EP2303091B1 - Arrangement for coupling a dosing system to a water supply line of a dishwasher - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an arrangement for coupling a metering system with a water-carrying line for the delivery of a plurality of preparations for use in dishwashers.

State of the art

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

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

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

EP 1 728 912 A1 discloses a dosing system for washing machines, which is coupled by means of an adapter to the water-carrying circuit of a washing machine, wherein the dosing outside the washing or. Dish is arranged.

There is a need to couple metering systems of the type described in a simple manner with a water-conducting household appliance such as a dishwasher and / or washing machine.

Object of the invention

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a way to couple a dosing system in a simple way with a water-conducting household appliance.

This object is achieved by an arrangement having the features of claim 1.

The invention realizes a simple coupling of a dosing system with a water-conducting domestic appliance. This makes it possible to run a dosing system both for a self-sufficient and "build-in" version. It is also possible to form the adapter as a kind of charging station for the metering system in which, for example, the energy source of the metering device is charged or data is exchanged between the metering device and the adapter.

The metering system according to the invention consists of the basic components of a cartridge filled with preparation and a metering device which can be coupled with the cartridge, which in turn is formed from further assemblies such as component carrier, actuator, closure element, sensor, energy source and / or control unit.

The metering system according to the invention is mobile. Movable in the sense of this application means that the dosing is not permanently connected to a water-bearing device such as a dishwasher, washing machine, laundry dryer or the like, but for example from a dishwasher by the user removed or positionable in a dishwasher, so is independently handled, is.

In order to ensure operation at elevated temperatures, as occur, for example, in individual washing cycles of a dishwasher, the dosing system can be formed from materials which are dimensionally stable up to a temperature of 120.degree.

Since the preparations to be dosed may have a pH between 2 and 12, depending on the intended use, all components of the dosing system which come into contact with the preparations should have a corresponding acid and / or alkali resistance. Furthermore, these components should be largely chemically inert by a suitable choice of material, for example against nonionic surfactants, enzymes and / or fragrances.

cartridge

For the purposes of this application, a cartridge is understood as meaning a packaging material which is suitable for enveloping or holding together flowable or spreadable preparations and which can be coupled to a dosing device for dispensing the preparation.

In particular, a cartridge can also comprise a plurality of chambers which can be filled with mutually different compositions. It is also conceivable that a plurality of containers is arranged to form a cartridge unit.

It is advantageous that the cartridge has at least one outlet opening, which is arranged such that a gravity-induced release of preparation from the container in the position of use of the dosing device can be effected. As a result, no further funding for the release of preparation from the container is required, whereby the structure of the metering device can be kept simple and the production costs low.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one second chamber is provided for receiving at least one second flowable preparation, the second chamber having at least one outlet opening arranged such that a gravity-induced product release from the second chamber in the use position of the dosing is effected. The arrangement of a second chamber is particularly advantageous if in the separate containers preparations are stored, which are usually not stable to each other, such as bleaching agents and enzymes.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that more than two, in particular three to four chambers are provided in or on a cartridge. In particular, one of the chambers can be designed for the delivery of volatile preparations, such as a fragrance to the environment.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the cartridge is integrally formed. In this way, the cartridges, in particular by suitable blow molding, cost-effectively trained in a manufacturing step. The chambers of a cartridge can in this case be separated from one another, for example, by webs or material bridges.

The cartridge can also be formed in several pieces by injection molded and then assembled components.

Further, it is conceivable that the cartridge is formed in such a multi-piece, that at least one chamber, preferably all chambers, can be removed individually from the metering device or inserted into the metering device. This makes it possible, with a different consumption of a preparation from a chamber to exchange an already empty chamber, while the rest, which may still be filled with preparation, remain in the metering device. Thus, a targeted and needs-based refilling the individual chambers or their preparations can be achieved.

The chambers of a cartridge can be fixed to one another by suitable connection methods, so that a container unit is formed. The chambers can be fixed by a suitable form-fitting, non-positive or cohesive connection releasably or permanently against each other. In particular, the fixation by one or more of the types of compounds from the group of snap-in compounds, Velcro, press joints, fusions, glued joints, welded joints, solder joints, screw, wedge, clamp or bounce joints can be done. In particular, the fixation can also be formed by a shrink sleeve (so-called sleeve), which is pulled in a heated state over the entire or sections of the cartridge and firmly encloses the chambers or the cartridge in the cooled state.

To provide advantageous residual emptying characteristics of the chambers, the bottom of the chambers may be funnel-shaped inclined towards the discharge opening. Furthermore, the inner wall of a chamber can be formed by suitable choice of material and / or surface design in such a way that a low material adhesion of the preparation to the inner chamber wall is realized. Also by this measure, the residual emptiness of a chamber can be further optimized.

The chambers of a cartridge may have the same or different filling volumes. In a two-chamber configuration, the ratio of container volumes is preferably 5: 1, with a three-chamber configuration it is preferably 4: 1: 1, and these configurations are particularly suitable for use in dishwashers.

As mentioned above, the cartridge preferably has 3 chambers. For the use of such a cartridge in a dishwasher, it is particularly preferred that the first chamber contains an alkaline cleaning preparation, the second chamber contains an enzymatic preparation and the third chamber contains a rinse aid, wherein the volume ratio of the chambers is approximately 4: 1: 1.

In or on a chamber, a metering chamber may be formed in the flow direction of the preparation in front of the outlet opening. Through the metering chamber, the preparation amount that is to be released in the release of preparation from the chamber to the environment, set. This is particularly advantageous if the closure element of the dosing device, which causes the preparation discharge from a chamber to the environment, can only be put into a dispensing and a closure state without controlling the dispensing quantity. It is then ensured by the metering chamber that a predefined amount of preparation is released without an immediate feedback of the delivered preparation amount. The metering chambers can be formed in one piece or in several pieces.

According to a further advantageous development of the invention, one or more chambers in addition to an outlet opening each have a liquid-tight sealable chamber opening. Through this chamber opening, it is possible, for example, to refill stored in this chamber preparation.

For ventilation of the cartridge chambers ventilation possibilities can be provided in particular in the head region of the cartridge in order to ensure a pressure equalization with decreasing filling level of the chambers between the interior of the cartridge chambers and the environment. These ventilation options can be designed, for example, as a valve, in particular silicone valve, micro-openings in the cartridge wall or the like.

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

The cartridge can take on any spatial form. It can for example be cube-shaped, spherical or plate-like.

To use the dispenser in dishwashers, it is particularly advantageous to mold the device based on dishes to be cleaned in dishwashers. So this example, plate-shaped, be formed in approximately the dimensions of a plate. The cartridge preferably has a ratio of height: width: depth between 5: 5: 1 and 50: 50: 1, particularly preferably about 10: 10: 1. The width and the height of the metering system can be selected in particular between 150 mm and 300 mm, particularly preferably between 175 mm and 250 mm.

However, it is also conceivable to form the metering unit in cup shape with a substantially circular or square base.

To provide an immediate optical level control, it is advantageous to form the cartridge at least in sections of a transparent material.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge has an RFID tag that contains at least information about the contents of the cartridge and that can be read by the sensor unit.

