EP2306881B1 - Household appliance - Google Patents

Description

description

The invention relates to a household machine such as a dishwasher, washing machine or the like according to the preamble of claim 1, a dosing device for use in a household machine, a cartridge for use in a dosing device and a dispensing device for use in a household machine.

State of the art

In household machines, in particular washing machines and dishwashers, which as a rule have a work area for treating the objects to be cleaned such as laundry or dishes, according to the general state of the art, metering systems are mostly permanently installed. Along with the progressive development of cleaning, washing and rinsing agents of all kinds, there is also the requirement for a dosage that is tailored to the respective cleaning substance. This concerns both the optimal point in time at which the cleaning substance is dispensed and the amount of cleaning substance to be dispensed. It should also be taken into account that a cleaning process usually consists of several program steps, such as pre- and main wash, rinse, drying. In order to do justice to this technical development, special dosing systems and devices have been developed for household machines. These objects are usually brought into the working area of the household machine via a loading door.

Such a metering system for washing and rinsing substances is from the publication WO 02/077353 A1 known. Here, a dosing system, preferably for inclusion in the washroom of a washing machine, with receiving spaces for washing substances and their delivery is described, the control elements and various sensors. In the system from the cited publication, metering takes place on the basis of measurement parameters such as the pH value, which are determined by the sensors. In particular, the dispensing system represents from WO 02/077353 A1 a self-sufficient system.

From the WO 02/077353 A1 shows a dosing system for receiving in a washing room, in particular in the washing drum of a washing machine, with at least one receiving room for at least one washing substance and at least one associated outlet for dispensing the at least one washing substance during the washing process, the dosing system at least has a control element, so that the release of the washing substance can be controlled during the washing process and / or that the dosing system keeps washing substances ready for several washing cycles and releases a certain amount thereof per washing cycle.

A self-sufficient device, ie one that works independently of the control of the household machine, must use the measured values of various process parameters

Determine the program status and in particular recognize the end of the wash program or a new program start. Since household machines, such as dishwashers or washing machines, have a variety of different program sequences and the program sequences also differ between different machine manufacturers, it is very difficult to achieve reliable metering by such a metering device based on the evaluation of measurement parameters or operating sequences of machine components.

Task

The object of the invention is to propose a domestic machine according to the preamble of claim 1, in which the use of a metering device that works automatically on the basis of the acquisition of measurement parameters and / or the operating sequences of machine components is facilitated. A further object of the invention is to propose a metering device for use in a domestic machine, a cartridge for use in a metering device and a dispensing device for use in a domestic machine.

Based on a prior art of the type mentioned in the introduction, this object is achieved by the characterizing features of claim 1.

Advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention are possible through the measures mentioned in the subclaims.

According to the invention, a household machine is designed in such a way that the program control for the use of a dosing device that is not permanently installed in the household machine has a program mode, program sequence for at least one operating parameter and / or at least one operating sequence of a machine component on the ability of the sensors of a non-permanently installed dosing device Control of the dosage is coordinated using measured values recorded by sensors.

Such a household machine, in particular such a dishwasher, therefore allows the use of an autarkic metering device that is not controlled directly by the machine control. In the corresponding program mode, the sequence of the variation of operating parameters or the time course of the values of such operating parameters and / or the time course in the use of individual machine components Information required for the control of the dosing device, coordinated with the sensors of such an autarkic dosing device, can be detected. The self-sufficient metering device is able to recognize the program mode of the household machine via its sensors and to carry out a corresponding metering in a timed sequence.

Preferably, the program mode adapted to the sensors of a non-permanently installed metering device is designed to be manually activated. For example, a button on the household machine can be used for this purpose. For example, one of the so-called three-in-one buttons currently on the market in dishwashers can be considered for this. If such a button is pressed, the ideal-typical program sequence is started, which is best adapted to the mode of operation of a self-sufficient dosing system or such a program sequence is started that can be clearly and optimally detected by the self-sufficient dosing system.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, a receiving device is provided in which a non-permanently installed metering device is received in a defined operating position. This facilitates the design of a presence sensor, which can be designed, for example, as a light barrier or the like. The detergent dosage can also be made better by a defined position. In particular, the sensor system of the metering device can be implemented more precisely and thus reliably in a defined operating position.

If the receptacle for the dosing device is also arranged outside a container for objects to be cleaned, e.g. outside the crockery baskets of a dishwasher, the space provided for the desired amount of crockery is not impaired

In a further development of the invention, a wireless transmission unit can also be provided for sending at least one signal to an autonomous dosing device. With the help of such a transmission device, a machine controller knew to intervene directly and not indirectly by controlling the dosing sequence in the autarkic dosing system or at least start a control signal for the processing of software present in the autarkic dosing system.

In a simpler variant of this embodiment, only a start signal is supplied at the beginning of the working process of the household machine, on the basis of which the metering device can recognize the start of a program and can verify that the special program mode is set.

In a further development of this embodiment, a receiving unit is also provided in the household machine in order to receive at least one signal from such an autarkic metering device.

Such a receiver can, for example, receive a confirmation signal from the dosing device, which at the same time implements a presence sensor system.

The program mode for the self-sufficient dosing device reproduces a special sequence of process steps that can be recognized by the self-sufficient dosing device. In the workspace of a household machine, there are generally different values for process parameters such as temperature, air humidity, pH value, etc. for different process steps in cleaning. In the case of a self-sufficient metering device, as described, at least one sensor is used to monitor such process parameters, the Dosing device has a control for dosing according to this sensory monitoring.

The same applies to the temperature and humidity, the pH value, etc., for example, the detection of a detergent concentration, the wetting of the dosing device, the cloudiness of the cleaning liquid or the detection of mechanical parameters, e.g. of vibration, in question. The corresponding information for the control unit of the self-sufficient dosing device can also be contained in the time course in the variation of such parameters.

For example, the corresponding information can be coded in the switch-on intervals of a spray arm or the circulation pump. It is conceivable, for example, to design a code, for example a binary code, in a sequence during operation of one or more spray arms and / or the circulation pump. Can be detected by the dosing device via a vibration sensor, a wetting sensor or the like, and can be transformed back into the desired information through its control.

By controlling such a machine component, such as a spray arm, a pump or the like, more complex and, in particular, digital information can also be transmitted to the control unit of an autonomous dosing device without additional transmission units. For this purpose, all known and future codings over time sequences can be used; for example, coding as a bit sequence over long and short time intervals or the use of a Morse code or the like could also be used.

Further embodiments of a household machine according to the invention result from the fact that it is adapted to a metering device with a wide variety of sensors.

Such sensors as moisture sensors, turbidity sensors or vibration sensors are connected to the control unit of the dosing device in order to reliably determine the status of the operating program. An adjustment of the dosage by the control unit according to the process values detected by at least one sensor, i.e. the measured values of process parameters is conceivable. Cooperation to improve the solution to the problem is also conceivable here. For example, when the cleaning process is interrupted, the vibrations in the work area are also greatly reduced so that a vibration sensor allows statements about the program status.

A combination of the most varied of sensors is advantageous for optimally determining the point in time and / or the duration of the release of a cleaning substance, one such Point in time or such a period of time can be specified by the household machine through a corresponding sequence or variation of process parameters or operating states.

If necessary, a memory unit for storing process values is available, which enables assistance, for example, in the event of defects in the household machine, in maintenance or also in the development of new cleaning substances.

Likewise, as above communication between the metering device and the control of the household machine can also be provided. Such data exchange can take place via radio transmission (Bluetooth, DECT, etc.) or via a wired interface. For example, if the need arises, the temperature of the cleaning water supplied could be changed if the control of the household machine utilizes a sensor system or an operating state of the dosing device.

Depending on the type of application, it can also be advantageous not to let the metering device work independently or only partially. This is achieved, for example, by an interface between the metering device and the household machine. This interface can be used both for power supply and for the transmission of information and measurement data.

Preferably, the development of a household machine is also conceivable which specifically uses the above-mentioned advantages of a dosing device according to the invention, for example through mutual communication between the dosing device according to the invention and the control of the household machine. It is conceivable that the metering device according to the invention can be used in various household machines. Such household machines no longer require their own metering device. Household machines of this type can thus be produced more cost-effectively and also offer a higher degree of safety, since any sealing problems can be avoided. For example, in the case of a dosing system that is installed in the loading door, especially in the case of membrane-sealed openings in the loading door or openings for plungers, e.g. a rinse aid valve, additional measures can be taken to reduce the risk that water or cleaning agents can come into contact with live parts in the loading door due to defects. This is avoided with a device according to the invention, since it is completely accommodated in the work space.

The delivery of cleaning, washing and drying agents can be implemented in a predetermined total amount or also in increments. For this purpose, the delivery device can also include the elements required for delivery
can still be equipped with sensors, in particular a temperature sensor, a photocell, a vibration sensor and a humidity sensor. With these sensors, working individually or in combination, a conclusion on the respective operating state of the running dishwasher is to be carried out, from which the dispensing of the means stored in the dispensing unit for the
Washing / drying process results.

• Temperatursensor: dient der Erfassung von Aufheizphasen über Absolutwert und Gradient, damit auch Abkühlphasen, einfacher Newtonscher Abkühlprozesse
• Photozelle: dient in Kombination mit einer Plausibilitätszeit dem Erkennen der Türöffnung des Geschirrspülers
• Schwingungsaufnehmer: kann die Lauffrequenz der Waschpumpe, der Abwasserpumpe und auch der Sprüharme erfassen
• Feuchtesensor: kann die relative oder absolute Feuchte im Spülinnenraum, aber auch eine Oberflächenbenetzung aufnehmen'

The numerous dishwasher drain programs available on the market can basically be condensed into the phases of pre-wash, main wash, final rinse and drying. A distinction is made here between cold and warm pre-rinsing and the possibility of having a hot water connection available in addition to a cold water connection on the dishwasher. The latter is particularly common today in the USA. With the respective sensor acceptance:

• Temperature sensor: is used to record heating phases via absolute values and gradients, thus also cooling phases, simple Newtonian cooling processes
• Photo cell: in combination with a plausibility time, it is used to detect when the dishwasher door is open
• Vibration sensor: can record the running frequency of the washing pump, the sewage pump and also the spray arms
• Humidity sensor: can record the relative or absolute humidity in the interior of the sink, but also surface wetting '

In the case of a fundamental decision to add a first proportion of detergent to each pre-wash cycle, the time of the second detergent addition can be determined and the subsequent processes for adding the rinse aid can be clearly identified without receiving a direct signal from the machine control.

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

It is preferred that the metering device according to the invention is movable. Movable in the sense of this application means that the dosing device is not inextricably connected to a water-carrying device such as a dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer or the like or is not permanently installed in it, but rather can be removed by the user from a dishwasher or positioned in a dishwasher, for example. so it can be handled independently.

