DK2985381T3

DK2985381T3 - Aquatic device with self-regulating dosage

Info

Publication number: DK2985381T3
Application number: DK14180674.5T
Authority: DK
Inventors: Yansong Liu; Ugo Pasquon; Luca Stucky
Original assignee: Schulthess Maschinen Ag
Priority date: 2014-08-12
Filing date: 2014-08-12
Publication date: 2017-06-06
Also published as: EP2985381B1; EP2985381A1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a water-conducting device, in particular a washing machine or a dishwasher, having a dosing unit according to the preamble of claim 1, and to a method for operating a water-conducting device according to the preamble of claim 18.

PRIOR ART

With a washing machine or dishwasher, cleaning agent, such as washing agent, rinse agent or the like, is typically used to achieve a desired cleaning effect that cannot be achieved with water alone. Cleaning agent reduces the surface tension of the water and binds dissolved dirt, among other things. If too little cleaning agent is added to the water, the cleaning effect is inadequate. An excess of cleaning agent promotes foam formation, which can result in malfunctioning of the machine in the case of very severe foam formation. At the same time, an excess of cleaning agent unnecessarily pollutes the ecosystem, which is disadvantageous in particular for animals. Furthermore, unnecessary additional costs are incurred in the event of overdosing.

Therefore, it is an essential requirement to dose the treatment agents for the articles to be cleaned, such as cleaning agent or softener, optimally so the disadvantages no longer exist.

Various suggestions have become known in the prior art but ensure dosing only insufficiently. DE 10 2009 029 443, in which dosing takes place using predetermined treatment programs and parameters, is mentioned here by way of example. DE 10 2007 011119 Al, DE 100 39 408 B4 and DE 42 04 806 A1 relate to washing machines that determine the concentration of washing agents.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

Proceeding from this prior art, the invention is based on the object of specifying a water-conducting device, in particular a washing machine or dishwasher, that allows improved dosing of the treatment agents. In particular, the treatment agents should be dosed automatically and in a controlled manner.

This object is achieved by the subject matter of claim 1. According to the claim, a water-conducting device comprises a container for receiving water and at least one treatment agent to be dissolved in the water, as well as articles to be treated and a dosing device for dosing the at least one treatment agent. The waterconducting device further comprises a controller and a measuring unit cooperating with the controller, by means of which measuring unit the foam resulting from the at least one treatment agent in the container can be detected, wherein data or a signal for the controller can be provided with the measuring unit, wherein the data and/or the signal represent the state of the foam or a parameter of the foam, and wherein the at least one treatment agent can be dosed by the dosing device in accordance with the data or the signal.

Experiments have shown that optimal dosing of the treatment agent, in particular of a cleaning agent, is critical for achieving a good cleaning result. With the detection of the foam using the measuring unit and the dosing of the treatment agent on the basis of the detection, said treatment agent can be dosed optimally, so that not too little or too much treatment agent is present. Thereby, the dosing process is substantially simplified and the washing agent is dosed more correctly, and therefore an optimal cleaning result is achieved. At the same time, a process fault owing to excessive foam formation is avoided. Furthermore, the environment is protected and costs are saved by preventing overdosing.

Particularly preferably, during a cleaning process, the cleaning agent is added in stages based on the data or signal until a desired foam formation is achieved.

The measuring unit provides different types of data or different types of signal, depending on the design. For example, the measuring unit can provide raw data, which are then processed correspondingly by the controller. Alternatively, the measuring unit can already provide signals that can be received by the controller, in particular without further processing.

Particularly advantageously, two different treatment agents are used, specifically said cleaning agent, with which foam is formed, and also a treatment agent that damps form formation, such as a softener, with which the foam formation is reduced and thus excessive foam formation can be counteracted. More than one cleaning agent and more than one treatment agent that damps the foam formation can be used.

Preferably, the data or signal representing a parameter of the foam are compared with a predetermined value in the controller, and, based on this comparison, the at least one treatment agent is dosed or post-dosed. The predetermined value is preferably determined and is not generally changed.

The measuring unit is preferably connected to the controller via a wired or wireless communications channel. The measurement signals for processing in the controller are transmitted to the controller via this communications channel. The dosing device is preferably also connected to the controller via a wired or wireless communication channel, so that the dosing device can receive control signals relating to the dosing of the treatment agent from the controller.

In a development of the invention, the parameter is the foam thickness. The foam thickness is the thickness of the foam layer above the surface of the washing solution in the container. The washing solution means the liquid phase of the mixture of water and the treatment agent.

To measure the foam thickness, the measuring unit comprises a first measuring element for detecting the foam height in the container and a second measurement element for detecting the level of the washing solution. The level of the washing solution is the level of the washing solution without the foam. The first measuring element serves for providing data that represent the foam height or for providing a first signal representing the foam height. The second measuring element serves for providing a measurement signal that represents the level of the washing solution. The foam thickness is determinable using the first measurement signal or the data and the second measurement signal. Therefore, the foam height is measured with the first measuring element and the level of the washing solution is measured with the second measuring element. The difference between the foam height and the level of the washing solution then produces the foam thickness, which in this development provides the parameter for the dosing. The dosing is therefore carried out on the basis of the foam formation.

The first measuring element and/or the second measuring element are preferably connected to the controller via said wired or wireless communications channel.

Particularly preferably, the at least one treatment agent can be dosed in such a way that the foam thickness is in the range of from 1 to 12 centimeters, in particular in the range of from 4 to 8 centimeters, particularly preferably is at 6 centimeters. A range between 2 centimeters and 10 centimeters is particularly advantageous. Measurements have shown that particularly good dosing of the treatment agent, in particular cleaning agent, is achieved for a good cleaning result if the foam has a foam thickness within the range mentioned.

