is preferably a light sensor, such as a photodiode, which can receive light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range.

The dosing device side transmitter S _d and dosing device side receiver E _d are in the dosing unit 2 connected to the control unit and an electrical energy storage such as a battery or accumulator (not shown). The control unit switches the dosing device side transmitter S _d and dosing device side receiver E _d according to the method described below, de-energized or energized.

Figure shows a self-sufficient dosing device with a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the dish drawer 11 with the dishwasher door open 39 a dishwasher 38 , It can be seen that the dosing device 2 with the cartouche 1 in principle anywhere in the dish drawer 11 can be positioned, it is advantageous, a dish-shaped or cup-shaped dosing 1 . 2 in a corresponding plate or cup holder of the dish drawer 11 provided. In the dishwasher door 39 there is a dosing chamber 53 into which a dishwasher cleaner preparation may be added, for example in the form of a tablet. Is the dosing system 1 . 2 in the ready state inside the dishwasher 38 Thus, a cleaning formulation addition for each rinse cycle is via the dosing chamber 53 not necessary because a detergent dispensing for a plurality of rinses over the dosing system 1 . 2 is realized, which will be explained in more detail below. It is advantageous in this embodiment of the invention that when the self-sufficient dosing system 1 . 2 in the lower drawer 11 the delivery of the preparations 40a . 40b from the cartouche 1 takes place directly over the bottom of the dispenser arranged outlet openings in the rinse water liquor, so that a quick solution and uniform distribution of the rinse in the wash program is guaranteed.

The dishwasher 38 also has a household appliance side transmitter S _h and a home appliance-side receiver E _h , each in the door 39 the dishwasher 38 are arranged. The household appliance-side transmitter S _h is preferably a light source, such as an LED or a laser diode, which emits light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range. The household appliance-side receiver E _h is preferably a light sensor, such as a photodiode, which can receive light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range.

The household appliance-side transmitter S _h and household appliance-side receiver E _h are in the dishwasher 38 connected to the control unit and an electrical connection or energy storage (not shown). The control unit of the dishwasher 38 switches the dosing device-side transmitter S _d and dosing device-side receiver E _d according to the method described below.

3 shows the procedure for controlling the 1 - 2 known metering device and dishwasher 38 based on temporal switching states of household appliance and metering device side transmitters and receivers.

In the upper area of the figure, above the dashed line, the switching states of dosing device side receiver E _d and dosing device side transmitter S _{d are} plotted against a time axis. In the lower area of the figure, below the dashed line, the switching states of the household appliance-side transmitter S _h and household appliance-side receiver E _{h are} plotted against a time axis.

It can be seen that the dosing device-side receiver E _{d is} initially connected in constant, periodic first intervals ΔT _{1, d, e} such that it can not receive any signals from a corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h . This is preferably effected by a currentless switch of the receiver E _d or by lowering the voltage applied to the receiver E _d . In this context, one can also speak of a stand-by or sleep mode of the dosing device-side receiver E _d .

Between these first standby or sleep mode intervals .DELTA.T _{1, d, e} is the dosing device side receiver E _d during a second interval .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} switched so that it can receive signals from a corresponding household appliance side transmitter S _h , the Receiver E _{d is} thus in a wake-up or monitoring mode with a high sensitivity. This is preferably effected by energizing the receiver E _d or by increasing the voltage applied to the receiver E _d . This can be recognized by the rectangular jump function in the dosing device-side receiver E _d assigned graph. It can also be seen that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} significantly longer than the second interval ΔT _{2, d, e} .

In order to be able to reliably receive a signal from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h , this signal must have at least a duration ΔT _{1, h, s} which is greater than the duration of the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e} , so that it is ensured in that the signal duration ΔT _{1, h, s} falls, at least in sections, into the second interval ΔT _{2, d, e} , within which the dosing device-side receiver E _d can receive signals from a corresponding household-appliance-side transmitter S _h .

