DE102016208093A1 - DOSING DEVICE FOR A CLEANING DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a metering device for a cleaning device (RV), comprising a vertically arranged container (B) with a first fluid connection (F1) for receiving fluid (F) from a fluid pump (P) located at the bottom (BO) of the container (FIG. B), and at least one second fluid port (F2) arranged higher in a vertical direction than the first fluid port (F1) and a levitation device (SW) disposed inside the vessel (B), the second one higher lying fluid connection (F2) and the levitation device (SW) are formed so that the levitation device (SW) upon contact with the second fluid port (F2) closes this.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The invention relates to a metering device for a cleaning device and a cleaning device using them.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cleaning devices are used in many technical fields. So there are cleaning devices that clean by emitting a liquid (or a fluid) smaller areas, such as a window or other glass surfaces. A typical well-known application of cleaning devices is in the automotive field, for example for cleaning the windscreen or the rear window of a vehicle. Cleaning devices are now also common on the headlamps to clean them of bad adhesion in bad weather conditions.

Modern vehicles are nowadays usually equipped with additional technical equipment, such as a navigation system or driver assistance systems for distance measurement and distance control (for example, for brake control, speed control, etc.). These driver assistance systems typically require cameras located on the vehicle exterior for optically detecting and sensing the vehicle environment to allow the electronics to calculate the distance and, for example, control vehicle speed. Typically, the cameras are located in places where they are poorly protected from contamination and external weather conditions. For example, cameras that monitor for example a lane change by tracking the central or side stripes of a road or distance sensors in the lower vehicle area must be arranged so that they are easily polluted.

8th , shows a typical cleaning device RV, which is known from the prior art. Typically, a reservoir VR containing a cleaning fluid is connected via a supply line VL to a pump P which is controlled by a controller ST. By controlling the pump P, the cleaning liquid is supplied to the camera K via a supply line ZL. The fluid flow FF then causes a cleaning of the lenses or cover glasses, ie the optical elements, the camera K.

Since the lenses or cover glasses have only a limited size, only a small amount of cleaning liquid is normally used, since due to the arrangement of the cameras in the lower region on the body cleaning liquid runs down after cleaning on the body. In addition, the cleaning liquid, so they do not need to be replenished frequently, metered or controlled discharge. Similar to a window cleaning device, a metered adjustment of the cleaning liquid consumption is achieved by either intermittently controlling the pump P (i.e., via pump running times) or introducing control valves into the supply lines VL or ZR via the control means ST. However, the setting of the cleaning liquid consumption over pump running times or control valves is disadvantageous in that the effective amount of liquid consumed during time-controlled measures also depends strongly on the ambient temperature and the viscosity of the cleaning liquid. This problem generally exists in cleaning devices also for other soiled parts or surfaces, since normally there is only a limited supply of cleaning fluid.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

As explained above, liquid has to be metered in many technical fields, and this is not even limited to a device for cleaning. Even in other technical fields, a supply of a limited (metered) amount of liquid is required, for example, to supply a limited amount of oil to a bearing or other parts in a mechanical structure. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the use as a cleaning device. In all these technical fields, there is a need to ensure that liquid or fluid can be metered out in a controlled manner without great expense and with a simple structure.

The object of the invention is thus to provide a device for the metered supply of a fluid or a liquid, in particular a metering device for a cleaning device, which can discharge or supply a defined amount of a fluid (or a liquid) in a simple and cost-effective manner.

This object is achieved by a metering device for a cleaning device, comprising a container having a first fluid port for receiving fluid from a fluid pump and at least one second fluid port for delivering fluid, and a closing device which is movably disposed within the container, wherein the container and the closure means are configured such that the closure means is fluidically flowed through the container from the first to the second fluid port of a start position is movable to a stop position, and the container and the closing device are formed so that the closing device stops the delivery of the fluid flow from the second fluid port at the stop position. According to one aspect of the invention, the metering device comprises eg a vertically arranged container with a first fluid connection for receiving fluid from a fluid pump, arranged at the bottom of the container, and at least one second fluid connection, which is arranged higher in a vertical direction than the first fluid connection, and a closure device embodied as a levitation device, which is arranged within the container, wherein the second, higher-lying fluid connection and the levitation device are designed such that the levitation device closes the same upon contacting the second fluid connection.

Further, this object is achieved by a cleaning device comprising a cleaning fluid container, a fluid pump connected to the cleaning fluid container for drawing cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid container and pumping the cleaning fluid to an outlet line, and a metering device connected to the outlet line at its first fluid port, as indicated above, and a controller that drives the fluid pump for intermittent operation to intermittently discharge cleaning fluid from the second fluid port.

The object is also achieved by a method for metered feeding of cleaning fluid to a device to be cleaned by means of the abovementioned cleaning device, comprising the following steps: switching on the fluid pump for sucking cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid container and for pumping the sucked cleaning fluid to the first fluid port, Continuing the pumping action until the occluder, entrained in the cleaning fluid flowing through the container, is moved from the start position to the stop position and the delivery stops fluid flow from the second fluid port, and turning off the pump to suspend the pumping event for a predetermined period of time Closing device is moved back to the stop position after switching off the pump.

According to one aspect, the method for a closure device embodied as a levitation device comprises the following steps: switching on the fluid pump for drawing cleaning fluid out of the cleaning fluid container and for pumping the sucked cleaning fluid to the first fluid connection, continuing the pumping operation until the levitation device is entrained by the container flowing cleaning fluid, coming into contact with and closing the second fluid port, and turning off the pump to suspend the pumping action for a predetermined period of time in which the levitation device falls back to the first fluid port after the pump is turned off. These steps can be repeated to make multiple bursts in succession.