This information can be used to select a dosing program stored in the control unit. In this way it can be ensured that an optimal dosing program is always used for a particular preparation. It can also be provided that in the absence of an RFID label or an RFID label with a wrong or incorrect identifier, no dosage by the Metering takes place and instead of an optical or acoustic signal is generated that indicates the user to the present error.

In order to prevent misuse of the cartridge, the cartridges may also have structural elements which cooperate with corresponding elements of the metering device according to the key-lock principle, so that, for example, only cartridges of a particular type can be coupled to the metering device. Furthermore, this configuration makes it possible for information about the cartridge coupled to the dosing device to be transmitted to the control unit, as a result of which control of the dosing device coordinated with the contents of the corresponding container can take place.

The outlet openings of a cartridge are preferably arranged in a line, whereby a slender, plate-shaped design of the dosing device is made possible.

In a cup-shaped or cup-shaped design of the cartridge or its cup-shaped or cup-shaped grouping, however, it may also be advantageous to arrange the discharge openings of the cartridge, for example in a circular arc.

The cartridge is designed in particular for receiving flowable detergents or cleaning agents. Particularly preferably, such a cartridge has a plurality of chambers for the spatially separated receiving in each case of different preparations of a washing or cleaning agent. By way of example, but not conclusively, some possible combinations of the filling of the chambers with different preparations are listed below: Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 Chamber 4 Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation rinse aid Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation rinse aid perfume Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation rinse aid disinfecting preparation

It is particularly preferred that all preparations are flowable, as this ensures rapid dissolution of the preparations in the washing liquor of the dishwasher, whereby these preparations a rapid to immediate cleaning or rinsing, especially on the walls of the washing compartment and / or a Achieve light guide of the cartridge and / or the dosing device.

The cartridge comprises a cartridge bottom, which is directed downward in the use position in the direction of gravity and in which at least two chambers each have at least one outlet opening arranged on the cartridge bottom.

The cartridge is preferably formed from at least two elements connected to one another in a material-locking manner, wherein the connecting edge of the elements on the cartridge bottom extends outside the outlet openings, that is to say the connecting edge does not intersect the outlet openings.

The cohesive connection can be produced for example by gluing, welding, soldering, pressing or vulcanization.

In particular, such a further chamber for accommodating a preparation may be arranged on the cartridge and be configured in such a way that a release of volatile substances such as, for example, fragrances from the preparation into the environment of the chamber is effected.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the outlet openings are each provided with a closure which allows in the coupled state with a dispenser outflow of preparation from the respective chambers and in the uncoupled state of the cartridge substantially prevents leakage of preparation. In particular, the closure is designed as a silicone valve.

The cartridge may be designed so that it can be detachably or firmly arranged in or on the dishwasher.

dosing

In the dosing device necessary for the operation control unit and at least one actuator are integrated. Preferably, a sensor unit and / or a power source is also arranged on or in the metering device.

Preferably, the dosing device consists of a splash-proof housing, that the penetration of water spray, as may occur, for example, when used in a dishwasher, in the interior of the dosing device by at least the control unit, sensor unit and / or actuator are arranged prevented.

It is particularly advantageous, in particular to shed the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit in such a way that the metering device is substantially watertight, ie the metering device is able to function even when fully enclosed with liquid. When Potting materials, for example, multicomponent epoxy, and acrylate potting compounds such as methacrylate esters, urethane-metha and cyanoacrylates or two-component materials can be used with polyurethanes, silicones, epoxy resins.

An alternative or supplement to the casting represents the encapsulation of the components in a suitably designed, moisture-proof housing. Such a configuration will be explained in more detail in the following place.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to arrange the components or assemblies on, on and / or in a component carrier in the dosing device, and this will also be explained elsewhere.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the material from which the dosing device is formed prevents or at least reduces the growth of a biofilm. For this purpose, it is possible to use corresponding surface structures of the material known from the prior art, and additives such as biocides. It is also conceivable areas of the dosing device endangered by microbial growth, in particular areas in which rinsing water may be present, are provided in part with a material which prevents or at least reduces the growth of a biofilm. In this case, for example, correspondingly effective films can be used.

It is particularly preferred that the dosing device comprises at least a first interface which cooperates in or on a household appliance, in particular a water-conducting household appliance, preferably a dishwasher or washing machine formed corresponding interface in such a way that a transmission of electrical energy and / or signals from Household appliance for dosing and / or from the dosing device to the household appliance is realized.

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

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

In an alternative embodiment, the transmission of electrical energy can also be provided by means of an interface, the household appliance side, an electrically operated light source and dosiergeräteseitig a light sensor, such as a photodiode or a solar cell comprises. The light emitted by the light source is converted by the light sensor into electrical energy, which in turn feeds, for example, a metering device side accumulator.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, an interface on the dosing device and the water-conducting device, such as a dishwasher, for transmitting (ie transmitting and receiving) electromagnetic and / or optical signals, which in particular Betriebszustandands-, measuring and / or control information of the dosing and / or the water-bearing device such as a dishwasher.

Of course, it is possible to provide only an interface for transmitting signals or an interface for transmitting electrical energy, or to provide an interface for transmitting signals and an interface for transmitting electrical energy or to provide an interface which is suitable both for transmission of electrical energy and signals.

In particular, such an interface can be designed such that a wireless transmission of electrical energy and / or electromagnetic and / or optical signals is effected.

It is particularly preferred that the interface is configured to transmit and / or receive optical signals. It is very particularly preferred that the interface is configured to emit or receive light in the visible range. Since darkness usually prevails in the interior of the dishwasher during operation of a dishwasher, signals in the visible, optical region, for example in the form of signal pulses or light flashes, can be emitted and / or detected by the dosing device. It has proven particularly advantageous to use wavelengths between 600-800 nm in the visible spectrum.

Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the interface is configured to emit or receive infrared signals. In particular, it is advantageous that the interface for transmitting or receiving infrared signals in the near infrared range (780nm-3,000nm) is configured.

In particular, the interface comprises at least one LED. Particularly preferably, the interface comprises at least two LEDs. Also, it is according to a further preferable Embodiment of the invention possible to provide at least two LEDs that emit light in a mutually different wavelength. This makes it possible, for example, to define different signal bands on which information can be sent or received.

Furthermore, it is advantageous in a further development of the invention that at least one LED is an RGB LED whose wavelength is adjustable. For example, an LED can be used to define different signal bands that emit signals at different wavelengths. Thus, for example, it is also conceivable that light is emitted at a different wavelength during the drying process, during which there is a high level of atmospheric humidity (mist) in the washing compartment, than, for example, during a washing step.

The interface of the dosing device can be configured such that the LED is provided both for emitting signals inside the dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door is closed, and also for optically displaying an operating state of the dosing device, in particular when the dishwasher door is open.

It is particularly preferred that an optical signal is designed as a signal pulse with a pulse duration between 1 ms and 10 seconds, preferably between 5 ms and 100 ms seconds.

Further, it is advantageous that the interface of the dosing device is configured such that it emits an optical signal with the dishwasher closed and unloaded, that a mean illuminance E between 0.01 and 100 lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux measured on the causes the Spülraum limiting walls. This illuminance is then sufficient to cause multiple reflections with or on the other Spülraumwänden and so possible signal shadows in the washing compartment, in particular in the loading condition of the dishwasher to reduce or prevent.

