EP2452007A1 - Door for the fluid-tight closure of a laundry loading or removal opening of a laundry treatment appliance, in particular of a washing machine and/or clothes dryer - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a door (2) for the at least splash-protected closure of a laundry loading or removal opening (9) of a laundry treatment appliance (1), in particular a washing machine and/or clothes dryer, comprising at least one hinge for fastening the door (2) to a laundry treatment appliance (1), wherein the door (2) on the laundry treatment appliance (1) can be moved into a closed position and a loading or removal position by means of a hinge, wherein the door (2) comprises at least one interface by means of which energy and/or data can be coupled from the laundry treatment appliance (1) into the door (2). A metering device (7) for dispensing at least one flowable laundry treatment preparation is arranged in or on the door (2), wherein said device can be coupled to a cartridge (6) storing at least one flowable laundry treatment preparation. The metering device (7) is connected to the interface for receiving energy and/or data.

Description

 Door for liquid-tight closure of a Wäscheaufgabe- or removal opening laundry treatment device, in particular a washing machine and / or a

 clothes dryer

The invention relates to a door for liquid-tight closure of a Wäscheaufgabe- or removal opening of a laundry treatment device, in particular a washing machine and / or a tumble dryer, in or on which a dosing device for dispensing a flowable laundry treatment preparation is arranged. Furthermore, the invention relates to a laundry treatment appliance with a corresponding door, a

Laundry treatment preparation storing cartridge for use in a

Dosing device and a dosing system consisting of a door, a laundry treatment device, a dosing device and a cartridge.

State of the art

Textile treatment agents, especially detergents, are available to the consumer in a variety of forms. Detergents are typically offered to the consumer in solid form, for example as powders or as tablets, but increasingly also in liquid form. For some time now, the main focus has been on the convenient dosing of detergents and cleaning agents and the simplification of the steps necessary to carry out a washing or cleaning process.

Further, one of the major goals of detergent manufacturers is to improve the cleaning performance of these detergents, with a recent focus on cleaning performance in low temperature or reduced water consumption cleaning cycles. For this purpose, the cleaning agents

preferably added new ingredients, for example, more effective surfactants, polymers, enzymes or bleach. However, since new ingredients are available only to a limited extent and the amount of ingredients used for each cleaning cycle can not be increased to any extent for ecological and economic reasons, this approach has natural limits.

In this context, in particular devices for the

Multiple dosing of detergents and cleaning agents into the field of vision of product developers. In these devices can be integrated between in the textile washing machine On the one hand and independent, independent of the textile washing machine devices on the other hand are distinguished. By means of these devices, which are multiple of those necessary for carrying out a cleaning process

Detergent amount contain detergent or detergent portions are dosed in an automatic or semi-automatic manner in the course of several successive cleaning process in the interior of the washing machine. For the consumer eliminates the need for manual dosing with each cleaning or washing cycle. Examples of such devices are described in European patent application EP 1 759 624 A2 (Reckitt Benckiser) or in German patent application DE 53 5005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch and Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH).

Object of the invention

The object of the invention is to provide an improved metering system for dispensing preparations into the interior of a washing machine or a tumble dryer.

This problem is solved by a door to the liquid-tight closure of a

Wäscheaufgabe- or removal opening of a laundry treatment device, in particular a washing machine and / or a tumble dryer comprising at least one hinge for fixing the door to a laundry treatment appliance, wherein the door on the

Laundry treatment appliance by a hinge in a closed position and a Aufgabebzw. Removal position is movable, wherein the door comprises at least one interface by means of which energy and / or data from the laundry treatment device is coupled into the door / are in or on the door a dosing device for dispensing at least one flowable

Laundry treatment preparation is arranged that can be coupled with a at least one flowable or pourable laundry treatment preparation stockpiling cartridge and the dosing device is connected to the interface for receiving energy and / or data.

The door according to the invention comprises a metering device and a cartridge. The dosing device includes i.a. a control unit, an actuator and / or at least one sensor. The dosing device as well as the cartridge are described in more detail in the following section.

It is particularly preferred that the cartridge in the direction of gravity above the

Dosing device is arranged. This makes it possible that the flowable preparations from the cartridge gravitational effects can flow into the dosing without this additional equipment, for example in the form of a pump, is necessary. The dosing device can be detachably or firmly connected to the door.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, the door comprises at least one interface by means of which energy and / or data from the door into the

Laundry treatment device can be coupled in / are. It is particularly advantageous in this context that the interface by means of which energy and / or data from

Laundry treatment device in the door and / or from the door in the laundry treatment device can be coupled / are designed such that the transmission of energy and / or data is wireless.