Thus, the basic idea of the invention is that within the container a closing element (closing device) is entrained, which is entrained by the fluid flow which flows through the container from the first fluid port to the second fluid port when the pump delivers the fluid to the first Fluid connection pumps. Thus, the metering is not effected by switching the pump on and off, but by the volume flowing through the container in the period of time required for the capper to be moved from the start position to the stop position. This also depends, for example, on the specific weight of the closing device, as well as on the type of fluid, ie in principle on how fast the closing device is moved to the stop position. For the next "shot" the closing device is returned from the stop position back to the starting position. This can be accomplished actively by return means or, if the container is vertical or at least arranged so that in the direction of gravity the stop position is higher than the starting position, passively simply in that the closing device falls back to the stop position by its own gravity.

Thus, according to one aspect of this basic idea of the present invention, metering must not be done by turning on / off a pump (ie, over a period of time), but by providing a type of co-flowing and movable closure member (closure means) similar to that described above a float which floats on the surface of the gasoline liquid in a gasoline tank, is immersed in the liquid and entrained in a movement of the liquid until it obstructs an outlet port of the metering device. This movable closing element, which is designed so that it floats in the liquid and is taken along by the flow of the liquid, but at a stop of the flow by gravity drops back to the ground or floats back, is referred to here as floating device. Thus, according to the invention, metering is set by the amount of fluid required per pump stroke to move the levitation device to the second fluid port. Thus, the metering acts as a self-shutting off and closing valve, but completely different from a shut-off valve. In fact, the metering device regulates itself, via the weight of the levitation device, the chamber volume of the container (that is to say the metering volume which can be ejected in the event of a shock) and via the acting force of gravity.

As already mentioned, the container and the closing device can be designed so that the closing device can be moved back to the starting position after stopping the fluid flow at the stop position. This can be done in a simple manner so that the stop position is arranged in the direction of gravity higher than the starting position, so that the closing device simply "floats" like a levitation device to the (lower) stop position.

The start position at which the occlusion device is located before the fluid shot is made and the stop position at which the occlusion device stops fluid flow may be located at any point in the fluid flow direction. However, it is advantageous if the first fluid port is arranged at the start position of the container and the second fluid port at the stop position.

Depending on the design of the metering device, it is advantageous, even if a quasi-vertical container is used, in which the closing device falls back by its own gravity to the stop position when the container is provided with the above-mentioned return means, which closes after the Fluid shot from the stop position to the starting position retrieves.

Such return means may comprise a return spring, via which the closing device is connected to the container, for example, at the start position.

The closing device may also be designed to be magnetic, wherein the return means may comprise an electromagnet or a magnet which magnetically attracts the closing device. Thus, a mechanical reset does not necessarily have to be done.

When the stop position is the position of the second fluid port, the second fluid port and the occlusion device may be configured such that the occlusion device, upon contacting the second fluid port, closes it and thereby stops fluid flow.

The container itself can be provided at the stop position with flow stop means, which are designed to stop the fluid flow in the direction of the second fluid port when contacted by the closing device. Thus, the metering device is independent of the type of fluid connection and the connections can be exchanged or removed without the closure device falling out, e.g. if the dosing device needs to be cleaned or rinsed. Thus, simply the first and the second fluid connection can remain flange-mounted on its respective connection hose and only the container with start and stop position and interposed sealing device can be exchanged or cleaned as a module.

An advantageous embodiment of the closing device may be a closing device designed as a levitation device, as mentioned above. It is advantageous if the container is a vertical cylindrical body, wherein the first fluid port is arranged at the lower end of the cylinder and the second fluid port is arranged at the upper end of the cylinder. Although it is only necessary that the second fluid port, which is to be closed by the levitation, is higher than the first fluid port, so that falling back of the levitation on the first fluid port by gravity, a vertical arrangement of the container is advantageous as a cylindrical body because then as little friction between the levitation device and the inner peripheral surface of the container occurs and the floating device can thus easily fall back to the first fluid port.

The first and / or second fluid connection can be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the container or in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the container. Thus, the installation space or the Verbaugeometrie in the vehicle at locations where the metering device or the cleaning device is to be attached, are taken into account.

Although the floating device may in principle have any geometry, as well as the internal geometry of the container may be arbitrary, it is particularly advantageous if the cross-sectional shape of the levitation device is substantially adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the container, so that the floating direction at a fluid flow through the container from the first fluid port F1 at the bottom to the second fluid port is easily movable. If the geometries or cross-sectional shapes are adapted, a simple entrainment or a simple movement of the levitation device is achieved by the fluid flow.

If the outer diameter of the levitation device is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the container, then no friction or substantially no friction occurs between the inner surface of the container and the levitation device.

The levitation means may have a specific gravity which is higher than the specific gravity of the fluid flowing through the container. Thus, it can be made possible that the levitation device is entrained, but also quickly falls back to the first fluid connection or sinks back.

An adaptation of the cross-sectional shape can be achieved in a simple manner, for example, that a ball is used for the levitation device and for the container, a cylindrical body is used. The ball may be a stainless steel ball.

In order to avoid tilting of the levitation device on the inner surface of the container, it is also advantageous if the container has a guide device on the container inside and the floating direction is formed to engage in the guide means to be guided therein.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first fluid connection comprises a valve, preferably a non-return valve. Thus, a blistering in the container interior can be avoided when the pump is turned off / is.