If a household appliance-side signal ΔT _{1, h, s is} received by the dosing device-side receiver E _d , the receiver E _d remains switched in monitoring mode. One recognizes this in the 4 at the time interval .DELTA.T _{3, d, e} , which is greater than the second time interval .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} , in which the dosing device-side receiver E _d is in the monitoring mode.

While the dosing device-side receiver E _{d is} therefore in the monitoring mode, the household-appliance-side transmitter S _h transmits two further signals ΔT _{2, h, s} and ΔT _{3, h, s} after the transmission of the signal ΔT _{1, h, s} . This allows the dosing detect that it is signals of the household appliance and not at z. B. incidental light by opening the dishwasher door. Therefore, the signals .DELTA.T.sub.2 _{, h, s} and .DELTA.T.sub.3 _{, h, s can} also be referred to as verification signals.

After the home appliance-side signal .DELTA.T _{1, h, s} , the household appliance-side receiver E _{h is switched} out of a stand-by or sleep mode out in such a way that it can receive signals from the doser-side transmitter E _d . The dosing device side transmitter E _d remains in its monitoring mode for the time interval .DELTA.T _{1, h, e} , wherein the interval .DELTA.T _{1, h, e} ends after receiving a corresponding OFF signal .DELTA.T _{3, d, s} from dosing device side transmitter S _d .

In response to the dosing device to the signals of the household appliance sends the dosing device side transmitter S _d after receiving the household appliance side signal .DELTA.T _{1, h, s} and the Prüf.- or Verification signals .DELTA.T _{2, h, s} and .DELTA.T _{3, h, s} two consecutive Signals .DELTA.T _{1, d, s} and .DELTA.T _{2, d, s} , wherein the signals .DELTA.T _{1, d, s} and .DELTA.T _{2, d, s} in particular information about the type and / or the version of the dosing device and / or the operating status of the metering device, such as the number of remaining dosages or the battery status.

Subsequently, from the home appliance side transmitter signals S _h .DELTA.T _{4, h,} emitted _s, which represent particular control commands, status information, counter and / or timer information measured values, program updates or the like.

To complete the transfer of information from the household to the dosing device of the household appliance transmitter S _h sends a switch-off ΔT _{5, h, s} which puts the dosing device-side receiver E _d back into its stand-by or sleep mode after receiving.

The manner in which the signals, in particular the signals for transmitting information such as type and / or version of the dosing device, the operating status of the dosing device, such as the number of remaining doses or the battery status, control commands, measured values, program updates or the like, may be formed by way of example based on 4 explained in more detail.

In the lower section of 4 is the temporal waveform at one inside a Dishwasher positioned dosing unit shown with a receiver. The dosing device-side receiver consists of at least one photodiode, which is suitable for the detection of light pulses in the visible range. At time (1), the dosing device-side receiver receives a light pulse I ₁ having a fixed and predefined pulse duration I _t1 . The light pulse I ₁ ends at the time (2). The light pulse is emitted by a household appliance transmitter inside the dishwasher, the transmitter comprises an LED that emits light in the visible range. Again 4 as can be clearly seen, a light pulse always has the same duration I _t1 .

By receiving the light pulse I ₁ , a time measurement is started. This will be discussed in more detail below.

The dosing device side receiver is set to a high sensitivity immediately before the reception of the light pulse, so that the emitted light pulse can be well received. This is in the upper section of 4 shown in which the sensitivity of the receiving unit is plotted parallel to the time or signal waveform. It can be seen that the sensitivity at time (1) is set to high sensitivity.

After receiving the light pulse I ₁ at the time (2), the output signal of the receiver initially rises slowly in the direction of quiescent level due to the still high sensitivity of the receiver. By switching the receiving unit after receiving the light pulse I ₁ from a high to a low sensitivity at the time (3), it is achieved that the output signal of the receiving unit increases faster again to the quiescent level. The duration of the low sensitivity is chosen so that the output signal of the receiving unit again safely reaches the quiescent level. In this fixed transmission pause, whose time duration t _p between the times (2) and (4), no light pulses are emitted into the dishwasher inside.

