DE102023101974B3 - DOSING UNIT FOR A CLEANING DEVICE AND CLEANING DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

A dosing unit (1) for a cleaning device comprises a receiving unit (11) for inserting a cartridge (2), which contains a cleaning agent for a cleaning process of the cleaning device, into the receiving unit (11) and for removing the cartridge (2) from the receiving unit ( 11). The dosing unit (1) further comprises a detection device (12), both for detecting whether the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) or removed from the receiving unit (11), and for detecting a level of a cleaning liquid, which contains the cleaning agent, in the receiving unit (11). The recognition device (12) comprises a first recognition unit (121) and a second recognition unit (122). The second detection unit (122) can assume an operating position, an empty position and an overflow position relative to the recording unit (11). The dosing unit (1) is configured such that: when the cartridge (2) is removed from the receiving unit (11), the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the empty position; when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the recording unit (11) and the level is below a first threshold value, the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the operating position; and when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) and the level is above a second threshold value which is greater than or equal to the first threshold value, the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the overflow position.

Description

The present invention relates to a dosing unit for a cleaning device and to a cleaning device.

With conventional solid dosing, detergent is used in solid form from a cartridge for detergent dosing in a dishwasher. To do this, the cartridge (filled with solid cleaner) is placed from above into a funnel-like holding device. The device is provided with a fresh water connection, which leads the incoming water to a nozzle within the device. The inlet water, together with the geometry of the nozzle, forms a spray jet that is directed towards the opening of the inserted and filled cartridge. As a result, the spray jet inside the cartridge hits the cleaner in solid form and partially dissolves it. The resulting cleaner solution flows by gravity from the same opening in the cartridge and is collected in a dosing hose through a funnel-like structure within the device. The resulting cleaner-water mixture is then fed over a constant gradient into the cleaning chamber of the dishwasher for dosing the machine.

Cartridge detection can ensure that dosage, and thus water inflow, only occurs when a cartridge is inserted into the funnel. For this purpose, conventional e.g. B. a backflow valve in the inlet of the funnel, which is opened by inserting the cartridge, or an electronic switch to control the inlet, which is activated by inserting the cartridge, is used. Through overlevel detection, it can also be achieved that dosing only takes place when the cleaner-water mixture can drain away, so that the funnel-like receiving device is prevented from overflowing in the event of an error. For this purpose, conventional e.g. B. uses a second drain through which the cleaner-water mixture can drain if the first drain is blocked, or a sensor to detect an excess level.

US 2005/0023290 A1 For example, describes a dishwashing liquid dispenser which contains a safety cut-off mechanism for assembling and dismounting a container (“container mounting and dismounting safety cut-off mechanism 25”) and an overflow prevention mechanism (“overflow preventive sensor 26”). The safety shutdown mechanism is implemented by a spring-loaded plunger and registers the placement of a container by pushing the spring-loaded plunger downward, thereby making contact with a solenoid valve. The overflow prevention mechanism, on the other hand, is implemented by two electrodes and registers an overflow of the cleaning solution when a current flows between the two electrodes; As a result, the solenoid valve in the inlet is closed and a signal is output. The safety shutdown mechanism and the overflow prevention mechanism are thus implemented by different components or parts that are designed separately from one another (see 5 and 6 from D1).

Because in such a conventional dosing unit or cleaning device the cartridge detection and the overlevel detection are implemented by different and separately designed components, the conventional dosing unit or cleaning device has a larger dimension and a more complicated structure, and greater effort is required and higher costs for their production. Furthermore, the cartridge detection and the overlevel detection must each output separate signals to the dosing unit or the cleaning device. This reduces the efficiency of the dosing unit or the cleaning device. Ultimately, the maintenance and repair of the dosing unit or the cleaning device is made more difficult by these different components.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a dosing unit or cleaning device in terms of efficiency, manufacturing costs and user-friendliness, taking into account the desired applications.

This object is achieved by a dosing unit according to claim 1, a dosing system according to claim 18 and a cleaning device according to claim 19. Claims 2 to 17 relate to particularly advantageous implementations of the dosing unit according to claim 1.

According to the present invention, a dosing unit for a cleaning device comprises a receiving unit for inserting a cartridge containing a cleaning agent for a cleaning process of the cleaning device into the receiving unit and for removing the cartridge from the receiving unit. The dosing unit further comprises a detection device, both for detecting whether the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or removed from the receiving unit, and for detecting a level of a cleaning liquid containing the cleaning agent in the receiving unit.

The cleaning device can z. B. a dishwasher, especially a commercial dishwasher, a dishwasher for one other items to be washed, such as B. medical devices or a washing machine.

The dosing unit can be a component of the cleaning device and/or integrated into the cleaning device. Alternatively, the dosing unit can be designed separately from the cleaning device and/or serve as an external component for the cleaning device.

The dosing unit can include a drain, in particular a drain opening, through which the cleaning liquid can drain from the receiving unit, e.g. B. in a dosing hose of the cleaning device to be used for a cleaning process. The receiving unit can in particular be funnel-shaped or have a funnel-shaped section, so that the cleaning liquid can be collected in the receiving unit and flow away in the direction of the drain.

