EP2050854B1 - Automatic washing and disinfection system - Google Patents

Automatic washing and disinfection system Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2050854B1
EP2050854B1 EP08166667A EP08166667A EP2050854B1 EP 2050854 B1 EP2050854 B1 EP 2050854B1 EP 08166667 A EP08166667 A EP 08166667A EP 08166667 A EP08166667 A EP 08166667A EP 2050854 B1 EP2050854 B1 EP 2050854B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
washing
control circuit
relay
disinfecting
instruction
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EP08166667A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2050854A1 (en
Inventor
Patrick Petel
Cyril Linguet
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L'Habitat Sympa
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L'Habitat Sympa
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    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F34/00—Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F34/08—Control circuits or arrangements thereof
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F37/00—Details specific to washing machines covered by groups D06F21/00 - D06F25/00
    • D06F37/42—Safety arrangements, e.g. for stopping rotation of the receptacle upon opening of the casing door

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to laundry washing systems, and more particularly to washing laundry systems for laundries.
  • the known laundering systems for laundromats are designed to wash the laundry according to pre-defined procedures for washing cycles and rinsing cycles, procedures which follow each other almost continuously. Given the almost continuous use of washing systems for laundry laundries, the reliability of the organs constituting these systems must be ensured.
  • the main control circuit receives commands from the user interface and generates control signals, including wash control signals for controlling the washing system members according to predefined steps to wash cycles and rinse cycles, and Softener solenoid valve control signals to a softener solenoid valve control output according to these commands to actuate the softener solenoid valve during the last rinse cycle.
  • washing systems are connected to user interfaces. Each washing system is controlled by a control signal issued by the user interface. The user selects a washing system and a washing program, according to particular temperature and wash cycle times and rinse cycles, and pays according to this selection.
  • the time of the disinfection cycle is therefore a "dead" time for the user and the manager of the laundry.
  • the disinfectant acts on the drum and not directly on the laundry, so that germs on the laundry to be washed are not eliminated, and continue their development especially during drying.
  • the problem proposed by the present invention is to design a washing system for laundromats that reliably performs the predefined procedures for washing cycles and rinsing cycles, while effectively disinfecting and without wasting time or availability the laundry that it contains, and while leaving the user the freedom to choose the wash program.
  • the user interface is designed so that the user can select at least one normal wash or wash with disinfection.
  • the additional control circuit does not receive a wash command with disinfection and therefore does not operate. Only the normal washing organs function, and their operation is not impaired by the presence of the disinfection means.
  • the additional control circuit receives washing orders with disinfection of the user interface.
  • the additional control circuit then transmits to the main control circuit a normal wash order, which makes it work in the usual way.
  • the additional control circuit puts into operation the additional organs performing the disinfection.
  • the additional control circuit comes into play only when the user selects a wash with disinfection, otherwise it is "mute”.
  • the washing system according to the invention is designed without any modification of the usual organs performing the predefined procedures for washing cycles and rinsing cycles.
  • the additional organs that perform the disinfection communicate with the conventional washers using existing dry contacts.
  • the additional organs that carry out the disinfection are added to the outside and without modification of the washing system itself. This maintains the reliability of the washing systems as well as the manufacturer's warranty.
  • the introduction of the disinfecting liquid inside the tank of the washing system carries out a more complete disinfection because it treats both the laundry and the drum.
  • the introduction of the disinfecting liquid inside the tank during the last rinse cycle allows a significant residual amount of the disinfectant remains in the laundry at the end of the cycle. The effect of the disinfectant therefore persists after washing and is particularly effective.
  • the automatic washing and disinfecting system of the invention does not involve any modification of the organs performing the predefined steps washing cycles and rinsing cycles, it ensures excellent reliability of operation of the washing system.
  • An additional advantage of such a design is that the same additional disinfection units can be added on different washing systems, brands or different models.
  • the pump's feed control allows to set once and for all, depending on the size of the washing machine, the modalities (time, duration, quantity) of pumping for the introduction of disinfectant into the tank.
  • the user has no opportunity to act on this power control.
  • the disinfection product is a very active product that must be used with care, at a suitable dose, and without risk of contact with the user. The fact that this adjustment can not be performed by the user ensures the safe use of the disinfectant product.
  • the adjustment can however be adjusted by an experienced operator to adapt the pumping arrangements for the introduction of disinfectant into the tank.
  • the additional control circuit receives the softener solenoid valve control signal from the main circuit. This signal is indicative of the beginning of the last rinse cycle.
  • the pump operates for a predefined pumping time by the pump supply control after energizing the pumping system and receiving the softener solenoid valve control signal.
  • the disinfection is optimum and takes place at the most efficient time of the washing procedure.
  • the main control circuit comprises a normal wash control input, receiving the normal washing command commands from the user interface, and the additional control circuit includes means for issuing a normal wash command and the send to the normal wash order entry upon receipt of a wash order with disinfection.
  • Such a design thus allows the user to choose either a conventional operation of the washing system for a conventional wash, or a special operation for washing with disinfection.
  • the conventional washing and rinsing steps are automatically controlled by the main control circuit after its activation by the additional control circuit. Then the main control circuit communicates with the additional control circuit to activate the pumping system during the last rinse cycle.
  • the user interface is a central payment that includes at least one normal wash button and a wash button with disinfection, the wash button with disinfection closing a dry contact connected to the additional control circuit.
  • Each of the washing modes can be at a different price. The user must pay the amount corresponding to his selection.
  • the user interface transmits to the washing system the order corresponding to the selection of the user.
  • washing system offers the user several choices of washing program, for example at 30 ° C, 40 ° C, 60 ° C, 90 ° C.
  • the user can choose any of the washing programs and can opt for this washing program also ensures the disinfection of his laundry.
  • the user thus retains all his freedom of choice of washing programs.
  • the disinfection product comprises antimycotic, antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-mite agents, and it does not deteriorate the washed laundry.
  • the automatic washing and disinfecting system comprises a tank 1 provided with a drum 2 which can contain washing clothes, means 3 for supplying washing liquid, and means 4 for evacuating the washing liquid.
  • the automatic washing and disinfection system is connected to a user interface 5 which is able to receive commands from a user and to transmit them to a main control circuit 6.
  • the user interface 5 can be a payment center. It comprises in the illustrated embodiment nine buttons B1-B9. Each of the B1-B9 buttons corresponds to a different wash program. For each of these programs, the user will have to pay a price, which may be different.
  • the user of the washing system must first select the program of his choice by pressing one of the buttons B1-B9.
  • buttons B3 to B9 correspond for example to washing programs at other temperatures, with or without disinfection, or washing programs of other machines.
  • the washing and disinfecting system illustrated in this figure comprises a fabric softener dispensing device 7 equipped with a fabric softener solenoid valve 8.
  • the fabric softener solenoid valve 8 allows it, the fabric softener dispensing device 7 introduced softener product in the tank 1, if this softener product was put by the user in a suitable tray.
  • Pressing the button B1 generates a normal washing pulse command OB1 transmitted by the transmission line TB1 to the normal washing input EN of the main control circuit 6.
  • the normal washing command OB1 in the form of pulse, is stored in the main control circuit 6 to be active throughout the normal washing procedure.
  • the main control circuit 6 During a normal washing, the main control circuit 6 generates two sets of control signals C1 and C2, and an operating signal S.
  • the control signals C1, transmitted by the transmission line TC1, drive the organs of the washing system according to a predefined procedure for washing cycles and rinsing cycles.
  • the control signals C1 come from a sequence of washing instructions contained in a first memory M1 of the main control circuit 6.
  • the control signals C2, emitted on a softener solenoid valve control output SCE of the main control circuit 6, are transmitted by a transmission line TC2 to the softener solenoid valve 8 of a product dispensing device. softener 7, and actuate the softener solenoid valve 8 during the last rinse cycle to introduce a softening product into the tank 1.
  • the operating signal S output on a control output of the main control circuit 6, is available to indicate that the washing and rinsing program is running, the machine door having been closed, all operating conditions being fulfilled.
  • Pressing the B2 button generates a washing impulse command with disinfection OB2, transmitted by the transmission line TB2, to an additional control circuit 10.
  • the additional control circuit 10 stores the washing impulse command with disinfection OB2, generates a normal washing order instead of the button B1 to start the normal washing procedure, and automatically controls disinfection product dispensing means 9 for introduce disinfection liquid in the tank 1 during the last rinse cycle of the normal washing procedure.
  • buttons B1 to B9 are associated with V9 indicator lights ( figure 2 ) indicating the activation and non-activation of washing programs.
  • the wash system may include means for inhibiting the action of other buttons when a button has been activated and the wash cycle is not finished.
  • the washing command with disinfection OB2 is transmitted to an additional control circuit 10 by a transmission line TB2.
  • the user may refrain from placing fabric softener in the fabric softener.
  • the additional control circuit 10 stores the washing command with disinfection OB2 and issues a normal washing command OLN, transmitted by the transmission line TLN to the main control circuit 6 on its normal washing control input EN.
  • the main control circuit 6 then acts as described above, by generating two sets of control signals C1 and C2 and an operating signal S.
  • C1 control signals drive the organs of the washing system according to a predefined procedure washing cycles and rinsing cycles, C1 control signals from a sequence of washing instructions contained in the first memory M1 of the control circuit principal 6.
  • control signals C2 which are produced in the last rinsing cycle, are transmitted by the transmission line TC21 to the softener solenoid valve 8, and are transmitted by the transmission line TC22 to the additional control circuit 10.
  • the operating signal S is transmitted via a line TS to the additional control circuit 10.
  • the additional control circuit 10 Upon receipt of an operating signal S, the additional control circuit 10 closes a switch 19b connected in series with a pumping system 11 across the power supply. This has the effect of energizing the pumping system 11 during the transmission of the operating signal S by the main control circuit 6.
  • the pumping system 11 comprises a pump 14 provided with a pump supply control 13 which, on receipt of a pumping signal, on a control input EP, orders the rotation of the pump 14 according to predefined modes ( pumping time) to ensure the safety of users when introducing the disinfection product.
  • the pumping signal is constituted by the signal C2 for actuating the softener solenoid valve 8, transmitted via the line TC22.
  • the pump 14 of the pumping system 11 takes disinfectant, preferably a disinfection liquid, from a disinfectant reservoir 12 and introduces it into the vessel 1.
  • disinfectant preferably a disinfection liquid
  • the figure 3 illustrates the circuit diagram of an additional control circuit 10 according to one embodiment of the relay-based invention.
  • the laundry system is supplied with electrical energy by a power source 18, for example between a phase and the neutral of an electricity distribution network.
  • relays to carry out the disinfection part ensures the reliability of the system. Relays are naturally reliable, robust, insensitive to electromagnetic disturbances and overvoltages in the power supply network, and do not deteriorate with time and conditions of use even in the vicinity of water and heat as is the case in a laundromat.
  • the washing command with disinfection OB2 is transmitted to the additional control circuit 10 by the transmission line TB2.
  • the button B2 closes a dry contact 23, connected in series between the power source 18 and the coil 16 of the first relay, or the button B2 produces the temporary closure of the dry contact 23, for example for 1 second.
  • the washing sequence with disinfection OB2 is a momentary closure of the dry contact 23, which produces a pulse signal. Closing the dry contact 23 provides power to the first coil 16 of the first relay, and thus the closure of the three working contacts 16a, 16b and 16c.
  • the inhibition rest contact 19c being initially closed, the first working contact 16a of the first relay closes and ensures the self-maintenance of the first relay in the operating state after the end of receipt of the wash command with OB2 disinfection, which stores the receipt of the wash command with OB2 disinfection.
  • the second working contact 16b of the first relay closes, and generates on the normal washing output SL a normal washing command OLN which is transmitted to the normal washing control input EN of the main control circuit 6 to execute the conventional washing procedure with washing cycles and rinsing and temperature cycles.
  • the main control circuit 6 finds that all the conditions are met to start the operation of the washing elements, it generates the operating signal S.
  • the operating signal S is generated by the closure of a dry contact 24 of the main control circuit 6, connected in series between the power source 18 and the second coil 19 of the second relay.
  • the second coil 19 of the second relay is fed through the third working contact 16c of the first relay, which closes the contact self-holding work 19a, closes the working pump contact 19b, and opens the inhibition rest contact 19c, interrupting the supply of the first coil 16.
  • the first relay returns to the idle state and remains in this state until a next wash command with OB2 disinfection is received, while the second relay remains in the operating state until the end of the operating signal S.
  • a signal V signals the operation of the washing machine.
  • the pumping system 11 receives the softener solenoid valve control signal C2, at the last rinsing cycle, the pump injects softener product into the tank 1 for a period of time defined by the feed control. pump 13.
  • control signal of the fabric softener solenoid valve C2 is generated by a dry contact 25 of the main control circuit 6, connected between a supply source 18 and a control input EP of the pumping system 11.
  • the second relay returns to the idle state.
  • the time diagram of the figure 4 illustrates the signals during a washing program with disinfection.
  • a wash command with disinfection OB2 is issued when the user of the washing system presses button B2.
  • the duration T0 of this wash command with disinfection OB2 corresponds to the duration of the pulse generated by the central payment unit when the user has pressed the button B2.
  • the washing command with disinfection OB2 is transmitted to the additional control circuit 10 which generates and transmits to the main control circuit 6 a normal wash command OLN.
  • the duration T1 of the normal wash command OLN is sufficient for the order to be taken into account by the main control circuit 6. In fact, the normal wash command OLN is maintained until the start of the machine.
  • the main control circuit 6 transmits to the additional control circuit 10 an operating signal S, and for the duration T2 of operation.
  • the softener solenoid valve control signal C2 is set for a duration T3.
  • Receipt of the softener solenoid valve control signal C2 from the additional control circuit 10 and the pump supply control circuit 13 causes the supply P of the pump 14 of the pump system 11 for a period of time T4 .
  • the pump supply control 13 allows the operation of the pump 14 for a period T4 initially set by an operator.
  • the duration T4 is therefore less than the duration T3.
  • the pump 14 introduces disinfection liquid into the tank 1 during the period T4, which determines the amount of liquid introduced and the concentration of disinfectant in the tank 1 and the laundry.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Disinfection Or Sterilisation (AREA)
  • Control Of Washing Machine And Dryer (AREA)
  • Accessory Of Washing/Drying Machine, Commercial Washing/Drying Machine, Other Washing/Drying Machine (AREA)