Further advantages, embodiments and improvements of the invention are indicated in the subclaims. The invention will be described in more detail below on the basis of its advantageous embodiments with reference to the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings show:

1a Block diagrams of various embodiments of the dosing device DV according to the invention, wherein in A) and B) an embodiment is shown in which the start position STRT and the stop position STOP by a first and second fluid port F1, F2 is defined, and wherein at C) and D ) an embodiment with an upper and lower stop OA, UA is shown;

1b in A) an embodiment of the dosing device DV, in which the stops are designed as an insert EZ, and in B) an embodiment in which the closing device SW is a ball KU, which comes to rest on upper and lower stops;

1c an embodiment of the metering device DV with return means RM for retrieving the closing device SW to the start position STRT;

1d an overview diagram showing a cleaning device RV with a metering device DV according to the present invention;

2 an embodiment of the dosing device DV according to the invention;

3 an example of the metering device DV, wherein the fluid ports F1 and F2 are arranged in a longitudinal direction of the cylindrical container B;

4 a flow chart of the inventive method for supplying liquid, for example a cleaning liquid, according to the invention;

5 an illustration in which the levitation device SW is transported in the form of the ball KU from the lower to the upper fluid port when a fluid flow occurs;

6 an enlarged view of the 5 wherein a valve VT is attached to the lower fluid port, ie at the entrance;

7a an example of a guide device G1, which is provided for guiding the levitation device within a cylindrical container;

7b another example of a guide device; and

8th a cleaning device RV, which is typically used in the prior art.

For the following description of the invention, it should be noted that this is not limited to the illustrated and described embodiments, but may include other embodiments and combinations of the technical features that are shown and described separately in the figures and in the description. Thus, the invention includes all modifications that may be made by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the present disclosure and that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Further, although specific geometries will be described below, the invention is not limited to the geometries and dimensions shown. In particular, it should be noted that the following description refers to certain embodiments of the invention, which are described in connection with a cleaning device for a camera of a vehicle assistance system by way of example. However, the invention is not limited thereto and it can be used for ejecting any liquid (s), ie the invention is also independent of the device to be cleaned or irrespective of the type of liquid or fluid.

PRINCIPLE OF THE INVENTION

1a shows the basic principle of the metering device DV according to the invention. As below with reference to 1d is explained, such a metering device DV is preferably used in a cleaning device RV to deliver a metered amount of liquid to a device to be cleaned. However, the dosing device DV can also be used in other fields of application, wherever a defined amount of a fluid or a liquid must be ejected.

1a shows in A) and B) an embodiment in which the metering device DV comprises a container B with a first fluid port F1 for receiving fluid from a fluid pump P and at least one second fluid port F2 for delivering fluid F. For example, the first fluid port F1 is disposed at the bottom BO of the metering device DV when installed in a vertical state. The container B may have a cylindrical shape, as indicated by the reference Z.

In particular, the metering device DV comprises a closing device SW, which is arranged movably within the container B, as indicated by the vertical arrow. 1a shows in A) the initial state before a fluid ejection, in which the closing device SW is at a start position STRT. For example, the closing device SW can rest on the first fluid port F1. 1a B) shows the state after a fluid flow FF has moved the closing device SW to a stop position STOP. The container B and the closing device SW are designed such that the closing device SW stops the delivery of the fluid flow from the second fluid port F2 at the stop position STOP. As described below with reference to the embodiments in 2 and 3 In the simplest case, device SW can simply cover an opening in the second fluid port F2 and thus stop the flow of fluid.

As can be seen from the transition from A) to B) in 1a can be seen, the container B and the closing device SW is formed so that the closing device SW is movable by the fluid flow FF through the container B from the first fluid port F1 to the second fluid port F2 from a start position STRT to a stop position STOP. This means that the fluid flow FF from the pump P entrains the closing device SW, so that it can be moved from the start position STRT to the stop position ST OP. In this case, the liquid which is arranged above the closing device SW is delivered in a shot from the start position STRT to the stop position STOP. Thus, the length of movement of the closure device SW (and the diameter of the container B) determines the total amount (total volume) that will be expelled.

How fast the closing device SW is moved from the start position STRT to the stop position depends on the configuration of the container B and the configuration of the closing device SW, for example also of the lateral distance between the closing device SW and the container inner wall. In addition, of course, the ratio of the specific gravity to the density of the liquid plays a role. For example, when water is expelled, a heavier closing device SW is needed. In contrast, if oil or a heavy liquid to be ejected, the specific weight of the closing SW may be lower.

After the closing device SW has arrived at the stop position STOP, the pump P, which has caused the fluid flow FF, is turned off. For example, since the closing means SW stops the flow of fluid to or from the second fluid port F2 after reaching the stop position, the pump P is turned off after a predetermined time, which on average requires the closing means to move from the start position to the stop position. This can be measured beforehand. It can also be slightly longer than the measured time. However, it is also possible for a sensor device to be arranged at the stop position, which defines the reaching of the closing device SW at the stop position STOP and causes the switching off of the pump or the interruption of the fluid flow FF defined by a sensor signal. When the closing device SW is electrically conductive and a stop OA (as in C) and D) in 1a ) is provided on each side, so the closing device SW can close, for example, a circuit between the left and the right stop, so a detection signal is generated by a current flow.

After switching off the pump P, the closing device SW is moved back from the stop position STOP to the start position STRT, ie to the state in 1A at A). This can be done in many ways, as will be explained below. One possibility is that, when the dosing device DV is positioned vertically, the closing device SW falls back to the starting position STRT by its own gravitational force. Another possibility is the use of return means which actively bring the closing device SW back from the stop position STOP to the start position STRT.