The cleaning agent may be a solid cleaner or contain a solid cleaner, and the cleaning liquid may be a solution of the solid cleaner. Alternatively, the cleaning agent can be a liquid and/or viscous cleaning concentrate and the cleaning liquid can be a dilute solution of the cleaning concentrate. The dosing unit can include a spray unit for spraying fresh water into the cartridge, so that the cleaning liquid is formed by dissolving the cleaning agent contained in the cartridge in the fresh water and then drains out of the cartridge into the receiving unit. Furthermore, the metering unit can comprise an inlet, in particular an inlet opening, through which the fresh water can enter the metering unit and be guided to the spray unit. After passing through the spray unit, the fresh water can form a spray jet, which can be directed towards an opening of the inserted cartridge, so that the spray jet can hit the cleaning agent in the cartridge and at least partially dissolve it in order to form the cleaning liquid, which is then released from the Cartridge drains into the recording unit. There can be a sieve in the cartridge opening, which uses gravity to always allow the solid cleaner to trickle down to the lowest point of the cartridge. In this case, the trickling of the powder fulfills a replenishment function for the dissolved solid cleaner from the cartridge.

Alternatively, the cleaning agent in the cartridge can also be liquid, and the cleaning liquid in the receiving unit can be identical to the cleaning agent that has expired from the cartridge. In this case, the cleaning agent can run out of the cartridge e.g. B. can be controlled by a valve in or on the cartridge opening.

The fresh water can enter the spray unit from an external fresh water connection directly via the inlet of the dosing unit, for example using a water safety device, e.g. B: Type AD, DB or DC. In this case, the water pressure required to spray the fresh water can be generated by the network pressure. Alternatively, the fresh water can first flow from the external fresh water connection into an intermediate tank, which can be arranged in or on the cleaning device, and from the intermediate tank further via the inlet to the spray unit, e.g. B. using a water safety device type AB. In this case, the water pressure required for spraying the fresh water can be e.g. B. can be generated by a pressure boosting pump between the intermediate tank and the dosing unit.

According to the present invention, the dosing unit further comprises a detection device, both for detecting whether the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or removed from the receiving unit, and for detecting a level of the cleaning liquid in the receiving unit.

If a cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the cleaning liquid can flow out of the drain in a normal state of the dosing device, as described above. On the other hand, in an error condition, for example if the drain is blocked, the cleaning liquid cannot flow out of the drain or not completely. Consequently, the level of the cleaning liquid in the receiving unit can be lower in the normal state than in the fault state. In particular, the level of the cleaning liquid can be below a first threshold value in the normal state (i.e. no excess level present) and above a second threshold value in the error state (i.e. excess level present), the second threshold value being greater than or equal to the first threshold value. The detection device can thus determine the normal state or the fault state of the dosing unit by detecting the level of the cleaning liquid.

The recognition device further comprises a first recognition unit and a second recognition unit. The first detection unit is arranged to be movable back and forth between a first position and a second position relative to the recording unit or one or more parts of the recording unit, in particular relative to a housing of the recording unit. Preferably this is first detection unit attached to the recording unit and rotatably arranged relative to the recording unit between the first position and the second position, as will be described in more detail below. The first recognition unit and the second recognition unit are coupled or connected or attached to one another in such a way that a relative movement between the first recognition unit and the second recognition unit is possible at least in a certain position of the first recognition unit. The first and second detection units can in particular be attached to one another in such a way that, although they are movable relative to one another, they cannot be separated from one another. Preferably, the second detection unit is arranged rotatably relative to the first detection unit, as will be described in more detail below. The specific position of the first recognition unit is preferably the second position, but can also be another position, in particular an intermediate position between the first position and the second position.

The dosing unit is designed so that the second detection unit can assume an operating position, an empty position and an overflow position. In particular, the second recognition unit can be moved back and forth between these three positions by the movement of the first recognition unit relative to the recording unit and/or by the movement of the second recognition unit relative to the first recognition unit.

When the cartridge is removed from the recording unit, i.e. H. If there is no cartridge in the receiving unit, the second detection unit is arranged in the empty position. In this case, the first detection unit is preferably arranged in the first position. When the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit and the level of the cleaning liquid is below the first threshold, the second detection unit is arranged in the operating position, and when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit and the level is above the second threshold, the second detection unit is arranged in the overflow position. Preferably, when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is arranged in the second position, and in this case, due to the relative mobility of the second detection unit to the first detection unit, the second detection unit is particularly preferred between the operating position and the overflow position movably arranged.