Preferably, the first measurement signal or the data and/or the second measurement signal is detected in a graduated or infinitely variable manner. Detection in a graduated manner means that the measurement signal is output as a discrete signal for certain foam heights or water levels. The graduation can be for example 0.5 centimeters. With infinitely variable detection, the measurement signal the foam height or the level of the washing solution is detected in an infinitely variable manner. The level of the washing solution is preferably detected in an infinitely variable manner.

Preferably, the water-conducting device is briefly stopped for the measurement in same. Alternatively, the measurement is made during operation of the waterconducting device.

The measuring unit can be checked before operation of the water-conducting device is started with an optional reference measurement, in which, in the event of an incorrect measurement, a warning is output to the user and the user is for example prompted to clean the measuring unit, or the dosing is switched from self-regulating operation to operation based on empirical values.

In a first embodiment of the first development, the measuring unit comprises, in particular as a first measuring element, an image sensor, in particular with an optical unit, and a marking, wherein the marking can be detected by the image sensor. The marking can be arranged inside or outside the container. The image sensor is therefore directed toward the marking and detects the marking. Parts of the marking are covered by foam formed or have too little contrast with the foam and therefore cannot be detected by the image sensor. The foam height or the upper edge of the foam can be detected using the regions not covered by the foam or the visible regions. The measurement signal representing the foam height or the data representing the foam height can thus be provided by means of the image sensor and the marking.

The image sensor is preferably a CCD sensor with a suitable optical unit. The image sensor can also be referred to as a camera. The marking can also be illuminated with an illumination means in a particularly preferred embodiment.

The marking has different properties depending on the height position. Each height or each height region has one/several different and unique property /properties, which can be detected by the image sensor. The property/properties of the marking is/are thus a unique function of the height.

In this first embodiment, the second measuring element is preferably a measuring device that detects the hydrostatic pressure, in particular a sensor with which the level of the washing solution can be detected.

The marking preferably extends relative to the foam such that parts of the marking can be covered by the foam and such that the marking changes with changing height position. The marking can be clearly assigned to a respective height position thereby. The marking can be in contact with the foam. However, it is also conceivable to arrange the marking such that the foam rises between image sensor and marking, with no direct contact between foam and marking. Particularly preferably, at least part of the marking extends through the water and/or through the foam, starting from the water, in relation to the water in the container or the foam in the container.

The marking is particularly preferably sufficiently higher than the highest possible level of the washing solution.

The marking can be continuous and/or discontinuous. The marking is preferably provided by symbols or signs. The marking is preferably a color code and/or a code of discrete symbols and/or a bar code and/or a strip code and/or a letter code and/or a number code, the form and/or shape and/or size of the marking changing over its height. In other words, the code changes over the height position when installed. With the color code, for example, the color and/or the intensity of the color changes over the length of the code. The image sensor can then be used to detect the color changes and thus the foam height in an infinitely variable manner. With the letter code or number code, there are regions that comprise different letters or numbers, which can likewise be detected by the camera. In this case, a letter and/or a number can be attached multiple times at the same height or in the same height region to reduce the likelihood of errors during the measurement. Although a letter code or number code produces a graduated measurement of the foam height, an accuracy of the measured foam thickness that is sufficient for evaluating and controlling the dosing is still achieved if the symbol size is sufficiently small.

These marking properties that change depending on height also particularly preferably include integral variables that change with the height, in particular sum variables such as the number of symbols above a height or the surface area and/or length of a code above a height, specifically if the code is uniform, i.e. has the same form at each height or in each height segment.

In the case of the arrangement without contact with the foam, in a further embodiment, the marking can preferably be situated outside the container, as mentioned above. For example, a white letter code can be attached to the outer surface of the door glass of a washing machine, under which code the machine parts (typically the door seal) are in a dark color to increase the visibility of the white letters. If the foam rises in the space under the door glass, the background also becomes white. The letters under which there is foam can be made invisible for the camera or can be evaluated as not visible by software in the controller by means of a set suitable threshold value for contrast between the letters and the background. Only the upper letters therefore remain visible against the dark background. In this manner, visible and invisible letters can be recognized and the foam height can be inferred in an analogous manner to that described above. If a white strip, the width of which changes depending on the height position, is used instead of letters, the foam height can be measured in an infinitely variable manner.

The marking is preferably attached mechanically, for example by printing, embossing or engraving the door seal or other parts of the device. Alternatively, the marking is produced optically by suitable means, e.g. by projecting the marking onto the door seal. The projection can be continuous throughout the washing program or only for the time periods of the foam measurement.

In a second embodiment of the first development, the measuring unit comprises, in particular as a first measuring element, an image sensor, with which image sensor the surface expansion of the foam can be detected, wherein the foam height can be determined via the surface expansion of the foam. This is because the horizontal cross-section increases constantly with increasing height in the region under consideration, owing to the geometry of the container. Analogously, the foam height can also be determined by means of the viewing angle with which the image sensor sees the lateral edges of the foam surface, since a viewing angle is assigned uniquely to a certain height position in the container region under consideration. The image sensor can comprise a suitable optical unit and in particular be in the same form as the image sensor of the first embodiment.

In this second embodiment, the second measuring element is preferably a measuring device that detects the hydrostatic pressure, in particular a sensor with which the level of the washing solution can be detected.

In a third embodiment of the first development, the measuring unit comprises, in particular as a first measuring element, a plurality of light barriers with transmitter and receiver, wherein the light barriers are arranged in the interior of the container with respect to their height position at a distance from one another. The light barriers are preferably arranged at regular spacing from one another. As soon as the foam has reached a light barrier, the visual contact between transmitter and receiver is interrupted, and this interruption can be used to detect the foam height. The transmitter and receiver can be in direct contact with the foam and the interior of the container but also separated from them, e.g. by a glass partition. It is essential for the measurement that the light beam, i.e. the light barrier, is in the interior of the container and can be reached and interrupted by the foam.