Abstract

The system has a user interface (5) transmitting order of washing to a control unit (6). The unit (6) generates control signals (C1, C2) and operation signal (S) based on the order of washing. Disinfection product distribution units (9) introduce a disinfection product in a tank (1). The interface has nine buttons (B1-B9) for inputting and transmitting a normal washing order (OB1) and disinfection washing order (OB2). A control unit (10) automatically controls the units (9) for introducing the disinfection product in the tank, during a last rinsing cycle, after receiving the order (OB2).

Description

La présente invention concerne les systèmes de lavage de linge, et plus particulièrement les systèmes de lavage de linge pour laveries automatiques.The present invention relates to laundry washing systems, and more particularly to washing laundry systems for laundries.

Les systèmes connus de lavage de linge pour laveries automatiques sont conçus pour laver le linge selon des procédures prédéfinies à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage, procédures qui se succèdent chaque jour presque en continu. Compte tenu de l'utilisation presque en continu des systèmes de lavage de linge pour laveries automatiques, la fiabilité des organes constituant ces systèmes doit être assurée.The known laundering systems for laundromats are designed to wash the laundry according to pre-defined procedures for washing cycles and rinsing cycles, procedures which follow each other almost continuously. Given the almost continuous use of washing systems for laundry laundries, the reliability of the organs constituting these systems must be ensured.

Ces systèmes connus (voir par exemple le document US-A1-2004/098811 ) comprennent généralement une cuve munie d'un tambour apte à contenir du linge à laver, des moyens d'amenée de liquide de lavage, et des moyens d'évacuation du liquide de lavage. Une interface utilisateur permet de recevoir des ordres d'un utilisateur et de les transmettre à un circuit de commande principal. Le plus souvent, ces systèmes comprennent aussi un dispositif de distribution de produit assouplissant, muni d'une électrovanne d'assouplissant. Le circuit de commande principal reçoit les ordres de l'interface utilisateur et génère des signaux de commande, notamment des signaux de commande de lavage pour piloter les organes du système de lavage selon des étapes prédéfinies à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage, et des signaux de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant sur une sortie de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant en fonction de ces ordres pour actionner l'électrovanne d'assouplissant lors du dernier cycle de rinçage.These known systems (see for example the document US-A1-2004 / 098811 ) generally comprise a tank provided with a drum adapted to contain laundry to be washed, means for supplying washing liquid, and means for discharging the washing liquid. A user interface is used to receive commands from a user and transmit them to a main control circuit. Most often, these systems also include a fabric softener dispensing device, provided with a fabric softener solenoid valve. The main control circuit receives commands from the user interface and generates control signals, including wash control signals for controlling the washing system members according to predefined steps to wash cycles and rinse cycles, and Softener solenoid valve control signals to a softener solenoid valve control output according to these commands to actuate the softener solenoid valve during the last rinse cycle.