The detection device thus serves both to detect whether the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or removed from the receiving unit (cartridge detection), as well as to detect the level of the cleaning liquid in the receiving unit (excess level detection), so that the number of Components or components of the dosing unit according to the invention is reduced in comparison to conventional dosing units. As a result, the dosing unit according to the invention can be smaller and more compact and have a simpler structure than conventional dosing units. Furthermore, the metering unit according to the invention can be produced with less effort and lower costs. In addition, control of the dosage of the cleaning agent is also simplified since the number of signals required from the detection device is reduced, as will be described in more detail below. This also increases the efficiency of the dosing unit or the cleaning device. Finally, the maintenance and repair of the dosing unit or the cleaning device is also simplified due to the smaller number of components. In summary, the dosing unit according to the invention is improved compared to a conventional dosing unit in terms of efficiency, manufacturing costs and user-friendliness.

In a preferred embodiment, the dosing unit further comprises a controller configured to control dosing of the cleaning agent from the cartridge based on the position of the second detection unit. In particular, the controller can be configured so that it enables the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge when the second detection unit is arranged in the operating position, and prevents the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge when the second detection unit is in the empty position and/or the Overflow position is arranged. Specifically, the controller may be configured to enable spraying of fresh water from the spray unit into the cartridge when the detection unit is located in the operating position and prevent spraying of fresh water when the second detection unit is located in one of the empty position and the overflow position is. For example, the control can enable the spraying of fresh water by opening a solenoid valve in the water inlet and prevent the spraying of fresh water by closing the solenoid valve in the water inlet. Alternatively, if the cleaning agent in the cartridge is liquid, the controller may be configured to prevent the liquid cleaning agent from draining from the cartridge, e.g. B. made possible by opening a valve in or on the cartridge opening when the detection unit is arranged in the operating position, and the draining of the cleaning agent from the cartridge z. B. prevented by closing the valve when the detection unit is arranged in one of the empty position and the overflow position.

This control ensures that a metering of the cleaning agent, in particular a spraying of fresh water into the cartridge and/or a draining of the cleaning agent or the cleaning agent solution from the cartridge into the receiving unit, only takes place when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit and there is no excess level of cleaning liquid in the receiving unit. This ensures a correct and efficient dosage of the cleaning agent and prevents the cleaning liquid from overflowing, e.g. B. if the drain is blocked, and damage to the dosing unit, the cleaning device or the items to be cleaned in the cleaning device due to incorrect dosage is prevented.

In a further preferred embodiment, the dosing unit comprises a sensor which is configured such that it detects a position of the second detection unit relative to the recording unit and outputs a first detection signal based on the detected position. Preferably, the controller is configured to control the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge based on the first detection signal.

The sensor particularly preferably only distinguishes between, on the one hand, the operating position and, on the other hand, the empty position or the overflow position. For example, the first detection signal may be an operation detection signal when the second detection unit is disposed in the operation position, and an error detection signal different from the operation detection signal when the second detection unit is disposed in one of the empty position and the overflow position is. In this case, the control can enable or prevent the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge when it receives the operation detection signal or the error detection signal. Alternatively, the sensor may output a first detection signal when the second detection unit is disposed in the operating position and may not output a first detection signal when the second detection unit is disposed in one of the empty position and the overflow position. In this case, the controller can enable the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge if it receives a first detection signal and prevent the dosage of the cleaning agent if it does not receive a first detection signal. Consequently, only a single sensor and a single detection signal are necessary to achieve efficient control of the dosage of the cleaning agent. The structure of the dosing unit is thus simplified, the number of components and the manufacturing costs are reduced and the efficiency of the dosing unit is increased.

The sensor preferably comprises a first magnetic switch, e.g. B. a first reed contact and a magnet. The first magnetic switch can be attached to the receiving unit, in particular to a housing or a part of the receiving unit that is immovable relative to the housing, so that the first magnetic switch is immovable relative to the receiving unit or one or more parts of the receiving unit. while the magnet can be attached to the second detection unit. Conversely, the magnet can also be attached to the recording unit and the first magnetic switch to the second detection unit. Since the second detection unit can assume different positions relative to the recording unit, the magnet can assume different positions relative to the first magnetic switch. In particular, the distance of the magnet from the first magnetic switch can be smaller when the second detection unit is in the operating position than when the second detection unit is in the empty position or the overflow position.

The sensor can detect the position of the second detection unit based on a relative arrangement of the magnet to the first magnetic switch, in particular based on the distance of the magnet from the first magnetic switch. For example, the sensor can only output a first detection signal if the distance between the magnet and the first magnetic switch falls below a predetermined minimum distance, so that the sensor outputs the first detection signal when the second detection unit is in the operating position, but does not output it, when the second detection unit is in the empty position or overflow position. The following two switching states can therefore be distinguished based on the relative position of the magnet to the first magnetic switch: 1. Dosing possible (cartridge inserted and no excess level present), 2. Dosing not possible (cartridge not inserted and/or excess level present).

Alternatively, the sensor may distinguish between any of the operating position, the empty position and the overflow position. In particular, the sensor can have a second magnetic switch, e.g. B. a second reed contact, wherein the first and second magnetic switches can be attached to different locations on the recording unit. The sensor can detect the position of the second detection unit based on an arrangement of the magnet relative to the first magnetic switch and the second magnetic switch, in particular based on a distance of the magnet from the first magnetic switch and a distance of the magnet from the second magnetic switch.