The signal transmitted and / or received by the interface is in particular a carrier of information, in particular a control signal or a signal representing an operating state of the dosing device and / or the dishwasher.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, the dosing device for dispensing at least one washing and / or cleaning agent preparation from a cartridge into the interior of a domestic appliance has a light source by means of which a light signal can be coupled into a light guide of the cartridge. In particular, the light source may be an LED. This makes it possible, for example, light signals, for example, the Represent operating state of the metering device, coupled from the metering device into the cartridge, so that they are visually perceptible to the cartridge by a user. This is particularly advantageous because the metering device in the position of use in the plate receptacle of a dish drawer in a dishwasher, can be visually obscured between other items to be washed. By coupling the light from the dosing into the cartridge, the corresponding light signals can for example be slid into the head of the cartridge, so that even if the dosing is positioned in the plate receptacle between other items to be washed, the light signals are visually perceptible by the user with proper loading of the dish drawer of the head-side portion of the dishes and the cartridge usually remains uncovered.

Furthermore, it is possible for the light signal coupled into the optical waveguide of the cartridge and passing through the optical waveguide to be detectable by a sensor located on the dosing device. This will be explained in more detail in a subsequent section.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the dosing device for dispensing at least one washing and / or cleaning agent preparation inside a household appliance comprises at least one optical transmitting unit, wherein the optical transmitting unit is configured in such a way that signals from the transmitting unit in a coupled with the dosing device Cartridge can be coupled and signals from the transmitting unit in the environment of the dosing device are radiated. In this way, both a signal transmission between the dosing device and, for example, a domestic appliance such as a dishwasher and the signal input into a cartridge can be realized by means of an optical transmitting unit.

In particular, the optical transmitting unit may be an LED, which preferably emits light in the visible and / or IR range. It is also conceivable to use another suitable optical transmitting unit, e.g. a laser diode, to use. It is particularly preferable to use optical transmission units which emit light in the wavelength range between 600-800 nm.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the dosing device may comprise at least one optical receiving unit. This makes it possible, for example, that the dosing device can receive signals from an optical transmission unit arranged in the household appliance. This can be realized by any suitable optical receiving unit, such as photocells, photomultipliers, semiconductor detectors, photodiodes, photoresistors, solar cells, phototransistors, CCD and / or CMOS image sensors. It is particularly preferred that the optical receiving unit is suitable for receiving light in the wavelength range of 600-800 nm.

In particular, the optical receiving unit on the dosing device can also be configured such that the signals that can be coupled from the transmitting unit into a cartridge coupled to the dosing device can be decoupled from the cartridge and detected by the optical receiving unit of the dosing device.

The signals emitted by the transmitting unit into the surroundings of the metering device may preferably represent information regarding operating conditions or control commands.

component support

The dosing device comprises a component carrier on which at least the actuator and the closure element and the energy source and / or the control unit and / or the sensor unit and / or the dosing chamber are arranged.

The component carrier has receptacles for the said components and / or the components are formed integrally with the component carrier.

The receptacles for the components in the component carrier can be provided for a positive, positive and / or cohesive connection between a corresponding component and the corresponding receptacle.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that for easy disassembly of the components from the component carrier, the dosing chamber, the actuator, the closure element, the energy source, the control unit and / or the sensor unit are each detachably mounted on the component carrier.

It is also advantageous that the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are arranged in a module on or in the component carrier. In an advantageous further development of the invention, the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are combined in an assembly. This can be realized, for example, in that the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are arranged on a common electrical printed circuit board.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the component carrier is designed trough-like, manufactured as an injection molded part. It is particularly preferred that the metering chamber is formed integrally with the component carrier.

By the component carrier a largely simple automatic assembly with the necessary components of the dosing device is possible. The component carrier can do so as a whole preferably prefabricated automatically and assembled into a dosing device.

The trough-like component carrier can be closed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention after the assembly liquid-tight from a, for example, cover-like closure element. The closure element may be formed, for example, as a film which is liquid-tight, materially connected to the component carrier and forms one or more liquid-tight chambers with the trough-like component carrier.

The closure element can also be a console, in which the component carrier can be inserted, wherein the console and the component carrier in the assembled state form the dosing device. The component carrier and the console in the assembled state cooperate in such a way that between the component carrier and the console, a liquid-tight connection is formed, so that no rinse water can get into the interior of the dosing device or the component carrier.

Furthermore, it is preferred that in the position of use of the metering device, the receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier in the direction of gravity is arranged above the metering chamber, whereby a compact design of the metering device can be realized. The compact design can be further optimized by the Dosierkammereinlass is arranged on the component carrier above the receptacle of the actuator in the position of use of the dosing device. It is also preferable for the components to be arranged on the component carrier substantially in a row relative to one another, in particular along the longitudinal axis of the component carrier.

In a further development of the invention, the receptacle for the actuator has an opening which is in line with the Dosierkammerauslass so that a closure element from the actuator through the opening and the Dosierkammerauslass can be moved back and forth.

It is particularly preferred that the component carrier is formed of a transparent material.

Advantageously, the component carrier comprises at least one optical waveguide, via which light from the environment of the dosing device can be directed to an optical transmitting and / or receiving unit into and / or out of the interior (s) of the dosing device or the component carrier, the optical waveguide in particular is formed integrally with the transparent component carrier.

Furthermore, it is therefore preferred that at least one opening is provided in the dosing device, by means of which light from the environment of the dosing device in and / or out of the optical waveguide can be coupled in and / or out.

actuator

For the purposes of this application, an actuator is a device which converts an input variable into a different output quantity and with which an object is moved or whose movement is generated, wherein the actuator is coupled to at least one shutter element, directly or indirectly releasing the preparation at least one cartridge chamber can be effected.

The actuator may be driven by drives selected from the group of gravity drives, ion drives, electric drives, motor drives, hydraulic drives, pneumatic drives, gear drives, threaded spindle drives, ball screws, linear drives, roller screws, auger drives, piezoelectric drives, chain drives, and / or recoil drives.

In particular, the actuator may be formed of an electric motor coupled to a transmission that converts the rotational movement of the motor into a linear motion of a carriage coupled to the transmission. This is particularly advantageous for a slim, plate-shaped design of the dosing unit.

At least one magnetic element can be arranged on the actuator, which causes a product discharge from the container with a magnet element with the same polarity on a dispenser as soon as the two magnetic elements are positioned against one another such that magnetic repulsion of the homopolar magnetic elements is effected and a non-contact release mechanism is realized.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuator is a bistable solenoid, which forms a pulse-controlled, bi-stable valve together with an engaging in the bistable solenoid, designed as a plunger core closure element. Bistable lifting magnets are electromechanical magnets with linear direction of movement, wherein the plunger locked in each end position without current.

Bistable lifting magnets or valves are known in the art. A bistable valve requires a pulse to change valve positions (open / closed) and then remains in that position until a counter pulse is sent to the valve. Therefore, one speaks of a pulse-controlled valve. A significant advantage of such pulse-controlled valves is that they do not consume energy to dwell in the Ventilendlagen, the closed position and discharge position, but only an energy pulse Need to change the valve positions, so the valve end positions are considered to be stable. A bistable valve remains in that switching position, which last received a control signal.

By means of a current pulse, the closure element (plunger core) is moved to an end position. The power is switched off, the closing element holds the position. By current pulse, the closure element is moved to the other end position. The power is switched off, the closing element holds the position.