Dans les laveries automatiques, les systèmes de lavage connus sont reliés à des interfaces utilisateurs. Chaque système de lavage est commandé par un signal de commande émis par l'interface utilisateur. L'utilisateur sélectionne un système de lavage et un programme de lavage, selon notamment une température et des temps de cycles de lavage et de cycles de rinçage, et il paye en fonction de cette sélection.In laundromats, known washing systems are connected to user interfaces. Each washing system is controlled by a control signal issued by the user interface. The user selects a washing system and a washing program, according to particular temperature and wash cycle times and rinse cycles, and pays according to this selection.

Un problème grave de ces systèmes connus est que le linge qui sort après lavage n'est pas sec, et contient encore des germes tels que des microbes, bactéries, champignons, et autres microorganismes parasitaires qui n'ont pas été éliminés par le lavage. On constate alors que ces germes sont sources d'allergies ou de contaminations indésirables.A serious problem with these known systems is that the laundry that comes out after washing is not dry, and still contains germs such as microbes, bacteria, fungi, and other parasitic microorganisms that have not been washed away. It can be seen that these germs are sources of allergies or undesirable contaminations.

On a aussi imaginé de désinfecter avec un produit désinfectant le tambour des systèmes de lavage de linge pour laveries automatiques après chaque utilisation. Cependant, cette solution induit une perte de temps certaine pour les utilisateurs, et donc une perte d'argent pour les gérants de laveries. En effet, pendant le cycle de désinfection, le système de lavage est indisponible et l'utilisateur ne peut pas introduire son linge à laver dans le système de lavage de linge. Il doit patienter jusqu'à ce que le cycle de désinfection soit terminé avant de pouvoir laver son linge.It has also been conceived to disinfect the drum of laundry washing systems for launderers after each use with a disinfectant product. However, this solution induces a loss of time for users, and therefore a loss of money for the laundry managers. Indeed, during the disinfection cycle, the washing system is unavailable and the user can not introduce his laundry to the washing system. He must wait until the disinfection cycle is complete before he can wash his clothes.

Le temps du cycle de désinfection est donc un temps "mort" pour l'utilisateur et pour le gérant de la laverie.The time of the disinfection cycle is therefore a "dead" time for the user and the manager of the laundry.

De plus, dans cette solution, le désinfectant agit sur le tambour et non directement sur le linge, de sorte que les germes sur le linge à laver ne sont pas éliminés, et poursuivent leur développement notamment pendant le séchage.In addition, in this solution, the disinfectant acts on the drum and not directly on the laundry, so that germs on the laundry to be washed are not eliminated, and continue their development especially during drying.

On connaît du document US 2004/0098811 A1 un dispositif conforme au préambule de la revendication 1 mais ne comportant pas de moyens de désinfection.Document is known US 2004/0098811 A1 a device according to the preamble of claim 1 but not comprising disinfection means.

Le problème proposé par la présente invention est de concevoir un système de lavage pour laveries automatiques qui réalise de façon fiable les procédures prédéfinies à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage, tout en désinfectant efficacement et sans perte de temps ou de disponibilité le linge qu'il contient, et tout en laissant à l'utilisateur la liberté de choix du programme de lavage.The problem proposed by the present invention is to design a washing system for laundromats that reliably performs the predefined procedures for washing cycles and rinsing cycles, while effectively disinfecting and without wasting time or availability the laundry that it contains, and while leaving the user the freedom to choose the wash program.

Pour atteindre ces buts ainsi que d'autres, l'invention propose un système de lavage de linge, comprenant :

  • une cuve munie d'un tambour apte à contenir du linge à laver, des moyens d'amenée de liquide de lavage, et des moyens d'évacuation du liquide de lavage,
  • une interface utilisateur pour recevoir des ordres d'un utilisateur et les transmettre à un circuit de commande principal,
  • un dispositif de distribution de produit assouplissant, muni d'une électrovanne d'assouplissant,
  • un circuit de commande principal, recevant les ordres de lavage de l'interface utilisateur et générant en fonction de ces ordres de lavage des signaux de commande et de fonctionnement, dont des signaux de commande de lavage pour piloter les organes du système de lavage selon des séquences d'instructions contenues dans une première mémoire et correspondant à des procédures prédéfinies à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage, dont des signaux de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant présentés sur une sortie de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant pour actionner l'électrovanne d'assouplissant lors du dernier cycle de rinçage, et dont un signal de fonctionnement indiquant que le lavage est en cours, dans lequel :
  • on prévoit des moyens de distribution d'un produit de désinfection, aptes à introduire du produit de désinfection dans la cuve,
  • dans l'interface utilisateur, on prévoit des moyens pour entrer et transmettre au moins un ordre de lavage normal et au moins un ordre de lavage avec désinfection,
  • un circuit de commande additionnel reçoit les ordres de lavage avec désinfection provenant de l'interface utilisateur, et pilote automatiquement les moyens de distribution de produit de désinfection pour introduire du produit de désinfection dans la cuve lors du dernier cycle de rinçage, après réception d'un ordre de lavage avec désinfection.
To achieve these and other objects, the invention provides a laundry system, comprising:
  • a tub provided with a drum adapted to contain laundry, means for supplying washing liquid, and means for discharging the washing liquid,
  • a user interface for receiving commands from a user and transmitting them to a main control circuit,
  • a softening product dispensing device, provided with a softener solenoid valve,
  • a main control circuit, receiving the washing commands from the user interface and generating, as a function of these washing orders, control and operating signals, including washing control signals for controlling the washing system members according to sequences of instructions contained in a first memory and corresponding to predefined wash cycle and rinse cycle procedures, including fabric softener solenoid control signals presented on a fabric softener solenoid control output to operate softener solenoid valve during the last rinse cycle, including an operation signal indicating that washing is in progress, wherein:
  • there are provided means for dispensing a disinfection product, able to introduce disinfectant into the tank,
  • in the user interface, means are provided for entering and transmitting at least one normal washing order and at least one washing order with disinfection,
  • an additional control circuit receives the wash orders with disinfection from the user interface, and automatically controls the disinfection product dispensing means to introduce disinfectant into the tank during the last rinse cycle, after receiving a washing order with disinfection.

L'interface utilisateur est conçue pour que l'utilisateur puisse sélectionner au moins un lavage normal ou un lavage avec désinfection.The user interface is designed so that the user can select at least one normal wash or wash with disinfection.

L'utilisateur conserve la possibilité d'utiliser le système de lavage selon un programme de lavage normal. Dans ce cas, le circuit de commande additionnel ne reçoit pas d'ordre de lavage avec désinfection et n'entre donc pas en fonctionnement. Seuls fonctionnent les organes de lavage normal, et leur fonctionnement n'est pas altéré par la présence des moyens de désinfection.The user retains the possibility of using the washing system according to a normal washing program. In this case, the additional control circuit does not receive a wash command with disinfection and therefore does not operate. Only the normal washing organs function, and their operation is not impaired by the presence of the disinfection means.

Si l'utilisateur opte pour un lavage avec désinfection, le circuit de commande additionnel reçoit les ordres de lavage avec désinfection de l'interface utilisateur. Le circuit de commande additionnel transmet alors au circuit de commande principal un ordre de lavage normal, qui le fait fonctionner de manière habituelle. Lors du dernier cycle de rinçage, le circuit de commande additionnel met en fonctionnement les organes additionnels réalisant la désinfection.If the user opts for a wash with disinfection, the additional control circuit receives washing orders with disinfection of the user interface. The additional control circuit then transmits to the main control circuit a normal wash order, which makes it work in the usual way. During the last rinsing cycle, the additional control circuit puts into operation the additional organs performing the disinfection.

Le circuit de commande additionnel n'entre en jeu que lorsque l'utilisateur sélectionne un lavage avec désinfection, sinon il est "muet".The additional control circuit comes into play only when the user selects a wash with disinfection, otherwise it is "mute".

Le système de lavage selon l'invention est conçu sans aucune modification des organes habituels réalisant les procédures prédéfinies à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage. Les organes additionnels qui réalisent la désinfection communiquent avec les organes de lavage classiques en utilisant des contacts secs existants.The washing system according to the invention is designed without any modification of the usual organs performing the predefined procedures for washing cycles and rinsing cycles. The additional organs that perform the disinfection communicate with the conventional washers using existing dry contacts.