For example, as described above, the distance of the magnet from the first magnetic switch may be smaller when the second detection unit is in the operating position than when the second detection unit is in the empty position or the overflow position, and accordingly the first magnetic switch may be a Output the first detection signal only when the second detection unit is arranged in the operating position. Furthermore, the distance of the magnet from the second magnetic switch can be smaller when the second detection unit is in the overflow position (or alternatively empty position) than when the second detection unit is in the operating position or the empty position (or alternatively overflow position), and accordingly, the second magnetic switch can only output a second detection signal when the second detection unit is arranged in the overflow position (or alternatively, empty position). The position of the detection unit can thus be determined by combining the first and second detection signals: If the first detection signal is output and the second detection signal is not output, the second detection unit is in the operating position. If the first detection signal is not output and the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the overflow position (or alternatively empty position). If neither the first detection signal nor the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the empty position (or alternatively overflow position).

The controller may further be configured to output an empty warning signal when the detection unit is arranged in the empty position and/or to output an overflow warning signal when the detection unit is arranged in the overflow position. The user can therefore use the warning signal emitted to identify what type of error is present, e.g. B. no cartridge is inserted or there is an excess level, and take appropriate measures to correct the error. This further increases the functionality and user-friendliness of the dosing unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the dosing unit comprises a spring element which is designed such that when no cartridge is inserted, the first detection unit is biased in the first position, and when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is biased against the spring force the spring element is moved from the first position to the second position. Preferably, the second detection unit is connected to the first detection unit in such a way that when the level of the cleaning liquid is below the first threshold value and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit moves from the first position to the second position against the spring force of the spring element and thereby the second detection unit is moved from the empty position to the operating position. This enables efficient positioning of the first and second detection units depending on whether a cartridge is inserted or not, and thus efficient and accurate cartridge detection by the detection device.

In a preferred embodiment, the dosing unit is designed such that when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit and the level of the cleaning liquid increases from the first threshold value to the second threshold value, a buoyancy force of the cleaning liquid acts on the second detection unit, so that the second Detection unit is moved from the operating position to the overflow position. Particularly preferably, the dosing unit is designed such that when the level of the cleaning liquid is above the first threshold value, the second detection unit floats at least partially on the cleaning liquid. For example, the second detection unit may comprise a cavity in which a buoyancy element is arranged, the buoyancy element preferably being an air cushion. The buoyancy element can have a lower density or average density than the cleaning liquid, in particular a density of less than 1 g/cm ³ . This has the advantage that the second detection unit can be manufactured using a simple injection molding process and then a buoyancy element can be inserted into the cavity of the second detection unit. In particular, the second recognition unit can then be made from the same material as the first recognition unit, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs. Alternatively, the second detection unit itself can be made from a material that has a lower density than the cleaning liquid, in particular a density of less than 1 g/cm ³ . In this case, the second detection unit can be produced, for example, by thermoplastic foam injection molding.

In a preferred embodiment, the first detection unit is attached to the receiving unit, in particular to the housing or a part of the receiving unit that is immovable relative to the housing, by means of a first swivel joint, so that the first detection unit is rotatably arranged relative to the receiving unit between the first and the second position is. In particular, the dosing unit can be designed so that when the level is below the first threshold and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit relative to the Housing is rotated about the first swivel joint and thereby the second detection unit is moved from the empty position to the operating position.

Particularly preferably, the second detection unit is also attached to the first detection unit by means of a second swivel joint, so that at least in the specific position of the first detection unit, the second detection unit is arranged rotatably relative to the first detection unit. In particular, the dosing unit can be designed such that when the level is below the first threshold and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is rotated relative to the housing about the first swivel joint and thereby the second detection unit is rotated relative to the first detection unit is rotated about the second swivel joint and is moved from the empty position to the operating position.

The first swivel joint and the second swivel joint as described above each have the advantage that the risk of tensioning of the respective two joint partners (i.e. the receiving unit and the first detection unit in the case of the first swivel joint, or the first detection unit and the second detection unit in the case of second swivel joint) is reduced. This prevents damage to the dosing unit and further improves the efficiency and user-friendliness of the dosing unit.

Alternatively, the first detection unit can be arranged to be linearly movable between the first and the second position and/or the second detection unit can be arranged to be linearly movable relative to the first detection unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the receiving unit comprises a side wall which is arranged parallel to an insertion direction of the cartridge, in particular along a circumferential direction of the cartridge, wherein the detection device is partially or completely arranged in a recess in the side wall, at least when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit is. This enables a particularly compact arrangement of the dosing unit, which further reduces the size of the dosing unit and the manufacturing costs. Preferably, the insertion direction of the cartridge runs parallel or substantially parallel to the direction of the earth's gravity while the dosing unit or cleaning device is in operation. The arrangement of the detection device in the recess in the side wall makes it possible in particular for the detection device to precisely detect whether a cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or not, regardless of the cartridge weight. This is particularly advantageous because when the dosing unit is used, the cleaning agent is flushed out of the cartridge, so that the cartridge weight decreases. This means that increased effort when designing the restoring mechanism or adjusting the spring force of the spring element can be avoided. Alternatively, the detection device can also be arranged below the cartridge.