At the time (4), ie after the fixed transmission pause t _p , the sensitivity of the receiving unit is switched back to the high sensitivity.

The time period t _v between the times (4) and (5) is variable, which is indicated inter alia by the broken dimension line. Due to the variable pause, in which also no light pulses are emitted, one or more information can be encoded. The duration of the variable break thus contains the information to be transmitted.

After the variable interval t _v starts the second light pulse I _{2 of} the transmitter, which the receiver can detect well due to the high sensitivity again. At this time (5), the timing started at the time (1) is ended and the time difference between the reception of the first light pulse I ₁ and the second light pulse I _{2 is} determined.

Since the fixed pulse duration I _{t1 of} the first light pulse I ₁ and the temporally adjoining fixed pause t _p in which no light pulses are transmitted are known, the transmitted information can be coded or decoded from the time difference t _I2 -t _I1 .

5 shows a further embodiment of the cartridge 1 and the dosing device 2 for carrying out the method explained in the beginning in the uncoupled state.

5 shows the cartouche 1 in a perspective view. At the bottom of the cartouche 4 are alternately outlet openings 5 and vents 81 arranged. For each of the chambers in the cartridge 1 is in each case an outlet opening 5 and a ventilation opening 81 intended. The width (B) is substantially greater than the depth (T) of the cartridge 1 , The ratio of the depth (T) to the width (B) of the cartridge 1 is about 1:20.

6 shows a metering chamber 53 in the one transmission unit 87 and a receiving unit 91 is integrated. Such a dosing chamber 53 is also referred to as Kombidosiergerät. The dosing chamber 53 has a closure for a dishwashing agent which can be closed by a hinged closure lid. 7 shows the closure lid in its open position. In addition, the dosing chamber 53 still have a receptacle for a rinse aid, which by the circular closure to the right of the cap in the 6 and 7 is indicated.

The transmitting unit 87 includes a light source that in the transmitting unit 87 is arranged such that the illuminant radiates into the interior of the dishwasher. The lighting means may in particular be an LED or a laser diode. The LED is arranged so that it is out of the plane of the transmitting unit 87 protrudes so that the LED produces the largest possible beam angle.

The transmitting unit 87 can be configured so that the LED both to send signals inside the dishwasher 38 , especially when the dishwasher door is closed 39 , as well as the visual display of an operating condition, for example, the level of the salt or rinse aid container of a Dishwasher, especially when the dishwasher door is open 39 is provided.

The receiving unit 91 preferably consists of a photodiode, which is suitable to detect light signals from the interior of the dishwasher. Like the sending unit 87 , can also be the photodiode of the receiving unit 91 protrude from the plane of the receiving unit to achieve the best possible Einstrahlcharakteristik on the photodiode.

It is also possible that the metering chamber 53 a recording 107 by means of which a movable metering system consisting of dosing 2 and cartouche 1 detachable or fixed to the dosing chamber 53 can be coupled

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 1759624 A2 [0004]
• DE 535005062479 A1 [0004]
• DE 102008033108 [0005]
• WO 2010/006761 [0019]

Cited non-patent literature

• DIN 67530 [0036]
• DIN 67530 [0037]
• DIN 67530 [0038]
• DIN 67530 [0048]

Claims (15)