Les organes additionnels qui réalisent la désinfection sont ajoutés à l'extérieur et sans modification du système de lavage lui-même. On conserve ainsi la fiabilité des systèmes de lavage ainsi que la garantie constructeur.The additional organs that carry out the disinfection are added to the outside and without modification of the washing system itself. This maintains the reliability of the washing systems as well as the manufacturer's warranty.

L'introduction du liquide de désinfection à l'intérieur de la cuve du système de lavage réalise une désinfection plus complète car elle traite à la fois le linge et le tambour.The introduction of the disinfecting liquid inside the tank of the washing system carries out a more complete disinfection because it treats both the laundry and the drum.

L'introduction du liquide de désinfection à l'intérieur de la cuve lors du dernier cycle de rinçage permet qu'une quantité résiduelle non négligeable du produit de désinfection reste dans le linge à la fin du cycle. L'effet du produit de désinfection persiste donc après le lavage et est particulièrement efficace.The introduction of the disinfecting liquid inside the tank during the last rinse cycle allows a significant residual amount of the disinfectant remains in the laundry at the end of the cycle. The effect of the disinfectant therefore persists after washing and is particularly effective.

Du fait que le système automatique de lavage et de désinfection de l'invention n'implique aucune modification des organes réalisant les étapes prédéfinies à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage, on assure une excellente fiabilité de fonctionnement du système de lavage.Because the automatic washing and disinfecting system of the invention does not involve any modification of the organs performing the predefined steps washing cycles and rinsing cycles, it ensures excellent reliability of operation of the washing system.

Un avantage supplémentaire d'une telle conception est que des mêmes organes additionnels de désinfection peuvent être ajoutés sur différents systèmes de lavage, de marques ou de modèles différents.An additional advantage of such a design is that the same additional disinfection units can be added on different washing systems, brands or different models.

De façon avantageuse, on peut prévoir que :

  • les moyens de distribution d'un produit de désinfection comprennent un système de pompage pour prélever du produit de désinfection d'un réservoir de produit de désinfection,
  • le système de pompage comprend une pompe munie d'une commande d'alimentation de pompe apte à autoriser l'alimentation de la pompe après réception d'un signal de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant,
  • le circuit de commande additionnel reçoit le signal de fonctionnement, et comprend un commutateur connecté en série avec le système de pompage pour mettre sous tension le système de pompage pendant la réception du signal de fonctionnement si un ordre de lavage avec désinfection a été reçu.
Advantageously, it can be provided that:
  • the means for dispensing a disinfectant product comprise a pumping system for taking disinfectant from a disinfectant reservoir,
  • the pumping system comprises a pump provided with a pump supply control able to authorize the supply of the pump after receiving a softener solenoid valve control signal,
  • the additional control circuit receives the operation signal, and includes a switch connected in series with the pumping system to energize the pumping system during receipt of the operating signal if a wash command with disinfection has been received.

La commande d'alimentation de la pompe permet de régler une fois pour toutes, en fonction de la taille de la machine de lavage, les modalités (temporisation, durée, quantité) de pompage pour l'introduction de produit désinfectant dans la cuve. L'utilisateur n'a pas de possibilité d'agir sur cette commande d'alimentation. Le produit de désinfection est un produit très actif qui doit être utilisé avec précaution, selon une dose adéquate, et sans risque de contact avec l'utilisateur. Le fait que ce réglage ne puisse pas être effectué par l'utilisateur assure la sécurité de l'utilisation du produit désinfectant.The pump's feed control allows to set once and for all, depending on the size of the washing machine, the modalities (time, duration, quantity) of pumping for the introduction of disinfectant into the tank. The user has no opportunity to act on this power control. The disinfection product is a very active product that must be used with care, at a suitable dose, and without risk of contact with the user. The fact that this adjustment can not be performed by the user ensures the safe use of the disinfectant product.

En cas de nécessité, le réglage pourra toutefois être ajusté par un opérateur averti pour adapter les modalités de pompage pour l'introduction de produit désinfectant dans la cuve.If necessary, the adjustment can however be adjusted by an experienced operator to adapt the pumping arrangements for the introduction of disinfectant into the tank.

Pour que le système de pompage fonctionne pour introduire le produit désinfectant dans la cuve lors du dernier rinçage, le circuit de commande additionnel reçoit du circuit principal le signal de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant. Ce signal est le témoin du début du dernier cycle de rinçage.In order for the pumping system to operate to introduce the disinfectant into the vessel during the last rinse, the additional control circuit receives the softener solenoid valve control signal from the main circuit. This signal is indicative of the beginning of the last rinse cycle.

Avantageusement, dans le système de pompage, la pompe fonctionne pendant un temps de pompage prédéfini par la commande d'alimentation de pompe après mise sous tension du système de pompage et réception du signal de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant.Advantageously, in the pumping system, the pump operates for a predefined pumping time by the pump supply control after energizing the pumping system and receiving the softener solenoid valve control signal.

Ainsi, la désinfection est optimum et a lieu au moment le plus efficace de la procédure de lavage.Thus, the disinfection is optimum and takes place at the most efficient time of the washing procedure.

De façon avantageuse, le circuit de commande principal comprend une entrée de commande de lavage normal, recevant les ordres de commande de lavage normal de l'interface utilisateur, et le circuit de commande additionnel comprend des moyens pour émettre un ordre de lavage normal et l'envoyer sur l'entrée de commande de lavage normal à réception d'un ordre de lavage avec désinfection.Advantageously, the main control circuit comprises a normal wash control input, receiving the normal washing command commands from the user interface, and the additional control circuit includes means for issuing a normal wash command and the send to the normal wash order entry upon receipt of a wash order with disinfection.

Une telle conception permet ainsi à l'utilisateur de choisir soit un fonctionnement classique du système de lavage pour un lavage classique, soit un fonctionnement spécial pour un lavage avec désinfection.Such a design thus allows the user to choose either a conventional operation of the washing system for a conventional wash, or a special operation for washing with disinfection.

Si l'utilisateur opte pour un lavage classique, seul le circuit de commande principal entre en fonctionnement.If the user opts for a conventional wash, only the main control circuit goes into operation.

Pour le lavage avec désinfection, les étapes classiques de lavage et de rinçage sont automatiquement commandées par le circuit de commande principal après son activation par le circuit de commande additionnel. Puis le circuit de commande principal communique avec le circuit de commande additionnel pour activer le système de pompage lors du dernier cycle de rinçage.For washing with disinfection, the conventional washing and rinsing steps are automatically controlled by the main control circuit after its activation by the additional control circuit. Then the main control circuit communicates with the additional control circuit to activate the pumping system during the last rinse cycle.

Cette conception séparée des circuits de commande assure la fiabilité du système de lavage.This separate design of the control circuits ensures the reliability of the washing system.

Avantageusement, on peut prévoir que l'interface utilisateur est une centrale de paiement qui comprend au moins un bouton de lavage normal et un bouton de lavage avec désinfection, le bouton de lavage avec désinfection fermant un contact sec connecté au circuit de commande additionnel.Advantageously, it can be provided that the user interface is a central payment that includes at least one normal wash button and a wash button with disinfection, the wash button with disinfection closing a dry contact connected to the additional control circuit.

Cette solution est simple et permet une transmission fiable des ordres.This solution is simple and allows a reliable transmission of orders.

Chacun des modes de lavage peut être à un prix différent. L'utilisateur doit s'acquitter du montant correspondant à sa sélection.Each of the washing modes can be at a different price. The user must pay the amount corresponding to his selection.

Une fois la sélection et le paiement effectués par l'utilisateur, l'interface utilisateur transmet au système de lavage l'ordre correspondant à la sélection de l'utilisateur.Once the selection and payment made by the user, the user interface transmits to the washing system the order corresponding to the selection of the user.

Bien entendu, on peut imaginer que le système de lavage offre à l'utilisateur plusieurs choix de programme de lavage, par exemple à 30°C, 40°C, 60°C, 90°C.Of course, one can imagine that the washing system offers the user several choices of washing program, for example at 30 ° C, 40 ° C, 60 ° C, 90 ° C.