Preferably, the second detection unit is arranged to be linearly movable between the operating position and the empty position along a direction of movement. In particular, if the level of the cleaning liquid is below the first threshold value, the second detection unit can rest at least partially on a support surface of the metering unit and slide along the support surface between the operating position and the empty position. The direction of movement of the second detection unit preferably differs from an insertion direction of the cartridge, wherein the angle between the movement direction and the insertion direction is preferably not equal to 0° and particularly preferably 90° or essentially 90°. In particular, the dosing unit can be designed such that when the level is below the first threshold and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is rotated relative to the receiving unit about the first swivel joint and thereby the second detection unit is rotated relative to the first detection unit is rotated about the second swivel joint and is moved linearly from the empty position to the operating position along the direction of movement. This enables precise detection of whether a cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or not, in particular regardless of the cartridge weight.

Furthermore, the first detection unit can comprise a contact surface, wherein, when the level is below the first threshold value and the cartridge is removed from the receiving unit, the contact surface is arranged at an angle other than 0° to an insertion direction of the cartridge. When inserting the cartridge into the receiving unit, the cartridge first comes into contact with the contact surface and exerts a force on the contact surface, so that the first detection unit is rotated relative to the receiving unit about the first swivel joint against the spring force of the spring element and thereby from the empty position is moved to the operating position. This makes it particularly easy to insert the cartridge into the receiving unit. When the cartridge is inserted, the contact surface may be arranged at an angle of 0° or substantially 0° to the direction of insertion of the cartridge and/or aligned or substantially aligned with the side wall. In particular, the contact surface can then be on rest on the cartridge and/or be biased towards the cartridge by the spring force of the spring element. This enables a particularly stable holding of the cartridge in the receiving unit during operation of the dosing unit or cleaning device.

According to the present invention, a dosing system comprises a dosing unit as described above and the cartridge. In particular, the shape and size of the receiving unit can be adapted to the shape or size of the cartridge, so that the cartridge fits precisely into the receiving unit and is kept stable during operation of the metering unit. As described above for the dosing unit according to the invention, the dosing system according to the invention also enables high efficiency and user-friendliness as well as low manufacturing costs.

According to the present invention, a cleaning device comprises a dosing unit as described above. As described above for the dosing unit according to the invention, the cleaning device according to the invention also enables high efficiency and user-friendliness as well as low manufacturing costs.

• 1 eine Querschnittsansicht einer Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Dosiereinheit, in die keine Kartusche eingesetzt ist;
• 2 eine Querschnittsansicht der Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Dosiereinheit, in die eine Kartusche eingesetzt ist, wobei kein Überniveau der Reinigungsflüssigkeit vorhanden ist;
• 3 eine Querschnittsansicht der Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Dosiereinheit, in die eine Kartusche eingesetzt ist, wobei ein Überniveau der Reinigungsflüssigkeit vorhanden ist;
• 4A eine schematische Ansicht einer Reinigungsvorrichtung mit einer integrierten Dosiereinheit; und
• 4B eine schematische Ansicht einer Reinigungsvorrichtung mit einer externen Dosiereinheit.

These and other features and advantages of the invention become clear from the accompanying drawings, which show a particularly advantageous embodiment. Show it:

• 1 a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the dosing unit according to the invention, into which no cartridge is inserted;
• 2 a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the dosing unit according to the invention, into which a cartridge is inserted, with no excess level of cleaning liquid present;
• 3 a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the dosing unit according to the invention, into which a cartridge is inserted, with an excess level of cleaning liquid being present;
• 4A a schematic view of a cleaning device with an integrated dosing unit; and
• 4B a schematic view of a cleaning device with an external dosing unit.

1 to 3 each show a cross-sectional view of a dosing unit 1 according to the invention for a cleaning device. The vertical direction, ie the direction from top to bottom, in these figures corresponds to the insertion direction of a cartridge 2 into the dosing unit 1 and corresponds to the direction of the earth's gravity when the dosing unit 1 or the cleaning device is in operation.

The dosing unit 1 comprises a receiving unit 11, a detection device 12, a first swivel joint 13, a sensor 14, a spring element 15, a spray unit 16, an inlet 17 and an outlet 18. The receiving unit 11 is funnel-shaped and tapers in the vertical direction top down. The inlet 17 can be connected to a fresh water connection 5 through which fresh water flows into the metering unit 1. As in 2 is shown with arrows, the fresh water forms a spray jet after passing through the spray unit 16, which is directed towards an opening of the inserted cartridge 2, so that the spray jet is directed onto the cleaning agent, e.g. B. the solid cleaner, hits the cartridge and partially solves it. The resulting cleaning liquid, ie the solution of the cleaning agent in the fresh water, runs out of the cartridge into the funnel-shaped receiving unit 11, is collected there and runs out of the dosing unit via the drain 18, for example. B. into a dosing hose to be used for a cleaning process of the cleaning device.