The light barriers are arranged one above the other in height, specifically in a region in which the formed foam will be situated. The uppermost rows of the light barriers are sufficiently higher than the highest possible level of the washing solution to measure the height and thickness of a foam layer above the washing solution even when said washing solution is at said highest level.

In this third embodiment, the second measuring element is preferably a measuring device that detects the hydrostatic pressure, in particular a sensor with which the level of the washing solution can be detected.

In a fourth embodiment of the first development, the measuring unit comprises, in particular as a first measuring element, a plurality of electrodes, wherein the electrodes are arranged at a distance from one another in the interior of the container. The electrodes are preferably arranged at regular spacing from one another. As soon as the foam has reached an electrode, the conductive properties of said electrode change, and this change can be used to detect the foam height.

The electrodes are preferably positioned in a fixed manner at different heights, and the conductivity increases as soon as the foam reaches an electrode. The electrodes are preferably electrically insulated from electrically conductive machine parts and from each other. In a preferred embodiment, the electrodes of one pole sit at fixed and different heights, and the container with the electrically conductive washing solution and foam therein forms the opposite pole. In another embodiment, electrode pairs (a positive and a negative electrode at the same height) sit at different heights, and the conductivity between the two electrodes of a pair is measured. To improve the reliability of the measurement further, the electrode pairs are each switched on individually for a short time and the conductivity is measured successively. This ensures that only the conductivity between two electrodes at the same height is measured and no current flows obliquely upward or downward to electrodes at another height.

The electrodes are preferably insulated from the metal wall and other electrically conductive machine parts and arranged vertically one above the other, specifically in a region in which a formed foam mass will be situated. The uppermost rows of the electrodes are preferably sufficiently higher than the highest possible level of the washing solution to measure the height and thickness of a foam layer above the washing solution even when said washing solution is at said highest level.

In this fourth embodiment, the second measuring element is preferably a measuring device that detects the hydrostatic pressure, in particular a sensor with which the level of the washing solution can be detected.

In a fifth embodiment of the first development, the measuring unit comprises, in particular as a first measuring element, an electrode that is rotatably or pivotably or longitudinally displaceably accommodated in the container, the relative movement of said electrode in the container being detectable by a sensor. The rod is an electrode and can be pivoted toward the foam. The lye container with the washing solution and foam therein acts as the counter electrode. The rod is turned slowly toward the foam during the measurement, for example by means of a motor. When the foam is touched, a current flows, i.e. the electrical conductivity increases suddenly (or the resistance falls suddenly), as a result of which it is clear when the rod has reached the upper edge of the foam. Since the position of the rod tip is known (from angle, length), the height of the foam is known, as a result of which the foam height and thickness can then be determined, specifically in an infinitely variable manner. Analogously, a longitudinally displaceable electrode can be moved toward the foam (from the top downward); when the electrode tip touches the foam, the conductivity changes suddenly and thus indicates the height position of the foam surface, i.e. the foam height. The rod electrode is insulated from electrically conductive machine parts.

In this fifth embodiment, the second measuring element is preferably a sensor that detects the hydrostatic pressure, with which the level of the washing solution can be detected.

In a second development of the water-conducting device, the measuring unit comprises an image sensor, in particular with an optical unit, wherein the image sensor is spaced apart from the surface of the wash solution or of the foam, and detects the surface of the foam, wherein said data or said signal for the foam formation can be provided by means of the foam quantity and/or the foam area, the bubble size of the foam and/or the stability or life time of foam bubbles and/or the flow rate of the foam.

The image sensor is preferably a CCD sensor with a suitable optical unit. The image sensor can also be referred to as a camera.

Particularly preferably, the image data are transmitted to the controller and analyzed there by means of software with integrated washing knowledge. Preferably, image processing software with built-in fuzzy-logic methods is used, in order to recognize, in the presence of steadily changing pictures, the foam and to determine the most probable foam quantity. If more than one of the above-mentioned foam properties are considered, these are analyzed both individually and together. For example, the bubble size over the foam surface is evaluated and a representative measure for the bubble size is thus determined. On the other hand, a recognized foam bubble pattern or structure helps to distinguish foam surface from white laundry, in order to detect only the actual foam surface. In this manner, the most probable total result is provided as a signal for the foam formation or foam quantity. This signal is compared with a setpoint value or setpoint value range stored in the control unit for foam quantity and control commands for the dosing device are derived therefrom.

The second development is particularly advantageous for continuous monitoring of the foam over the entire treatment process, so that the machine automatically initiates countermeasures if foam formation is excessive.

Preferably, the water-conducting device according to all the developments comprises a washing drum which is arranged in the container and can be rotated relative to the container, wherein the measuring unit, in particular the first measurement element or the camera, is arranged outside the drum, but preferably inside the container. The measuring unit, in particular the first measuring element or the image sensor, can however also be arranged outside the container, the container in this case comprising a window through which the image sensor can detect the relevant elements. The window is particularly preferably part of a door glass of a door mounted in the container. The image sensor, where applicable with the optical unit, is preferably arranged in the door of a washing machine. The measuring unit is advantageously designed according to the first, second, third, fourth and fifth embodiments. The measurement can thereby be carried out without being influenced by the articles to be treated in the drum.

Particularly preferably, the water-conducting device according to all the developments further comprises a rinsing element with which parts of the measuring unit, in particular the first measuring element or the camera, can be rinsed with fresh water.

Preferably, the water-conducting device is a washing machine, wherein the container is a lye container in which a washing drum is rotatably mounted. Alternatively, the water-conducting device is a dishwasher.