According to an alternative embodiment, it is also conceivable that the dosing device is not detachably connected for the user to a water-carrying device such as a dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer or the like and only the cartridge is movable.

cartridge

A cartridge in the context of this application is understood to mean a packaging material which is suitable for enveloping or holding together at least one flowable, pourable or scatterable preparation and which can be coupled to a dispensing device for dispensing at least one preparation.

In the simplest, conceivable embodiment, the cartridge has a preferably dimensionally stable chamber for storing a preparation. In particular, a cartridge can also comprise several chambers which can be filled with compositions that differ from one another.

It is advantageous that the cartridge has at least one outlet opening which is arranged in such a way that a gravity-induced release of preparation from the cartridge can be brought about in the use position of the dispensing device. As a result, no further funds are required to release the preparation from the cartridge, which means that the construction of the dispensing device can be kept simple and the manufacturing costs can be kept low. Furthermore, the use of subsidies, e.g. There is no need for pumps, which means that the service life of a battery or rechargeable battery in the dosing device can be increased.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one second chamber is provided for receiving at least one second flowable or spreadable preparation, the second chamber having at least one outlet opening which is arranged such that a gravity-induced product release from the second chamber in the use position of the Dosing device is effected. The arrangement of a second chamber is particularly advantageous if preparations are stored in the separate chambers of the cartridge which are usually not mutually stable, such as bleaches 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 to release volatile preparations such as a fragrance into the environment.

In a further embodiment, the cartridge is designed in one piece. In this way, the cartridges can be formed cost-effectively in one production step, in particular by suitable blow molding processes. The chambers of a cartridge can be separated from one another, for example, by webs or material bridges which are formed during or after the blowing process.

The cartridge can also be formed in several pieces by components manufactured by injection molding and then joined together.

In particular, the cartridge can also be designed asymmetrically. It is particularly preferred to shape the asymmetry of the cartridge in such a way that the cartridge can only be coupled to the dispensing device in a predefined position, which prevents incorrect operation by the user that would otherwise be possible.

According to a further advantageous further development, one or more chambers have, in addition to an outlet opening, preferably at the bottom, in each case a second chamber opening, preferably at the top, which can be closed in a liquid-tight manner. This chamber opening makes it possible, for example, to refill preparation stored in this chamber.

To ventilate the cartridge chambers, ventilation options can be provided, in particular in the head area of the cartridge, in order to ensure pressure equalization between the interior of the cartridge chambers and the environment when the filling level of the chambers falls. These ventilation options can be designed, for example, as a valve, in particular a silicone valve, micro-openings in a chamber or cartridge wall or the like.

The cartridge can take any shape. It can, for example, be cube-like, spherical or plate-like.

To use the dispensing device in dishwashers, it is particularly advantageous to shape the device based on dishes to be cleaned in dishwashers. For example, it can be plate-shaped, roughly the size of a plate. In this way, the dosing device can save space e.g. be positioned in the lower basket of the dishwasher. Furthermore, the correct positioning of the dosing unit is immediately and intuitively revealed to the user thanks to the plate-like shape.

The metering device and the cartridge, when coupled to one another, preferably have a height: width: depth ratio of between 5: 5: 1 and 50: 50: 1, particularly preferably about 10: 10: 1. The "slim" design of the dispensing device and the cartridge make it possible, in particular, to position the device in the lower cutlery basket of a dishwasher in the receptacles provided for plates. This has the advantage that the preparations dispensed from the dispenser reach the washing liquor directly and cannot adhere to other items to be washed.

Commercially available household dishwashers are usually designed in such a way that larger items, such as pans or large plates, are arranged in the lower basket of the dishwasher. In order to avoid a non-optimal positioning of the dosing system consisting of the dosing device and the cartridge coupled to the dosing device by the user in the upper basket, in an advantageous embodiment of the invention the dosing system is dimensioned such that the dosing system can only be positioned in the receptacles provided for it the lower basket is enabled. For this purpose, 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 design the dosing unit in the form of a cup or pot with an essentially circular or square base area.

The outlet openings of a cartridge are preferably arranged on a line, which enables a slim, plate-shaped design of the dosing device.

In the case of a pot-shaped or cup-shaped design of the cartridge or its pot-shaped or cup-shaped grouping, however, it can also be advantageous to arrange the dispensing openings of the cartridge, for example, in the shape of a circular arc.

In order to provide a direct visual level control, it is advantageous to shape the cartridge at least in sections from a transparent material.

In order to protect heat-sensitive components of a preparation in a cartridge from the effects of heat, it is advantageous to manufacture the cartridge from a material with a low thermal conductivity.

In a preferred embodiment, the cartridge has an RFID label that contains at least information about the contents of the cartridge and that can be read out by a sensor unit, which can in particular be provided in the dosing device or dishwasher.

This information can be used, for example, to select a dosing program stored in the control unit of the dosing device. This ensures that a dosing program that is optimal for a particular preparation is always used. It can also be provided that if an RFID label is not present or if there is an RFID label with an incorrect or faulty identifier, no dosing is carried out by the dosing device and instead an optical or acoustic signal is generated that the user is aware of the present Errors.

In order to rule out incorrect use of the cartridge, the cartridges can also have structural elements that interact with corresponding elements of the dispenser according to the key-lock principle, so that, for example, only cartridges of a certain type can be coupled to the dispenser. This configuration also makes it possible for information about the cartridge coupled to the dosing device to be transmitted to the control unit of the dosing device, whereby the dosing device can be controlled in accordance with the content of the corresponding container.

The cartridge is designed in particular to hold free-flowing detergents or cleaning agents. Such a cartridge particularly preferably has a plurality of chambers for the spatially separated reception of preparations of a washing or cleaning agent that are different from one another. As an example - but not conclusively - some combination options for filling the chambers with different preparations are listed below: Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 Chamber 4 A. Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation - - B. Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Rinse aid - C. Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Rinse aid Fragrance D. Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Rinse aid Disinfectant preparation E. Alkaline cleaning preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Rinse aid Pre-treatment preparation

It is particularly preferred that all preparations are flowable, since this ensures that the preparations dissolve quickly in the washing liquor of the dishwasher, which means that these preparations have a quick to immediate cleaning or rinsing effect, in particular on the walls of the wash cabinet and / or one Achieve light guide of the cartridge and / or the dispenser.

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

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

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

The chamber containing the alkaline cleaning preparation preferably has the largest filling volume of the existing chambers. The chambers which store an enzymatic preparation or a rinse aid preferably have approximately the same fill volumes.

In the case of a two- and / or three-chamber design of the cartridge, it is particularly possible to store a fragrance, disinfectant and / or pretreatment preparation in a further chamber detachably arranged on the cartridge or on the dispensing device.

The cartridge comprises a cartridge base, which in the use position in the direction of gravity. is directed downwards and on which preferably for each chamber at least one in Gravity direction on the bottom arranged outlet opening is provided. The outlet openings arranged at the bottom are in particular designed in such a way that at least one, preferably all of the outlet openings can be connected to the inlet openings of the dispensing device in a communicating manner, i.e. preparation can flow into the dispensing device via the outlet openings from the cartridge into the dispensing device, preferably by gravity.

It is also conceivable that one or more chambers have an outlet opening that is not arranged on the bottom in the direction of gravity. This is particularly advantageous if, for example, a fragrance is to be released into the vicinity of the cartridge.

The cartridge is preferably formed from at least two materially connected elements, the connecting edge of the elements on the cartridge base running outside the outlet openings, so the connecting edge does not intersect the outlet openings. This is particularly advantageous because it avoids tightness problems when coupling to the dispensing device in the area of the outlet openings, which occur in particular with the high thermal cycling stresses that usually occur in a dishwasher.

The material connection can be produced, for example, by gluing, welding, soldering, pressing or vulcanizing.

It is particularly preferred to connect the cartridge elements to one another by means of mirror welding. With mirror welding, a metallic heating mirror, which contains the contour of the interfaces to be connected, heats the interfaces and briefly puts them into the plastic state, so that after removing the heating mirror and joining the parts, these plastic areas solidify again as melt and become solid Connection.

In addition to the mirror welding technology known from the prior art, individually sprayed parts can also be connected to one another by means of laser welding, for example. During laser welding, one of the two materials that are to be melted at the interface must carry an absorbent in order to absorb the energy content of the laser beam and convert it into heat, which then causes the corresponding material area to melt. This is typically achieved with color pigments that thermally interact with the laser beam directed into the material. These interfaces to be joined can also be covered if the material in front of it in the direction of incidence of the laser beam is transparent to the laser beam and has no absorption property.

It is also possible to connect individual cartridge elements by means of ultrasonic welding processes or IR welding via electrodes.

It is advantageous that the connecting edge runs along the head, bottom and side surfaces of the cartridge. In this way, two cartridge elements can be produced, in particular by injection molding, with either both elements being trough-shaped or one element trough-shaped and the second element being cover-like.

To form a two- or multi-chamber cartridge, at least one of the two cartridge elements can comprise at least one separating web which, when the elements are joined together, separates two adjacent chambers of the cartridge from one another.

According to a preferred embodiment, the outlet openings of the cartridge are closed by closure means at least in the filled, unopened state of the cartridge. The closure means can be designed such that they allow the outlet opening to be opened once by destroying the closure means. Such sealing means are, for example, sealing films or sealing caps.

According to a preferred embodiment, the outlet openings are each provided with a closure which, when coupled to a dispensing device, allows preparation to flow out of the respective chambers and essentially prevents preparation from flowing out when the cartridge is uncoupled. In particular, such a closure is designed as a slotted silicone valve.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the ventilation openings of the cartridge are closed with a closure element before a first coupling with the dosing device. The closure element can in particular be a stopper or a cap, which is opened, for example pierced, during the first coupling with the dispensing device by the coupling process.

It is very particularly preferred that, before the cartridge is first coupled to the dispensing device, all the outlet openings of the cartridge are closed with a slotted silicone valve and all ventilation openings with a cap.

The cartridge elements forming the cartridge are preferably formed from a plastic and can be molded in a common injection molding process, whereby it can be advantageous to form a connecting web acting as a hinge between the two elements, so that after molding the two elements through a When folded over, rest against each other and are firmly connected along the connecting edge.

In a further, preferred embodiment, the cartridge for coupling to a dispensing device that can be positioned inside a household appliance for dispensing at least one washing and / or cleaning agent preparation has at least one chamber for storing at least one flowable or pourable washing and / or cleaning agent preparation, wherein the cartridge is protected from the entry of rinsing water into the chamber (s) when coupled to the dispenser and the cartridge is at least one dispensing opening on the bottom in the direction of gravity for - in particular by gravity - dispensing preparation from at least one chamber and at least one ventilation opening on the bottom in the direction of gravity for Ventilation comprises at least one chamber, wherein the ventilation opening is separated from the dispensing opening and the ventilation opening is communicatively connected to at least one chamber of the cartridge.