The detection device 12 includes a first detection unit 121, which is attached to a housing of the recording unit 11 by means of a first swivel joint 13. As a result, the first detection unit 121 is arranged to be rotatable relative to the recording unit 11 between a first and a second position. In 1 the first detection unit 121 is arranged in the first position while in 2 and 3 is arranged in the second position.

The detection device 12 further comprises a second detection unit 122, which is attached to the first detection unit 121 by means of a second swivel joint 123, so that, as in 2 and 3 shown, at least in the second position of the first detection unit 121, the second detection unit 122 is arranged rotatably relative to the first detection unit 121. Due to the rotatable arrangement of the first recognition unit 121 relative to the recording unit 11 and the rotatable arrangement of the second recognition unit 122 relative to the first recognition unit 121, the second recognition unit 122 can assume in particular three positions relative to the recording unit 11: the empty position as in 1 shown, the operating position as in 2 shown and the overflow position as in 3 shown.

In 1 no cartridge 2 is inserted into the receiving unit 11. In this case, the first detection unit 121 is activated by the spring element 15 biased in the first position, while the second detection unit 122 rests at least partially on a support surface 112 and is therefore in the empty position.

If, as in 2 shown, a cartridge 2 is inserted into the receiving unit 11, the first detection unit 121 is rotated about the first swivel joint 13 against the spring force of the spring element 15 and thereby moved from the first position ( 1 ) to the second position ( 2 ) emotional. As a result, the second detection unit 122 is rotated relative to the first detection unit 121 about the second swivel joint 123 and slides along the support surface 112 from the empty position ( 1 ) to the operating position ( 2 ), namely along a direction of movement (horizontal direction in 1 to 3 ), which runs perpendicular to the insertion direction of the cartridge 2.

The first detection unit 121 further comprises a contact surface 1211, which is in 1 is arranged at an angle other than 0° to the insertion direction of the cartridge 2. When inserting the cartridge 2 into the receiving unit 11, the cartridge 2 comes into contact with the contact surface 1211 and exerts a force on the contact surface 1211, so that the first detection unit 121 is moved relative to the receiving unit 11 from the first position to the second position . When the cartridge is inserted, as in 2 As can be seen, the contact surface 1211 is arranged at an angle of 0° to the insertion direction of the cartridge 2 and is aligned with a side wall 111 of the receiving unit 11. Furthermore, the contact surface 1211 then lies against the cartridge 2 and is biased towards the cartridge 2 by the spring force of the spring element 15, so that the cartridge 2 is held stably in the receiving unit 11.

Furthermore, in 2 shown that when the cartridge 2 is inserted into the receiving unit 11, the detection device 12 is completely arranged in a recess of the side wall 111, the side wall 111 running parallel to the insertion direction and along a circumferential direction of the cartridge 2.

2 shows a normal state of the dosing device 1, in which the cleaning liquid can flow out of the drain 18 as described above. As a result, the level of the cleaning liquid in the receiving unit 11 is below a first threshold value, ie there is no excess level of the cleaning liquid. The second detection unit 12 lies on the support surface 112 due to the force of gravity acting on it and is in the operating position.

3 On the other hand, shows an error state of the dosing device 1, in which the drain 18 is blocked so that the cleaning liquid cannot flow away. As a result, the level of the cleaning liquid is above a second threshold value, ie there is an excess level. When the level of the cleaning liquid rises to the second threshold value, a buoyant force of the cleaning liquid acts on the second detection unit 122, causing the second detection unit 122 to rotate about the second pivot 123 and thereby move from the operating position ( 2 ) to the overflow position ( 3 ) is moved. As in 3 can be seen, in this state the second detection unit 122 floats at least partially on the cleaning liquid.

As in 1 to 3 can be seen, the dosing unit 1 includes a sensor 14, which includes a first magnetic switch 141a and a magnet 142. The first magnetic switch 141a is attached to a housing of the recording unit 11 and is therefore immovable relative to the recording unit 11. The magnet 142 is attached to the second detection unit 122 and can therefore assume different positions relative to the magnetic switch 141. The distance of the magnet 142 from the first magnetic switch 141a is smaller when the second detection unit 142 is in the operating position ( 2 ), as if the second recognition unit 142 is in the empty position ( 1 ) or the overflow position ( 3 ) is located. The first magnetic switch 141a is configured so that it is only actuated or only outputs a first detection signal when the distance between the magnet 142 and the first magnetic switch 141a falls below a predetermined minimum distance, so that it outputs the first detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the operating position, but does not output the first detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the empty position or the overflow position.