A bistable property of solenoids can be realized in different ways. First, a division of the coil is known. The coil is split more or less centrally so that a gap is created. In this gap, a permanent magnet is used. The plunger core itself is both the front and the back so turned off that he has in the respective end position a flat surface lying to the frame of the magnet. The magnetic field of the permanent magnet flows over this surface. The diving core sticks here. Alternatively, the use of two separate coils is possible. The principle is similar to the bistable solenoid with split coil. The difference is that they are actually two electrically different coils. These are controlled separately, depending on the direction in which the plunger is to be moved.

closure element

In the context of this application, a closure element is a component that acts on the actuator and that as a result of this action causes the opening or the closure of an outlet opening.

By way of example, the closure element can be valves which can be brought into a product delivery position or closure position by the actuator.

Particularly preferred is the embodiment of the closure element and the actuator in the form of a solenoid valve, wherein the dispenser are configured by the valve and the actuator by the electromagnetic or piezoelectric drive of the solenoid valve. In particular, when using a plurality of containers and thus to be dosed preparations, the amount and timing of the dosage can be controlled very accurately by the use of solenoid valves.

It is therefore advantageous to control the dispensing of preparations from each outlet opening of a chamber with a solenoid valve in that the solenoid valve directly or indirectly determines the release of preparation from the product discharge opening.

sensor

For the purposes of this application, a sensor is a measuring sensor or measuring sensor which can quantitatively record certain physical or chemical properties and / or the material quality of its environment qualitatively or as a measured variable.

The dosing unit preferably has at least one sensor which is suitable for detecting a temperature. The temperature sensor is designed in particular for detecting a water temperature.

It is further preferred that the dosing unit comprises a sensor for detecting the conductivity, whereby in particular the presence of water or the spraying of water, in particular in a dishwasher, is detected.

In a further development of the invention, the dosing unit has a sensor which can determine physical, chemical and / or mechanical parameters from the surroundings of the dosing unit. The sensor unit may comprise one or more active and / or passive sensors for the qualitative and / or quantitative detection of mechanical, electrical, physical and / or chemical variables, which are passed as control signals to the control unit.

In particular, the sensors of the sensor unit from the group of timers, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, strain sensors, speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, Schallwechseleldrucksensoren, "Lab-on-a Chip sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, humidity sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and / or MEMS sensors.

Particularly in the case of preparations whose viscosity varies greatly depending on the temperature, it is advantageous for volume or mass control of the metered preparations to provide flow sensors in the metering device. Suitable flow sensors may be selected from the group of orifice flow rate sensors, electromagnetic flowmeters, Coriolis mass flow rate measurement, vortex flowmeter, ultrasonic flow rate measurement, variable area flow measurement, annular piston flow measurement, thermal mass flow measurement, or differential pressure flow measurement.

It is particularly preferred that at least two sensor units are provided for measuring mutually different parameters, wherein very particularly preferably a sensor unit is a conductivity sensor and a further sensor unit is a temperature sensor. Furthermore, it is preferred that at least one sensor unit is a brightness sensor.

The sensors are especially adapted to detect the beginning, the course and the end of a washing program. For this purpose, by way of example and not limitation, the sensor combinations listed in the following table can be used Sensor 1 Sensor 2 Sensor 3 Sensor 4 conductivity sensor temperature sensor conductivity sensor temperature sensor brightness sensor conductivity sensor temperature sensor brightness sensor turbidity sensor sound sensor temperature sensor

By means of the conductivity sensor can be detected, for example, whether the conductivity sensor is wetted by water, so that, for example. determine if there is water in the dishwasher.

Rinsing programs usually have a characteristic temperature profile, the u.a. is determined by the heating of the rinse water and the drying of the dishes, which can be detected by a temperature sensor.

By means of a brightness sensor, for example, the light penetration into the interior of a dishwasher can be detected when the dishwasher door is opened, resulting in e.g. indicates an end to the washing program.

In order to determine the degree of soiling of the items to be cleaned in the dishwasher, a turbidity sensor can also be provided. From this it is also possible, for example, to select a dosing program in the dosing device that applies to the determined contamination situation.

It is also conceivable to detect the course of a washing program by means of at least one sound sensor by detecting specific sound and / or vibration emissions, e.g. when pumping or pumping out of water, are detected.

Of course, it is possible for the skilled person to use any suitable combinations of several sensors to achieve a Spülprogrammüberwachung.

The data line between the sensor and the control unit can be realized via an electrically conductive cable or wirelessly. In principle, it is also conceivable that at least one sensor outside the dosing device is positioned or positionable in the interior of a dishwasher and a data line - in particular wireless - for transmitting the measured data from the sensor to the dosing device is formed.

A wirelessly formed data line is formed in particular by the transmission of electromagnetic waves or light. It is preferable to form a wireless data line according to standardized standards such as Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS, etc.

However, in order to enable efficient production and assembly of the dosing device, it is also possible for at least one sensor unit to be arranged on or in the control unit. For example, it is possible to provide a temperature sensor in the dosing device or directly on the board carrying the control unit, so that the temperature sensor has no direct contact with the surroundings.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor unit is arranged at the bottom of the dosing device, wherein in the position of use the bottom of the dosing device is directed downward in the direction of gravity. In this case, it is particularly preferred that the sensor unit comprises a temperature and / or a conductivity sensor. Such a configuration ensures that water is applied to the underside of the dispenser by the spray arms of the dishwasher and thus into contact with the sensor. Due to the fact that the distance between the spray arms and the sensor is as low as possible due to the bottom-side arrangement of the sensor, the water experiences only a slight cooling between the outlet on the spray arms and the contact with the sensor, so that the most accurate temperature measurement can be carried out ,

control unit

A control unit in the sense of this application is a device which is suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and / or information. For this purpose, the control unit influences actuators with the aid of information, in particular of measuring signals of the sensor unit, which processes them in the sense of the control target.

In particular, the control unit may be a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dosing programs are stored on the microprocessor, which can be selected and executed according to the container coupled to the dosing device.

The control unit has, in a preferred embodiment, no connection to the possibly existing control of the household appliance. Accordingly, no information, in particular electrical or electromagnetic signals, is exchanged directly between the control unit and the control of the household appliance.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the control unit is coupled to the existing control of the household appliance. Preferably, this coupling is wireless. For example, it is possible to position a transmitter on or in a dishwasher, preferably on or at the dosing chamber embedded in the door of the dishwasher, which wirelessly transmits a signal to the dosing unit when the control of the domestic appliance controls the dosing of, for example, a detergent from the dosing unit Dosing or rinse aid causes.

The control unit can store several programs for releasing different preparations or releasing products in different applications.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the call of the corresponding program can be effected by means of corresponding RFID labels or geometric information carriers formed on the container. Thus, it is possible, for example, to use the same control unit for a plurality of applications, for example for metering detergent in dishwashers, for dispensing perfumes in room fragrancing, for applying cleaning substances to a toilet bowl, etc.

For dosing preparations which are in particular prone to gelling, the control unit can be configured in such a way that on the one hand the dosing takes place in a sufficiently short time to ensure a good cleaning result and on the other hand the dosing of the preparation does not occur so quickly. This can be realized, for example, by an interval-like release, whereby the individual metering intervals are set in such a way that the corresponding metered amount dissolves completely during a cleaning cycle.