It is particularly preferred that the cartridge comprises at least two chambers, very particularly preferably at least three chambers. It is advantageous here that a ventilation opening and a discharge opening are provided for each chamber.

It is also preferred that the bottom-side ventilation opening is communicatively connected to a ventilation channel whose end facing away from the ventilation opening opens into the dispensing position of the cartridge coupled to the dispensing device above the maximum fill level of the cartridge.

In this context, it is advantageous that the ventilation channel is formed entirely or partially in or on the walls and / or webs of the cartridge. In particular, the ventilation channel can be formed integrally in or on the walls and / or webs of the cartridge.

For this purpose, the ventilation channel can advantageously be shaped by joining at least two elements forming the cartridge. For example, a ventilation channel can be formed by joining a separating web of the cartridge that is formed in the shell-shaped element with two webs which surround the separating web and are arranged on the cartridge element.

It is advantageous here if the ventilation channel is formed by material-locking joining, in particular by welding, of a separating web of the cartridge formed in the shell-shaped element with two webs which surround the separating web and are arranged on the cartridge element. Alternatively, the ventilation channel can also be used, for example, as a so-called. Dip tube be formed.

In order to ensure the ventilation of the cartridge even in an inclined position, for example when the dispensing device is placed in the plate holder, it is advantageous that the fill level (F) of the cartridge in the unopened, filled state of the cartridge at an inclined position of up to 45 ° is not in contact with the opening of the ventilation duct (83).

Furthermore, it is advantageous here to arrange the ventilation channel mouth approximately in the middle on or in the chamber wall of the cartridge head.

In order to ensure functionality, for example, even after the cartridge is in a horizontal position, it is advantageous if the viscosity of a flowable preparation and the ventilation channel are configured in such a way that the preparation is not drawn into the ventilation channel by capillary forces when the preparation is applied to the Ventilation duct opening is pending.

The coupling of the cartridge with the dosing device is advantageously to be designed in such a way that a mandrel communicating with the inlet opening of the dosing device is arranged on the dosing device, which cooperates with the couplable cartridge or cartridge chamber in such a way that when coupling the ventilation opening of the cartridge or Cartridge chamber with the dispensing device, the mandrel displaces a volume Δv in the ventilation channel, whereby a pressure Δp is generated in the ventilation channel, which is suitable for conveying the flowable preparation located in the ventilation channel into the preparation-storing chamber connected to the ventilation channel.

It is preferred that the ventilation opening of a chamber is connected in a communicating manner to the mandrel on the dosing device side before the closed outlet opening of the corresponding chamber is opened, for example through the communicating connection with the inlet opening of the dosing device.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, a ventilation chamber is arranged between the ventilation opening and the ventilation channel.

The cartridge can be designed in such a way that it can be arranged detachably or firmly in or on the dosing device and / or a dishwasher or washing machine and / or tumble dryer.

Light guide cartridge

The cartridge for coupling with a dosing device for dispensing at least one detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation from the cartridge into the interior of a household appliance comprises, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, a light guide arranged in or on the cartridge into which a light signal can be coupled from outside the cartridge is. It is particularly preferred to couple a light signal that is emitted from the dispensing device into the cartridge.

In particular, the light guide can be formed entirely or partially in or on the walls and / or webs of the cartridge.

It is also advantageous to form the light guide integrally in or on the walls and / or webs of the cartridge.

The light guide preferably consists of a transparent plastic material. However, it is also possible to form the entire cartridge from a transparent material.

It is preferred that the light guide is suitable for guiding light in the visible range (10-780 nm). It is particularly preferable that the light guide is suitable for guiding light in the near infrared range (780 nm-3,000 nm). In particular, it is preferred that the light guide is suitable for guiding light in the mid-infrared range (3.0 μm-50 μm).

In particular, the light guide consists of a transparent plastic material with a high refractive index.

The light guide is advantageously completely or partially enclosed, at least in sections, by a material with a lower optical refractive index. In particular, the material with the lower optical refractive index can be a preparation stored in a chamber of the cartridge.

A ratio of the refractive indices of preparation and light guide of 1: 1.10-1: 5, preferably 1: 1.15-1: 1.35, particularly preferably 1: 1.15-1: 1.20, is particularly advantageous , the refractive index was determined at a wavelength of 589 nm. The refractive index of the light guide can be determined according to DIN EN ISO 489, for example. The refractive index of the preparation can be determined using an Abbe refractometer according to DIN 53491.

It is particularly advantageous that the preparation which completely or partially surrounds the light guide has a degree of transmission of 45% -95%, particularly preferably 60% -90%, very particularly preferably 75% -85%. The light guide preferably has a degree of transmission of> 75%, very particularly preferably> 85%. The transmittance can be determined according to DIN5036.

It is further preferred that the wavelength of the light that is sent through the light guide corresponds approximately to the wavelength of at least one preparation which at least partially surrounds the light guide, which is not absorbed by the preparation from the visible spectrum. It is particularly preferred here that the wavelength of the light that is sent through the light guide and the wavelength that is not absorbed by the preparation is between 600-800 nm.

The light signal that can be coupled into the light guide is in particular a carrier of information, in particular, for example, with regard to the operating state of the dosing device and / or the fill level of the cartridge.

In a preferred further development, the light guide is designed in such a way that the light signal that can be coupled into the light guide can also be decoupled again from the light guide.

It can be advantageous here that the light guide is designed in such a way that the light signal can be coupled out at a point on the cartridge that is different from the point at which the light signal can be coupled into the cartridge.

The coupling and decoupling of the light signal can in particular be implemented on a prismatic edge of the cartridge.

It is particularly preferred to form the coupling and decoupling points of the light signal in the corresponding injection molding tool with highly polished or hard chrome-plated tool surfaces, so that the reflection properties of the coupling and decoupling points are low and the desired signal coupling is possible.

The distance between the light source arranged in the dispensing device, in particular an LED, from the coupling point of the light into the cartridge when the cartridge and the dispensing device are coupled should be kept as small as possible.

It is also advantageous that the light signal and the light guide are configured in such a way that a light signal that is visible to a user can be generated on and / or in the cartridge.

According to a further embodiment, the light guide can be severed at at least one point in the cartridge in such a way that preparation can fill the severing point. This enables a fill level and / or inclination sensor to be implemented in a simple manner, with a light signal that passes through the separation point without preparation and the light signal that passes through the separation point completely or partially filled with preparation.

Dosing device

The control unit required for operation and at least one actuator are integrated in the dosing device. A sensor unit and / or an energy source is also preferably arranged on or in the metering device.

The dosing device preferably consists of a splash-proof housing that prevents splash water from penetrating into the interior of the dosing device, as can occur, for example, when used in a dishwasher, in which at least the control unit, sensor unit and / or actuator are arranged.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to arrange the components or assemblies on, on and / or in a component carrier in the dispensing device; this will also be explained at another point.

It is particularly preferred that the dispensing device comprises at least one first interface, which interacts in or on a household appliance, in particular a water-carrying household appliance, preferably a dishwasher or washing machine, in such a way that a transmission of electrical energy and / or signals from Household appliance to the dispenser and / or from the dispenser to the household appliance is realized.

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

It is particularly preferred here that the interfaces provided for the transmission of electrical energy are inductive transmitters or receivers of electromagnetic waves. In particular, the interface of a water-carrying device, such as a Dishwasher, be designed as an alternating current operated transmitter coil with an iron core and the interface of the dispenser as a receiver coil with an iron core.

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

According to the invention, there is an interface on the dosing device and the water-carrying device, such as a dishwasher, for transmitting (ie sending and receiving) electromagnetic and / or optical signals, which in particular contain operating status, measurement and / or control information of the dosing device and / or represent the water-conducting device such as a dishwasher, formed.

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

In particular, such an interface can be designed in such a way that 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 transmit or receive light in the visible range. Since it is usually dark inside the washing area when a dishwasher is in operation, signals in the visible, optical range, for example in the form of signal pulses or flashes of light, can be emitted and / or detected by the dispenser. It has been found to be particularly advantageous to use wavelengths between 600-800 nm in the visible spectrum.

Alternatively or in addition, it is advantageous that the interface is configured to transmit or receive infrared signals. In particular, it is advantageous that the interface to the Sending or receiving of infrared signals in the near infrared range (780nm-3,000nm) is configured.

In particular, the interface comprises at least one LED. The interface particularly preferably comprises at least two LEDs. According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is also possible to provide at least two LEDs which emit light in a wavelength that is different from one another. This makes it possible, for example, to define different signal bands on which information can be sent or received.

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

The interface of the dispenser can be configured in such a way that the LED is provided both for sending signals into the interior of the dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door is closed, and for the optical display of an operating state of the dispenser, 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.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the interface of the dosing device is configured in such a way that it emits an optical signal when the dishwasher is closed and unloaded, so that an average illuminance E between 0.01 and 100 lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux measured at the causes the wash cabinet delimiting walls. This illuminance is then sufficient to cause multiple reflections with or on the other wash cabinet walls and thus reduce or prevent possible signal shadows in the wash cabinet, in particular when the dishwasher is loaded.

The signal transmitted and / or received by the interface is in particular a carrier of information, in particular a control signal or a signal that represents an operating state of the dispenser and / or the dishwasher. In an advantageous further development of the invention, the dispensing device has a light source for dispensing at least one washing and / or cleaning agent preparation from a cartridge into the interior of a household appliance, by means of which a light signal can be coupled into a light guide of the cartridge. In particular, the light source can be an LED. This makes it possible, for example, to couple light signals, which for example represent the operating state of the dispensing device, from the dispensing device into the cartridge so that they can be visually perceived by a user on the cartridge. This is particularly advantageous because, in the position of use, in the plate holder of a crockery drawer in a dishwasher, the dispensing device can be optically concealed between other items to be washed. By coupling the light from the dispensing device into the cartridge, the corresponding light signals can also be slid into the head area of the cartridge, for example, so that the light signals can be visually perceived by the user even if the dispensing device is positioned in the plate holder between other items to be washed if the crockery drawer is properly loaded, the head-side area of the items to be washed and the cartridge usually remain uncovered.

It is also possible for the light signal coupled into the light guide of the cartridge and passing through the light guide to be detectable by a sensor located on the dispensing device. This is explained in more detail in a subsequent section.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the dispensing device for dispensing at least one detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation into the interior of a household appliance comprises at least one optical transmission unit, the optical transmission unit being configured in such a way that signals from the transmission unit can be coupled to the dispensing device Cartridge can be coupled in and signals from the transmitter unit can be emitted into the vicinity of the dispensing device. In this way, signals can be transmitted between the dispensing device and, for example, a household appliance such as a dishwasher, as well as signal input into a cartridge by means of an optical transmission unit.