Ainsi, l'utilisateur peut choisir n'importe lequel des programmes de lavage et peut opter pour que ce programme de lavage assure en outre la désinfection de son linge. L'utilisateur conserve ainsi toute sa liberté de choix des programmes de lavage.Thus, the user can choose any of the washing programs and can opt for this washing program also ensures the disinfection of his laundry. The user thus retains all his freedom of choice of washing programs.

De façon avantageuse, le produit de désinfection comprend des agents antimycosiques, antimicrobiens, antibactériens et antiacariens, et il ne détériore pas le linge lavé.Advantageously, the disinfection product comprises antimycotic, antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-mite agents, and it does not deteriorate the washed laundry.

Un tel produit attaque un large spectre d'agents parasites que l'on trouve fréquemment dans le linge.Such a product attacks a broad spectrum of parasitic agents that are frequently found in laundry.

De plus, utiliser un système de lavage et de désinfection qui traite le linge contre les acariens permet à des utilisateurs sensibles aux acariens de laver leur linge en laverie en toute sérénité.In addition, using a washing and disinfecting system that treats the machine against dust mites allows users sensitive to dust mites to wash their clothes in a launderette with complete peace of mind.

D'autres objets, caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention ressortiront de la description suivante de modes de réalisation particuliers, faite en relation avec les figures jointes, parmi lesquelles :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique générale d'un système automatique de lavage et de désinfection selon un mode de réalisation de la présente invention ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue schématique plus détaillée d'un système automatique de lavage et de désinfection selon un mode de réalisation préféré de la présente invention ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue schématique d'un circuit électrique de commande additionnel du système de lavage et de désinfection de la figure 2 ; et
  • la figure 4 est un diagramme temporel des signaux lors d'un lavage avec désinfection.
Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of particular embodiments, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
  • the figure 1 is a general schematic view of an automatic washing and disinfecting system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
  • the figure 2 is a more detailed schematic view of an automatic washing and disinfecting system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
  • the figure 3 is a schematic view of an additional control electrical circuit of the washing and disinfection system of the figure 2 ; and
  • the figure 4 is a temporal diagram of the signals during a wash with disinfection.

Comme illustré sur le schéma général de la figure 1, le système automatique de lavage et de désinfection comprend une cuve 1 munie d'un tambour 2 pouvant contenir du linge à laver, des moyens d'amenée 3 de liquide de lavage, et des moyens d'évacuation 4 du liquide de lavage.As illustrated in the general diagram of the figure 1 the automatic washing and disinfecting system comprises a tank 1 provided with a drum 2 which can contain washing clothes, means 3 for supplying washing liquid, and means 4 for evacuating the washing liquid.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré sur la figure 1, le système automatique de lavage et de désinfection est relié à une interface utilisateur 5 qui est apte à recevoir des ordres d'un utilisateur et à les transmettre à un circuit de commande principal 6.In the embodiment illustrated on the figure 1 the automatic washing and disinfection system is connected to a user interface 5 which is able to receive commands from a user and to transmit them to a main control circuit 6.

L'interface utilisateur 5 peut être une centrale de paiement. Elle comprend dans le mode de réalisation illustré neuf boutons B1-B9. Chacun des boutons B1-B9 correspond à un programme de lavage différent. Pour chacun de ces programmes, l'utilisateur devra payer un prix, qui peut être différent.The user interface 5 can be a payment center. It comprises in the illustrated embodiment nine buttons B1-B9. Each of the B1-B9 buttons corresponds to a different wash program. For each of these programs, the user will have to pay a price, which may be different.

L'utilisateur du système de lavage doit dans un premier temps sélectionner le programme de son choix en appuyant sur l'un des boutons B1-B9.The user of the washing system must first select the program of his choice by pressing one of the buttons B1-B9.

Par exemple, en appuyant sur le bouton B1, l'utilisateur choisit un programme de lavage classique à 30°C. Ce programme lui sera facturé X €.For example, by pressing the B1 button, the user selects a conventional wash program at 30 ° C. This program will be charged X €.

Ou en appuyant sur le bouton B2, l'utilisateur choisit un programme de lavage classique à 30°C avec désinfection. Ce programme lui sera facturé Y €.Or by pressing the B2 button, the user chooses a conventional washing program at 30 ° C with disinfection. This program will be charged Y €.

Les autres boutons B3 à B9 correspondent par exemple à des programmes de lavage à d'autres températures, avec ou sans désinfection, ou à des programme de lavage d'autres machines.The other buttons B3 to B9 correspond for example to washing programs at other temperatures, with or without disinfection, or washing programs of other machines.

Le système de lavage et de désinfection illustré sur cette figure comprend un dispositif de distribution de produit assouplissant 7 muni d'une électrovanne d'assouplissant 8. Lorsque l'électrovanne d'assouplissant 8 l'autorise, le dispositif de distribution de produit assouplissant 7 introduit du produit assouplissant dans la cuve 1, si ce produit assouplissant a été mis par l'utilisateur dans un bac approprié.The washing and disinfecting system illustrated in this figure comprises a fabric softener dispensing device 7 equipped with a fabric softener solenoid valve 8. When the fabric softener solenoid valve 8 allows it, the fabric softener dispensing device 7 introduced softener product in the tank 1, if this softener product was put by the user in a suitable tray.

Le fait d'appuyer sur le bouton B1 génère un ordre impulsionnel de lavage normal OB1 transmis par la ligne de transmission TB1 à l'entrée de lavage normal EN du circuit de commande principal 6. L'ordre de lavage normal OB1, en forme d'impulsion, est mémorisé dans le circuit de commande principal 6 pour être actif pendant toute la procédure de lavage normal.Pressing the button B1 generates a normal washing pulse command OB1 transmitted by the transmission line TB1 to the normal washing input EN of the main control circuit 6. The normal washing command OB1, in the form of pulse, is stored in the main control circuit 6 to be active throughout the normal washing procedure.

Lors d'un lavage normal, le circuit de commande principal 6 génère deux séries de signaux de commande C1 et C2, et un signal de fonctionnement S.During a normal washing, the main control circuit 6 generates two sets of control signals C1 and C2, and an operating signal S.

Les signaux de commande C1, transmis par la ligne de transmission TC1, pilotent les organes du système de lavage selon une procédure prédéfinie à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage. Les signaux de commande C1 proviennent d'une séquence d'instructions de lavage contenue dans une première mémoire M1 du circuit de commande principal 6.The control signals C1, transmitted by the transmission line TC1, drive the organs of the washing system according to a predefined procedure for washing cycles and rinsing cycles. The control signals C1 come from a sequence of washing instructions contained in a first memory M1 of the main control circuit 6.

Les signaux de commande C2, émis sur une sortie de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant SCE du circuit de commande principal 6, sont transmis par une ligne de transmission TC2 à l'électrovanne d'assouplissant 8 d'un dispositif de distribution de produit assouplissant 7, et actionnent l'électrovanne d'assouplissant 8 lors du dernier cycle de rinçage pour introduire un produit assouplissant dans la cuve 1.The control signals C2, emitted on a softener solenoid valve control output SCE of the main control circuit 6, are transmitted by a transmission line TC2 to the softener solenoid valve 8 of a product dispensing device. softener 7, and actuate the softener solenoid valve 8 during the last rinse cycle to introduce a softening product into the tank 1.

Le signal de fonctionnement S, émis sur une sortie de contrôle du circuit de commande principal 6, est disponible pour indiquer que le programme de lavage et rinçage se déroule, la porte de la machine ayant été fermée, toutes les conditions de fonctionnement étant remplies.The operating signal S, output on a control output of the main control circuit 6, is available to indicate that the washing and rinsing program is running, the machine door having been closed, all operating conditions being fulfilled.

Le fait d'appuyer sur le bouton B2 génère un ordre impulsionnel de lavage avec désinfection OB2, transmis par la ligne de transmission TB2, à un circuit de commande additionnel 10.Pressing the B2 button generates a washing impulse command with disinfection OB2, transmitted by the transmission line TB2, to an additional control circuit 10.

Le circuit de commande additionnel 10 mémorise l'ordre impulsionnel de lavage avec désinfection OB2, génère un ordre de lavage normal à la place du bouton B1 pour lancer la procédure de lavage normal, et pilote automatiquement des moyens de distribution de produit de désinfection 9 pour introduire du liquide de désinfection dans la cuve 1 lors du dernier cycle de rinçage de la procédure de lavage normal.The additional control circuit 10 stores the washing impulse command with disinfection OB2, generates a normal washing order instead of the button B1 to start the normal washing procedure, and automatically controls disinfection product dispensing means 9 for introduce disinfection liquid in the tank 1 during the last rinse cycle of the normal washing procedure.