It is further preferred that the cartridge has a plurality of chambers, in each of which different preparations are stored. It is particularly preferred that the cartridge has at least two chambers in which a bleach-containing

Prepared and an enzyme-containing preparation are stored.

The cartridge chambers can in particular be individually detachable from the dosing device with the dosing device and can be removed individually.

The preparation stored in the cartridge is advantageously provided for a plurality of washing or drying cycles.

It is particularly preferred that the metering device is positioned in the closed position of the door within the washroom, wherein it is particularly advantageous that the metering device is arranged in the manner in or on the door that it at least partially in a washing program of a washing machine Dependence on performed

Submerge wash program in the wash liquor.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a treatment device for introduction into the washing or drying drum is provided that can be coupled with the dosing device in such a way that energy and / or data from the treatment device to the dosing and / or from

Dosing be transferred to the treatment device. From the treatment device, on the one hand, measurement information can be obtained from the washing or drying drum, such as rotation of the drum, on the other hand, the treatment device can include means that support the cleaning or drying process in the drum.

In this case, it is particularly advantageous if the treatment device comprises a sound emitter, preferably an ultrasound emitter.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the operating unit for controlling the

Laundry treatment device is arranged on the outward side of the door. This avoids having to route cable harnesses for the control out of the door into the machine.

The door according to the invention is in particular included in a laundry treatment appliance.

cartridge

For the purposes of this application, a cartridge is understood to mean a packaging material which is suitable for enveloping or holding together at least one flowable, free-flowing or dispersible preparation and which can be coupled to a metering device for dispensing at least one preparation.

In the simplest, conceivable embodiment, the cartridge has a preferably rigid chamber for storing a preparation. In particular, a cartridge can also comprise a plurality of chambers which can be filled with mutually different compositions.

It is advantageous that the cartridge has at least one outlet opening, which is arranged such that a gravity-induced release of preparation from the cartridge in the position of use of the dosing device can be effected. As a result, no further funding for the release of preparation from the cartridge is required, whereby the structure of the metering device can be kept simple and the manufacturing cost low. Furthermore, the use of conveying means, such as e.g. Pumps omitted, whereby the life of a battery or batteries of the dosing device can be increased.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one second chamber is provided for receiving at least one second flowable preparation, wherein the second chamber has at least one outlet opening which is arranged such that a gravitational 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 in the separate chambers of the cartridge preparations are stored, which are usually not stable to each other, such as bleaching agents and enzymes.

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

be designed. In a further embodiment of the invention, the cartridge is integrally formed.

In this way, the cartridges, in particular by suitable blow molding, cost-effectively trained in a manufacturing step. The chambers of a cartridge can in this case, for example, by webs or bridges of material during or after the

Blow molding be formed, separated from each other.

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

Further, it is conceivable that the cartridge is formed in such a multi-piece, that at least one chamber, preferably all chambers, can be removed individually from the metering device or inserted into the metering device. This makes it possible, with a different consumption of a preparation from a chamber to exchange an already empty chamber, while the rest, which may still be filled with preparation, remain in the metering device. Thus, a targeted and needs-based refilling the individual chambers or their preparations can be achieved. In addition, it is conceivable to form the individual chambers in the form that the chambers can be coupled to one another or to the dosing device in only one specific position or position, thereby avoiding a user having a chamber in a position not intended for this purpose connects to the dosing device. For this purpose, the chamber walls can in particular be shaped such that they can be positively connected to one another. In the case of a cartridge formed from at least three chambers, the cartridges are shaped in such a way that the chambers can be positively connected to one another only in a specific defined position.

The chambers of a cartridge can be fixed to one another by suitable connection methods, so that a container unit is formed. The chambers can be fixed by a suitable form-fitting, non-positive or cohesive connection releasably or permanently against each other. In particular, the fixation by one or more of the types of compounds from the group of snap-in compounds, Velcro, press joints, fusions, glued joints, welded joints, solder joints, screw, wedge, clamp or bounce joints can be done. In particular, the fixation can also by a

Shrink tube (so-called sleeve) may be formed, which is pulled in a heated state over the entire or portions of the cartridge and the chambers or the cartridge in the cooled state tightly encloses.

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

Continue to optimize the residual emptying of a chamber.

In particular, the cartridge may also be asymmetrical. It is particularly preferred to form the asymmetry of the cartridge in such a way that the cartridge can only be coupled to the dosing device in a predefined position in which an otherwise possible incorrect operation by the user is prevented.

In or on a chamber, a metering chamber may be formed in a gravity-induced flow direction of the preparation in front of the outlet opening of a chamber. Through the metering chamber, the preparation amount that is to be released in the release of preparation from the chamber to the environment, set. This is particularly advantageous if the closure element of the dosing device, which causes the preparation output from a chamber to the environment, can only be put into a dispensing and a closure state without measuring or controlling the dispensing quantity. It is then ensured by the metering chamber that a predefined amount of preparation is released without an immediate feedback of the currently discharged, outflowing preparation amount.