Particularly preferably, the operating state of the water-conducting device is variable according to the data or the signal. During a cleaning cycle of the waterconducting device, situations can occur in which so much foam is formed that it disrupts the execution of the program. For instance, a large amount of foam can form rapidly during spinning. In this case, spinning can be slowed as a change to the operating state. It is also conceivable for heating to be interrupted as a change to the operating state.

The controller for the dosing is preferably an integral component of the waterconducting device. The controller is then preferably part of the device control system. Alternatively, the controller for the dosing is preferably a partially external component to the water-conducting device. The controller can for example be a computer situated remotely from the washing machine, such as a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer.

The dosing device comprises at least one vessel, the vessel being connected to the container, for receiving at least one treatment agent, in particular a cleaning agent, and a controllable valve or a controllable pump for dosed delivery of the treatment agent into the container. More treatment agent can be added, in particular if there is insufficient foam. The valve or pump is connected to the controller in a wired or wireless manner via a communications channel.

The vessel opens into the container, for example via a pipeline through which the treatment agent can be conducted.

In addition to the vessel mentioned, the dosing device preferably also comprises at least one further vessel, the further vessel being connected to the container, for receiving another treatment agent, in particular a softener, and a controllable valve or a controllable pump for dosed delivery of the softener into the container, wherein, with too much foam, more of the other treatment agent, in particular of the softener, can be added. The other treatment agent is advantageously a foam-reducing agent. The valve or pump is connected to the controller in a wired or wireless manner via a communications channel. The vessel opens into the container, for example via a pipeline through which the treatment agent flows. A method for operating a water-conducting device, in particular according to any one of the preceding claims, comprises a container for receiving water and at least one treatment agent to be dissolved in the water, as well as articles to be treated and a dosing device for dosing the at least one treatment agent, as well as a controller and a measuring unit cooperating with the controller, wherein by means of the measuring unit, the foam in the container resulting from the at least one treatment agent is detected, wherein by means of the measuring unit data or a signal are provided for the controller, the data or the signal representing at least one parameter of the foam, and wherein the at least one treatment agent is dosed by the dosing device in accordance with the data or the signal.

Particularly preferably, the signal is compared with a predetermined value or range of values, and, based on this comparison, the at least one treatment agent is dosed or post-dosed, the signal preferably representing the foam thickness. Additionally or alternatively, the signal is compared with a predetermined value or value range and, based on this comparison, the operating state of the waterconducting device is changed. A change to the operating state means for example that the rotation speed of a drum of the water-conducting device is reduced or that water temperatures are adjusted.

Some further optional features relating to the above-described device and to the above-described method follow. Preferably, in all the developments mentioned, treatment agent is added in steps in small amounts and in the process the foam formation is detected and continuously compared with a setpoint value or setpoint value range as described above. The comparison result is used to decide whether and, if so, how much more cleaning agent is added. In this manner, the cleaning agent concentration in the washing solution gradually approaches the optimum at which an optimal cleaning effect is achieved and excessive foam formation is avoided. If too much foam still forms during the cleaning process, some foam-reducing agent can be added, in addition to other foam-damping measures, such as changing an operating state. If, however, the foam decreases excessively during the cleaning process, for instance if large amounts of dirt are released from the articles to be cleaned at relatively high temperatures and as a result a large amount of cleaning agent is consumed in the washing solution, cleaning agent can be post-dosed in steps to re-establish the optimal cleaning agent concentration in the washing solution. A particular advantage is that in most of the embodiments the cleaning agent dosing amount is adjusted automatically to different cleaning-influencing factors such as water hardness, productivity of the cleaning agent, number of articles to be cleaned and the degree of soiling thereof etc. The water hardness differs from region to region and can also vary over time in the same location. The productivity or washing performance of a cleaning agent depends on brands, types, and manufacturers. The degree of soiling of the material to be cleaned can hardly be estimated correctly in practice. All these parameters no longer need to be transmitted to the appliance from the outside, but rather are automatically taken into account in the above-described self-regulating dosing method by means of foam measurement, so that the optimal cleaning agent concentration for the cleaning process is always ensured in the washing solution. Mixing of different cleaning agents is also possible, since the method adapts independently and automatically to the resulting washing productivity of the mixture.

The automatic adjustment can take the following forms in particularly preferred embodiments according to a first variant: The water-conducting device or the controller thereof monitors the foam formation after a first dosing step of e.g. 10 ml washing agent. If there is no foam, a large amount is dosed during the second dosing step, for example 8 ml. If there is already a moderate amount of foam, less is dosed, for example only 4 ml. In the process, the controller detects how much foam is produced after these dosing steps and saves it in the form of a recording, and independently forms rules for the dosing regime therefrom. If the controller detects that a large amount of foam always forms when a small quantity is dosed first, the machine can infer soft water (or always only lightly soiled laundry, or a very productive washing agent with a strong foaming capacity) and generally reduce the quantity of the successive dosing (for example 6, 3, 2 ml instead of 10, 8, 4 ml). This dosing regime can exist until the dosing behavior and foaming behavior changes in the long term. The controller can then adapt the dosing again to the new situation.

The automatic adjustment can take the following forms in particularly preferred embodiments according to a second variant: If, contrary to expectations, a program fault occurs owing to too much foam during the washing process, the controller analyses the foam images and process data before the fault. The program fault will generally recur, and the controller can over time find out and notice typical features before such a fault (e.g. that although there was little foam in terms of quantity, the foam bubbles are particularly fine and long-lasting). The controller can in future compare images before the program phase susceptible to faults with known warning features. If a certain degree of similarity is reached, an imminent risk is recognized and countermeasures are initiated. In practice, the controller can e.g. store images before five faults and correlate new images with the risk images during a new washing cycle. If the correlation exceeds a certain value, a risk is recognized. In this manner, the machine is given a self-learning capacity, so that the controller becomes more intelligent over time. Such artificial intelligence, which analyses the image and process data and learns therefrom, can generally also be applied to other process properties and fault types.