On peut avantageusement prévoir que les boutons B1 à B9 sont associés à des voyants lumineux V9 (figure 2) indiquant l'activation et la non-activation des programmes de lavage.It is advantageous that the buttons B1 to B9 are associated with V9 indicator lights ( figure 2 ) indicating the activation and non-activation of washing programs.

Ces témoins lumineux sont un indicateur supplémentaire du programme de lavage choisi. L'utilisateur peut donc aisément vérifier que sa sélection a bien été prise en compte par l'interface utilisateur 5 et qu'elle correspond bien à son choix de programme de lavage et à son numéro de machine.These lights are an additional indicator of the chosen wash program. The user can therefore easily verify that his selection has been taken into account by the user interface 5 and that it corresponds to his choice of washing program and its machine number.

Pour éviter qu'un utilisateur sélectionne un programme de lavage alors qu'un cycle de lavage n'est pas terminé, le système de lavage peut comprendre des moyens pour inhiber l'action des autres boutons lorsqu'un bouton a été activé et que le cycle de lavage n'est pas terminé.To prevent a user from selecting a wash program while a wash cycle is not completed, the wash system may include means for inhibiting the action of other buttons when a button has been activated and the wash cycle is not finished.

Dans le mode de réalisation préféré illustré de façon plus détaillée sur la figure 2, les mêmes moyens sont repérés par les mêmes références numériques que sur la figure 1.In the preferred embodiment illustrated in more detail on the figure 2 , the same means are identified by the same reference numerals as on the figure 1 .

Lorsque l'utilisateur du système automatique de lavage et de désinfection sélectionne le bouton B2, l'ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2 est transmis à un circuit de commande additionnel 10 par une ligne de transmission TB2. L'utilisateur s'abstient éventuellement de placer du produit assouplissant dans le bac de produit assouplissant.When the user of the automatic washing and disinfection system selects the button B2, the washing command with disinfection OB2 is transmitted to an additional control circuit 10 by a transmission line TB2. The user may refrain from placing fabric softener in the fabric softener.

Le circuit de commande additionnel 10 mémorise l'ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2 et émet un ordre de lavage normal OLN, transmis par la ligne de transmission TLN au circuit de commande principal 6 sur son entrée de commande de lavage normal EN.The additional control circuit 10 stores the washing command with disinfection OB2 and issues a normal washing command OLN, transmitted by the transmission line TLN to the main control circuit 6 on its normal washing control input EN.

Le circuit de commande principal 6 agit alors comme décrit plus haut, en générant deux séries de signaux de commande C1 et C2 et un signal de fonctionnement S.The main control circuit 6 then acts as described above, by generating two sets of control signals C1 and C2 and an operating signal S.

Les signaux de commande C1 pilotent les organes du système de lavage selon une procédure prédéfinie à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage, les signaux de commande C1 provenant d'une séquence d'instructions de lavage contenue dans la première mémoire M1 du circuit de commande principal 6.C1 control signals drive the organs of the washing system according to a predefined procedure washing cycles and rinsing cycles, C1 control signals from a sequence of washing instructions contained in the first memory M1 of the control circuit principal 6.

Les signaux de commande C2, qui sont produits au dernier cycle de rinçage, sont transmis par la ligne de transmission TC21 à l'électrovanne d'assouplissant 8, et sont transmis par la ligne de transmission TC22 au circuit de commande additionnel 10.The control signals C2, which are produced in the last rinsing cycle, are transmitted by the transmission line TC21 to the softener solenoid valve 8, and are transmitted by the transmission line TC22 to the additional control circuit 10.

Le signal de fonctionnement S est transmis par une ligne TS au circuit de commande additionnel 10.The operating signal S is transmitted via a line TS to the additional control circuit 10.

A réception d'un signal de fonctionnement S, le circuit de commande additionnel 10 ferme un commutateur 19b connecté en série avec un système de pompage 11 aux bornes de l'alimentation électrique. Ceci a pour effet de mettre sous tension le système de pompage 11 pendant l'émission du signal de fonctionnement S par le circuit de commande principal 6.Upon receipt of an operating signal S, the additional control circuit 10 closes a switch 19b connected in series with a pumping system 11 across the power supply. This has the effect of energizing the pumping system 11 during the transmission of the operating signal S by the main control circuit 6.

Le système de pompage 11 comprend une pompe 14 munie d'une commande d'alimentation de pompe 13 qui, à réception d'un signal de pompage, sur une entrée de commande EP, ordonne la rotation de la pompe 14 selon des modalités prédéfinies (temps de pompage) pour assurer la sécurité des utilisateurs lors de l'introduction du produit de désinfection. Selon l'invention le signal de pompage est constitué par le signal C2 d'actionnement de l'électrovanne d'assouplissant 8, transmis par la ligne TC22.The pumping system 11 comprises a pump 14 provided with a pump supply control 13 which, on receipt of a pumping signal, on a control input EP, orders the rotation of the pump 14 according to predefined modes ( pumping time) to ensure the safety of users when introducing the disinfection product. According to the invention, the pumping signal is constituted by the signal C2 for actuating the softener solenoid valve 8, transmitted via the line TC22.

Lors de son fonctionnement, la pompe 14 du système de pompage 11 prélève du produit de désinfection, de préférence un liquide de désinfection, d'un réservoir de produit de désinfection 12 et l'introduit dans la cuve 1.During its operation, the pump 14 of the pumping system 11 takes disinfectant, preferably a disinfection liquid, from a disinfectant reservoir 12 and introduces it into the vessel 1.

La figure 3 illustre le schéma électrique d'un circuit de commande additionnel 10 selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention à base de relais.The figure 3 illustrates the circuit diagram of an additional control circuit 10 according to one embodiment of the relay-based invention.

Le système de lavage de linge est alimenté en énergie électrique par une source d'alimentation 18, par exemple entre une phase et le neutre d'un réseau de distribution d'électricité.The laundry system is supplied with electrical energy by a power source 18, for example between a phase and the neutral of an electricity distribution network.

Dans ce circuit de commande additionnel 10 :

  • un premier relais comporte une première bobine 16 alimentée lors de la réception d'un ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2, et comporte trois contacts travail 16a, 16b, 16c,
  • un premier contact travail 16a du premier relais est connecté en série entre sa bobine 16 et la source d'alimentation 18, pour assurer l'auto-maintien du premier relais à l'état de travail après la fin de réception d'un ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2, assurant ainsi la mémorisation de l'ordre impulsionnel de lavage avec désinfection OB2,
  • un second contact travail 16b du premier relais est connecté en série entre la source d'alimentation 18 et une sortie de lavage normal SL du dispositif de commande additionnel 10, pour produire l'ordre de lavage normal OLN envoyé sur l'entrée de commande de lavage normal EN du circuit de commande principal 6,
  • un second relais comporte une seconde bobine 19, alimentée lorsque d'une part un ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2 a été reçu et d'autre part un signal de fonctionnement S est reçu par le circuit de commande additionnel 10,
  • le second relais comporte un contact travail d'auto-maintien 19a assurant l'auto-maintien du second relais à l'état de travail tant qu'un signal de fonctionnement S est présent,
  • le troisième contact travail 16c du premier relais est connecté en parallèle sur le contact travail d'auto-maintien 19a du second relais, assurant l'inhibition d'alimentation du système de pompage lorsque le bouton B2 n'a pas été appuyé,
  • le second relais comporte un contact travail de pompe 19b connecté en série avec le système de pompage 11 aux bornes de la source d'alimentation 18,
  • le second relais comporte un contact repos d'inhibition 19c connecté en série avec le premier contact travail 16a du premier relais,
  • le circuit de commande additionnel 10 transmet à une entrée de commande de pompage EP du système de pompage 11 le signal de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant C2 qu'il reçoit du circuit de commande principal 6.
In this additional control circuit 10:
  • a first relay comprises a first coil 16 fed at the reception of a washing command with disinfection OB2, and comprises three working contacts 16a, 16b, 16c,
  • a first working contact 16a of the first relay is connected in series between its coil 16 and the power source 18, to ensure the self-maintenance of the first relay in the working state after the end of reception of a washing with OB2 disinfection, thus ensuring the storage of the impulse wash command with OB2 disinfection,
  • a second working contact 16b of the first relay is connected in series between the power source 18 and a normal washing outlet SL of the additional command 10, to produce the normal wash command OLN sent to the normal wash control input EN of the main control circuit 6,
  • a second relay comprises a second coil 19, energized when on the one hand a washing command with disinfection OB2 has been received and on the other hand an operating signal S is received by the additional control circuit 10,
  • the second relay comprises a self-holding working contact 19a ensuring the self-maintenance of the second relay in the working state as long as an operating signal S is present,
  • the third working contact 16c of the first relay is connected in parallel to the self-holding working contact 19a of the second relay, ensuring the power supply inhibition of the pumping system when the button B2 has not been pressed,
  • the second relay comprises a pump working contact 19b connected in series with the pumping system 11 at the terminals of the power source 18,
  • the second relay comprises a muting rest contact 19c connected in series with the first working contact 16a of the first relay,
  • the additional control circuit 10 transmits to a pumping control input EP of the pumping system 11 the softener solenoid valve control signal C2 that it receives from the main control circuit 6.