The metering chambers can be formed in one piece or in several pieces. Furthermore, it is possible to firmly connect the metering chambers with the cartridge or detachably. In a dosing chamber detachably connected to the cartridge, it is possible in a simple manner to connect or exchange dosing chambers with different dosing volumes with a cartridge, whereby a simple adaptation of the dosing volumes to the preparation stored in each chamber and thus a simple assembly the cartridge for different preparations and their dosage is possible.

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

For ventilation of the cartridge chambers ventilation options can be provided in particular in the head region of the cartridge to a pressure equalization in falling

Filling level of the chambers between the interior of the cartridge chambers and the

To ensure environment. These ventilation options can be used, for example, as a valve, In particular silicone valve, micro-openings in a chamber or cartridge wall or the like may be formed.

According to another embodiment, the cartridge chambers should not be aerated directly, but via the dosing device or no ventilation, e.g. be provided with the use of flexible containers, such as bags, so this has the advantage that at elevated temperatures in the course of a rinse cycle of a dishwasher by the heating of the chamber contents, a pressure is built up, the dosing

Presses preparations in the direction of the outlet openings, so that in this way a good emptying of the cartridge can be achieved. Furthermore, there is no risk of oxidation of substances of the preparation in such an air-free packaging, which is a bag or bag-in-bottle packaging in particular for

oxidation-sensitive preparations appear appropriate.

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

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

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

Another way to reduce the effect of heat on a preparation in a chamber of the cartridge is to isolate the chamber by suitable means, e.g. by the use of thermal insulation materials such as styrofoam, which enclose the chamber or the cartridge in a suitable manner, in whole or in part.

It is also possible to provide the cartridge or individual chambers completely or in sections with a radiation-reflecting coating which is particularly suitable for reflecting thermal radiation.

Another measure for protecting heat-sensitive substances in a cartridge is, in a plurality of chambers, their arrangement to each other.

Thus, for example, it is conceivable that the chamber containing a heat-sensitive product is partially or completely enclosed by at least one further product-filled chamber, which product and chamber functions as thermal insulation for the enclosed chamber in this configuration. This means, in that a first chamber containing a heat-sensitive product is partially or completely enclosed by at least one further product-filled chamber, so that the heat-sensitive product in the first chamber is heated when heated

Environment has a slower temperature rise than the products in the surrounding chambers.

In order to bring about a further improvement of the heat insulation, the

Using more than two chambers, the chambers are arranged around the matryoshka principle around each other, so that a multi-layer insulation layer is formed.

In particular, it is advantageous that at least one preparation, which in a

having a heat-conducting capacity between 0.01 and 5 W / m ^* K, preferably between 0.02 and 2 W / m ^* k, particularly preferably between 0.024 and 1 W / m ^* K.

The cartridge is formed in particular dimensionally stable. However, it is also conceivable to design the cartridge as a flexible packaging such as a tube. Furthermore, it is also possible to use flexible containers such as bags, in particular if they are inserted into a substantially dimensionally stable receptacle in accordance with the bag-in-bottle principle described dimensionally stable cartridge designs - the need to provide a ventilation system for pressure equalization.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge has an electronic detection means such as an RFID tag that contains at least information about the contents of the cartridge and by a sensor unit, which may be provided in particular in the metering device or washing machine or dryer, readable is.

This information can be used, for example, to select a dosing program stored in the dosing unit control unit. In this way it can be ensured that an optimal dosing program is always used for a particular preparation. It can also be provided that in the absence of an RFID tag or an RFID tag with a false or faulty identifier, no metering is done by the metering device and instead an optical or acoustic signal is generated that the user to the present Error indicates. Of course, it is also conceivable that information from a equipped with an RFID label and transferred in the washing or drying drum laundry item to the dosing device. To preclude misuse of the cartridge, the cartridges may also have structural elements that interact with corresponding elements of the metering device according to the key-lock principle, so that, for example, only

Cartridges of a certain type can be coupled to the dosing device. Furthermore, this configuration makes it possible for information about the cartridge coupled to the dosing device to be transmitted to the control unit of the dosing device, as a result of which control of the dosing device coordinated with the contents of the corresponding container can take place.