Further embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below on the basis of the drawings, which merely serve for explanation and must not be interpreted as limiting. In the drawings:

Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a water-conducting device having a measuring unit according to a first embodiment;

Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a water-conducting device having a measuring unit according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 3 shows a schematic partial view of the water-conducting device according to figure 1 having a measuring unit according to a third embodiment;

Fig. 4 shows a schematic partial view of the water-conducting device according to figure 1 having a measuring unit according to a fourth embodiment;

Fig. 5 shows a schematic partial view of the water-conducting device according to figure 1 having a measuring unit according to a fifth embodiment;

Fig. 6 shows the development of the washing effect; and

Fig. 7 shows the development of the foam layer thickness in relation to the dosing quantity of washing agent.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Figure 1 shows a first preferred embodiment of a water-conducting device 1 according to the invention. The water-conducting device 1 is used to clean articles and can in particular be a washing machine or a dishwasher.

The water-conducting device 1 comprises a container 2 for receiving water W and at least one treatment agent B to be dissolved in the water W, such as a cleaning agent or a softener, and for receiving articles G to be treated, such as laundry. The water-conducting device 1 further comprises a dosing device 3 for dosing the at least one treatment agent B. The treatment agent B is therefore introduced into the container 2 via the dosing device 3. To this end, the dosing device 3 is connected to the container 2 via a line 22. The treatment agent B is conducted to the container 2 via the line 22, which is symbolized by the arrow 23 in figure 1. The treatment agent B can be liquid, gel-like or solid, in particular in the form of powder or granules.

The device 1 further comprises a controller 4 and a measuring unit 5 that cooperates with the controller 4. The measuring unit 5 can have different forms, as explained below. By means of the measuring unit 5, the foam S in the container 2 resulting from at least one treatment agent B is detected. In the process, the measuring unit 5 provides a signal for the controller 4, said signal representing at least one parameter of the foam S. The parameter of the foam S to be detected differs depending on the embodiment of the measuring unit 5. The at least one treatment agent B can be dosed out of the dosing device 3 in accordance with the signal representing the parameter of the foam S. In other words, the signal is used to determine how much of the treatment agent B must be added to the container 2 with the water W from the dosing device 3.

The controller 4 is designed to cooperate with the measuring unit 5 and the dosing unit 3. The controller 4 is connected to the measuring unit 5 and the dosing unit 3 via a wired or wireless communications channel.

In all the embodiments shown in figures 1 to 5, the relevant parameter for providing the signal is the foam thickness D. In a further embodiment, not shown in the figures, another parameter of the foam is detected, as described below.

The foam thickness D is defined as the extent of the foam S substantially at right angles to the surface O of the washing solution. The foam thickness D correlates directly with the quantity of treatment agent B added, as explained below in connection with figures 6 and 7.

For detecting the foam thickness D, the measuring unit 5 comprises a first measuring element 6 for detecting the foam height H in the container 2. The foam height H is defined as the height viewed from the bottom 24 of the container 2. The bottom 24 of the container 2 is the lowest point in the container 2. With the first measuring element 6, the foam height H in the container 2 is therefore detected and a measurement signal representing the foam height H is provided. The measurement signal is transmitted to the controller and can be processed by the controller 4.

The measuring unit 5 further comprises a second measuring element 7 for detecting the level J of the washing solution W in the container 2. The level of the washing solution J is defined as the distance between the bottom 24 and the surface O of the washing solution W in the container 2. With the second measuring element 7, a measurement signal representing the level of the washing solution J in the container 2 is provided. The measurement signal is transmitted to the controller 4 and can be processed by the controller.

The foam thickness D can be determined by the controller 4 using the first measurement signal and the second measurement signal. The difference between the foam height H and the level J is calculated, which then produces the corresponding foam thickness. The treatment agent B is then dosed in accordance with the foam thickness D.

For example, the controller checks whether the measured or calculated foam thickness D corresponds to a predetermined value or range of values. If D is less than the setpoint value, the treatment agent B is dosed or post-dosed. The operating state of the water-conducting device can also be changed based on the comparison.

It has been found that the treatment agent B, in particular in the form of a cleaning agent and/or softener, is dosed in such a manner that the foam thickness D is within a range from 1 to 12 cm, in particular within a range from 4 to 8 cm, particularly preferably is approximately 6 cm. The range is particularly preferably between 2 and 10 cm.

The first embodiment of the measuring unit 5 is now explained in more detail using figure 1. The measuring unit 5 according to the first embodiment comprises as the first measuring element 6 an image sensor 8, in particular having a suitable optical unit, and a marking 9 arranged in the interior of the container 2. Image sensor 8 and the optical unit can also be referred to as a camera. The image sensor 8 can be arranged inside or outside the container 2. The marking 9 can be detected by the image sensor 8. In this case, the marking 9 extends in an arcuate manner from a low point at least in some sections or completely through the foam layer of the foam S. The marking 9 is represented by the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. In a preferred variant, the marking 9 extends through the foam S starting from the water W, in relation to the water W in the container 2 and the foam S in the container 2. It can easily be seen from figure 1 that the numbers 1 and 2 are covered by the foam S and as a result cannot be detected by the image sensor 8. The numbers 3, 4 and 5 can easily be seen and can be detected correspondingly by the image sensor 8, as a result of which a corresponding measurement signal can be generated. This is a graduated detection of the first measurement signal that represents the foam height H.