The delivery of preparations from the dosing device can be done sequentially or simultaneously.

It is particularly preferred that the metering intervals for dispensing a preparation are between 30-90 seconds, particularly preferably 45-75 seconds.

It is particularly preferred to dose a plurality of preparations sequentially in a rinsing program. In particular, the following metering sequences are to be preferred 1st dosage 2nd dosage 3.Dosierung 4.Dosierung Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid disinfecting preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid perfume pretreatment preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the dishwasher and the dosing device work together in such a way that 1 mg to 1 g of surfactant are released in the final rinse program of the dishwasher per m ² Spülraumwandfläche. This ensures that the walls of the washing compartment retain their gloss even after a plurality of rinsing cycles and the dosing system retains its optical transmission capability.

Furthermore, it is advantageous for the dishwasher and the dosing device to interact in such a way that at least one enzyme-containing preparation and / or alkaline preparation is released in the pre-washing program and / or main washing program, with the release of the enzyme-containing preparation preferably taking place prior to release the alkaline preparation takes place.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dishwasher and the dosing device work together in such a way that 0.1 mg-250 mg of enzyme protein is released in the pre-washing program and / or main wash program of the dishwasher per m ² of dishwashing area, whereby the gloss level of the dishwashing walls is further improved or even after a plurality of rinsing cycles is maintained.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, data such as e.g. Control and / or dosing of the control unit or stored by the control unit operating parameters or logs are read from the control unit or loaded into the control unit. This can be realized for example by means of an optical interface, wherein the optical interface is correspondingly connected to the control unit. The data to be transmitted are then coded and transmitted or received as light signals, in particular in the visible range, the wavelength range between 600-800 nm being preferred. However, it is also possible to use a present in the metering sensor for transmitting data from and / or to the control unit. For example, the contacts of a conductivity sensor, which are connected to the control unit and which provides a conductivity determination by means of a resistance measurement at the contacts of the conductivity sensor, can be used for data transmission.

energy

For the purposes of this application is understood as an energy source, a component of the dosing, which is expedient to provide a suitable for the operation of the dosing or the dosing energy. Preferably, the energy source is designed such that the dosing system is self-sufficient.

Preferably, the energy source provides electrical energy. The energy source may be, for example, a battery, an accumulator, a power supply, solar cells or the like.

It is particularly advantageous to make the energy source replaceable, for example in the form of a replaceable battery.

For example, a battery may be selected from the group of alkaline manganese batteries, zinc carbon batteries, nickel oxyhydroxide batteries, lithium batteries, lithium iron sulfide batteries, zinc air batteries, zinc chloride batteries, Mercury oxide zinc batteries and / or silver oxide zinc batteries.

Lead accumulators (lead dioxide / lead), nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, alkaline manganese batteries, silver-zinc batteries, nickel batteries, etc. Hydrogen batteries, zinc bromine batteries, sodium nickel chloride batteries and / or nickel-iron batteries.

The accumulator can in particular be designed in such a way that it can be recharged by induction.

However, it is also conceivable to form mechanical energy sources consisting of one or more coil spring, torsion spring or torsion bar spring, spiral spring, air spring / gas spring and / or elastomer spring.

The energy source is dimensioned such that the dosing device can go through about 300 dosing cycles before the energy source is exhausted. It is particularly preferred that the energy source can run between 1 and 300 dosing cycles, most preferably between 10 and 300, more preferably between 100 and 300, before the energy source is depleted.

Furthermore, means for energy conversion can be provided in or on the dosing unit, which generate a voltage by means of which the accumulator is charged. For example, these means may be designed as a dynamo, which is driven by the water flows during a rinse cycle in a dishwasher and emits the voltage thus generated to the accumulator.

Schwingzerstäuber

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the dosing system has at least one vibrating atomizer, via which it is possible to transfer a preparation into the gas phase or to keep it in the gas phase. Thus, it is conceivable, for example, to evaporate preparations by means of the vibrating atomizer, to nebulise and / or to atomise, whereby the preparation passes into the gas phase or forms an aerosol in the gas phase, wherein the gas phase is usually air.

This embodiment is particularly advantageous when used in a dishwashing machine or washing machine, where a corresponding release of preparation into the gas phase takes place in a closable rinsing or washing room. The preparation introduced into the gas phase can be distributed evenly in the washing compartment and deposited on the items to be washed in the dishwasher.

The preparation released by the vibrating atomizer may be selected from the group of surfactant-containing preparations, enzyme-containing preparations, odor-neutralizing preparations, biocidal preparations, antibacterial preparations.

By applying the cleaning preparations to the items to be washed from the gas phase, a uniform layer of the corresponding cleaning preparation on the Dishwashing surface applied. It is particularly preferred that the entire Spülgutoberfläche is wetted by the cleaning preparation.

As a result, several advantageous effects can be achieved before the start of a water-releasing cleaning program of the dishwasher. On the one hand can be suppressed by a suitable cleaning preparation, a generation of bad odors by biological decomposition processes adhering to the dishes food residues. On the other hand, a corresponding cleaning preparation can effect a "soaking" of the food particles possibly adhering to the items to be washed, so that they can be easily and completely removed in the dishwasher's cleaning program, in particular in the case of low-temperature programs.

It is also possible to apply a preparation by means of the vibrating atomizer on the dishes after the completion of a cleaning program of a dishwasher. This may be, for example, an antibacterial preparation or a preparation for the modification of surfaces.

adapter

Through an adapter, a simple coupling of the dosing with a water-bearing household appliance can be realized. The adapter serves for the mechanical and / or electrical connection of the metering system with the water-conducting household appliance.

The adapter is, preferably fixed, connected to a water-carrying pipe of the household appliance.

The adapter is formed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention such that a release of preparation from the dosing device in coupled with the adapter state, not directly into the rinsing water, but in the guided through the water-bearing pipe into the adapter water, the so water loaded with preparation is subsequently passed out of the adapter into the interior of the dishwasher.

Preferably, the adapter is configured in such a way that in the uncoupled with the dosing device state, a leakage of water from the adapter is prevented. This can be prevented, for example, by the water-carrying line, with which the adapter is in fluid communication, no water in or to the adapter promotes or the adapter is traversed by water of the water-carrying line, but the adapter has sealing means, the outlet of Prevent water from the adapter, for example Slotted silicone elements that seal the adapter substantially liquid-tight when removing the dosing device from the adapter.

The adapter makes it possible to carry out a dosing system both for a self-sufficient and "build-in" version by coupling the self-sufficient dosing device with the adapter. It is also possible to form the adapter as a kind of charging station for the metering system in which, for example, the energy source of the metering device is charged or data is exchanged between the metering device and the adapter or the dishwasher.

The adapter can be arranged in a dishwasher on one of the inner walls of the washing chamber, in particular on the inner side of the dishwasher door.