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

In an advantageous development of the invention, the dispensing device can comprise at least one optical receiving unit. This makes it possible, for example, that the dosing device Can receive signals from an optical transmitter unit arranged in the household appliance. This can be implemented 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 designed in such a way that the signals that can be coupled into a cartridge coupled to the dosing device by the transmitting unit can be decoupled from the cartridge and detected by the optical receiving unit of the dosing device.

The signals transmitted by the transmission unit into the vicinity of the metering device can preferably represent information relating to operating states or control commands.

Component carrier

The dosing device comprises a component carrier on which at least the actuator and the closure element as well as 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 named components and / or the components are formed in one piece with the component carrier.

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

Furthermore, it is conceivable that for a simple dismantling 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 arranged on the component carrier.

It is also advantageous that the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are combined in one assembly 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 one assembly. This can be done for example be realized that the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are arranged on a common electrical circuit board.

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

As a result of the component carrier, a largely simple, automatic assembly with the necessary components of the dispensing device is possible. The component carrier can thus be prefabricated as a whole, preferably automatically, and assembled into a dispensing device.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the trough-like construction element carrier can be closed in a liquid-tight manner by a, for example, cover-like closure element after it has been fitted. The closure element can be designed, 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 into which the component carrier can be inserted, the console and the component carrier forming the dispensing device in the assembled state. The component carrier and the console interact in the assembled state in such a way that a liquid-tight connection is formed between the component carrier and the console, so that no rinsing water can get into the interior of the dispensing device or the component carrier.

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

In a further development, the receptacle for the actuator has an opening which is in line with the dosing chamber outlet, so that a closure element can be moved back and forth by the actuator through the opening and the dosing chamber outlet.

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

Advantageously, the component carrier comprises at least one light guide, via which light can be guided from the surroundings of the dispenser to an optical transmitter and / or receiver unit into and / or from the interior of the dispenser or the component carrier, the light guide in particular is formed in one piece with the transparent component carrier.

Furthermore, it is therefore preferred that at least one opening is provided in the dosing device through which light from the surroundings of the dosing device can be coupled in and / or out of the light guide.

Actuator

For the purposes of this application, an actuator is a device that converts an input variable into a different output variable and with which an object is moved or its movement is generated, the actuator being coupled to at least one closure element in such a way that the preparation is released directly or indirectly at least one cartridge chamber can be effected.

The actuator can be driven by means of 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, toothed worm drives, piezoelectric drives, chain drives, and / or recoil drives.

In particular, the actuator can be formed from an electric motor which is coupled to a gearbox that converts the rotary movement of the motor into a linear movement of a slide coupled to the gearbox. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a slim, plate-shaped design of the metering unit.

At least one magnetic element can be arranged on the actuator that, with a magnetic element of the same polarity on a dispenser, causes a product to be dispensed from the container, as soon as the two magnetic elements are positioned against one another in such a way that magnetic repulsion of the homopolar magnetic elements is effected and a contactless release mechanism is implemented.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the actuator is a bistable lifting magnet which, together with a closing element designed as a plunger core engaging in the bistable lifting magnet, forms a pulse-controlled, bi-stable valve. Bistable lifting magnets are electromechanical magnets with a linear direction of movement, whereby the plunger core locks in every end position without current.

Bistable lifting magnets or valves are known in the prior art. A bistable valve requires a pulse to change the valve position (open / closed) and then remains in this position until a counter pulse is sent to the valve. This is why one speaks of a pulse-controlled valve. A major advantage of such pulse-controlled valves is that they do not consume any energy to stay in the valve end positions, the closed position and delivery position, but only require an energy pulse to change the valve positions, so that the valve end positions can be regarded as stable. A bistable valve remains in the switch position which last received a control signal.

The locking element (plunger core) is moved to an end position by a current pulse. The current is switched off, the locking element holds the position. The closure element is moved to the other end position by a current pulse. The current is switched off, the locking element holds the position.

A bistable property of lifting magnets can be implemented in different ways. On the one hand, a division of the coil is known. The coil is divided more or less in the middle, so that a gap is created. A permanent magnet is inserted into this gap. The plunger itself is turned off both at the front and at the back so that in the respective end position it has a flat surface on the frame of the magnet. The magnetic field of the permanent magnet flows over this area. The diving core sticks here. Alternatively, it is also possible to use two separate coils. The principle is similar to the bistable solenoid with split coil. The difference is that there are actually two different coils electrically. These are controlled separately from each other, depending on the direction in which the plunger core is to be moved.

It is therefore particularly preferable that the closure element is coupled to the actuator in such a way that the closure element is moved by the actuator into a closed position and into a Passage position (delivery position) can be displaced, the closure element being designed as an open / close valve element, so that the actuator is designed in such a way that it can selectively assume one of two end positions, controlled by a suitable pulse, and stably maintains the end position reached without control, and that the combination thus forms a pulse-controlled, bistable open / closed valve.

In particular, for this purpose the actuator can be designed as a bistable solenoid with a space accommodating an armature and an outer receiving space surrounding it. The armature of the bistable solenoid can be designed so that it forms the closure element or is coupled to it.

In order to achieve a separation between a damp and a dry space in the dispensing device, the space of the actuator receiving the armature can be separated from the outer receiving space of the actuator in a liquid-tight and preferably also gas-tight manner.

It is also advantageous to form at least the outer surface of the anchor from a material that cannot be attacked by the detergent or cleaning agent to be dosed, in particular from a plastic material.

The armature preferably comprises a core made of a magnetizable, in particular a ferromagnetic material and a permanent magnet positioned in the outer receiving space, a coil being arranged at each of its two axial ends.

It is further preferred that permanent magnets are arranged axially antipolar at its axial ends in the armature and that yoke rings made of a ferromagnetic material, in particular iron, and a coil winding are arranged in the outer receiving space at both axial ends.

It is advantageous here that the axial distance between the yoke rings is greater than the axial distance between the permanent magnets.

Furthermore, yoke rings can be arranged in the armature at its axial ends, permanent magnets being arranged axially antipolar at both axial ends in the outer receiving space and a coil winding being arranged between these. The axial distance between the permanent magnets is preferably greater than the axial distance between the yoke rings. In particular, the one actuator / closure element combination is provided in a dosing device of a dosing system with a cartridge for flowable detergents or cleaning agents with a plurality of chambers for spatially separated reception of different preparations of a washing or cleaning agent and with one that can be coupled to the cartridge Dosing device, the dosing device comprising: an energy source, a control unit, a sensor unit, an actuator which is connected to the energy source and the control unit in such a way that a control signal from the control unit causes the actuator to be actuated, a closure element which is connected to the actuator in the Kind is coupled that it can be moved by the actuator into a closed position and into an open position (delivery position), at least one metering chamber which, when the metering device is assembled with a cartridge, communicates with at least one of the cartridge chambers of the cartridge, wherein the dosing chamber has an inlet for the inflow of detergent or cleaning agent from a cartridge chamber and an outlet for the outflow of detergent or cleaning agent from the dosing chamber into the surroundings and at least the outlet of the dosing chamber can be closed or released by the closure element.

In particular, the actuator is arranged in a component carrier in such a way that, in the position of use of the dispensing device, a receptacle for the actuator is arranged on the component carrier in the direction of gravity above the dispensing chamber. It is particularly advantageous here that, in the position of use of the dispensing device, the inlet of the dispensing chamber is arranged on the component carrier above the receptacle for the actuator.

It is also conceivable that the dispensing device has a component carrier in which, in the position of use of the dispensing device, a receptacle for the actuator is arranged on the component carrier laterally next to the dispensing chamber.

The receptacle for the actuator preferably has an opening which is in line with the outlet of the metering chamber, the closure element being movable back and forth from the actuator through the opening to the outlet.

Closure element

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

The closure element can be, for example, valves that can be brought into a product delivery position or closure position by the actuator.

Particularly preferred is the design of the closure element and the actuator in the form of a solenoid valve, in which the dispenser is designed 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 preparations to be dosed, the use of solenoid valves allows the amount and the times of dosing to be regulated very precisely.

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 dispensing opening.

sensor

For the purposes of this application, a sensor is a measured variable recorder or measuring probe that can detect certain physical or chemical properties and / or the material properties of its environment qualitatively or quantitatively 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 to detect 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 vicinity of the dosing unit. The sensor unit can 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, alternating acoustic pressure sensors, "lab-on-a-chip" sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH value sensors, humidity sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors Hall sensors, bio-chips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and / or MEMS sensors can be selected.

In particular in the case of preparations whose viscosity fluctuates greatly as a function of temperature, it is advantageous to provide flow sensors in the metering device for volume or mass control of the metered preparations. Suitable flow sensors can be selected from the group of orifice flow sensors, magnetic-inductive flow meters, mass flow measurement according to the Coriolis method, vortex flow measurement method, ultrasonic flow measurement method, variable area flow measurement, annular piston flow measurement, thermal mass flow measurement or effective pressure flow measurement.

It is particularly preferred that at least two sensor units are provided for measuring parameters that differ from one another, with one sensor unit being a conductivity sensor and a further sensor unit being a temperature sensor. Furthermore, it is preferred that at least one sensor unit is a brightness sensor.

The sensors are especially designed to detect the start, progress and end of a wash program. The sensor combinations listed in the following table can be used for this purpose - by way of example and not exhaustive 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

The conductivity sensor can be used, for example, to detect whether the conductivity sensor is wetted by water, so that it can be determined, for example, whether there is water in the dishwasher.

Washing programs usually have a characteristic temperature profile, which, among other things, is determined by the heating of the wash water and the drying of the items to be washed, which can be detected by a temperature sensor.

By means of a brightness sensor, for example, the incidence of light into the interior of a dishwasher can be detected when the dishwasher door is opened, from which e.g. indicates the end of the wash program.

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

It is also conceivable to recognize the course of a washing program with the aid of at least one sound sensor, in which specific sound and / or vibration emissions e.g. can be detected when pumping or pumping out water.

It is of course possible for the person skilled in the art to use any suitable combination of several sensors to achieve a washing program monitoring.

According to a further development of the invention, it is conceivable that a temperature-dependent viscosity curve of at least one preparation is stored in the control unit, the dosage being adjusted by the control unit according to the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a device for the direct determination of the viscosity of the preparation is provided.

The alternatives listed above for determining the dosage amount or the viscosity of a preparation serve to generate a control signal that is processed by the control unit to control a dispenser in such a way that essentially constant dosage of a preparation is effected.

The data line between the sensor and the control unit can be implemented via an electrically conductive cable or wirelessly. In principle, it is also conceivable that at least one sensor is positioned outside the dispensing device or inside a dishwasher can be positioned and a data line - in particular wirelessly - is designed to transmit the measurement data from the sensor to the metering device.