The cartridge is designed in particular for receiving flowable detergents or cleaning agents. Particularly preferably, such a cartridge has a plurality of

Chambers for spatially separated recording each different

Preparations of a detergent or cleaner on. As an example - but not conclusive - are some possible combinations of filling the

Chambers with different preparations listed:

Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 Chamber 4

A Alkaline Enzymatic

 Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

 ng

 B Alkaline Enzymatic Softeners

 Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

 ng

 C Alkaline Enzymatic Softener Fragrance

 Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

 ng

 D Alkaline Enzymatic Softener Disinfectant

Reinigungszubereitu Reinigungszubereitung zubereitung ng

 E Alkaline Enzymatic Fabric Softener Pretreatment

Reinigungszubereitu Reinigungszubereitung -Zubungung ng

 F Alkaline Enzymatic Enzymatic

 Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

 ng 1 2

 G Alkaline Enzymatic Bleach Softener

Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

ng H anti-wrinkle fragrance / fragrance absorber anti-static preparation

 Preparation (dryer)

 (Dryer)

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

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

The chambers of a cartridge may have the same or different filling volumes. For a dual chamber configuration, the ratio is

Chamber volumes preferably 5: 1, in a configuration with three chambers preferably 4: 1: 1.

As mentioned above, the cartridge preferably has three chambers. For the use of such a cartridge in a washing machine, it is particularly preferred that one chamber contains an alkaline cleaning preparation, another chamber an enzymatic preparation and a third chamber a softener, wherein the

Volume ratio of the chambers in about 4: 1: 1.

The chamber containing the alkaline cleaning preparation preferably has the largest filling volume of the existing chambers. Preferably, the chambers, which store an enzymatic preparation or a softener, have approximately equal filling volumes.

In a two- and / or three-chamber design of the cartridge is in particular possible to stockpile in particular a perfume, disinfectant and / or Vorbehandlungszubereitung in a detachably arranged on the cartridge or the dosing, another chamber.

The cartridge comprises a cartridge bottom, which in the position of use in

Direction of gravity is directed downward and at the preferred for each chamber at least one arranged in the direction of gravity bottom outlet opening is provided. The outlet openings arranged on the bottom side are in particular designed such that at least one, preferably all, outlet openings can communicate with the inlet openings of the dosing device, ie preparation via the outlet openings from the cartridge into the dosing device, preferably gravitationally effected, can flow in. It is also conceivable that one or more chambers have a not arranged in the direction of gravity bottom outlet opening. This is particularly advantageous if, for example, a fragrance is to be delivered to the environment of the cartridge.

The cartridge is preferably formed from at least two elements connected to one another in a material-locking manner, wherein the connecting edge of the elements on the cartridge bottom extends outside the outlet openings, that is to say the connecting edge does not intersect the outlet openings. This is particularly advantageous because it prevents leakage problems in the coupling with the metering device in the region of the outlet openings, which in particular in the case of the usually occurring in a dishwasher high

Thermal cycling occur.

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

It is particularly preferable to connect the cartridge elements to one another by means of mirror welding. In the case of mirror welding, the boundary surfaces are heated by means of a metallic heating mirror, which contains the contour which brings the interfaces into contact, and shortly put into the plastic state, so that after removal of the heating mirror and joining of the parts, these plastic areas solidify again as a melt and solidify Connection result.

In addition to the known from the prior art mirror welding technique, individually molded parts, for example, can also be connected to each other by means of laser welding. In laser welding, one of the two materials must be at the interface

should be melted to wear a Absorbenz to the energy content of

Laser beam absorb and convert into heat, which then causes the melting of the corresponding material area. This is typically accomplished with color pigments that thermally interact with the laser beam conducted into the material. These interfaces to be joined may also be obscured if the in

Beam direction of the laser beam in front material is transparent to the laser beam and has no absorption property.

Furthermore, it is possible to connect individual cartridge elements by means of ultrasonic welding or IR welding via electrodes.

It is advantageous that the connecting edge extends along the top, bottom and side surfaces of the cartridge. This allows two cartridge elements in particular in

Injection molding process can be produced, wherein either both elements are trough-shaped or an element trough-shaped and the second element is lid-like. To form a two-chamber or multi-chamber cartridge, at least one of the two cartridge elements can comprise at least one separating web which, in the assembled state of the elements, separates two adjacent chambers of the cartridge from one another.

Alternatively to the formation of the cartridge by two cup-shaped cartridge elements, it is also conceivable that a cartridge element as a cup-shaped container with at least one chamber and the second element of the cartridge bottom or -köpf, which is liquid-tight manner connected to the cup-like container along the connecting edge.

Of course, it is also conceivable to combine the above-mentioned cartridge configurations in any suitable manner. For example, it is possible a two-chamber cartridge of a trough-shaped and a lid-like

To form cartridge element and to arrange a third one-piece or multi-piece chamber on the head or lateral surface of the cartridge thus formed.