Figur 1

Autarkes Dosiergerät mit Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche im separierten und zusammengebauten Zustand

Figur 2

Autarkes Dosiergerät mit Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche angeordnet in einer Schublade einer Geschirrspülmaschine

Figur 3

Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche im separierten Zustand zu einem autarken und internen maschinen-integrierten Dosiergerät

Figur 4

Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche im zusammengebauten Zustand mit einem internen maschinen-integrierten Dosiergerät

Figur 5

Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche im separierten Zustand zu einem autarken und externen maschinen-integrierten Dosiergerät

Figur 6

Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche im zusammengebauten Zustand mit einem externen maschinen-integrierten Dosiergerät

Figur 7

Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche im separierten und zusammengebauten Zustand zu einem autarken, maschinen-integrierbarem Dosiergerät

Figur 8

Zwei-Kammer-Kartusche im zusammengebauten Zustand zu einem autarken, maschinen-integriertem Dosiergerät

Figur 9

Kartusche mit Kammer zur Abgabe von flüchtigen Substanzen

Figur 10

Kartusche mit drei Kammern in Vorderansicht

Figur 11

Dosiergerät und Kartusche in Explosionsdarstellung

Figur 12

Bauelementträger in Vorderansicht

Figur 13

Bauelementträger in einer Explosionsdarstellung

Figur 14

Bauelementträger in einer Explosionsdarstellung

Figur 15

Bauelementträger in Aufsicht

Figur 16

Bauelementträger in perspektivischer Ansicht auf Auslassöffnungen

Figur 17

Bauelementträger in perspektivischer Vorderansicht

Figur 18

Bauelementträger in Bodenansicht

Figur 19

Dosiergerät im mit Kartusche zusammengefügtem Zustand in perspektivischer Ansicht

Figur 20

Konsole mit Scharnier in perspektivischer Ansicht

Figur 21

Aktuator ausgebildet als bistabiler Hubmagnet

Figur 22

Adapter zur Kopplung des Dosiergeräts mit einer wasserführenden Leitung

Figur 23

Adapter in Querschnittsansicht mit Dosiergerät

In the following the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to a purely exemplary embodiments representing drawings. In this case, particularly preferred embodiments and particularly preferred combinations of features are further described in detail. Show it:

FIG. 1

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

FIG. 2

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

FIG. 3

Two-chamber cartridge in separated state to a self-sufficient and internal machine-integrated dosing device

FIG. 4

Two-chamber cartridge in assembled condition with an internal machine-integrated dosing device

FIG. 5

Two-chamber cartridge in separated state to a self-sufficient and external machine-integrated dosing device

FIG. 6

Two-chamber cartridge in assembled condition with an external machine-integrated dosing device

FIG. 7

Two-chamber cartridge in separated and assembled state to a self-sufficient, machine-integrated dosing device

FIG. 8

Two-chamber cartridge in assembled condition to a self-sufficient, machine-integrated dosing device

FIG. 9

Cartridge with volatile substance delivery chamber

FIG. 10

Cartridge with three chambers in front view

FIG. 11

Dosing device and cartridge in exploded view

FIG. 12

Component carrier in front view

FIG. 13

Component carrier in an exploded view

FIG. 14

Component carrier in an exploded view

FIG. 15

Component carrier in supervision

FIG. 16

Component carrier in perspective view on outlet openings

FIG. 17

Component carrier in perspective front view

FIG. 18

Component carrier in ground view

FIG. 19

Dosing device in assembled state with cartridge in perspective view

FIG. 20

Hinged bracket in perspective view

FIG. 21

Actuator designed as a bistable solenoid

FIG. 22

Adapter for coupling the dosing device with a water-carrying line

FIG. 23

Adapter in cross-sectional view with dosing device

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

The metering device 2 has two metering chamber inlets 21a, 21b for repeatedly releasably receiving the corresponding outlet openings 5a, 5b of the chambers 3a, 3b of the cartridge 1. On the front are display and controls 37, which indicate the operating state of the dosing device 2 and act on this.

The Dosierkammereinlässe 21a, 21b further comprise means for the insertion of the cartridge 1 on the dosing device 2, the opening of the outlet openings 5a, 5b of the chambers 3a, 3b effect, so that the interior of the chambers 3a, 3b communicating with the Dosierkammereinlässen 21a, 21b connected is.

The cartridge 1 may consist of one or more chambers 3a, 3b. The cartridge 1 may be integrally formed with a plurality of chambers 3a, 3b or more pieces, in which case the individual chambers 3a, 3b are joined together to form a cartridge 1, in particular by cohesive, positive or non-positive connection methods.

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

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

The chambers 3a, 3b of the cartridge 1 may have the same or different filling volumes. In a two-chambered configuration 3a, 3b, the chamber volume ratio is preferably 5: 1, in a 3-chamber configuration it is preferably 4: 1: 1, which configurations are particularly suitable for use in dishwashers.

A connection method can also be that the chambers 3a, 3b are inserted into one of the corresponding metering chamber inlets 21a, 21b of the metering device 2 and thus fixed against each other.

The connection between the chambers 3a, 3b may in particular be made detachable in order to allow a separate exchange of a chamber.

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

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

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

It is particularly advantageous that each of the outlet openings 5a, 5b is formed so that it fits only one of the metering chamber inlets 21a, 21b, thereby preventing a chamber from being accidentally plugged onto a wrong metering chamber inlet.

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

The metering unit 2 and the cartridge 1 can be adapted in the assembled state in particular to the geometries of the devices or in which they are applied in order to ensure the least possible loss of useful volume. To use the dosing unit 2 and the cartridge 1 in dishwashers, it is particularly advantageous to mold the dosing unit 2 and the cartridge 1 on the basis of dishes to be cleaned in dishwashers. Thus, the dosing unit 2 and the cartridge 1, for example, plate-shaped, be formed in approximately the dimensions of a plate. As a result, the dosing unit can be positioned to save space in the lower basket.

To provide an immediate optical level control, it is advantageous to form the cartridge 1 at least in sections of a transparent material.

In order to protect heat-sensitive components of a product contained in a cartridge from heat, it is advantageous to produce the cartridge 1 from a material with a low thermal conductivity.

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

FIG. 2 shows a self-sufficient dosing with a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the dish drawer 11 with the dishwasher door 39 of a dishwasher 38 open.

FIG. 3 shows a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the separated state to a self-sufficient dosing device 2 and an internal, machine-integrated dosing. In this case, the cartridge 1 is designed in such a way that it can be coupled both to the self-sufficient dosing device 2 and to the machine-integrated dosing device (not shown), which is achieved by the in FIG. 3 dargstellten arrows is indicated.

A recess 43 into which the cartridge 1 can be inserted is formed on the side of the dishwasher door 39 directed inside the dishwasher 38, the outlet openings 5a, 5b of the cartridge 1 communicating with the adapter pieces 42a, 42b being connected by insertion. The adapter pieces 42a, 42b are in turn coupled to the machine-integrated dosing device.

For fixing the cartridge 1 in the recess 43 holding elements 44a, 44b may be provided on the recess 43, which ensure a positive and / or positive fixing of the cartridge in the recess 43. Of course, it is also conceivable that corresponding retaining elements are provided on the cartridge 1. The holding elements 44a, 44b may preferably be selected from the group of snap connections, latching connections, snap-lock connections, clamping connections or plug-in connections.

During operation of the dishwasher 38, preparation 40a, 40b from the cartridge 1 through the adapter elements 42a, 42b is added to the corresponding rinsing cycle by the machine-integrated dosing device.