The first detection signal is transmitted to a controller which controls the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge 2 based on the first detection signal. When the second detection unit 122 is arranged in the operating position and the controller receives the first detection signal, the controller can z. B. open or keep open a solenoid valve in the fresh water inlet so that fresh water is sprayed into the cartridge 2 and thereby enables the cleaning agent to be dosed. On the other hand, if the second detection unit 122 is arranged in the empty position or the overflow position and the controller does not receive the first detection signal, the controller can close or keep the solenoid valve closed so that no further Fresh water runs in and this prevents the cleaning agent from being dosed.

In summary, the following two switching states can be distinguished based on the relative position of the magnet 142 to the first magnetic switch 141a: 1. Dosing possible (cartridge 2 inserted and no excess level present, as in 2 shown), 2. Dosing not possible (cartridge 2 not inserted and/or excess level present, as in 1 or. 3 shown).

Optionally, the dosing unit 1 further comprises a second magnetic switch 141b, the first magnetic switch 141a and the second magnetic switch 141b being attached to different locations on the receiving unit 11. The distance of the magnet 142 from the second magnetic switch 141b is smaller when the second detection unit 122 is in the overflow position ( 3 ), as if the second recognition unit 122 is in the operating position ( 2 ) or the empty position ( 1 ) is located. The second magnetic switch 141b is configured so that it is actuated or only outputs a second detection signal when the distance between the magnet 142 and the second magnetic switch 141b falls below a predetermined minimum distance, so that it outputs the second detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the overflow position, but does not output the second detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the empty position or the operating position.

In this way, as described above, the position in which the second detection unit 122 is located can be determined by the combination of the first and second detection signals: If the first detection signal is output and the second detection signal is not output, the second detection unit 122 is located in the operating position ( 2 ). When the first detection signal is not output and the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the overflow position ( 3 ). When neither the first detection signal nor the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the empty position ( 1 ). For example, the controller may output an empty warning signal when the detection unit 122 is disposed in the empty position and output an overflow warning signal when the detection unit 122 is disposed in the overflow position. The user can therefore use the warning signal to see whether, for example: B. no cartridge 2 is inserted or there is an excess level, and take appropriate measures to correct the error.

4A shows a schematic view of a cleaning device with an integrated dosing unit 1, and 4B shows a schematic view of a cleaning device with an external dosing unit 1. In this embodiment, the cleaning device is a dishwasher. The dishwasher includes a dishwasher housing 4 and a washing compartment 3, which includes a washing tank 31 and a dispensing device 32.

In 4A the dosing unit 1 is part of the dishwasher and is therefore integrated into the dishwasher. Furthermore, in 4A a water safety device 6 integrated into the dishwasher. The fresh water from the fresh water connection 5 is first directed to the water safety device 6. From there it can flow via a first branch to the dosing unit 1 in order to be used for dosing the cleaning agent as described above, and via a second branch to the washing chamber 3 in order to be used for filling and/or rinsing the machine.

On the other hand, is in 4B the dosing unit 1 is designed separately from the dishwasher and is therefore an external component. In this case, the water safety device 6 is also designed separately from the dishwasher and is therefore an external component. The water from the fresh water connection 5 is first led to the water safety device 6 and from there to the dosing unit 1 in order to be used for dosing the cleaning agent as described above.

Otherwise, the features and functions of the dosing unit 1 are analogous to those described above in both cases. Show in particular 4A and 4B in each case the cartridge 2 filled with the cleaning agent, which is inserted into the dosing unit, and the drain of the cleaning liquid, ie the solution of the cleaning agent in the fresh water, from the dosing unit 1 into the rinsing tank 31 and from there into the dispensing device 32, in order for one Dishwasher rinsing process to be used. In another embodiment, it is also possible for the cleaning liquid, ie the solution of the cleaning agent in the fresh water, to be fed directly to one or more dispensing devices of a dishwasher or another cleaning device, optionally with the interposition of heating devices and/or heat exchangers.

List of reference symbols

1

Dosing unit

11

Recording unit

111

Side wall

112

Support surface

12

Detection device

121

First detection unit

1211

Contact surface

122

Second recognition unit

13

First swivel joint

123

Second swivel joint

14

sensor

141a

First magnetic switch

141b

Second magnetic switch

142

magnet

15

Spring element

16

Spray unit

17

Intake

18

Sequence

2

cartridge

3

Washroom

31

Rinse tank

32

Dispensing device

4

Dishwasher housing

5

Fresh water connection

6

Water technical safety device

Claims (19)