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

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

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

In particular, such a closure is designed as a slotted silicone valve.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the vent openings of the cartridge are closed with a closure element before a first coupling with the dosing device. The

In particular, the closure element may be a stopper or a cap which, when it is first coupled to the dosing device, is opened, for example punctured, by the coupling process. It is particularly preferred that, prior to a first coupling of the cartridge with the metering device, all the outlet openings of the cartridge are closed with a slotted silicone valve and all the ventilation openings are capped.

The cartridge elements forming the cartridge are preferably formed from a plastic and can be formed in a common injection molding process, it may be advantageous to form a hinge acting as a connecting web between the two elements, so that after molding the two elements abut each other by folding and cohesively connected along the connecting edge.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge for coupling with a positionable in the interior of a washing machine or tumble dryer

Dosing device for dispensing at least one detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation, at least one chamber for storing at least one free-flowing or pourable detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation, wherein the cartridge in the state coupled to the dosing device prior to the entry of wash water into the chamber (n ) is protected and the cartridge at least one in the direction of gravity bottom discharge opening for - in particular gravitational - release of preparation of at least one chamber and at least one bottom in the direction of gravity ventilation opening for ventilating at least one chamber, wherein the ventilation opening is separated from the discharge opening and communicating the ventilation opening is 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 that for each

Chamber each have a ventilation opening and a discharge opening are provided.

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

In this context, it is advantageous that the ventilation duct is completely or partially formed in or on the walls and / or webs of the cartridge. In particular, the ventilation channel can be integrally formed in or on the walls and / or webs of the cartridge. For this purpose, the ventilation duct can advantageously be formed by joining at least two elements forming the cartridge. For example, a ventilation duct may be formed by joining 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.

In this case, it is advantageous if the ventilation channel is formed by integral 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 duct, for example, as so-called. Be formed dip-tube.

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

To ensure the functionality, for example, even after a horizontal position of the cartridge, it is advantageous if the viscosity of a flowable preparation and the ventilation duct are configured in such a way that the preparation is not drawn via capillary forces in the ventilation duct when the preparation at the Vent duct opening is present.

The coupling of the cartridge with the dosing device is advantageously to be designed such that a dosing device communicating with the inlet opening of the dosing device is arranged on the dosing device, which cooperates with the dockable cartridge or cartridge chamber in such a way that when coupling the ventilation opening of the cartridge or ,

Cartridge chamber with the dosing of the mandrel displaced a volume Δν in the ventilation channel, whereby a pressure Δρ is generated in the ventilation duct, which is suitable to transport in the ventilation duct, flowable preparation in the connected to the ventilation duct, preparation-storing chamber.

It is preferred that the ventilation opening of a chamber is communicatively connected to the dosing device side mandrel before the closed outlet opening of the corresponding chamber is opened, for example by the communicating

Connection to the inlet port of the dosing device. According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention is between

Ventilation opening and the ventilation channel arranged a ventilation chamber.

The cartridge may be configured to be detachable or fixed in or on the

Dosing and / or a washing machine and / or clothes dryer can be arranged.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dispenser for dispensing at least one flowable detergent and / or detergent preparation inside a washing machine or eiens tumble dryer coupled with the dispenser cartridge wherein the cartridge stores at least one flowable detergent and / or detergent preparation and the cartridge in the direction of gravity on the bottom side has at least one outlet opening, which is connected communicating in the coupled state with the dosing device with an inlet opening of the dosing device, wherein the

Dosing and the cartridge have means which cooperate in the manner that a releasable locking between metering device and cartridge can be produced, wherein the

Dosing device and the cartridge in the locked state against each other by one

Pivot point (SP) are pivotable, and

in that the outlet opening of the cartridge and the inlet opening of the dosing console are configured in such a way that, after the latching has been established between the cartridge and the cartridge

Dosing device by pivoting the cartridge in the coupling state between

Dosierkonsole and cartridge communicating connected.

In particular, it is preferred that the outlet openings of the chambers and the

Inlet openings of the dosing device are arranged and configured such that they are connected by the pivoting in the locked state in the coupling state of dosing device and cartridge sequentially with each other.

At the metering device and / or the cartridge can according to another advantageous

Design means may be formed, which cause a releasable fixation of the cartridge on the dosing in the coupling state of dosing and cartridge.

It is also advantageous to form means on the dosing device and / or cartridge which, in the latched state of the cartridge and dosing device, guide the cartridge during the process

Pivoting effect in the coupling state of the cartridge and dosing device. This can be realized, for example, by a collar running on the bottom of the cartridge, which is set back slightly relative to a corresponding dosing device-side collar, so that it is guided on the cartridge-side collar inside the dosing device-side collar. In particular, it is advantageous that the outlet openings of the chambers are arranged one behind the other in the pivoting direction. It is very particularly preferred that the outlet openings of the chambers are arranged in the pivoting direction on a line (L).