The passive retrieval of the floating device SW by gravity requires no additional means of return. On the other hand, the closing device SW and the container B and the liquid or the fluid must be matched to each other, so that the closing device SW by its own gravity in a defined period of time to the starting position STRT returns before the pump P again activated / turned on for the next ejection becomes. As already mentioned, this requires a coordination between the type of material for the closing device SW, the distance between the container inner wall and the lateral design of the closing device SW, as well as the properties of the fluid and the weight of the closing device SW.

In 1a For example, at A) and B), the start position STRT is located at the first fluid port F1, and the stop position STOP is at the second fluid port F2. That is, the closing device SW moves from the first fluid port F1 to the second fluid port F2 and then falls back to the first fluid port F1 (or is retrieved thereto). But it is also possible, as in 1a at C) and D) shown that the dosing device DV other defined start positions STRT and stop position STOP is formed. For example, the starting position STRT may be formed by a lower stop UA, which holds the closing device SW at a defined position at a distance from the first fluid port F1. Similarly, an upper stop OA may be provided which defines the upper stop position. If the container B is a cylinder Z, then the stop UA and the stop OA is formed, for example, like a ring containing an opening O. If the container B and the closing device SW are quadrangular, the stop UA is also formed quadrangularly with an opening O. The stop at the start position STRT only has to hold the closing device SW and not necessarily seal it when the closing device SW comes to rest on it. On the other hand, in order to stop the flow of fluid at the stop position STOP, the closing device SW and the top stop STOP must seal with each other to stop the fluid flow when the closing device SW arrives at the top stop position ST OP. The stop at the upper end STOP is the same as the lower stop STRT formed, namely with an opening O in the middle. Thus, as in 1a at C) and D), different start positions STRT and stop position STOP within the container B are defined. The respective amount of liquid to be ejected is then defined by the distance covered (distance) between the bottom stop UA at the start position STRT and the top stop OA at the stop position STOP.

1b shows further embodiments of the metering device DV, wherein at A) an embodiment is shown in which not only the stops UA, OA are provided at the start position STRT or stop position STOP, but an entire insert ESZ within the container B, arranged in the the closing device SW is arranged. The insert ESZ comprises the stops UA, OA and a connecting piece VST between the two stops UA and OA and can be, for example, when one of the two fluid ports F1 or F2 removed, simply insert into the container B and secure it, for example by a caulking. The stops are defined so that the closing device SW moves along the side walls of the insert and yet be kept defined by the smaller inner diameter of the stops at the start position STRT and at the stop position STOP. The embodiment in 1b at A) is advantageous because the entire insert ESZ can be easily removed as the container and thus the dosing DV can be easily cleaned. If it is important that a precisely defined amount of fluid is ejected, the movement distance is exactly defined by such a device (insert). For example, the stops UA and OA and the side parts VST can be screwed together by a thread, such as a kind of cover, so that defined by start / stop positions can be adjusted by extending / shortening the longitudinal distance of the stops UA and OA to define exactly the volume amount ,

1b showed in B) yet another way of forming the metering device DV, with a designed as a ball KU closing SW, which will be described in more detail below with reference to 5 is described. In this case, the ball KU is on the lower stop STRT and is moved to the upper stop STOP, wherein provided at both stop positions an opening is. This is a particularly advantageous embodiment, since there is a simple seal between the ball KU and in particular the stop at the upper stop position STOP. Thus, at the top stop OA, simply at the edge of the stopper OQ, a rubber seal can be provided which provides a seal and stops the flow of fluid when the closing device comes to rest.

Although in 1a and 1b If the stops UA, OA are shown together at the start position STRT and the stop position STOP, it is quite possible to provide a stop only at the start position STRT or at the stop position STOP. For example, the bottom stop at the start position STRT may be omitted (as in FIG 1a at A)) and only one stop OA at the upper STOP position. In order to be able to set defined volumes precisely, for example, the container B may be provided with an internal thread and the stop UA and / or OA may be formed with an external thread as a stop ring, so by simply turning the stop within the container a defined stop position STOP and so that an exact volume amount can be defined.

As further detailed below with reference to 1d . 2 . 3 and 4 described, an embodiment of the invention comprises a metering device DV, which is used vertically or substantially vertically so that the closing device SW after reaching the stop position STOP and switching off the fluid flow or an interruption of the fluid flow by its own gravity to the first Starting position STRT falls back for the next shot. But it is also possible that the metering device DV or the container B is installed horizontally or substantially horizontally (or even "overhead", ie with the first fluid port above and the second fluid port below), so in this case the closing device SW not can automatically return to the first starting position STRT via gravity. In this case, as in 1c 2, the container B can be provided with return means RM, which bring the closing device SW back from the stop position STOP to the start position STRT. An embodiment of the return means RM may comprise a return spring, via which the closing device SW is connected to the container B at the start position STRT. In 1c the embodiment with the ball KU is shown, but any other cross-sectional shape, as well as in 1a and 1b indicated is possible. In addition, the embodiment in FIG 1c the return means RM in connection with the start position and stop position. These are not absolutely necessary.

1c shows at A) the state in which the closing device SW has been moved by the fluid flow from the start position (right) to the stop position (left) and the return spring RM has been expanded. After switching off the fluid flow, as in 1c at B), the return spring RM contracts again and pulls the closing device SW from the stop position back to the starting position in preparation for the next fluid shot.

Even though 1c shows an embodiment designed as a return spring return means, other return means RM are conceivable. For example, the closing device SW can be a magnetic element or a magnetic ball, in which case an electromagnet or a magnet can be provided at the starting position STRT, which returns the closing device SW to the starting position STRT via a magnetic attraction. As already mentioned, the return force of the return spring or the magnetic attraction must be designed so that the closure SW can be entrained by the liquid flow to the stop position, but on the other hand, the restoring force or the magnetic attraction force is sufficient to the Closing SW within a defined period of time to the start position STRT retrieve.