Dosing unit (1) for a cleaning device, wherein the dosing unit (1) has a receiving unit (11) for inserting a cartridge (2), which contains a cleaning agent for a cleaning process of the cleaning device, into the receiving unit (11) and for removing the cartridge (2 ) from the recording unit (11); characterized in that: the dosing unit (1) further comprises a detection device (12), both for detecting whether the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) or removed from the receiving unit (11), and for detecting a level of a cleaning liquid containing the cleaning agent in the receiving unit (11); wherein the recognition device (12) comprises a first recognition unit (121) and a second recognition unit (122); wherein the first detection unit (121) is arranged to be movable back and forth relative to the recording unit (11) between a first position and a second position; wherein the first detection unit (121) and the second detection unit (122) are coupled to one another in such a way that a relative movement between the first detection unit (121) and the second detection unit (122) occurs at least in a certain position of the first detection unit (121) relative to the recording unit (11) is possible; wherein the second detection unit (122) can assume an operating position, an empty position and an overflow position relative to the recording unit (11); and wherein the dosing unit (1) is configured such that: - when the cartridge (2) is removed from the receiving unit (11), the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the empty position, - when the cartridge (2) is in the Recording unit (11) is inserted and the level is below a first threshold value, the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the operating position, and - when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the recording unit (11) and the level is above a second threshold value , which is greater than or equal to the first threshold value, the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the overflow position. Dosing unit (1). Claim 1 , which further comprises: a controller configured to control a dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2) based on the position of the second detection unit (122). Dosing unit (1). Claim 2 , wherein the control is configured to: - enable the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2) when the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the operating position, and - prevent the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2). when the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the empty position or the overflow position. Dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which further comprises: a sensor (14) configured to detect a position of the second detection unit (122) and output a first detection signal based on the detected position; and wherein preferably the controller is configured to control the dosage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2) based on the first detection signal. Dosing unit (1). Claim 4 , wherein the sensor (14) comprises a first magnetic switch (141a) and a magnet (142); wherein the first magnetic switch (141a) is on the open receiving unit (11) is attached; wherein the magnet (142) is attached to the second recognition unit (122); and wherein the sensor (14) determines the position of the second detection unit (122) based on an arrangement of the magnet (142) relative to the first magnetic switch (141a), in particular based on a distance of the magnet (142) from the first magnetic switch (141a) , detected. Dosing unit after Claim 5 , wherein the sensor (14) further comprises a second magnetic switch (141b) attached to the recording unit (11), the second magnetic switch (141b) being different from the first magnetic switch (14b); and wherein the sensor (14) determines the position of the second detection unit (122) based on an arrangement of the magnet (142) relative to the first magnetic switch (141a) and the second magnetic switch (141b), in particular based on a distance of the magnet (142). from the first magnetic switch (141a) and a distance of the magnet (142) from the second magnetic switch (141b). Dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dosing unit (1) comprises a spring element (15) which is designed such that the first detection unit (121) is biased in the first position when no cartridge (2) is inserted and, when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11), the first detection unit (121) is moved from the first position to the second position against the spring force of the spring element (15). Dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dosing unit (1) is designed such that when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) and the level increases from the first threshold value to the second threshold value, a Buoyant force of the cleaning liquid acts on the second detection unit (122), so that the second detection unit (122) is moved from the operating position to the overflow position. Dosing unit (1). Claim 8 , i) wherein the second detection unit (122) comprises a cavity in which a buoyancy element is arranged, wherein preferably the buoyancy element is an air cushion; or ii) wherein the second detection unit (122) is made of a material that has a lower density than the cleaning liquid, preferably a lower density than 1 g/cm ³ . Dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning agent is a solid cleaner; and where the cleaning liquid is a solution of the solid cleaner. Dosing unit (1). Claim 10 , which further comprises: a spray unit (16) for spraying fresh water into the cartridge (2), so that the cleaning liquid is formed by dissolving the solid cleaner contained in the cartridge (2) in the fresh water and from the cartridge (2) into the Recording unit (11) expires. Dosing unit (1). Claim 11 , wherein the control is configured to: - enable the spraying of fresh water from the spray unit (16) when the detection unit is arranged in the operating position, and - prevent the spraying of fresh water from the spray unit (16) when the detection unit is arranged in one of the empty position and the overflow position. Dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving unit (11) comprises a side wall (111) which is arranged parallel to an insertion direction of the cartridge (2); and wherein, when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11), the detection device (12) is arranged in a recess in the side wall (111). Dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second detection unit (122) is arranged to be linearly movable between the operating position and the empty position along a direction of movement; wherein this direction of movement of the second detection unit differs from an insertion direction of the cartridge (2). Dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first detection unit (121) is attached to the receiving unit (11) by means of a first swivel joint (13), so that the first detection unit (121) is relative to the receiving unit between the first and the second position is rotatably arranged. Dosing unit (1). Claim 15 , wherein the first detection unit (121) comprises a contact surface (1211); wherein, when the level is below the first threshold value and the cartridge (2) is removed from the receiving unit (11), the contact surface (1211) is arranged at an angle other than 0° to an insertion direction of the cartridge (2); and wherein preferably, when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11), the contact surface (1211) rests on the cartridge (2) and/or is biased in the direction of the cartridge (2) by the spring force of the spring element (15). . Dosing unit (1). Claim 15 or 16 , wherein the second detection unit (122) is attached to the first detection unit (121) by means of a second swivel joint (123), so that at least in the specific position of the first detection unit, the second detection unit is arranged rotatably relative to the first detection unit. Dosing system for a cleaning device, which comprises the dosing unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims and the cartridge (2). Cleaning device, which the dosing unit (1) according to one of Claims 1 until 17 includes.

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