Method for operating a metering system in the interior of a water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, comprising a water-conducting domestic appliance, comprising at least one domestic appliance-side transmitter (S _h ) and at least one household appliance-side receiver (E _h ) A dosing device which can be positioned inside the water-bearing domestic appliance, comprising at least one metering device-side transmitter (S _d ) and at least one metering device-side receiver (E _d ), characterized in that at least one metering device-side receiver (E _d ) is alternately connected in such a way that in a first interval (ΔT _{1, d, e} ) can not receive signals of a corresponding home appliance-side transmitter (S _h), and that it can receive within a second interval (.DELTA.T _{2, d, e)} signals of a corresponding home appliance-side transmitter (S _h) wherein said first interval (.DELTA.T _{1, d, e)} ≥ the second Interv all (ΔT _{2, d, e} ) and at least one home appliance-side transmitter (S _h ) is configured to emit a signal that can be received by a corresponding dispenser-side receiver (E _d ), the signal having a duration (ΔT _{1, h, s} ), which is greater than the first interval (.DELTA.T _{1, d, e} ), within which the corresponding dosing device side receiver (E _d ) can not receive signals from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter (S _h ). A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the dosing device side receiver (E _d ) is connected in such a way that the first interval (.DELTA.T _{1, d, e} ) is constant. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the dosing device-side receiver (E _d ) is connected in such a way that the first interval (ΔT _{1, d, e} ) is less than 30 seconds, preferably less than 20 seconds, particularly preferably less than 10 seconds. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first interval (ΔT _{1, d, e} ) is at least twice, preferably at least three times, more preferably at least four times as long as the second interval (ΔT _{2, d, e} ). Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device-side receiver (E _d ) after receipt of the household appliance side signal (.DELTA.T _{1, h, s} ) is connected in such a way that it can receive signals from the corresponding household appliance side transmitter (S _h ) , Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmitter (S _h ) after the transmission of the signal (ΔT _{1, h, s} ) at least one further signal (ΔT _{2, h, s} , ΔT _{3, h, s} , ΔT _{4, h, s} , ΔT _{5, h, s} ), preferably at least two further signals (ΔT _{2, h, s} , ΔT _{3, h, s} , ΔT _{4, h, s} , ΔT _{5, h, s} ) are emitted , Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device side transmitter (S _d ) after receiving the household appliance side signal (.DELTA.T _{1, h, s} ) by the dosing device at least one signal (.DELTA.T _{1, d, s} , .DELTA.T _{2, d, s} , .DELTA.T _{3, d, s} ), wherein the signal (.DELTA.T _{1, d, s} , .DELTA.T _{2, d, s} , .DELTA.T _{3, d, s} ) in particular information about the type and / or version of the dosing device and / or the operating status of the dosing device, such as the number of doses remaining or the battery status. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after receipt of the household appliance signal (ΔT _{1, h, s} ) by the dosing device side receiver (E _d ), the receiver (E _d ) remains switched in such a way that it receives signals from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter (S _h ) can receive. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one household appliance side transmitter (S _h ), at least one household appliance side receiver (E _h ) and at least one dosing device side transmitter (S _d ) and at least one dosing device side receiver (E _d ) for sending or configured to receive optical signals. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one household appliance side transmitter (S _h ), at least one household appliance side receiver (E _h ) and at least one dosing device side transmitter (S _d ) and at least one dosing device side receiver (E _d ) for sending or configured to receive light in the visible range. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one household appliance side transmitter (S _h ), at least one household appliance side receiver (E _h ) and at least one dosing device side transmitter (S _d ) and at least one dosing device side receiver (E _d ) for sending or is configured to receive infrared signals. Dosing system configured to carry out the method according to one of claims 1-11, comprising A water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, comprising at least one domestic appliance-side transmitter (S _h ) and at least one domestic appliance-side receiver (E _h ) A dosing device inside of the water-conducting domestic appliance can be positioned, comprising at least one metering device-side transmitter (S _d ) and at least one metering device-side receiver (E _d ) Dosing system according to claim 12, characterized in that the household appliance side transmitter (S _h ) is connected, for example by means of a control unit in such a way that the household appliance side transmitter (S _h ) emits a signal that from the corresponding dosing device side receiver (E _d ) are received can, wherein the signal has a duration (.DELTA.T _{1, h, s} ) which is greater than the first interval (.DELTA.T _{1, d, e} ), within which the corresponding dosing device side receiver (E _d ) no signals of the corresponding home appliance transmitter side ( S _h ) can receive. Dosing system according to claim 12, characterized in that the household appliance and dosing equipment side transmitters and receivers are configured to emit or receive light in the visible range and / or infrared signals. Dosing system according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the household appliance side transmitter (S _h ) and / or receiver (E _h ) is integrated in a Kombidosiergerät a dishwasher / are.

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