Furthermore, although in 1a . 1b and 1c not shown, it is also possible that at the stop position STOP flow stop means are provided, which are formed upon contact by the closing device SW to stop the flow of fluid to the port F2. That is, instead of, for example, as in 1a B), simply cover an opening in the fluid port F2, at the stop position STOP, for example, at the upper stop OA, a device may be arranged, which causes a closure of an opening in the second fluid port F2 upon contact. Thus, the closing device SW, when, for example, in 1a at B) arrives at the stop position STOP, even through a mechanical connection simply block the fluid port F2. Thus, it is not absolutely necessary to provide a seal between the closing means SW and the stopper OA (the lower surface of the stopper). This can be done, for example, that the closing device SW is formed metallic and a current path between a left stop and a right stop is made, which then blocks an electronic shutter in the second fluid port F2.

1d is an overview diagram of a cleaning device RV according to the invention, the dosing device according to 1a - 1c The cleaning device RV includes, similar to the cleaning device RV in 8th , a cleaning fluid reservoir VR with a cleaning fluid RF, a control device ST, which controls a pump P, and supply lines VL, LI, LO between the cleaning fluid reservoir RV and the pump P (the pump may be a fluid pump, eg a SWA or SRA fluid pump (SWA: Windshield washer) of the pump P to a metering device and from the metering device to a camera K. A fluid flow takes place in the direction indicated by the arrow FF from the cleaning fluid reservoir RV to the camera K, which is an example a device to be cleaned is held. Between the input line LI and the output line LO, the metering device DV according to the invention for the cleaning device RV is provided. In 1d Furthermore, an XYZ coordinate system is shown, wherein the metering device DV in 1 is arranged in a substantially vertical direction + Z / -Z, ie perpendicular to the XY plane.

The fluid pump P sucks cleaning fluid RV from the cleaning fluid reservoir VR via the line VL, and the cleaning fluid (the cleaning fluid) is supplied to the output line LI and thus to the first fluid port F1 of the dosing device DV connected thereto. The controller ST controls the fluid pump P for intermittent operation for intermittently discharging cleaning liquid from the second fluid port F2 of the metering device DV.

The dosing device DV is described in more detail in FIG 2 shown. The 2 shows the metering DV according to 1a - 1c and serves for a more detailed explanation of its operating principle when used in a cleaning device RV according to 1d is used. It comprises a substantially perpendicular (in the + Z or -Z direction in FIG 1 ) or slightly obliquely arranged container B, which comprises a first fluid port F1 for receiving fluid or cleaning fluid from the fluid pump P, wherein the first fluid port F1 at the bottom BO of the container B is arranged. The dosing device DV also comprises a second fluid port F2, which is arranged in the upper portion of the container B and is connected to the output line LO. The second fluid port F2 is disposed higher than the first fluid port F1 in the vertical + Z / -Z direction, that is, in the direction of gravity. In 2 Furthermore, the direction of gravity is indicated, namely in the + Z or -Z direction, it being noted that the container B need not necessarily be arranged with its longitudinal axis parallel to the direction of gravity, but only such that the second fluid port F2 in the direction gravity is "higher" than the first fluid port F1. The reason will be explained below.

The metering device DV comprises, in particular, a closing device SW, which is embodied as a levitation device, within the container B, which moves between the first fluid port F1 and the second fluid port F2. The levitation device SW is entrained upward in particular by a fluid flow FF indicated by the arrow direction, when a fluid flow FF from the pump P takes place. If no fluid flow takes place, the levitation device SW drops back to the first fluid port F1. Although in 2 not specifically shown, the second, higher-lying fluid port F2 and the levitation device SW is formed so that the floating device SW closes when contacting the second fluid port F2 this.

By means of the fluid flow FF is thus the (in 2 dashed lying on the bottom BO) floating device SW, which is a kind mitfließendes and movable closing element, entrained by the fluid flow FF up until it comes to rest on the upper fluid port F2 (shown in dashed lines) and the fluid port F2 blocks. Thus, the (vertical or vertical) length of the container B and its inner volume defines the liquid or fluid volume required per shot. By gravity, the levitation SW is initially on the floor BO on. The weight of the levitation device SW is adjusted with respect to the cleaning liquid so that it on the one hand transported by the flow (or the flow) of the liquid with, ie entrained, and on the other hand in a defined period of time after closing the upper fluid port F2 and turning off the pump P. falls back to the lower fluid port F1 or sinks back. Thus, the levitation device SW is similar to a float disposed in the gasoline tank or disposed in a windowpane cleaning liquid reservoir, but formed so as not to float on the liquid surface for liquid height measurement but is immersed in the cleaning liquid, ie, "floats" therein from a flow of this liquid as a kind of movable and mitfließendes, ie the liquid flow following closing element, entrained, but by gravity on the first fluid port F1 fall back or float, ie sink back can. To achieve this, the levitation device SW may have a specific weight which is higher than the specific weight of the fluid flowing through the container B.

4 shows a method for metered supply of cleaning liquid RF under Use of in 1 shown cleaning device RV with the metering device DV, which in 2 is shown.