However, the marking 9 can also be designed such that it only lies in the foam S and is not covered by the washing solution W. The important thing is that the marking extends upward in relation to the surface O of the washing solution in the container 2, so that corresponding height differences of the foam surface can be detected by the image sensor 8.

In the present case, the marking 9 is in the form of a number code with the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. In other embodiments, the marking can also be a color code and/or a letter code. The important thing is that the marking 9 changes correspondingly over the height or length thereof, in this case over the arc, which change is then detected by the camera 8. The change is achieved by the change in the numbers in the marking 9 shown in figure 1.

The second measuring element 7 of the measuring unit 2 according to the first embodiment is a sensor 25 that detects the hydrostatic pressure of the water. The sensor 25 is in this case arranged at the end of a pipe 26 fluidically connected to the container 2. The level of the washing solution in the container 2 can be detected simply and the second measurement signal can be provided using the hydrostatic sensor 25.

The control unit 4 uses the provided data or signals to calculate the foam thickness D. On the basis of the foam thickness D, the treatment agent B is dosed or the operating state of the device is changed correspondingly. Preferably, the signal representing the foam thickness D is compared with a predetermined setpoint value range. The treatment agent B that is present in the dosing device 3 is preferably a cleaning agent or a softener. If the foam thickness D is too small and is below the setpoint value range, more cleaning agent is dosed. If the foam thickness D is too great and is above the setpoint value range, measures are taken to reduce the foam thickness. Such a measure is for example additional dosing of a treatment agent that reduces the foam. Such a treatment agent is for example a softener. An alternative measure is changing the operating state of the waterconducting device, for example by adjusting a drum rotational speed or the temperature of the washing solution.

For the dosed delivery of the treatment agent B or cleaning agent into the container 2, the dosing device 3 comprises at least one controllable valve or pump 19 in this embodiment. The controllable valve 19 or pump is connected to the controller 4 and is controlled correspondingly by the controller 4.

The dosing device 3 preferably comprises at least one vessel 18 for receiving the treatment agent B, in particular the cleaning agent. The outlet of the vessel 18 opens into the container 2, in this case via a reservoir 27 and a line 22. The vessel 18 comprises a controllable valve or a controllable pump 19. Valve or pump are controlled by the controller 4 as explained above.

The dosing device 3 preferably comprises a further vessel 20, which is connected to the container 2, for receiving softener. The vessel 20 is also assigned a valve 21, which can be controlled by the controller 4, for the dosed delivery of the softener into the container 2. The valve 21 can also be a controllable pump.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1, a reservoir 27 is arranged beneath the dosing device 3. The reservoir 27 is connected to said line 22. The reservoir 27 is also connected to a water line 28. Water is introduced into the reservoir 27 via the water line 28. The vessels 18 and 20 also open into the reservoir 27. The feed from the dosing device 3 into the container 2 can also be provided differently, however,

As already mentioned, the water-conducting device 1 is particularly preferably a washing machine. The washing machine comprises a washing drum 16, which is arranged in the container 2 and can be rotated relative to the container 2. The washing drum 16 in this case has catches 29 with which the articles to be cleaned are moved within the washing drum 16. The rotatable washing drum 16 is arranged substantially completely inside the container 2. The container 2 can be closed in a leakproof manner with a closure device not shown here, depending on the orientation of the washing drum. The measuring unit 5, in particular the first measuring element 6, is preferably arranged outside the drum 16 but inside the container 2. Particularly preferably, the camera 8 is arranged in the upper region of the container 2 and the marking 9 is arranged in the lower region of the container 2. The marking is particularly preferably arranged in the region of a door seal of a washing machine door. In another variant of the first embodiment, it is also conceivable to arrange the camera 8 outside the container 2 and to arrange the marking 9 inside the container 2.

The measuring unit 5, in particular the first measuring element 6 and/or the second measuring element 7, are preferably connected to the controller 4 via a wired or wireless communications channel 31. The measurement signals for processing in the controller 4 are transmitted to the controller 4 via this communications channel 31. The dosing device 3 is preferably also connected to the controller 4 via a wired or wireless communication channel 32, so that the dosing device 3 can receive control signals relating to the dosing of the treatment agent B from the controller and so that the dosing unit 3 can send control signals to the controller.

Figure 2 shows a further embodiment of the measuring unit 5. Identical components are provided with the same reference symbols. In this second embodiment, the measuring unit 5 comprises as the first measuring element 6 an image sensor 8, in particular with an optical unit. The image sensor 8 can be used to detect the surface expansion of the foam, wherein the foam height H can be determined via the surface expansion of the foam. The level of the washing solution is detected according to the first embodiment.

Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of the measuring unit 5. In this third embodiment, the measuring unit 5 comprises as the first measuring element 6 a plurality of light barriers 10 having transmitters 11 and receivers 12. The light barriers 10 are arranged at spacings A from each other and one above the other in the interior of the container 2. The spacings A are preferably regular but can also be irregular. The light barrier 10 between transmitter 11 and receiver 12 is interrupted with the rising foam S. The foam height H in the container 2 can be detected using the light barriers 10 that are not covered by the foam and those that are covered by the foam. The light barriers 10 therefore provide the measurement signal representing the foam height H. The third embodiment of the measuring unit 5 likewise further comprises as the second measuring element 7 a hydrostatic sensor as already described in connection with the first embodiment.

The signals provided by the light barrier 10 and the second measuring element 7 are processed by the controller 4 in the same way as above in connection with the controller 4 described in the first embodiment. The treatment agent B is also dosed in the same way.