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

In order to enable efficient production and assembly of the dispensing device, however, 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 metering device or directly on the board carrying the control unit, so that the temperature sensor does not have any direct contact with the environment.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sensor unit is arranged on the bottom of the dosing device, the bottom of the dosing device being directed downwards in the direction of gravity in the position of use. It is particularly preferred here that the sensor unit comprises a temperature and / or a conductivity sensor. Such a configuration ensures that the spray arms of the dishwasher bring water onto the underside of the dispenser and thus into contact with the sensor. Because the distance between the spray arms and the sensor is as small as possible due to the arrangement of the sensor on the bottom, the water between the outlet on the spray arms and the contact with the sensor is only slightly cooled, so that the most accurate temperature measurement can be carried out .

In order to extend the energy consumption of the dispenser or the service life of the energy source, in particular a battery, the energy consumers of the dispenser, in particular the control unit, can be connected to the energy source, including an on / off switch, and the energy source only after the The on-state of the on / off switch is loaded with a sensor unit forming the on / off switch or being connected to it and switching it.

It is particularly preferred that the sensor unit has two contacts in contact with the environment at the bottom of the dispensing device, in particular designed as contact pins protruding downward from the bottom, that one contact is the anode contact and the other contact is the cathode contact the energy source is switched and that without an electrically conductive connection between the contacts, the on / off switch is in the off state remains in the off state and when an electrically conductive connection is established between the contacts, the on / off switch in the off state switches to the on state.

It is also preferred that the on / off switch is provided or combined with a self-holding circuit which ensures or ensures self-holding of the energy supply of the energy consumers after the on / off switch has been reached until a switch-off signal from the control unit is received . causes.

The on / off switch can in particular be designed as a transistor circuit. It is preferable that the transistor of the on / off switch is designed as a pnp transistor and connected to the emitter, possibly via a control circuit, to the supply voltage, to the collector, if necessary via a control circuit, to ground and to the cathode contact and with the base on the one hand, possibly via a control circuit, to the supply voltage, and on the other hand, possibly via a control circuit, to the anode contact.

The control circuit preferably has at least one control resistor, which is designed in particular as a resistor voltage divider.

It is particularly advantageous that, in addition to the on / off sensor unit, a sensor unit designed as a conductivity sensor is provided, which has two contacts in contact with the environment at the bottom of the dispenser and that the anode contact is the on / off -Sensor unit is at the same time the anode contact of the sensor unit forming the conductivity sensor. This makes it possible to implement an on / off switch and a conductivity sensor in one component, a transistor.

It is also possible that the sensor unit forming the temperature sensor is integrated into a contact, in particular the cathode contact, of the sensor unit forming the conductivity sensor.

In this case, the contact of the sensor unit forming the conductivity sensor which receives the temperature sensor can preferably be designed as a hollow contact pin in which the temperature sensor of the sensor unit forming the temperature sensor is arranged.

In order to achieve a compact structural size, it is furthermore advantageous that the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are combined in one assembly on or in the component carrier.

It is particularly preferred that the contacts of a conductivity sensor arranged on the bottom are surrounded by an electrically conductive silicone. The conductivity sensor can be designed in particular in the form of a resistance measurement between two spaced-apart contacts in contact with the surroundings of the dispensing device. It is particularly preferred here that the silicone is embedded flush in the bottom of the dispensing device. The silicone advantageously has an approximately circular base area. The silicone shows good wettability with water and thus provides good measurement results with regard to the detection of water in the dishwasher.

In order to avoid polarization at the contacts of the conductivity sensor, which would impair the sensor accuracy, when using a direct current source, it is advantageous to carry out two successive resistance measurements on the conductivity sensor with different polarity each, i.e. with an exchange of the plus and minus poles, so that no excess charge can build up on the contacts.

Control unit

A control unit within the meaning of this application is a device that is suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and / or information. To this end, the control unit influences actuators with the aid of information, in particular measurement signals from the sensor unit, which it processes in the sense of the control objective.

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

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit has no connection to the control of the household appliance that may be present. Accordingly, no information, in particular electrical, optical or electromagnetic signals, is exchanged directly between the control unit and the control of the household appliance.

According to the invention, the control unit is coupled to the existing control of the household appliance. This coupling is preferably carried out wirelessly. For example, it is possible to have a transmitter on or in a dishwasher, to be positioned preferably on or at the dosing chamber let into the door of the dishwasher, which wirelessly transmits a signal to the dosing unit when the control of the household appliance effects the dosing of a cleaning agent from the dosing chamber or rinse aid, for example.

Several programs for releasing different preparations or releasing products in different applications can be stored in the control unit.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the call of the corresponding program can be brought about by corresponding RFID labels or geometric information carriers formed on the container. For example, it is possible to use the same control unit for a number of applications, for example for dosing detergents in dishwashers, for dispensing perfumes when scenting rooms, for applying cleaning substances in a toilet bowl, etc.

For the dosage of preparations which tend to gel in particular, the control unit can be configured in such a way that on the one hand the dosage takes place in a sufficiently short time to ensure a good cleaning result and on the other hand the preparation is not dosed so quickly that gelation of the surge of preparation occurs. This can be implemented, for example, by an interval-like release, the individual dosing intervals being set so that the correspondingly dosed amount dissolves completely during a cleaning cycle.

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

The dispensing of preparations from the dispenser can take place sequentially or at the same time.

It is particularly preferred to dose a plurality of preparations sequentially in a washing program. The following dosing sequences are particularly preferred 1. Dosage 2. Dosage 3. Dosage 4. Dosage Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation Rinse aid Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation Rinse aid Enzymatic cleaning preparation Aikal cleaning preparation Rinse aid Disinfectant preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation Rinse aid Fragrance Pre-treatment preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation Rinse aid

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, 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 of the} wall surface of the washing chamber. This ensures that the walls of the wash cabinet retain their gloss level even after a large number of wash cycles and that the dosing system retains its optical transmission capability.

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

In a further advantageous embodiment, the dishwasher and the dosing device work together in such a way that 0.1 mg -250 mg enzyme protein are released per m ^{2 of} wash cabinet wall surface in the pre- and / or main wash program of the dishwasher, which further improves or also improves the gloss of the wash cabinet walls remains after a large number of flushing cycles.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, data such as control and / or dosing programs of the control unit or operating parameters or protocols stored by the control unit can be read out from the control unit or loaded into the control unit. This can be implemented, for example, by means of an optical interface, the optical interface being 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 sensor that is present in the dispensing device to transmit 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 provide a conductivity determination by means of a resistance measurement at the contacts of the conductivity sensor, can be used for data transmission.

Procedure in the control unit

The control unit can in particular form a method for operating a dispensing device that is not permanently connected to a household appliance for dispensing at least one detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation into the interior of the household appliance, with at least one dispensing program being stored in the control unit and the control unit with at least an actuator located in the dosing device cooperates in such a way that detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation can be released from the dosing device into the interior of the household appliance, the dosing device comprises at least one receiving unit for signals that are sent out by at least one transmitting unit located in the household appliance and at least one part the signals in the control unit on the dosing device side are converted into control commands for the actuators of the dosing device, the reception of the signals being monitored on the dosing device side by means of the control unit and if the signals are not received by the dosing device t a dosing program is activated from the control unit of the dosing device.

This makes it possible that, in the event of a signal interruption between the transmitter unit on the domestic appliance side and the dosing device, dosing of the preparation is guaranteed by the dosing device transferring control sovereignty from the household appliance to the internal control of the dosing device.

In particular, it is advantageous that the household appliance-side signal is transmitted into the interior of the household appliance at predefined, periodic time intervals from the household-appliance-side transmitter unit. This makes it possible for the defined, periodic time intervals at which a signal is emitted by the household appliance-side transmission unit to be stored in the control unit of the dosing device and in the household appliance. If the contact between the transmitter unit of the household appliance breaks after receiving a signal at the dispenser, this break can be made by comparing the time that has elapsed since the last signal received and the time in which a subsequent signal is expected to be received after the defined periodic time interval , be determined on the dosing device side.

It is preferable that the periodic signal intervals are selected between 1 second and 10 minutes, preferably between 5 seconds and 7 minutes, particularly preferably between 10 seconds and 5 minutes. It is very particularly preferred that the periodic signal intervals are selected between 3 min and 5 min.

It is therefore particularly advantageous that the receipt of a signal emitted by the household appliance is logged in the control unit of the dispensing appliance with time information t ₁ .

It is particularly preferred that the control unit of the dosing device activates a dosing program from the control unit of the dosing device after a predefined time interval t _1-2 starting with t ₁ in which no further signal from the dosing device has been received.

According to an advantageous further development, the control unit evaluates the number and / or time sequence of the signals received from the dosing device in such a way that a dosing program is activated in the control unit in accordance with the evaluation result. This makes it possible, for example, to determine the duration of a washing program in a dishwasher since its start by comparing the time of the first signal reception to the time of the detection of the signal interruption, so that a suitable dosing program corresponding to the progress of the washing program in accordance with the progress of the washing program the control unit of the dosing device is activated.

It is also conceivable that, based on the above-mentioned evaluation of the number and / or time sequence of the signals received by the dosing device, a dosing program stored in the control unit of the dosing device is activated in the control unit starting from a defined program step corresponding to the progress of the washing program. For example, in the event of a signal interruption in the main wash cycle of a wash program, it is possible to activate a dosing program in the dosing device that is provided for a main wash cycle and subsequent wash program sections.

In particular, the signals transmitted by the household appliance-side transmitter unit include at least one control signal.

In an advantageous further development, the signals transmitted by the household appliance-side transmitter unit include at least one monitoring signal.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that at least one dosing program stored in the control unit comprises a dosing program of the household appliance. This makes it possible that in the event of a signal interruption between the household appliance and the dosing device, the dosing device continues a dosing program started by the household appliance.

It is therefore particularly preferred that the dosing programs stored in the control unit of the dosing device include the dosing programs of the household appliance.

In the absence of a signal on the dispensing device, an acoustic and / or optical signal that can be perceived by a user can advantageously be generated, which indicates the interruption of the signal.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous that the transmission of a monitoring signal and / or control signal to the household appliance can be effected manually by a user. In this way, a user can check, for example, whether there is a signal reception between the transmitter unit of the household appliance and the dosing device in a positioning of the dosing device selected by him within the household appliance. This can be implemented, for example, by an operating element embodied on the household appliance, such as a button or switch, which sends out a monitoring and / or control signal when actuated.

Energy source

In the context of this application, an energy source is understood to be a component of the metering system which is expedient to provide energy suitable for operating the metering system or the metering device. The energy source is preferably designed in such a way that the metering system is self-sufficient.

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

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

A battery can, for example, be selected from the group of alkali-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.