L'utilisation exclusive de relais pour réaliser la partie désinfection assure la fiabilité du système. Les relais sont des éléments naturellement fiables, robustes, peu sensibles aux perturbations électromagnétiques et aux surtensions du réseau d'alimentation électrique, et qui ne s'altèrent pas avec le temps et les conditions d'utilisation même à proximité d'eau et de chaleur comme cela est le cas dans une laverie.The exclusive use of relays to carry out the disinfection part ensures the reliability of the system. Relays are naturally reliable, robust, insensitive to electromagnetic disturbances and overvoltages in the power supply network, and do not deteriorate with time and conditions of use even in the vicinity of water and heat as is the case in a laundromat.

Lorsque l'utilisateur appuie sur le bouton B2, l'ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2 est transmis au circuit de commande additionnel 10 par la ligne de transmission TB2. Par exemple, le bouton B2 ferme un contact sec 23, connecté en série entre la source d'alimentation 18 et la bobine 16 du premier relais, ou le bouton B2 produit la fermeture temporaire du contact sec 23, par exemple pendant 1 seconde.When the user presses the B2 button, the washing command with disinfection OB2 is transmitted to the additional control circuit 10 by the transmission line TB2. For example, the button B2 closes a dry contact 23, connected in series between the power source 18 and the coil 16 of the first relay, or the button B2 produces the temporary closure of the dry contact 23, for example for 1 second.

L'ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2 est une fermeture momentanée du contact sec 23, qui produit un signal impulsionnel. La fermeture du contact sec 23 assure l'alimentation de la première bobine 16 du premier relais, et donc la fermeture des trois contacts travail 16a, 16b et 16c.The washing sequence with disinfection OB2 is a momentary closure of the dry contact 23, which produces a pulse signal. Closing the dry contact 23 provides power to the first coil 16 of the first relay, and thus the closure of the three working contacts 16a, 16b and 16c.

Le contact repos d'inhibition 19c étant initialement fermé, le premier contact travail 16a du premier relais se ferme et assure l'auto-maintien du premier relais à l'état travail après la fin de réception de l'ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2, ce qui mémorise la réception de l'ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2.The inhibition rest contact 19c being initially closed, the first working contact 16a of the first relay closes and ensures the self-maintenance of the first relay in the operating state after the end of receipt of the wash command with OB2 disinfection, which stores the receipt of the wash command with OB2 disinfection.

Simultanément, le second contact travail 16b du premier relais se ferme, et génère sur la sortie de lavage normal SL un ordre de lavage normal OLN qui est transmis à l'entrée de commande de lavage normal EN du circuit de commande principal 6 pour exécuter la procédure de lavage classique à cycles de lavage et cycles de rinçage et de température.Simultaneously, the second working contact 16b of the first relay closes, and generates on the normal washing output SL a normal washing command OLN which is transmitted to the normal washing control input EN of the main control circuit 6 to execute the conventional washing procedure with washing cycles and rinsing and temperature cycles.

Dès que le circuit de commande principal 6 constate que toutes les conditions sont réunies pour commencer le fonctionnement des organes de lavage, il génère le signal de fonctionnement S.As soon as the main control circuit 6 finds that all the conditions are met to start the operation of the washing elements, it generates the operating signal S.

Le signal de fonctionnement S est généré par la fermeture d'un contact sec 24 du circuit de commande principal 6, connecté en série entre la source d'alimentation 18 et la seconde bobine 19 du second relais.The operating signal S is generated by the closure of a dry contact 24 of the main control circuit 6, connected in series between the power source 18 and the second coil 19 of the second relay.

Pendant la présence du signal de fonctionnement S, c'est-à-dire pendant que le contact sec 24 est fermé, la seconde bobine 19 du second relais est alimentée à travers le troisième contact travail 16c du premier relais, ce qui ferme le contact travail d'auto-maintien 19a, ferme le contact travail pompe 19b, et ouvre le contact repos d'inhibition 19c, interrompant l'alimentation de la première bobine 16. Le premier relais retourne à l'état de repos et reste dans cet état jusqu'à réception d'un prochain ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2, tandis que le second relais reste à l'état de travail jusqu'à la fin du signal de fonctionnement S.During the presence of the operating signal S, that is to say while the dry contact 24 is closed, the second coil 19 of the second relay is fed through the third working contact 16c of the first relay, which closes the contact self-holding work 19a, closes the working pump contact 19b, and opens the inhibition rest contact 19c, interrupting the supply of the first coil 16. The first relay returns to the idle state and remains in this state until a next wash command with OB2 disinfection is received, while the second relay remains in the operating state until the end of the operating signal S.

Tant que le signal de fonctionnement S est présent, un voyant V signale le fonctionnement de la machine de lavage.As long as the operating signal S is present, a signal V signals the operation of the washing machine.

La fermeture du contact travail de pompe 19b produit l'alimentation du système de pompage 11.The closing of the pump working contact 19b produces the supply of the pumping system 11.

De la sorte, lorsque le système de pompage 11 reçoit le signal de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant C2, au dernier cycle de rinçage, la pompe injecte du produit assouplissant dans la cuve 1 pendant une durée définie par la commande d'alimentation de pompe 13.In this way, when the pumping system 11 receives the softener solenoid valve control signal C2, at the last rinsing cycle, the pump injects softener product into the tank 1 for a period of time defined by the feed control. pump 13.

On notera que le signal de commande de l'électrovanne d'assouplissant C2 est généré par un contact sec 25 du circuit de commande principal 6, connecté entre une source d'alimentation 18 et une entrée de commande EP du système de pompage 11.It will be noted that the control signal of the fabric softener solenoid valve C2 is generated by a dry contact 25 of the main control circuit 6, connected between a supply source 18 and a control input EP of the pumping system 11.

Lorsque le circuit de commande additionnel 10 ne reçoit plus le signal de fonctionnement S, le deuxième relais retourne à l'état de repos.When the additional control circuit 10 no longer receives the operating signal S, the second relay returns to the idle state.

Au moment où le deuxième relais passe à l'état de repos, la bobine 19 n'est plus alimentée, le contact travail d'auto-maintien 19a et le contact travail de pompe 19b s'ouvrent.At the moment when the second relay goes to the idle state, the coil 19 is no longer powered, the self-holding working contact 19a and the working pump contact 19b open.

Comme le contact travail de pompe 19b est ouvert, le système de pompage 11 n'est plus alimenté.As the pump working contact 19b is open, the pumping system 11 is no longer powered.

La procédure est ainsi terminée.The procedure is thus completed.

Le diagramme temporel de la figure 4 illustre les signaux lors d'un programme de lavage avec désinfection.The time diagram of the figure 4 illustrates the signals during a washing program with disinfection.

Un ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2 naît lorsque l'utilisateur du système de lavage appuie sur le bouton B2.A wash command with disinfection OB2 is issued when the user of the washing system presses button B2.

La durée T0 de cet ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2, d'environ 1 seconde, correspond à la durée de l'impulsion générée par la centrale de paiement lorsque l'utilisateur a appuyé sur le bouton B2.The duration T0 of this wash command with disinfection OB2, of about 1 second, corresponds to the duration of the pulse generated by the central payment unit when the user has pressed the button B2.

L'ordre de lavage avec désinfection OB2 est transmis au circuit de commande additionnel 10 qui génère et transmet au circuit de commande principal 6 un ordre de lavage normal OLN. La durée T1 de l'ordre de lavage normal OLN est suffisante pour que l'ordre soit pris en compte par le circuit de commande principal 6. En fait, l'ordre de lavage normal OLN est maintenu jusqu'au démarrage de la machine.The washing command with disinfection OB2 is transmitted to the additional control circuit 10 which generates and transmits to the main control circuit 6 a normal wash command OLN. The duration T1 of the normal wash command OLN is sufficient for the order to be taken into account by the main control circuit 6. In fact, the normal wash command OLN is maintained until the start of the machine.