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the outlet openings of the chambers have approximately the same distance from each other.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention corresponds to the largest distance of an outlet opening of a chamber from the pivot point (SP) of the cartridge in about 0.5 times the distance of the cartridge width (B).

In particular, at least two chambers of the cartridge may have different volumes from each other.

Advantageously, the chamber of the cartridge with the largest volume on the largest distance from the pivot point (SP) of the cartridge 1.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the ventilation opening of a chamber in the pivoting direction when coupling the cartridge with the dosing device is in each case in front of an outlet opening of the chamber.

Preferably, the ratio of depth (T) of the cartridge to width (B) of the cartridge is about 1:20. The ratio of height (H) of the cartridge to width (B) of the cartridge is preferably about 1: 1.2.

It is also preferred that the ventilation opening of a chamber in the pivoting direction when coupling the cartridge with the dosing device is in each case in front of an outlet opening of the chamber. This ensures that the ventilation opening of the cartridge is first opened before the opening of the outlet opening of the cartridge takes place when the cartridge is coupled to the dosing device.

Fiber optic cartridge

The cartridge for coupling with a dosing device for dispensing at least one washing and / or cleaning agent preparation from the cartridge into the interior of a washing machine or tumble dryer comprises in a preferred embodiment of the invention a light conductor arranged in or on the cartridge into which a light signal from outside of the

Cartridge can be coupled. It is particularly preferred to couple a light signal that is emitted from the dosing device into the cartridge. In particular, the light guide may be wholly or partly formed in or on the walls and / or webs of the cartridge.

Furthermore, it is 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 capable of directing light in the visible range (380-780 nm). It is especially preferable that the light guide is suitable for directing light in the near infrared range (780nm-3,000nm). In particular, it is preferred that the light guide is suitable for guiding light in the mid-infrared range (3.0 μm 50 μηη).

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

Advantageously, the light guide is at least partially completely or partially enclosed by a material having a lower optical refractive index. In particular, the lower refractive index material may be a preparation stored in a chamber of the cartridge.

Particularly advantageous are 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 , where the refractive index was determined in each case at a wavelength of 589 nm. The refractive index of the light guide can be determined, for example, according to DIN EN ISO 489. The refractive index of the preparation can be determined by means of an Abbe refractometer according to DIN 53491.

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

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

The light signal which can be coupled into the optical waveguide is in particular a carrier of information, in particular, for example, with respect to the operating state of the dosing device and / or the filling level of the cartridge.

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

In this case, it may be advantageous for the light guide to be configured in such a way that the light signal can be coupled out at a position of the cartridge which is different from the point in which the light signal can be coupled into the cartridge.

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

It is particularly preferred that the input or output points of the light signal in the corresponding injection molding tool by highly polished or hard chromium plated

Form tool surfaces, so that the reflection property of the input or

Duplication point low and the desired signal coupling is possible.

The distance of the light source arranged in the dosing device, in particular an LED, to the point of introduction of the light into the cartridge in the coupling state of the cartridge and dosing device should be kept as low as possible.

It is also advantageous that the light signal and the light guide are configured in such a way that a visible to a user light signal to and / or can be generated 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 separation point. As a result, a fill level sensor and / or an inclination sensor can be realized in a simple manner, wherein a light signal that passes through the separation point without preparation differs from the light signal that passes through the separation point completely or partially filled with preparation. dosing

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

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

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

An alternative or supplement to potting is the encapsulation of the components in a suitably designed, moisture-proof housing. Such

Design will be explained in more detail below.

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

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the material from which the dosing device is formed, a

Growth of a bio-film prevented or at least reduced. You can do this

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

It is particularly preferred that the dosing device comprises at least a first interface, which cooperates in or on a washing machine or dryer formed corresponding interface in such a way that a transmission of electrical energy and / or signals from the washing machine or dryer for Dosing and / or from the dosing to the washing machine or dryer is realized.

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

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

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

dosing device-side accumulator feeds.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, there is an interface on the dosing device and the washing machine or dryer for the transmission (i.e.

Receiving) of electromagnetic and / or optical signals, which in particular Betriebszustandands-, measuring and / or control information of the dosing and / or the washing machine or dryer represent trained.

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

In particular, such an interface can be designed such that a wireless transmission of electrical energy and / or electromagnetic and / or optical signals is effected. It is particularly preferred that the interface is configured to transmit and / or receive optical signals. It is very particularly preferred that the interface is configured to emit or receive light in the visible range. Here, the washing machine or dryer must be configured so that in the washing or

Drying room during operation of the machine darkness predominates, so that signals in the visible, optical range, for example in the form of signal pulses or light flashes, can be emitted and / or detected by the dosing device. It has proven particularly advantageous to use wavelengths between 600-800 nm in the visible spectrum.

Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the interface for sending or

Reception of infrared signals is configured. In particular, it is advantageous that the interface for transmitting or receiving infrared signals in the near infrared range (780nm-3,000nm) is configured.

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

Furthermore, it is advantageous in a further development of the invention that at least one LED is an RGB LED whose wavelength is adjustable. For example, an LED can be used to define different signal bands that emit signals at different wavelengths.

The interface of the dosing device can be configured so that the LED is provided both for the transmission of signals inside the dishwasher, in particular when the machine door is closed, as well as for visual display of an operating state of the dosing device, in particular when the machine door is open.

It is particularly preferred that an optical signal as a signal pulse with a

Pulse duration between 1 ms and 10 seconds, preferably between 5ms and 100ms

Seconds is formed.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the interface of the dosing device is configured such that it generates an optical signal when the washing machine is closed and unloaded.

Dryer emits a mean illuminance E between 0.01 and 100 Lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux measured at the washing or

Drying space limiting walls (laundry or drying drum) causes. This illuminance is then sufficient to cause multiple reflections with or on the other washing or drying space walls and thus to reduce or prevent possible signal shadows in the washing or drying space, in particular in the loading state of the washing machine or tumble dryer.

The signal emitted and / or received by the interface is in particular a carrier of information, in particular a control signal or a signal representing an operating state of the dosing device and / or the washing machine or tumble dryer.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, the dosing device for dispensing at least one washing and / or cleaning agent preparation from a cartridge into the interior of a washing machine or a tumble dryer has a light source, by means of which a light signal can be coupled into a light guide of the cartridge. In particular, the light source may be an LED. This makes it possible, for example, light signals that represent, for example, the operating state of the dosing to couple from the dosing into the cartridge, so that they are visually perceptible to the cartridge by a user. By coupling the light from the dosing into the cartridge, the corresponding light signals, for example, in the head of the

Cartridge slides.

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

In a further advantageous embodiment, the dosing device for dispensing at least one detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation into the interior of a

Domestic appliance at least one optical transmitting unit, wherein the optical transmitting unit is configured in such a way that signals from the transmitting unit in a coupled with the dosing device cartridge can be coupled and signals from the transmitting unit in the environment of the dosing device can be emitted. In this way, by means of an optical transmitting unit, both a signal transmission between the metering device and a washing machine or

Tumble dryer as well as the signal entry in a cartridge be realized.

In particular, the optical transmitting unit may be an LED, which preferably emits light in the visible and / or IR range. It is also conceivable to use another suitable optical transmitting unit, such as a laser diode. Especially to be preferred is it to use optical transmitter units that emit light in the wavelength range between 600-800nm.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the dosing device may comprise at least one optical receiving unit. This makes it possible, for example, that the dosing device can receive signals from an optical transmission unit arranged in the washing machine or tumble dryer. This can be done by any suitable optical

Receiving unit can be realized, such as photocells, photomultiplier,

Semiconductor detectors, photodiodes, photoresistors, solar cells, phototransistors, CCD and / or CMOS image sensors. It is particularly preferred that the optical

Receiving unit is suitable to receive light in the wavelength range of 600-800nm.

In particular, the optical receiving unit on the dosing device can also be designed in such a way that the signals which can be coupled from the transmitting unit into a cartridge coupled to the dosing device can be decoupled from the cartridge and from the optical system

Receiving unit of the dosing device are detectable.

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

metering

 The dosing device for dispensing at least one flowable washing and / or

Detergent preparation into the interior of a washing machine or tumble dryer may in particular have a metering chamber communicating with the metering device cartridge communicating with a metering device located in the metering chamber inlet, so that in the position of use of the metering preparation gravitational effects flows from the cartridge into the metering chamber wherein a in the direction of gravity the

Dosierkammereinlass subsequent Dosierkammerauslass is arranged, which is closable by a valve wherein in the metering chamber, a float is arranged, the density of which is less than the density of the preparation, wherein the floating body is designed in such a way that preparation to the float around and / or flow can and the float and the Dosierkammereinlass are configured in such a way that the Dosierkammereinlass is closed by the float.

Depending on the configuration of the density of the preparation and the density of the float and the resulting buoyancy, the float can close the Dosierkammereinlass sealing or non-sealing. In a non-sealing closure of the float is indeed at the Dosierkammereinlass, but does not seal against Influence of preparation from the cartridge, so that an exchange of preparation between the cartridge and the metering chamber is possible. The float body acts in this embodiment of the invention as a targeted throttle,

when opening the valve the slip between dosing chamber inlet and

Dosierkammerauslass minimized and thus determines the dosing accuracy.