Suitable batteries are, for example, lead-acid batteries (lead dioxide / lead), nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, alkali-manganese batteries, silver-zinc batteries, nickel 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 helical springs, torsion springs or torsion bar springs, spiral springs, air springs / gas pressure springs and / or elastomer springs.

The energy source is dimensioned in such a way that the dispenser can run through about 300 dispensing cycles before the energy source is exhausted. It is particularly preferred that the energy source can run through between 1 and 300 metering cycles, very particularly preferably between 10 and 300, further preferably between 100 and 300, before the energy source is exhausted.

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

Fiber optic dosing device

An optical transmitter and / or receiver unit is preferably arranged within the dispensing device, in particular in or on the component carrier, in order to protect the electrical and / or optical components of the transmitter and / or receiver unit from the effects of splash and rinse water.

In order to guide light from the vicinity of the dispenser to the optical transmitter and / or receiver unit, a light guide is arranged between the optical transmitter and / or receiver unit and the environment of the dispenser, which has at least a light transmittance of 75%. The light guide is preferably made of a transparent plastic with a light transmittance of at least 75%. The transmittance of the light guide is defined as the transmittance between the surface of the light guide on which the light from the area around the dispenser is coupled into the light guide and the surface on which the Light is decoupled from the light guide to the optical transmitter and / or receiver unit. The transmittance can be determined according to DIN5036.

The light guide comprises at least one coupling-in and / or coupling-out point at which light is coupled in or out from an optical transmitter and / or receiver unit and / or from the vicinity of the dispensing device.

It is particularly preferred that the light guide is formed in one piece with the component carrier. The component carrier is therefore advantageously formed from a transparent material.

An opening is provided in the dispensing device to accommodate the coupling-in and / or decoupling point of the light guide and to establish an optical connection between the light guide and the surroundings. The coupling-in and / or coupling-out point can be arranged in the jacket surface in the base or head of the metering device. In order to provide good transmission and / or reception characteristics for optical signals, it can be advantageous for the coupling-in and / or coupling-out point of the light guide to be designed like a lens and / or prism.

The light guide can also be constructed in several layers and / or in several pieces from the same or different materials. It is also possible to provide an air gap between a multi-layered and / or multi-piece light guide. The transmittance of the light guide is understood in the case of a multilayered and / or multi-piece structure between the surface of the light guide on which the light from the area around the dosing device is coupled into the light guide and the surface on which the light from the light guide to the optical transmission and / or receiving unit is decoupled.

Furthermore, it is preferred that at least two coupling-in and coupling-out points of the light guide with the surroundings are provided. It is particularly advantageous that the coupling-in and coupling-out points on the metering device are essentially opposite one another.

Dispenser of the dishwasher

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the dispensing device can receive signals from a dispensing device fixed in a dishwasher.

The dispensing device for dispensing at least one preparation into the interior of a dishwasher can in particular be a detergent dispenser, a dispensing device for rinse aid or salt or a combination dosing device.

The dispensing device advantageously comprises at least one transmitting unit and / or at least one receiving unit for wireless transmission of signals into the interior of the dishwasher or for wireless reception of signals from the interior of the dishwasher.

It is particularly preferred that the transmitting unit and / or receiving unit is configured to transmit or receive optical signals. It is very particularly preferred that the transmitting unit and / or receiving unit is configured to transmit or receive light in the visible range. Since it is usually dark inside the washing area when a dishwasher is in operation, signals in the visible, optical range, for example in the form of signal pulses or light flashes, can be emitted and detected.

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

In particular, the transmission unit comprises at least one LED. The transmission unit particularly preferably comprises at least two LEDs. It is particularly advantageous here that at least two LEDs are arranged at a radiation angle offset by 90 ° to one another. As a result, the multiple reflections generated within the dishwasher can reduce the risk of signal shadows in which a freely positionable receiver of the signals, in particular a dispenser, could be located.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is also possible to provide at least two LEDs which emit light in a wavelength that is different from one another. This makes it possible, for example, to define different signal bands on which information can be sent or received.

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

The transmission unit of the dispensing device can be configured in such a way that the LED is used both to send signals inside the dishwasher, especially when the dishwasher door is closed, and to visually display an operating status, for example the level of the salt or rinse aid storage container of a dishwasher, especially when the dishwasher door is open is provided.

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

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the transmission unit is configured in such a way that it sends out an optical signal when the dishwasher is closed that an average illuminance E between 0.01 and 100 lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux, measured on the walls delimiting the washing area causes. This illuminance is then sufficient to cause multiple reflections with or on the other wash cabinet walls and thus reduce or prevent possible signal shadows in the wash cabinet, in particular when the dishwasher is loaded.

The receiving unit of the dispensing device can in particular comprise a photodiode.

In a further development of the invention, the delivery device can additionally or alternatively also be configured to transmit or receive radio signals.

The signal transmitted by the transmitting unit and / or received by the receiving unit is, in particular, a carrier of information, in particular a control signal.

It is particularly preferred that the dispensing device is arranged in the door of a dishwasher.

Furthermore, a receptacle can be provided on the dispensing device for the releasable fixing of a dosing device on the dispensing device. This makes it possible, for example, not only to position the dispenser in the crockery drawer of a dishwasher, but also to fix it directly to a dispensing device of the dishwasher, in particular a combination dispenser. On the one hand, this means that no loading space in the crockery drawer is occupied by the dispensing device; on the other hand, the dispensing device is positioned in a defined manner relative to the dispensing device.

Often, dispensing devices such as a combi-dosing device have a pivotable flap which is opened within a washing program in order to dispense the cleaning preparation located in the dosing chamber of the combi-device into the interior of the dishwasher. The receptacle for the dispensing device can now be designed on the dispensing device in such a way that opening of the flap is prevented when the dispensing device is fixed in the receptacle. This prevents the risk of double dosing from the dosing device and the dispensing device.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to configure the fixing of the dispensing device and the transmitting and / or receiving unit in such a way that at least the sending unit radiates directly onto the receiver of the dispensing device arranged in the fixing.

Advantageously, the dispensing device not permanently connected to the dishwasher for use in a dispensing system comprising the dispensing device has at least one receiving and / or at least one transmitting unit for wireless transmission of signals from inside the dishwasher to the dispensing device or for wireless reception of signals from the dispenser.

adapter

An adapter can be used to easily couple the dosing system to a water-carrying household appliance. The adapter is used to mechanically and / or electrically connect the dosing system to the water-bearing household appliance.

The adapter is preferably firmly connected to a water-carrying line of the household appliance. However, it is also conceivable to provide the adapter for positioning in or on the household appliance, in which the adapter is captured by the water flow and / or spray jet of the household appliance.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adapter is shaped in such a way that a release of preparation from the dispensing device in the state coupled to the adapter, not directly into the rinsing solution, but into the water conducted through the water-carrying line into the adapter, occurs in this way water laden with preparation is subsequently passed out of the adapter into the interior of the dishwasher.

The adapter is preferably designed in such a way that water is prevented from escaping from the adapter when it is uncoupled from the metering device. This can be prevented, for example, by the fact that the water-carrying line with which the adapter is in fluid connection does not convey water into or to the adapter or the adapter is flowed through by water from the water-carrying line, but the adapter has sealing means that exit from Prevent water from the adapter, for example slotted silicone elements which, when the dispensing device is removed from the adapter, close the adapter in a substantially liquid-tight manner.

The adapter makes it possible to run a dosing system for both an autarkic and a "buildin" version by coupling the autarkic dosing device with the adapter. It is also possible to design the adapter as a kind of charging station for the dosing system, in which, for example, the energy source of the dosing device is charged or data is exchanged between the dosing device and the adapter or the dishwasher.

In a dishwasher, the adapter can be arranged on one of the inner walls of the washing chamber, in particular on the inner side of the dishwasher door. However, it is also conceivable that the adapter as such is positioned inaccessible to the user in the water-bearing household appliance, so that the dosing device is inserted into the adapter, for example, during assembly with the household appliance, the adapter, the dosing device and the household appliance in such a way are designed so that a cartridge can be coupled to the dispenser by the user.

Embodiment

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the following figures and are explained in more detail below with reference to these.

Fig. 1

eine schematisch& Darstellung einerGeschirrspülmaschine,

Fig. 2

eine schematische Darstellung einer autark arbeitenden Dosiervorrichtung und

Fig. 3

eine schematische Darstellung einer anderen Ausführung einer autark arbeitenden Dosiervorrichtung

Fig.4

Autarkes Dosiergerät

Fig.5

Autarkes Dosiergerät

Fig.6

Maschinen-integriertes Dosiergerät

Fig.7

Kartusche in Maschinen-integriertem Dosiergerät

Fig.8

Kartusche in Maschinen-integriertem Dosiergerät

Fig.9

Kartusche in Maschinen-integriertem Dosiergerät

Fig.10

Maschinenkoppelbares Dosiergerät im ungekoppelten Zustand

Fig.11

Maschinenkoppelbares Dosiergerät im gekoppelten Zustand

Fig.12

Kombidosiergerät

Fig.13

Kombidosiergerät

Fig.14

Kombidosiergerät mit Adapter zur Kopplung mit einem Dosiergerät

Fig.15

Signalverlauf vom Geschirrspüler zum Dosiergerät

Fig.16

gestörter Signalverlauf vom Geschirrspüler zum Dosiergerät

Fig.17

Signalverlauf vom Geschirrspüler zum Dosiergerät

Fig.18

Signalverlauf vom Dosiergerät zum Geschirrspüler

Fig.19

Signalverlauf zwischen Dosiergerät, Kartusche und Geschirrspüler

Fig.20

Dosiergerät und Kartusche in Explosionsansicht

Fig.21

Dosiergerät und Kartusche in Querschnittsansicht

Fig.22

Bauelementträger in perspektivischer Explosionsansicht

Fig.23

Bauelementträger und Aktuator-Konfiguration in Detailansicht

Show in detail:

Fig. 1

a schematic & representation of a dishwasher,

Fig. 2

a schematic representation of a self-sufficient dosing device and

Fig. 3

a schematic representation of another embodiment of a self-sufficient dosing device

Fig. 4

Self-sufficient dosing device

Fig. 5

Self-sufficient dosing device

Fig. 6

Machine-integrated dosing device

Fig. 7

Cartridge in the machine-integrated dosing device

Fig. 8

Cartridge in the machine-integrated dosing device

Fig. 9

Cartridge in the machine-integrated dosing device

Fig. 10

Dosing device that can be connected to the machine in the uncoupled state

Fig.11

Machine-connectable dosing device in the coupled state

Fig.12

Combination feeder

Fig. 13

Combination feeder

Fig. 14

Combination dosing device with adapter for coupling with a dosing device

Fig.15

Signal curve from the dishwasher to the dispenser

Fig. 16

Disturbed signal flow from the dishwasher to the dispenser

Fig.17

Signal curve from the dishwasher to the dispenser

Fig. 18

Signal curve from the dispenser to the dishwasher

Fig. 19

Signal curve between the dispenser, cartridge and dishwasher

Fig. 20

Dosing device and cartridge in exploded view

Fig. 21

Dosing device and cartridge in cross-sectional view

Fig. 22

Component carrier in a perspective exploded view

Fig. 23

Component carrier and actuator configuration in detail

The dishwasher 1 according to Figure 1 comprises a loading door 2, rotors or spray arms 3 for wetting the objects 4 to be cleaned and baskets 5 for their holding and safe introduction into the machine. Furthermore, a dosing device 6 according to the invention can be seen, which in this embodiment has been introduced into one of the baskets.