Au démarrage de la machine, lorsque les conditions (fermeture de porte) sont réunies, le circuit de commande principal 6 transmet au circuit de commande additionnel 10 un signal de fonctionnement S, et ce pendant toute la durée T2 du fonctionnement.At the start of the machine, when the conditions (door closing) are met, the main control circuit 6 transmits to the additional control circuit 10 an operating signal S, and for the duration T2 of operation.

Au dernier cycle de rinçage, le signal de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant C2 est établi pendant une durée T3.In the last rinsing cycle, the softener solenoid valve control signal C2 is set for a duration T3.

La réception du signal de commande d'électrovanne d'assouplissant C2 par le circuit de commande additionnel 10 et par le circuit de commande d'alimentation de pompe 13 provoque l'alimentation P de la pompe 14 du système de pompage 11 pendant une durée T4.Receipt of the softener solenoid valve control signal C2 from the additional control circuit 10 and the pump supply control circuit 13 causes the supply P of the pump 14 of the pump system 11 for a period of time T4 .

La commande d'alimentation de pompe 13 autorise le fonctionnement de la pompe 14 pendant une durée T4 initialement réglée par un opérateur. La durée T4 est donc inférieure à la durée T3.The pump supply control 13 allows the operation of the pump 14 for a period T4 initially set by an operator. The duration T4 is therefore less than the duration T3.

Ainsi, la pompe 14 introduit du liquide de désinfection dans la cuve 1 pendant la durée T4, qui détermine la quantité de liquide introduite et la concentration de désinfectant dans la cuve 1 et le linge.Thus, the pump 14 introduces disinfection liquid into the tank 1 during the period T4, which determines the amount of liquid introduced and the concentration of disinfectant in the tank 1 and the laundry.

La présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation qui ont été explicitement décrits, mais elle en inclut les diverses variantes et généralisations contenues dans le domaine des revendications ci-après.The present invention is not limited to the embodiments which have been explicitly described, but it includes the various variants and generalizations thereof within the scope of the claims below.

Claims (12)

  1. Laundry washing system, comprising:
    - a tank (1) provided with a drum (2) adapted to contain laundry to be washed, washing liquid feed means (3) and washing liquid evacuation means (4),
    - a user interface (5) for receiving instructions from a user and sending them to a main control circuit (6),
    - a softener product dispenser (7) provided with a softener solenoid valve (8),
    - a main control circuit (6) receiving washing instructions from the user interface (5) and generating as a function of those washing instructions control signals (C1, C2) and status signals (S), including washing control signals (C1) for controlling the units of the washing system in accordance with sequences of instructions contained in a first memory (M1) and corresponding to predefined procedures with washing cycles and rinsing cycles, including softener solenoid valve control signals (C2) presented to a softener solenoid valve control output (SCE) to operate the softener solenoid valve (8) during the final rinsing cycle, and including a status signal (S) indicating that washing is in progress, characterised in that it comprises:
    - disinfectant dispensing means (9) adapted to introduce disinfectant into the tank (1),
    - in the user interface (5), means (B1-B9) for entering and sending at least one normal washing instruction (OB1) and at least one washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2),
    - an additional control circuit (10) which receives washing and disinfecting instructions (OB2) from the user interface (5) and automatically controls the disinfectant dispensing means (9) to introduce disinfectant into the tank (1) during the final rinsing cycle, after reception of a washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2).
  2. Washing system according to claim 1, characterised in that:
    - the disinfectant dispensing means (9) comprise a pumping system (11) for taking disinfectant from a disinfectant tank (12),
    - the pumping system (11) comprises a pump (14) provided with a pump power supply controller (13) adapted to authorise supply of power to the pump (14) after reception of a softener solenoid valve control signal (C2),
    - the additional control circuit (10) receives the status signal (S) and includes a switch (19b) connected in series with the pumping system (11) to switch on the pumping system (11) during reception of the status signal (S) if a washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2) has been received.
  3. Washing system according to claim 2, characterised in that in the pumping system (11) the pump (14) functions for a pumping time predefined by the pump power supply controller (13) after reception of the softener solenoid valve control signal (C2) if the pumping system (11) is supplied with power.
  4. Washing system according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the main control circuit (6) includes a normal washing control input (EN) receiving normal washing control instructions (OB1) from the user interface (5) and the additional control circuit (10) includes means for producing a normal washing instruction (OLN) and for sending it to the normal washing control input (EN) on reception of a washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2).
  5. Washing system according to claim 4, characterised in that in the additional control circuit (10) :
    - a first relay has a first winding (16) energised during reception of a washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2) and three make contacts (16a, 16b, 16c),
    - a first make contact (16a) of the first relay is connected in series between its winding (16) and a power supply (18) to provide self-latching of the first relay in the make state after the end of reception of a washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2),
    - a second make contact (16b) of the first relay is connected in series between the power supply (18) and a normal washing output (SL) of the additional control device (10) to produce the normal washing instruction (OLN),
    - a second relay has a second winding (19) energised when on the one hand a washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2) has been received and on the other hand a status signal (S) is received by the additional control circuit (10),
    - the second relay has a self-latching make contact (19a) for self-latching the second relay in the make state for as long as a status signal (S) is present,
    - the third make contact (16c) of the first relay is connected in parallel with the self-latching make contact (19a) of the second relay,
    - the second relay includes a pump make contact (19b) connected in series with the pumping system (11) to the terminals of the power supply (18),
    - the second relay includes an inhibition break contact (19c) connected in series with the first make contact (16a) of the first relay,
    - the additional control circuit (10) sends the pumping system (11) the softener solenoid valve control signal (C2) that it receives from the main control circuit (6).
  6. Washing system according to claim 5, characterised in that the status signal (S) is generated by a dry contact (24) connected between a power supply (18) and the second winding (19) of the second relay.
  7. Washing system according to either of claims 5 or 6, characterised in that the washing and disinfecting instruction (OB2) is generated by a dry contact (23) connected between the power supply (18) and the winding (16) of the first relay.
  8. Washing system according to either of claims 6 or 7, characterised in that the softener solenoid valve control signal (C2) is generated by a dry contact (25) of the main control circuit (6) connected between the power supply (18) and a control input (EP) of the pumping system (11).
  9. Washing system according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the user interface (5) is a payment centre that includes a normal washing button (B1) and a washing and disinfecting button (B2), the washing and disinfecting button (B2) closing a dry contact (23) connected to the additional control circuit (10).
  10. Washing system according to claim 9, characterised in that the buttons (B1-B9) are associated with indicator lights (V9) indicating activation and non-activation of the washing programs.
  11. Washing system according to either of claims 9 or 10, characterised in that it includes means for inhibiting the action of the other buttons if a button has been activated and the washing cycle has not finished.
  12. Washing system according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the disinfectant contains antimycotic, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiacarid agents and does not damage the washed laundry.
EP08166667A 2007-10-15 2008-10-15 Automatic washing and disinfection system Revoked EP2050854B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0758333A FR2922224B1 (en) 2007-10-15 2007-10-15 AUTOMATIC WASHING AND DISINFECTION SYSTEM

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2050854A1 EP2050854A1 (en) 2009-04-22
EP2050854B1 true EP2050854B1 (en) 2011-03-02

Family

ID=39512818

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP08166667A Revoked EP2050854B1 (en) 2007-10-15 2008-10-15 Automatic washing and disinfection system

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2050854B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE500371T1 (en)
DE (1) DE602008005227D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2922224B1 (en)

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4981024A (en) * 1989-02-03 1991-01-01 Belco Equipment, Inc. Apparatus, system, and method for dispensing laundry chemicals
US5014211A (en) * 1989-06-16 1991-05-07 Diversey Corporation Microprocessor controlled liquid chemical delivery system and method
US6325286B1 (en) * 1997-04-16 2001-12-04 Delaware Capital Formation, Inc. Chemical dispensing system using keyboardless data entry
US7725970B2 (en) * 2002-11-25 2010-06-01 Robert J. Tuttle Control system and method for supplying detergent and other fluids to multiple washing machines

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE602008005227D1 (en) 2011-04-14
ATE500371T1 (en) 2011-03-15
EP2050854A1 (en) 2009-04-22
FR2922224A1 (en) 2009-04-17
FR2922224B1 (en) 2009-11-20

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