The device 1 also comprises a rinsing element 17 in connection with the light barrier. The rinsing element 17 is arranged above the light barriers 10 and is used to rinse the light barrier parts with fresh water, in particular after a washing process or else before each light measurement, so that any adhering foam residues are reliably removed from the light barriers 10. This can prevent blocking of the light barrier and an incorrect signal. Although the rinsing water can displace the underlying foam layer locally when it falls into said foam layer, this is only very slight owing to the small amount of water. Moreover, the foam rapidly fills up the displaced space, at least partially, after rinsing has finished, and therefore the foam height can be determined with sufficient accuracy.

The uppermost light barrier is preferably arranged sufficiently higher than the highest possible level of the washing solution or of the foam.

Figure 4 shows a fourth embodiment of the measuring unit 5. In the fourth embodiment, the measuring unit 5 comprises as the first measuring element 6 a plurality of electrodes 13, which are arranged at regular spacings A from each other and one above the other in the interior of the container 2. The electrodes are electrically insulated from the container wall and other current-carrying machine parts and from each other. The electrodes 13 change their conductivity as soon as the foam rising from below covers a pair of electrodes. The pairs of electrodes at the different heights are each switched on individually in a rapidly rotating cycle, i.e. only one pair of electrodes is used for each measurement, while the others are switched off. The foam height H can thus be determined in a similar manner to that explained in connection with the light barriers 10. In the fourth embodiment, the level of the washing solution is again preferably detected with a hydrostatic sensor, so that the foam thickness D can be calculated from the difference between foam height H and level J. The first measurement signal representing the foam height H can therefore be provided using the electrodes 13.

The uppermost pair of electrodes is preferably arranged sufficiently higher than the highest possible level of the washing solution or of the foam.

The signals provided by the electrodes 13 and the second measuring element 7 are processed by the controller 4 in the same way as above in connection with the controller 4 described in the first embodiment. The treatment agent B is also dosed in the same way. A rinsing element 17 is also preferably arranged in relation to the electrodes 13, said element correspondingly rinsing off the electrodes with fresh water in order to remove any foam residues.

Figure 5 shows a fifth embodiment of the measuring unit 5. The fifth embodiment of the measuring unit 5 comprises as the first measuring element 6 a rod 14 mounted pivotably in the container. The rod 14 can be pivoted about a pivot point 30 and is driven by means of a drive element such as a motor. The rod 14 is an electrode, the conductivity of which changes when it comes into contact with the foam. The rod is electrically insulated from current-carrying machine parts and the opposite pole, which is formed by the container and the washing solution and foam mass therein. The rod 14 is connected to a sensor 15, which correspondingly detects the pivot angle of the rod 14. As soon as the conductivity of the electrode changes, the pivot angle and the known rod geometry can be used to determine the foam height H and a first measurement signal can be provided. The level of the washing solution is detected in the same way as in the previous embodiments, from which the foam thickness D can again be determined.

The rod 14 can however also be designed such that it can be displaced in a translational manner.

In a further embodiment not shown in the figures, the measuring unit 5 comprises an image sensor, in particular with an optical unit, the image sensor being situated at a distance from the level of the washing solution. The image sensor can be used to detect the surface of the foam, said signal for controlling the dosing device can be defined and provided using the following parameters of the foam: foam quantity, and/or foam area, and/or bubble size of the foam, and/or stability or life time of foam bubbles, and/or flow rate of the foam.

The image sensor therefore comprises at least one of the above-mentioned parameters, and the quantity of the foam can then be concluded with a calculation algorithm. A control signal for the dosing device can likewise be provided thereby, wherein the at least one treatment agent B can be dosed correspondingly. Preferably, a cleaning agent and a softener are also dosed in this embodiment.

Figure 6 shows the development of the washing effect when the quantity of washing agent is increased. The optimal washing effect is achieved in this example with a quantity of washing agent of 30 to 50 ml.

Figures 6 and 7 are exemplary measurement results of a colored laundry washing program at a low washing temperature. The marking was a code of letters, which were attached to the door seal, detected by a camera situated in the upper region of the door frame and then recognized by software. The diamond-shaped points in the two figures belong to the same measurement experiment, which shows that the foam thickness, and at the same time the washing effect, increases with an increasing quantity of washing agent. However, the washing effect stagnates from approx. 40 ml, i.e. a further increase in the quantity of washing agent does not have any benefit. On the contrary, upward of this quantity, the now excessive amount of foam disrupts execution of the washing program. This results in a longer program, additional rinsing cycles with more water consumption, and even leakage of foam out of the machine. The example shows that a foam thickness of 6 to 8 cm is optimal for ensuring a good washing effect (not too little, but more does not achieve a better washing effect) and at the same time avoiding excessive and therefore harmful foam formation. Furthermore, figure 7 shows that the foam formation depends on water hardness and degree of soiling and that the optimal foam thickness is adjusted and set automatically to these variable conditions by the method according to the invention.

REFERENCE LIST 1 Water-conducting device 2 Container 3 Dosing device 4 Controller 5 Measuring unit 6 First measuring element 7 Second measuring element 8 Image sensor 9 Marking 10 Light barriers 11 Transmitter 12 Receiver 13 Electrodes 14 Rod 15 Sensor 16 Washing drum 17 Rinsing element 18 Vessel 19 Valve 20 Further vessel 21 Valve 22 Line 23 Arrow 24 Bottom 25 Hydrostatic sensor 26 Pipe 27 Reservoir 28 Water line 29 Catch 30 Pivot point 31 Communications channel 32 Communications channel B Treatment agent D Foam thickness H Foam height J Level of washing solution G Articles S Foam W Water, washing solution O Surface

Claims

An aquatic device (1) comprising a container (2) for receiving water (W) and at least one treatment agent (B) to be dissolved in the water and articles (G) to be treated and a dosing device (3) for dosing the at least one processing agent (B), the device (1) further comprising a control unit (4) and a measuring unit (5) which cooperates with the control unit (4), characterized in that the foam (S) resulting of the at least one processing means (B) can be recorded with the measuring unit (5) in the container (2), where data or a signal for the control unit (4) can be provided with the measuring unit (5), where the data or signal represents the state of the foam (S) or a parameter for the foam (S) and the at least one processing agent (B) can be dosed from the dosing device (3) according to the data or signal.