The self-sufficient dosing device 6 according to Figure 2 is just dispensing a cleaning tablet 7. However, it can also be designed for dosing one or more liquid cleaners. It is also conceivable to store detergent for more than one wash cycle. In this exemplary embodiment, the metering device 6 is provided with a photodiode 8 and a further sensor, such as a moisture sensor 9, for example, which are both connected to the control unit 12. The energy supply is ensured by a photocell 10 which, when the dishwasher is open or when the dosing device is removed, charges an accumulator 11, which in turn supplies the control unit 12 with energy. Measured values can be saved or temporarily stored in a memory 13 by the control unit. To store the cleaning tablets 7, the dossier device shown here comprises a dosing chamber 14, which is opened by the control unit via mechanical components 15 as soon as a certain state is detected in the machine, for example by the sensors 8, 9.

In the schematic representation according to Figure 3 a dosing device 16 is shown which can be introduced into a dishwasher 17, for example into the dishwasher door. In this example, a receptacle 10 is provided, whereby the metering device is introduced in a defined position.

This is e.g. wireless communication between the metering device and the machine control 19 .conceivable, for example, via infrared or light sensors.

In Figure 2 a control button 20 is also shown, which is used to manually set a program sequence that can be recognized by an autonomous dosing device, for example according to the embodiment described above, so that the control of the dosing device is better able to control the dosing process.

In the embodiment variant shown, the metering device for metering cleaning tablets was described.

According to the invention, however, such a household machine can also be used for self-sufficient metering devices that meter liquid cleaners, in particular also multi-component systems of liquid cleaners.

Figure 4 shows a self-sufficient dosing device 20 with a two-chamber cartridge 21 in the separated and assembled state.

The metering device 20 has two metering chamber inlets 211a, 211b for repeatedly detachable accommodation of the corresponding outlet openings 25a, 25b of the chambers 23a, 23b of the cartridge 21. On the front there are display and control elements 37 which indicate the operating state of the dispenser 20 or act on it.

The dosing chamber inlets 211a, 211b also have means which, when the cartridge 21 is plugged onto the dosing device 20, cause the outlet openings 25a, 25b of the chambers 23a, 23b to open, so that in the coupled state of the dosing device 20 and the cartridge 21 the interior of the chambers 23a , 23b communicating with the dosing chamber inlets 211a, 211b.

The cartridge 21 can consist of one or more chambers 23a, 23b. The cartridge 21 can be designed in one piece with a plurality of chambers 23a, 23b or in several pieces, the individual chambers 23a, 23b then being joined together to form a cartridge 21, in particular by means of cohesive, form-fitting or non-positive connection methods.

In particular, the fixation can take place by one or more of the connection types from the group of snap-in connections, press connections, fusion connections, adhesive connections, welded connections, soldered connections, screw connections, wedge connections, clamp connections or bounce connections. In particular, the fixation can also be formed by a shrink tube (so-called sleeve) which, in a heated state, is pulled over the cartridge at least in sections and tightly encloses the cartridge in the cooled state.

The chambers 23a, 23b of the cartridge 21 can have the same or different filling volumes. In a configuration with two chambers 23a, 23b, the ratio of the chamber volumes is preferably 5: 1, in a configuration with three chambers it is preferably 4: 1: 1, these configurations being particularly suitable for use in dishwashers.

The chambers 23a, 23b each contain a preparation 40a, 40b. The preparation 40a, 40b can have the same or different compositions.

The chambers 23a, 23b are advantageously made of a transparent material so that the fill level of the preparations 40a, 40b can be seen from the outside by the user. However, it can also be advantageous to manufacture at least one of the chambers from an opaque material, in particular if the preparation located in this chamber contains light-sensitive ingredients.

The outlet openings 25a, 25b are designed in such a way that they form a form-fitting and / or force-fitting, in particular liquid-tight, connection with the corresponding metering chamber inlets 211a, 211b.

It is particularly advantageous that each of the outlet openings 25a, 25b is designed such that it only fits onto one of the dosing chamber inlets 211a, 211b, which prevents a chamber from being accidentally plugged into the wrong dosing chamber inlet. This can be implemented, for example, by outlet openings 25a, 25b and / or dosing chamber inlets 211a, 211b of different sizes or with different basic shapes.

Figure 5 shows a self-sufficient dosing device 20 with a two-chamber cartridge 21 in the crockery drawer 5 with the dishwasher door 2 of a dishwasher 1 open. It can be seen that the dosing device 20 with the cartridge 21 can in principle be positioned at any point within the crockery drawer 5 It is advantageous to provide a plate-like or cup-like dispensing system 20, 21 in a corresponding plate or cup receptacle in the crockery drawer 5. In the dishwasher door 2 there is a dosing chamber 53 into which a dishwasher detergent preparation can be added, for example in the form of a tablet. If the dosing system 20, 21 is in the operationally ready state inside the dishwasher 1, it is not necessary to add cleaning preparation for each wash cycle via the dosing chamber 53, since a detergent is dispensed for a plurality of wash cycles via the dosing system 20, 21, which will be implemented below is explained in more detail. It is advantageous in this embodiment of the invention that when the self-sufficient dosing system 20, 21 is arranged in the lower crockery drawer 5, the preparations 40a, 40b are dispensed from the cartridge 21 directly into the rinse water liquor via the outlet openings on the bottom of the dispenser, so that a quick Solution and even distribution of the washing preparations in the washing program is guaranteed.

Figure 6 shows a two-chamber cartridge 21 in a separated state from an autarkic metering device 20 and an internal, machine-integrated metering device. In this case, the cartridge 21 is designed in such a way that it can be coupled both to the self-sufficient dosing device 20 and to the machine-integrated dosing device (not shown, can be located, for example, in the dishwasher door 2), which is achieved by the in Figure 6 illustrated arrows is indicated.

On the side of the dishwasher door 2 facing into the interior of the dishwasher 1, a recess 43 is formed into which the cartridge 21 can be inserted, whereby the insertion means that the outlet openings 25a, 25b of the cartridge 21 communicate with the adapter pieces 42a, 42b. The adapter pieces 42a, 42b are in turn coupled to the machine-integrated metering device.

To fix the cartridge 21 in the recess 43, retaining elements 44a, 44b can be provided on the recess 43, which ensure that the cartridge is fixed in the recess 43 in a non-positive and / or positive manner. Of course, it is also conceivable that corresponding holding elements are provided on the cartridge 1. The holding elements 44a, 44b can preferably be selected from the group of snap connections, snap-in connections, snap-snap connections, clamp connections or plug connections.

When the dishwasher 1 is in operation, the machine-integrated dosing device adds preparation 40a, 40b from the cartridge 21 through the adapter elements 42a, 42b to the corresponding wash cycle.

Figure 7 shows them off Figure 6 known cartridge 21 in the built-in state in the door 2 of a dishwasher 1. It can be seen that by integrating the dosing unit 20 and the cartridge 21 in the door 2 of the dishwasher 1, no space is lost in the crockery drawer 5 for items to be washed Represents advantage of this embodiment.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG Figure 8 pictured. Figure 8 shows them off Figure 6 known cartridge 1 with a chamber 45 which is arranged on the head of the cartridge 1 and has a plurality of openings 46 in its outer surface. The chamber 45 is preferably filled with an air freshening preparation which is released into the environment through the openings 46. The air freshening preparation can in particular comprise at least one fragrance and / or an odor-controlling substance.

Different from the one from Figure 6 and Figure 7 known arrangement of the cartridge 21 inside a dishwasher 1, it is also possible to provide a recess 43 with adapter elements 42a, 42b for coupling with the cartridge 1 on an outer surface of a dishwasher 1. This is exemplified in Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown. This configuration can be advantageous in particular for very temperature-sensitive preparations 40a, 40b, since they are not directly exposed to the temperature fluctuations that usually occur in the washing program.

Of course, the in Figure 8 and Figure 9 The illustrated cartridge 21 can also be arranged with a chamber 45 containing an air freshening substance in a correspondingly designed receptacle in the interior of a dishwasher 1.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 10 and Figure 11 shown. The dosing device 20 can be coupled to the cartridge 21, which is indicated accordingly by the first left arrow in the drawing. The cartridge 21 and the metering device 20 are then coupled to the dishwasher as an assembly via the interface 47, 48, which is indicated by the right arrow. The dosing device 20 has an interface 47 via which data and / or energy to and / or from the dosing device 20 are transmitted. In the door 2 of the dishwasher 1, a recess 43 for receiving the dispenser 20 is provided. A second interface 48 is provided in the recess 43, which interface transmits data and / or energy to and / or from the metering device 20.

Data and / or energy are preferably exchanged wirelessly between the first interface 47 on the dispensing device 20 and the second interface 48 on the dishwasher 1. It is particularly preferred that energy is transmitted wirelessly from the interface 48 of the dishwasher 1 to the dispensing device 20 via the interface 47. This can be done inductively and / or capacitively, for example.

It is also advantageous to design the interface for the transmission of data wirelessly. This can be implemented using the methods known in the prior art for wireless transmission of data, for example by means of radio transmission or IR transmission. It is particularly preferred to design the transmission of data and signals wirelessly by means of optical transmission technologies in the visible range.

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

Figure 12 shows a dosing chamber 53 in which a transmitting unit 87 and a receiving unit 91 are integrated. Such a metering chamber 53 is also referred to as a combination metering device. The dosing chamber 53 has a receptacle for a dishwashing detergent that can be closed by a hinged closure cover. Figure 13 shows the cover in its open position. In addition, the dosing chamber 53 can also have a receptacle for a rinse aid, which is due to the circular closure to the right of the closure cover in the Figures 12 and 13 is indicated.

The transmission unit 87 comprises a lamp that is arranged in the transmission unit 87 in such a way that the lamp shines into the interior of the dishwasher. The lighting means can in particular be an LED or a laser diode. The LED is arranged in such a way that it protrudes from the plane of the transmission unit 87, so that the LED generates the largest possible emission angle.