In step S1 in FIG 4 the levitation device SW is located on the lower fluid port F1, as in 1 shown (and as in 2 shown with the floating device SW shown in dashed lines). If the fluid pump P is turned on in this state in step S1, then cleaning fluid RV is sucked from the cleaning fluid reservoir VR and pumped via the supply lines VL and LI to the first fluid port F1. As a result of the fluid flow FF, the levitation device SW moves in step S2 from the lower fluid connection F1 to the upper fluid connection F2 on the basis of the flowing liquid, ie the water or cleaning fluid above the levitation device SW is conveyed until the levitation device SW in step S3 has reached the upper port F2 and this closes. The volume flow of the cleaning fluid now stops even when the pump continues to pump. By a single passage through steps S1 to S3, a defined (ie metered) amount of the cleaning liquid RV is thus guided to a device to be cleaned, for example a lens or an optical window of the camera K, and the required amount of water or cleaning fluid is simply removed by the Length of the container, set the diameter or the internal volume of the container.

When the pump P is turned off in step S4, the levitation device SW returns to the lower fluid port F1 again in step S5. The pump is kept switched off (path "on" in step S5 and step S4) until the floating device SW arrives at the lower fluid port F1. How long this takes depends on the type of liquid, the dimensions of the container B and the weight of the levitation device SW, as well as on whether the container B is arranged directly perpendicular (in the direction of gravity) or possibly obliquely , wherein the second fluid port F2 in the direction of gravity is always higher than the first fluid port F1.

If an embodiment of the metering device DV is selected which is used horizontally or even "overhead", ie, turned over 180 ° with the first fluid connection in the direction of gravity above, then in step S5, referring to FIG 1c explained return means RM the recovery of the levitation SW to the start position STRT, for example, the first fluid connection F1 cause. Even if the gravity is utilized, the return means RM may be additionally provided. With the return means RM, the closing device (levitation device) SW can be retrieved in any position and orientation of the container to the starting position in step S5.

When the levitation device SW comes to rest on the lower fluid port F1, a one-time ejection process is completed. Since the pump P is switched off, the cleaning liquid for the next "shot" flows past the edge of the levitation device SW and the metering device DV is thus ready for the next ejection process. In step S3, when the levitation device SW reaches the upper fluid port F2, the entire fluid volume has been ejected above the levitation device SW, but in the state in which the levitation device SW comes to rest on the upper fluid port F2, already after the fluid has flowed below Floating device SW the container B is present. When the levitation device SW "floats" back to the lower fluid port F1 at step S5, that is, at the lower fluid port F1. "Has dropped", or has been moved back there by means of the return means, thus also the same volume of liquid for the next ejection is above the levitating device SW lying on the lower fluid port F1. Thus, in a further step S6, if a further ejection is required, the pump can be switched on again in step S1 and the steps S1 to S4 can be repeated for a further ejection process. As already mentioned, the ejection frequency essentially depends on how long the levitation device SW needs in order to come to rest on the lower fluid connection F1. However, it is also conceivable that if a higher ejection frequency is required for a limited time, the pump is turned on again in step S1 at a time at which the levitation SW has not yet fully arrived at the lower fluid port F1, for example when they are still in the (vertical) center of the container B is located.

When the pump turns off the pump S4 a return flow of the cleaning liquid opposite to the fluid flow FF in 1 prevented, then it is completely sufficient to turn off the pump and turn on again for a new ejection process. However, if there is a backflow through the pump P, so that the container B could empty, then another valve VT must be provided in or at the lower port F1 or at least in the lower connecting line LI. In particular, if the upper and the lower fluid connection are the same, a valve must be mounted directly in front of the dosing device DV at the lower fluid connection F1. This then prevents primarily the idling of the metering device DV and secondarily a " Clamping "of the levitation device SW at the upper connector F2, caused by blowing effects, and thus a" pressure maintenance "in the feeding line L1 in conjunction with the valve VT (see, for example, in FIG 6 ), which is designed as a check valve, achieved. The blowing effects must be taken into account in particular when the supply lines VL, LI and LO are hose lines, eg made of plastic, rubber or EPDM, which are typically used for supplying vehicle cleaning fluid. Thus, a check valve advantageously ensures that no cleaning liquid flows back and the container remains completely filled for a new discharge.

As explained above, in the cleaning device RV with the inventive dosing device DV according to the embodiment in 2 causes a relapse of the levitation SW on the first fluid port F1 by gravity. Thus, it is necessary that the second fluid port F2 - seen in the direction of gravity - is arranged higher than the first fluid port F1. However, it is not absolutely necessary, as already mentioned above, that the container B is explicitly vertical (vertical) with its longitudinal axis. In addition, for example, when installed in a vehicle and in particular during movement of the vehicle will not always be guaranteed that the container B is actually vertical when using. Thus, the term "perpendicular" is understood to mean substantially perpendicular and also a slightly oblique arrangement (to the direction of gravity) is possible as long as the second fluid port is higher than the first fluid port (in the direction of gravity).

FURTHER EMBODIMENTS OF THE DOSING DEVICE

In the 1 shown dosing device DV, as shown schematically in 2 shown, a vertical cylindrical body Z comprise for the container, wherein the first fluid port F1 at the lower end BO of the cylinder Z is arranged and the second fluid port F2 at the upper end of the cylinder Z is arranged. The inner geometry of the container B is not limited to a cylindrical body Z, but may for example also be designed rectangular. However, when tubing is used, a cylindrical body Z is also typically used for the container B.

In 2 In addition, the opening of the second fluid port F2 in the longitudinal direction LR of the container B is arranged, ie in the flow direction. In 2 Also, the lower terminal and the opening of the lower terminal in the longitudinal direction LR of the container B is arranged.