FIG. 4 shows the off FIG. 3 known cartridge 1 in the installed state in the door 39 of a dishwasher 38th

Another embodiment of the invention is in FIG. 5 displayed. FIG. 5 shows the off FIG. 3 known cartridge 1 with a arranged at the top of the cartridge 1 chamber 45, which has a plurality of openings 46 in its lateral surface. Preferably, the chamber 45 is filled with an air freshener formulation which is delivered through the openings 46 to the environment. The air-conditioning preparation may in particular comprise at least one fragrance and / or an odor-controlling substance.

Unlike when out FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 It is also possible to provide a depression 43 with adapter elements 42a, 42b for coupling to the cartridge 1 on an outer surface of a dishwasher 38. This is exemplary in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 shown.

Of course, the in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 Cartridge 1 shown may also be arranged with a chamber 45 containing an air freshening substance in a correspondingly formed receptacle in the interior of a dishwasher 38.

A further embodiment of the invention is in FIG. 7 shown. The dosing device 2 can in this case be coupled to the cartridge 1, which is indicated by the first, left arrow in the drawing accordingly. Subsequently, cartridge 1 and dosing device 2 are coupled as an assembly via the interface 47,48 to the dishwasher, which is indicated by the right arrow. The dosing device 2 has an interface 47, via which data and / or energy are transferred to and / or from the dosing device 2. In the door 39 of the dishwasher 38, a recess 43 for receiving the dosing device 2 is provided. In the depression 43, a second interface 48 is provided, which transmits data and / or energy to and / or from the dosing device 2.

Preferably, data and / or energy are exchanged wirelessly between the first interface 47 on the dosing device 2 and the second interface 48 on the dishwasher 38. It is particularly preferred that energy from the interface 48 of the dishwasher 38 is transmitted wirelessly via the interface 47 to the dosing device 2. This can be done, for example, inductively and / or capacitively.

It is also advantageous to form the interface for transmitting data wirelessly. This can be realized by the methods known in the art for the wireless transmission of data, such as by radio transmission or IR transmission.

Alternatively, the interfaces 47, 48 can also be formed by integrated plug connections. Advantageously, the connectors are formed in such a way that they are protected from the entry of water or moisture.

FIG. 9 shows a cartridge with another chamber 45 for receiving a preparation that is configured in such a way that a release of volatile substances from the preparation in the vicinity of the chamber 45 is effected.

In the chamber 45 may be, for example, volatile perfume or air freshening substances, which are discharged through the openings 46 of the chamber 45 to the environment.

It can also be seen that the openings 5a, 5b are closed by silicone valves which have an x-shaped slot.

FIG. 10 shows a further possible embodiment of the cartridge 1 with three chambers 3a, 3b, 3c. The first chamber 3a and the second chamber 3b have an approximately equal filling volume. The third chamber 3c has a filling volume about 5 times that of one of the chambers 3a or 3b. The cartridge base 4 has a ramp-like shoulder in the region of the third chamber 3c. This asymmetrical design of the cartridge 1 can ensure that the cartridge 1 can be coupled with the dosing device 2 in a position provided for this purpose and that insertion into a wrong position is prevented by a corresponding configuration of the dosing device 2 or the console 54.

FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of the essential components of the dosing system consisting of cartridge 1 and dosing. 2

Again FIG. 11 can be seen, the cartridge 1 is composed of two cartridge elements 6.7. The dosing device 2 consists essentially of a component carrier 23 and a bracket 54 into which the component carrier 23 can be inserted.

FIG. 12 shows a side view of the component carrier 23 of the metering device 2, which will be explained in more detail below.

On the component carrier 23, the metering chamber 20, the actuator 18 and the closure element 19 and the power source 15, the control unit 16 and the sensor unit 17 are arranged. The metering chamber 20, the predosing chamber 26, the metering chamber inlet 21 and the receptacle 29 are formed integrally with the component carrier 23.

Again FIG. 12 can be seen, the power source 15, the control unit 16 and the sensor unit 17 are combined in an assembly by being arranged on a corresponding board.

The pre-metering chamber 26 and the actuator 18 are, as in FIG. 23 shown, arranged on the component carrier 23 substantially side by side. The predosing chamber 26 has an L-shaped basic shape with a shoulder in the lower region in which the receptacle 29 for the actuator 18 is embedded. Below the pre-metering chamber 26 and the actuator 18, the outlet chamber 27 is arranged. The pre-metering chamber 26 and the discharge chamber 27 together form the metering chamber 20.

The pre-metering chamber 26 and the outlet chamber 27 are connected to each other through the opening 34.

The receptacle 29, the opening 34 and the Dosierkammerauslass 22 lie on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23 escape, so that the rod-shaped closure element 19 can be passed through the openings 22,29,34.

As in particular from the FIG. 13 As can be seen, the back walls of the pre-metering chamber 26 and the discharge chamber 27 are formed integrally with the component carrier 23. The front wall can then be connected to the metering chamber 20 in a material-tight manner, for example by a cover element or a film (not shown).

In the following, the embodiment of the dosing chamber 20 will be described with reference to the detail view of FIG FIG. 13 explained in more detail. One recognizes the outlet chamber 27, which has a bottom 62. The bottom 62 is inclined in a funnel-like manner toward the metering chamber outlet 22 arranged centrally in the outlet chamber 27. The Dosierkammerauslass 22 is located in a channel 63 which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23 in the outlet chamber 27. The funnel-shaped bottom 62 and the channel 63 and the outlet opening 22 arranged therein ensure at a deviating from the horizontal position of the dosing metering and a nearly complete emptying of preparation from the dosing 20. Further, the preparation flows through the corresponding funnel-shaped floor design faster , Especially in higher-viscosity preparations, from the metering chamber, so that the metering interval in the preparation is released, can be kept short.

In the FIG. 13 only the middle metering chamber 20 is provided with a funnel-shaped bottom design of the type described above. It is understood that, in deviation from this illustration, other, further or all metering chambers a may have such shape. This also applies to the pre-metering chambers 26 and outlet chambers 27, insofar as these are provided.

Based on the exploded view in FIG. 14 the arrangement of the actuator 18, the closure member 19 and the seal 36 is explained in more detail on the component carrier 23. The figure shows a component carrier 23 with three metering chambers 20 arranged next to one another. In the metering chamber on the far right, the actuator 18c, the closure element 19c and the seal 36c are shown on the component carrier 23 in the assembled state. In the middle metering chamber, the seal 36b and the closure element 19b are shown in the assembled state in the metering chamber, while the actuator 18b is detached from the closure element 19b. Above the left metering chamber 20a, both the seal 36a, the closure element 19a and the actuator 18a are shown in an exploded view.

Integral with the component carrier 23, the metering chamber 20, the predosing chamber 26, the Dosierkammereinlass 21 and the receptacle 29 for the actuator 18 is formed. The pre-metering chamber 26 is arranged in an L-shaped manner above the metering chamber 20, the receptacle for the actuator 18 being arranged on the leg of the predosing chamber running parallel to the bottom of the component carrier 23. The metering chamber 20 and the predosing chamber 26 are connected to each other through the opening 34. The receptacle 29, the opening 34 and the Dosierkammerauslass 22 lie on an axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23.