The transmission unit 87 can be configured in such a way that the LED is used both to transmit signals inside the dishwasher 1, in particular when the dishwasher door 2 is closed, and to visually display an operating status, for example the level of the salt or rinse aid storage container of a dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door 2 is open Dishwasher door 2 is provided.

The receiving unit 91 preferably consists of a photodiode which is suitable for detecting light signals from the interior of the dishwasher. Like the transmitting unit 87, the photodiode of the receiving unit 91 can also protrude from the plane of the receiving unit in order to achieve the best possible radiation characteristic on the photodiode.

It is also possible that the dosing chamber 53 has a receptacle 107 by means of which a movable dosing system consisting of the dosing device 20 and cartridge 21 can be detachably or permanently coupled to the dosing chamber 53. This is schematically in Figure 14 shown.

In this embodiment variant, the dosing chamber 53 is firmly integrated in a dishwasher door 2. The metering device 2 has a receiving unit 91 which is suitable for receiving signals from the transmitting unit 87 of the metering chamber 53. Again Figure 14 (B) As can be seen, when the dosing system and the dosing chamber 53 are coupled, the receiving unit 91 on the dosing device side and the sending unit 87 on the dosing chamber are directly opposite, which means that the distance between the sending unit 87 and the receiving unit 91 is as small as possible.

The receptacle 107 can, for example, form a form-fitting and / or force-fitting detachable or fixed connection with the dosing system, for example a snap-lock connection.

How the transmitting unit 87 interacts with a dispensing device 20 arranged inside a dishwasher 1, in particular in a crockery drawer, is illustrated below with reference to FIG Figures 15-19 explained.

First will be on Figure 15 received. A dishwasher 1 can be seen in a schematic cross-sectional view. In the interior of the dishwasher 1 are arranged one above the other, two crockery drawers 5a, 5b for receiving items to be washed, such as plates, cups, etc. The dishwasher 1 has a pivotable door 2, which is in Figure 15 shown in the closed state. A transmission unit 87, which is coupled to the control of the dishwasher 1, is integrated in the dishwasher door 2. The transmission unit 87 is preferably in a combination metering device 53 according to FIGS Figures 12-14 integrated.

The transmission unit 87 comprises an LED which transmits an optical signal 88, which is a carrier of control information, into the interior of the dishwasher 1. This signal and its direction are indicated by the arrow in FIG. The broken line of the arrow indicates that the optical signals 88 transmitted by the transmitting unit 87 are light flashes or light pulses.

The dispensing device 20 with a cartridge 21 is positioned in the lower crockery drawer 5b. Of course, it is possible to arrange the dispenser 2 with the cartridge 1 at any suitable location on the lower or upper crockery drawer 5, with plate receptacles provided in or on the crockery drawer 5 for arranging the dispenser 20.

The dosing device 2 has a receiving unit 91 which is not in Figure 15 is shown. The optical signals 88 sent out by the transmitting unit 87 are received by the receiving unit 91 of the dosing device 2 and evaluated or converted by the control unit of the dosing device 20.

In particular, at the beginning of a washing program, an optical signal 88 can be sent out by the transmitting unit 87 that, after being received by the dispenser 20, causes that the control of the dosing device 20, in particular the control of dosing times and amounts, is transferred to the control of the dishwasher 1. This is particularly advantageous when the control of the dispensing device 20 has its own dispensing programs for operation independently of the dishwasher 1, but these are not to be executed when a corresponding signal 88 from an existing transmitter unit 87 is detected.

In Figure 16 a situation is shown in which the dispenser 20 cannot receive any signals from the transmitter unit 87, since, for example, the dispenser 20 in the crockery drawer 5b is surrounded by items (objects) 89a, 89b in such a way that signals 88 can be received from and to the Sending unit 87 is prevented. This can also happen, for example, when items to be washed fall over during a dishwashing program.

If the signals 88 are not received or the signals 88 are interrupted at the dispenser 20, a dispensing program is activated from the control unit of the dispenser 20 so that the dispenser 20 is independently dispensed from the control of the dishwasher 1 at least one preparation 40 during a wash program. This prevents any preparation 40 from being dispensed into the interior of the dishwasher 1 during a washing program due to a signal interruption and thus poor cleaning performance being achieved. This applies to situations when starting a washing program as well as during a washing program.

An additional monitoring signal 90 can be provided to detect a signal break between the dosing device 20 and the transmission unit 87, which is transmitted by the transmission unit 87 in predefined, fixed time intervals, while the control signal 88 is transmitted in fixed time intervals or only when a control signal is transmitted directly. This is exemplified in Figure 17 outlined. Since the transmission unit 87 is usually operated via the mains connection of the dishwasher 1, the sending of a periodic monitoring signal 90 does not represent an unacceptable load on the energy source of the dispensing device 20, since the monitoring signals 90 only have to be received and evaluated during a washing program.

Of course, it is also conceivable if the energy source of the metering device 20 is sufficiently dimensioned - as in FIG Figure 18 shown - that both monitoring signals 90 and control signal 88 are sent from the dosing device 2 to a corresponding receiving unit 91 in the dishwasher 1.

In principle, it is also possible that the transmission and reception modes of control and monitoring signals 88, 90 according to FIG Figure 18 and Figure 19 superimpose and / or parallel run away. In other words, a monitoring signal 90 is sent out by the transmission unit 87 and received by the dosing unit 20 and a control signal 88 is sent from the dosing unit to a receiving unit 91.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 20 pictured. Figure 20 shows the dosing device 20 that has an optical transmitting and receiving unit 111. By means of the optical transmitting and receiving unit 111, control signals 88b can be sent to a dishwasher-side receiving unit 91 and control signals 88c can be received by a dishwasher-side transmitting unit 87. The dishwasher-side receiving unit 91 and dishwasher-side transmitting unit 87 are preferably in a combination dosing device, as shown in FIG Figures 12-14 is shown, arranged. Furthermore, optical signals 88a from the optical transmitting and receiving unit 111 can be coupled into the cartridge 21, in particular into the web 9 designed as a light guide, and / or decoupled from the cartridge 21 and received by the optical transmitting and receiving unit 111.

Figure 21 shows the essential components of the metering system consisting of cartridge 21 and metering device 20 in an exploded view.

Again Figure 21 It can be seen that the cartridge 21 is composed of two cartridge elements 26, 27. The dispensing device 20 consists essentially of a component carrier 231 and a bracket 54 into which the component carrier 231 can be inserted. In the assembled state, the console 54 preferably encloses the component carrier 231 in such a way that water is prevented from penetrating into the component carrier 231.

Figure 22 shows a side view of an embodiment of the component carrier 231 of the metering device 20, which is explained in more detail below.

The dosing chamber 200, the actuator 218 and the closure element 219 as well as the energy source 215, the control unit 216 and the sensor unit 217 are arranged on the component carrier 231. The metering chamber 220, the pre-metering chamber 226, the metering chamber inlet 221 and the receptacle 229 are formed in one piece with the component carrier 231.

Again Figure 22 It can also be seen that the energy source 215, the control unit 216 and the sensor unit 217 are combined in an assembly in that they are arranged on a corresponding circuit board.

The pre-metering chamber 226 and the actuator 218 are as in FIG Figure 23 shown, arranged on the component carrier 231 substantially side by side. The pre-metering chamber 226 has an L-shaped basic shape with a shoulder in the lower region in which the receptacle 229 for the actuator 218 is let. The outlet chamber 227 is arranged below the pre-metering chamber 226 and the actuator 218. The pre-metering chamber 226 and the outlet chamber 227 together form the metering chamber 220.

The pre-metering chamber 226 and the outlet chamber 227 are connected to one another through the opening 234. The receptacle 229, the opening 234 and the metering chamber outlet 222 are aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 231, so that the rod-shaped closure element 219 can be guided through the openings 222, 229, 234.

As in particular from the Figure 23 As can be seen, the rear walls of the pre-metering chamber 226 and the outlet chamber 227 are formed integrally with the component carrier 223. The front wall can then be materially connected to the metering chamber 220, for example, by a cover element or a film (not shown).

The configuration of the metering chamber 220 is illustrated below using the detailed view of FIG Figure 23 explained in more detail. The outlet chamber 227 can be seen, which has a base 262. The bottom 262 is inclined in a funnel-like manner towards the metering chamber outlet 222 arranged centrally in the outlet chamber 227. The dosing chamber outlet 222 is located in a channel 263 which runs at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 223 in the outlet chamber 227. The funnel-shaped bottom 262 as well as the channel 263 and the outlet opening 222 arranged therein ensure that the dispensing device can be dispensed and emptied almost completely from the dispensing chamber 220 if the dispenser is in a position deviating from the horizontal , especially in the case of high-viscosity preparations, from the dosing chamber, so that the dosing interval in which the preparation is released can be kept short.

In the Figure 23 only the middle metering chamber 220 is provided with a funnel-shaped bottom configuration of the type described above. It goes without saying that, deviating from this representation, other, further or all metering chambers can also have such a shape. This also applies to the pre-metering chambers 226 and outlet chambers 227, insofar as these are provided.

Claims (8)

1. A domestic appliance (1), such as a dishwasher or a washing machine, comprising a program controller (19) for controlling program sequences for at least one operating parameter, such as temperature or pH, and/or the operating sequence of at least one appliance component, such as rinsing arms or pumps, characterized in that the program controller (19) has a program mode, for the use of a metering device (6) that is not permanently installed in the domestic appliance (1), of which the program sequence for at least one operating parameter and/or at least one operating sequence of at least one appliance component depends on the ability of the sensor system (8; 9) of a non-permanently installed metering device (6) to control the metering on the basis of sensor-detected operating parameters and/or operating sequences, a transmission system (47; 48) being provided for transmitting information between a control unit of the domestic appliance (1) and a metering device (6) that is not permanently installed in the domestic appliance (1).
2. The domestic appliance (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the program mode which depends on the sensor system (8; 9) of a non-permanently installed metering device (6) can be activated manually.
3. The domestic appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an operating button (20) is provided for the manual activation of the program mode.
4. The domestic appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that means are provided for automatically identifying a metering device (6) that is not permanently installed in the domestic appliance (1).
5. The domestic appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a receiving device is provided for receiving the non-permanently installed metering device (6) in a defined operating position.
6. The domestic appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device is provided in the door (2) of the domestic appliance (1).
7. The domestic appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a wireless transmitter unit (87) and at least one signal (88; 90) to the metering device (6) is provided, the transmitter unit (87) being particularly preferably configured to transmit optical signals (88, 90), in particular in the visible range, preferably in the range of a wavelength between 600 and 800 nm.
8. The domestic appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a wireless receiver (91) is provided for receiving at least one signal (88; 90) from the metering device (6), the receiver (91) being particularly preferably configured to receive optical signals (88, 90), in particular in the visible range, preferably in the range of a wavelength between 600 and 800 nm.

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