According to another embodiment of the dosing device DV, as in 3 1, the first and / or the second fluid connection can also be designed differently, namely such that the opening (s) is (are) arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction LR. Ie, as in 3 For example, the levitation device SW has such a configuration that when it reaches the upper end surface OE of the container B, it closes the opening of the second fluid port F2 with a side surface SR and not with its upper surface OS. Similarly, as indicated by dashed lines at the bottom UE in 3 2, the lower fluid port F1 with its opening can also be arranged such that it is closed by a side surface SR of the levitation device. A person of ordinary skill in the art can form the levitation device SW and the fluid connections F1 and F2 in such a way that the levitation device SW closes the second fluid connection F2 when it reaches the upper end OE, wherein 2 and 3 only two exemplary embodiments thereof show.

As in 2 and 3 it is also advantageous if the cross-sectional shape (for example cylindrical) of the levitation device SW is substantially adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the container B, so that the levitation device SW at a fluid flow FF through the container B from the first fluid port F1 at the bottom BO to the second fluid port F2 is movable at the upper end OE. For example, if the container B is a cylinder Z, then the levitation SW may be formed as a circular plate or generally circular. In this case, it is advantageous if the circular plate is prevented from tilting by a guide device which will be described below. In the same way, however, the levitation device SW can also have a square or polygonal shape if the container B is quadrangular or polygonal. An angular configuration may be advantageous in order to prevent tilting of a plate-shaped floating device SW, wherein a guide device is also advantageous here.

As further out 2 and 3 The outer diameter of the levitation device SW can be seen to be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the container B. In order to allow the levitation device SW to slide up and down, it is quite conceivable that a type of membrane is arranged around the outer diameter of the levitation device SW but is still flexible between the outside of the membrane and the inner surface of the Container B allows a fluid passage, otherwise there would be no additional amount of fluid above the floating device SW when falling back ("floating") of the levitation SW. The diameter of the levitation device SW is thus always advantageously slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the container B.

In 5 shows a further embodiment of the metering device DV, in which the floating device SW is designed as a ball KU and the container B is designed as a cavity cylinder Z, similar to in 1c with the return means RM. The ball KU may be, for example, a stainless metal ball. A typical dimension is on the order of a few millimeters, depending on the diameter of the container. 5 shows an embodiment in which the upper and lower fluid port F1, F2 is formed in the form of a plug, with a through hole L, which can be closed by the ball KU when it reaches the upper fluid port F1. The state A shows the state in which the cylinder Z is filled with liquid and the ball KU is applied to the lower fluid port F1. In state B, the pump promotes cleaning fluid and, as in 5 shown, the ball KU is transported from the lower fluid port F2 to the upper fluid port F1, after which in state C, the ball with the pump running, the flow of liquid at the upper fluid port F2 instead. Thus, in the transition from state A to state B and to state C, an entire cylinder volume is expelled, the doser DV returning to state A after state C when the pump is turned off and the ball KU thus falling back on the first fluid port F1. In state C, the ball KU is closed with the pump P on the upper fluid port F2 until the pump P is turned off. The pump should thus be turned off until - depending on the weight of the ball KU, the vertical or slightly oblique arrangement, and the viscosity of the liquid - the ball KU comes to rest on the lower fluid port F1. However, as in 5 shown, standard connections for the fluid port F1 and the fluid port F2 can be used. Advantageously, for simplicity and cost reasons instead of a cylinder and a length determined long piece of SRA-EPDM cable can be used with a stainless metal ball. An example of this is in 6 shown. Thus, the correspondingly required amount of water is defined over the length of the cylinder or the hose and thus on the internal volume.

As already described above, the metering device DV does not necessarily have to be operated vertically or essentially vertically. It also does not have to be evacuated. In order to prevent that the interior of the container B emptied and thus an air influence arises, may advantageously be provided at the entrance of the lower fluid port F1, a check valve VT, which also in 6 shown.

How is the 2 and the 5 can be seen, the dosing device DV of the present invention works much like a piston without a piston rod. That is, the movement of the piston (the levitation device SW) upward by a piston rod is replaced by a movement of the levitation device SW by the fluid flow itself. The retraction of the piston by retraction of a piston rod is passively replaced by the sinking of the ball KU by gravity or actively by return means RM. Thus, the present invention provides a metering device DV that can be constructed inexpensively and in a simple manner.

FURTHER EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

As already mentioned above, the levitation device SW does not necessarily have to be designed as a ball KU, in which case it is only necessary that the cross-sectional shape of the levitation device be substantially adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the container, so that the levitation device SW passes through the container B in the case of a fluid flow FF from bottom to top is transported (entrained) and can fall back from top to bottom. Therefore, it is particularly advantageous if the container B is designed as a cylinder Z and the floating device SW is designed as a ball KU.

However, it is beneficial as in 7a shown, when the container B, for example, the cylinder Z, and the levitation SW are adapted to each other such that a guide means G1 or G2 is formed, which causes a guide of the ball or the levitation SW in the longitudinal direction of the container is effected. For example, two opposing protrusions G1 may be provided on the inner wall of the cylinder Z, for example, a rib extending in the longitudinal direction of the cylinder Z. The levitation device SW, for example the ball KU, is correspondingly provided with a longitudinal recess which engages in the rib G1. Thus, a guide means is formed by the rib G1 and the recess.

7b shows yet another embodiment in which a recess G2 is formed on the inner cylinder Z, wherein the ball KU has projections which engage in the recess G2. Thus, a tilting of the levitation device SW, in particular when it is designed as a kind of plate-like piston, can be prevented; For example, jamming or jamming can be prevented. Despite the provision of the guide device G1, G2 but liquid can still flow past the ball KU, as well as in 7a and 7b a slight gap is present on the guide devices G1, G2, since the outer diameter of the levitation device SW is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the container B. One of ordinary skill in the art may use other geometrically-shaped guide means other than those in FIG 7A and 7B form based on the teaching of the present specification.