The seal 36 has a substantially hollow cylinder-like space shape with a closed by a plate-like tail head. The elastic seal 36 can be arranged in the metering chamber 20 in such a way that the plate-like end piece presses against the opening 34 on the inside against the metering chamber outlet 22 and with the side of the seal 36 facing away from the plate-like end piece. The cylindrical closure element 19 is formed with its first end such that it engages in the hollow-cylindrical seal 36 and there material, force and / or positively fixed. The closure element 19 is dimensioned in such a way that it can be passed through the opening 34 and the opening of the receptacle 29, but strikes the Dosierkammerauslass 22 so that the closure member 19 can not slip down out of the component carrier 23.

The closure element 19 protrudes with one end out of the receptacle 29. This end is plugged into the actuator 18 designed as a bistable electromagnet and acts as an anchor.

The FIG. 15 shows that off FIG. 14 known component carrier 23 in the plan. It can be seen that the metering chamber inlets 21a-c and the receptacles 29a-c for the actuators 18a-c are arranged on a line which corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23.

FIG. 16 shows the bottom side of the component carrier 23 in a perspective view. It can be seen that the Dosierkammerauslässe 22a-c and the receptacle 28 are formed for the sensor unit hollow cylinder-like, whereby the actual outlet opening and the Dosierkammerauslässe 22a-c closing seal 36a-c are protected from mechanical damage.

The ventilation system of the dosing unit 2 is based on the FIG. 17 explained in more detail. If a preparation is discharged from the metering chamber via the Dosierkammerauslass 22 to the environment, created by the falling liquid level in the chambers of the cartridge 1, a negative pressure, is sucked through the ambient air for pressure equalization in the Dosierkammereinlass 22 and the outlet chamber 27. In the L-shaped predosing chamber 26 extends within the vertical leg, a chamber wall 31 in the region of the vertical leg, a first channel 32 and a second Train channel 33. Through the chamber wall 31, the rising air is passed into the right channel 33, so that this channel 33 primarily acts as a vent channel, while the other channel 32 primarily ensures a subsequent flow of preparation from the cartridge 1.

The Dosierkammereinlass 21 is disposed on a nozzle 30 which is communicatively connected to the pre-metering chamber 26. It can be seen that the chamber wall 31 also extends into the nozzle 30 and divides it into two separate channels.

In FIG. 18 the bottom side of the component carrier 23 is shown in a plan view. The Dosierkammerauslässe 22a-c and the receptacle 28 for the sensor unit 17 are arranged on a line which corresponds substantially to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23.

FIG. 19 shows the dosing device 2 in assembled with the cartridge 1 state in a perspective view. The metering system has a height h, a width b and a depth t in the assembled state. The width b and the height h should not exceed 210 mm. The depth t should be less than 20mm. The ratio of width / height / depth should be about 10: 10: 1. The height h and the width b preferably correspond to the format of a medium-sized dining table. Thus, the dosing system can be simple, and for Position the user in an intuitive manner in the appropriate dish of a dishwashing machine dishwasher.

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of the bracket 54. It can be seen that in each case on the inside a hook 56 is formed on the hinge 55, which engages in a corresponding receptacle of the cartridge 1 and thus fixes the cartridge relative to the dosing device 2. The hooks 56 are substantially opposite. It is also conceivable that in total only one hook 56 is arranged on an inner side of the bracket 54.

FIG. 21 1 shows a first coil 58 and a second coil 59 with a permanent magnet 57 arranged between the coils 58, 59, in the annular coils 58, 59 and the annular permanent magnet 57, the closure element 19 is accommodated as a plunger core. By magnetic inference between the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 57 and the magnetizable closure element 19, a holding force is generated, whereby the closure element 19 is fixable in a position which is defined by the holding points 60,61.

The closure element 19 can be moved to the holding points 60 and 61 by a pulse-like energization of the coils 58, 59, in that an electrically generated magnetic field of one of the coils 58, 59 with a corresponding polarization is superimposed on the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 57. For example, if the coil 58 is energized, then a demolition of the magnetic yoke between the permanent magnet 57 and the closure member 19 is effected, so that subsequently the closure member 19 is moved in the magnetic field of the coil 58 from the holding point 60 to the breakpoint 61, which is shown in the lower figure from FIG. 21 evident. If a corresponding pulse-like energization of the coil 59 is effected, then the closure element 19 moves from the holding point 61 back to the starting position of the stopping point 60.

As already mentioned, the metering system of the type described above is basically suitable for being used in or in connection with water-conducting devices of any kind. As explained in the preceding embodiments, the dosing system according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in water-bearing household appliances such as dishwashers and / or washing machines, but not limited to such use.

In general, it is possible to use the metering system according to the invention wherever a dosage of at least one, preferably several preparations in a liquid Medium according to a dosing program triggering or controlling external physical or chemical parameters is needed.

An adapter 77 for coupling the dosing device 2 with a water-carrying line of a device, such as a washing machine or dishwasher, is the FIG. 22 refer to. On the adapter 77 is a water inlet 78 and a water outlet 79. To the adapter 77, the dosing device 2 can be releasably coupled. It is particularly advantageous to form a trough-like receptacle in the adapter, wherein the shape of the receptacle corresponds to the contour of the metering device 2 and so can be inserted into the receptacle. The dosing device 2 can be fixed in the receptacle in particular by a catch.

In particular, the dosing device 2 is coupled to the adapter in such a way that unintentional penetration of water or spray water into the adapter is prevented. This can be realized, for example, by means of an encircling sealing lip 80 arranged on the inside in the adapter, which is illustrated by way of example in FIG FIG. 23 is shown. The adapter 77 may include further means for transmitting data and / or information from or to the dosing unit 2.

Claims (6)

1. An arrangement comprising a dosing device (2) and an adapter (77) for coupling a movable dosing system (1,2), which can be positioned in a dishwasher, to a water-carrying line of a dishwasher, the adapter (77) comprising

   • a water inlet (78) and a water outlet (79), which can each be coupled to the water-carrying line of the dishwasher such that water can flow through the adapter (77), and

   • a means for fixing the dosing device (2) on or in the adapter (77), the dosing device (2) comprising

   • a control unit (16),

   • a sensor unit (17),

   • and at least one actuator (18) which is connected to an energy source (15) and to the control unit (16) such that a control signal from the control unit (16) causes the actuator (18) to move, causing or disabling a product release as a result, wherein the adapter (77) can be arranged on one of the inner walls of a washing

   chamber of the dishwasher, in particular on the inner face of a dishwasher door, and wherein the dosing device (2) and the means for fixing the dosing device (2) on or in the adapter (77) are configured in such a way that, in the coupled state, a liquid-tight connection is formed between the adapter (77) and the dosing device (2), which connection prevents the entry of water from outside the adapter (77) into the adapter (77) and prevents water which flows through the adaptor from exiting the adaptor (77) into the surroundings of the adapter (77).
2. The arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the adapter (77) is designed in such a way that, when it is uncoupled from the dosing device (2), the water which flows though the adaptor (77) is prevented from exiting the adaptor (77) into the surroundings.
3. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device (2) comprises at least one interface which interacts with a corresponding interface formed in or on the adapter (77) such that a transfer of electrical energy from the adapter (77) to the dosing device (2) is realized.
4. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an interface on the dosing device (2) and adapter (77) is formed to transmit electromagnetic signals, which in particular represent operating state, measuring, and/or control information about the dosing device (2) and/or the dishwasher (38).
5. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device (2) is detachably fixed on or in the adapter.
6. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device (2) is non-detachably fixed on or in the adapter.

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