Aquatic device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the parameter is the foam thickness (D), wherein the measuring unit (5) comprises a first measuring element (6) for recording the foam height (H) in the container (2) and for providing data representing the foam height (H), or a first measurement signal representing the foam height (H), and a second measurement element (7) for recording the wash solution (W) level (J) in the container (2) and providing a second a measurement signal representing the level (J) at which the foam thickness (D) can be determined by the data or the first measurement signal and the second measurement signal.

Aquatic device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the at least one treatment agent (B) can be dosed in such a way that the foam thickness (D) is in the range of 1 to 12 cm, especially in the range of 4 to 8. cm, especially preferred at 6 cm.

Aquatic device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring unit (5) comprises an image sensor (8), in particular with an optical unit, and a marking (9), where the marking (9) can be detected by of the image sensor (8).

Aquatic device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the marking (9) extends relative to the foam, so that parts of the marking can be covered by the foam (S), where the marking changes with varying height position.

Aquifer device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the marking (9) is a color code and / or a bar code and / or a strip code and / or a letter code and / or a number code and / or a code of other symbols and shapes and / or a combination of these, where the mark (9) changes above its height.

Aquatic device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the measuring unit (5) comprises an image sensor (8) with which the image extension (8) of the foam (S) area can be detected, the foam height (H) can be determined by the areal expansion of the foam (S).

Aquatic device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the measuring unit (5), which preferably serves for recording the foam thickness (D), comprises a plurality of photocells (10) with transmitter (11) and receiver (12), wherein the photocells (10) are preferably spaced apart at regular intervals (A) relative to their height position in the container (2), especially in the interior of the container (2), or the measuring unit (5) which preferably serves to record the foam thickness (D), comprises a plurality of electrodes (13), the electrodes (13) being preferably spaced apart at regular distances (A) at various heights in the interior of the container (2), or the measuring unit ( 5), which preferably serves to record the foam thickness (D), comprises electrode (14) mounted rotatably or rotatably or slidably in the container (2), where the electrode in the container (2) can be moved towards the foam where the conductivity of the electrode changes by accounts kt with the foam.

Water-carrying device (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the second measuring element (7) is a measuring device, in particular a sensor which records the hydrostatic pressure of the water solution.

Aquatic device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the measuring unit (5) comprises an image sensor, in particular with an optical unit, the image sensor being spaced from the surface of the water solution or the foam, and recording the surface of the foam, wherein said data or said signal may be provided by the amount of foam and / or the foam area and / or the bubble size of the foam and / or the stability or life of the foam bubbles and / or the flow rate of the foam.

Water-carrying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water-carrying device (1) comprises a washing drum (16) which is arranged in the container (2) and can be rotated relative to the container, where the measuring unit ( 5), in particular the first measuring element (6), is arranged outside the drum (16), but preferably within the container (2) or where the measuring unit (5) is arranged outside the container (2).

Water-carrying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (1) further comprises a rinsing element (17) with which parts of the measuring unit (5) can be rinsed with clean water.

Water-carrying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water-carrying device is a washing machine, wherein the container (2) is a liquor container in which a washing drum (16) is rotatably mounted or that the water-carrying device is a dishwasher.

Water-carrying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating state of the water-carrying device can be changed according to the data or signal.

Water-carrying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a control unit for the dosing is an integral part of the water-carrying device (1) or partly arranged as an external part with respect to the water-carrying device (1).

An aquatic device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device (3) comprises at least one vessel (18) which is connected to the container (2) for accommodating at least one treatment agent, in particular a cleaning agent. and a controllable valve (19) or a controllable pump for dosed delivery of the treatment agent to the container (2), where more cleaning agent can be added when there is too little foam in the container.

An aquatic device (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that the metering device (3) comprises at least one additional vessel (20) which is in communication with the container for receiving another treatment agent (B) having a foam reducing effect, in particular a plasticizer. and a controllable valve (21) or a controllable pump for dosed delivery of the second treating agent (B), in particular of the plasticizer, to the container (2) to which the second treating agent (B) reducing the foam, in particular the plasticizer, may be added. , when there is too much foam.

A method of operating a water-carrying device, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a container (2) for receiving water (W) and at least one treatment agent (B) to be dissolved in water, and articles (G) to be treated, and a metering device (3) for metering the at least one processing agent (B) as well as a control unit (4) and a measuring unit (5) which cooperate with the control unit (4), the foam resulting from it at least one processing means (B) is recorded with the measuring unit (5) in the container (2), where data or a signal for the control unit (4) is provided with the measuring unit (5), where the data or signal represents the state of the foam (S) or a parameter for the foam (S) and wherein the at least one processing agent (B) is dosed from the dosing device (3) according to the data or signal.

Method according to claim 18, characterized in that the signal is compared to a predetermined value or a predetermined value range and the at least one processing agent (B) is dosed or postdosed according to this comparison, the signal preferably representing the foam thickness (D), and / or that the signal is compared to a predetermined value or range and the operating state of the aquifer is changed based on this comparison.

Method according to one of claims 18 or 19, characterized in that the method is designed self-emptying, where the recorded data or signals are stored, and / or that imaging software with built-in fuzzy logic method and / or correlation analysis is used in the method for detecting the foam. by constantly changing images and determining the most likely foam size.