Finally, the metering device DV can also be designed so that the container B is provided at the stop position STOP with flow stop means which are formed upon contact by the closing device SW to stop the flow of fluid toward the second fluid port F2. As already mentioned, these can comprise a contact or a mechanical device which stops the fluid flow when the closing device SW arrives at the stop position.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described above, a particular field of application of the present invention is in the automotive field, where cameras or other lightly polluting surfaces, such as headlamps, etc., or windshields, must be cleaned using a metering device to eject defined amounts of cleaning fluid. However, the scope of the invention is not limited only to the ejection of cleaning liquid and not to the cleaning of surfaces. The principle of finding can also be used for ejecting or transferring oil or other liquids or fluids, for example for the lubrication of parts. Thus, the field of application of the invention is not limited to only the cleaning aspect.

Claims (23)

Dosing device (DV) for a cleaning device (RV), comprising: a) a container (B) having a first fluid port (F1) for receiving fluid (F) from a fluid pump (P) and at least one second fluid port (F2) for delivering fluid (F); and b) a closing device (SW), which is arranged movably within the container (B); c) wherein the container (B) and the closing device (SW) are formed so that the closing device (SW) by a fluid flow through the container (B) from the first to the second fluid port (F1, F2) from a start position (START ) is movable to a stop position (STOP); and d) the container (B) and the closing device (SW) are formed so that the closing device (SW) stops the delivery of fluid flow from the second fluid port (F2) at the stop position (STOP). Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the container (B) and the closing device (SW) are formed so that the closing device (SW) after stopping the fluid flow at the stop position (STOP) to the start position (STRT) is moved back. Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the stop position (STOP) is arranged higher in the direction of gravity than the starting position (START). Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first fluid port (F1) at the start position (START) of the container (B) and the second fluid port (F2) at the stop position (STOP) is arranged. Dosing device according to claim 1.1 or 1.2, characterized in that the container (B) with return means (RM) is provided which retrieves the closing device (SW) from the stop position (STOP) to the start position (STRT). Dosing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the return means (RM) comprise a return spring (RM), via which the closing device (SW) to the container (B) at the start position (STRT) is connected. Dosing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the closing device (SW) is magnetic and the return means (RM) comprises an electromagnet or a magnet which magnetically attracts the closing device (SW). Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the stop position (STOP), the position of the second fluid port (F2), wherein the second fluid port (F2) and the closing device (SW) are formed so that the closing device (SW) upon contacting the second fluid port (F2) closes this and thereby stops the flow of fluid. Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the container (B) at the stop position (STOP) with flow stop means is provided, which are formed when contacting by the closing device (SW) to stop the flow of fluid toward the second fluid port (F2). Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the container (B) is a vertical cylindrical body (Z), wherein the first fluid port (F1) at the lower end of the cylinder (Z) is arranged and the second fluid port (F2) at the top End of the cylinder (Z) is arranged. Dosing device according to claim 1 or 10, characterized in that the opening of the first and / or second fluid port (F1, F2) in the longitudinal direction (LR) of the container (B) is arranged. Dosing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the opening of the first and / or second fluid port (F1, F2) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z) direction (X, Y) of the container (B) is arranged. Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the cross-sectional shape (SF) of the closing device (SW) is substantially adapted to the cross-sectional shape (BF) of the container (B), so that the closing device (SW) at a fluid flow (FF) through the container (B) is movable from the first fluid port (F1) at the bottom (BO) to the second fluid port (F2). Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer diameter (ZK) of the closing device (SW) is slightly smaller than the inner diameter (DK) of the container (B). Dosing device according to claim 1 or 13, characterized in that the closing device (SW) has a specific weight which is higher than the specific weight of the fluid flowing through the container (B). Dosing device according to claim 10, characterized in that the closing device (SW) a ball (KU). Dosing device according to claim 16, characterized in that fluid is a cleaning fluid and the ball (K) is a stainless steel ball. Dosing device according to claim 1 or 13, characterized in that the container (B) has a guide device (G1, G2) on the container inside and the closing direction (SW) is formed to engage in the guide means (G1, G2) to to be guided in it. Dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first fluid port (F1) comprises a valve (VT).  Cleaning device (RV), comprising: a) a cleaning fluid container (VR); b) a fluid pump (P) connected to the cleaning fluid reservoir (VR) for drawing cleaning fluid (RF) from the cleaning fluid reservoir (VR) and pumping the cleaning fluid to an exit line (LI); and c) a with the output line (IO) at its first fluid port (F1) connected to the dosing device (DV) according to one or more of claims 1-11, and d) a control device (ST), which drives the fluid pump (P) for an intermittent operation for the intermittent discharge of cleaning fluid from the second fluid port (F2). Cleaning device (RV) according to claim 20, characterized in that the fluid pump (P) is a SWA or SRA fluid pump (P).  Method for the metered supply of cleaning fluid (RF) to a device (K) to be cleaned by means of a cleaning device according to claim 20 or 21, comprising the following steps: a) switching on (S1) the fluid pump (P) for drawing cleaning fluid (RF) from the cleaning fluid reservoir (VR) and for pumping the sucked cleaning fluid (RF) to the first fluid port (F1); b) Continuing (S2, S3) of the pumping operation a) until the closing device (SW), entrained in the cleaning fluid flowing through the container (B), has moved from the start position (START) to the stop position (STOP) and the delivery is in fluid flow from the second fluid port (F2) stops; and c) switching off (S4, S5) the pump (P) to suspend (S4) the pumping operation for a predetermined period of time in which the closing device (SW) after switching off the pump (P) is moved back to the stop position (STOP).  The method of claim 22, wherein steps a) -e) are performed repeatedly (S6).

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