Alternatively, the float and the metering chamber can be designed as a self-closing valve, on the one hand, in order to bring about the lowest possible energy consumption in an energy self-sufficient dosing device; on the other hand, a defined amount of preparation, which corresponds approximately to the filling volume of the dosing, released.

It is particularly advantageous to select the density of the detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation and the density of the floating body so that the floating body is a

Rising rate of 1, 5 mm / sec to 25 mm / sec, preferably 2 mm / sec to 20 mm / sec, more preferably 2.5 mm / sec to 17.5 mm / sec in the washing and / or

Detergent preparation has. This ensures a sufficiently rapid closing of the metering chamber inlet by the ascending float and thus a sufficiently short interval between two preparation dosages.

The rate of climb of the floating body can advantageously also be stored in the control unit of the dosing device which activates the valve. This makes it possible to beschaltten the valve so that a release of preparation is greater than the volume of the metering realized. In this case, the valve is then reopened before the float reaches its upper closure position at Dosierkammereinlass and closes the Dosierkammereinlass.

In order to ensure an accurate dosing from the dosing into the environment of the dosing device, it has proven to be advantageous that the float and the

Dosing chamber are configured in the manner that in the delivery position of the

Valve associated with Dosierkammerauslass the rate of rise of the float in the detergent and / or detergent preparation is smaller than the flow velocity of the surrounding surrounding the float preparation from the metering chamber.

It is preferred to form the float substantially spherical. Alternatively, the float may also be substantially cylindrical.

It is preferable that the metering chamber is substantially cylindrical. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the diameter of the metering chamber is slightly larger as the diameter of the cylindrical or spherical floating body, so that a slip between the metering chamber and floating body arises with respect to the preparation.

According to a preferred embodiment, the float is made of a foamed, polymeric material - in particular of foamed PP - formed.

In a further preferred embodiment, the metering chamber is L-shaped.

Further, in the metering chamber, a diaphragm between the Dosierkammereinlass and Dosierkammerauslass be arranged, wherein the aperture is formed such that it is sealingly or non-sealingly closed by the float, the float is preferably disposed between the aperture and the Dosierkammereinlass.

Bauelemententräqer

 The dosing device comprises a component carrier to which at least the actuator and the closure element as well as the control unit and / or the sensor unit and / or the

Dosing chamber are arranged.

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

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

Furthermore, it is conceivable that for easy disassembly of the components of

Component carrier, the dosing chamber, the actuator, the closure element, the

Control unit and / or the sensor unit is in each case detachably arranged on the component carrier.

It is also advantageous that the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are arranged in a module on or in the component carrier.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the energy source, the

Control unit and the sensor unit combined in an assembly. This can be realized, for example, in that the control unit and the sensor unit are arranged on a common electrical printed circuit board. According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the component carrier is designed trough-like, manufactured as an injection molded part. It is particularly preferred that the metering chamber is formed integrally with the component carrier.

By the component carrier a largely simple automatic assembly with the necessary components of the dosing device is possible. The component carrier can be prefabricated as a whole, preferably automatically and to a dosing device

be joined together.

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

forms liquid-tight chambers.

The closure element can also be a console, in which the component carrier can be inserted, wherein the console and the component carrier in the assembled state form the dosing device. The component carrier and the console act in the

assembled state in such a way that between the component carrier and the console a liquid-tight connection is formed so that no rinse water can get into the interior of the dosing device or the component carrier.

Furthermore, it is preferred that in the position of use of the metering device, the receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier in the direction of gravity is arranged above the metering chamber, whereby a compact design of the metering device can be realized. The compact design can be further optimized by the position of use of the

Dosing the Dosierkammereinlass is arranged on the component carrier above the recording of the actuator. Also, it is preferable that the components on the

Component carrier are arranged substantially in a row to each other, in particular along the longitudinal axis of the component carrier.

In a further development of the invention, the receptacle for the actuator on an opening which is in line with the Dosierkammerauslass, so that a

Closure element from the actuator through the opening and the Dosierkammerauslass can be moved back and forth.

It is particularly preferred that the component carrier is formed of a transparent material. Advantageously, the component carrier comprises at least one light guide, via the light from the environment of the dosing device to an optical transmitting and / or

Receiving unit into and / or from the interior (s) of the dosing or the

Component carrier can be passed, wherein the light guide is in particular integrally formed with the transparent component carrier.

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

actuator

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

The actuator can be selected 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, auger drives, piezoelectric actuators, chain drives, and / or recoil drives to be driven.

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

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

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

Bistable lifting magnets or valves are known in the art. A bistable valve requires a pulse to change valve positions (open / closed) and then remains in that position until a counter pulse is sent to the valve. Therefore, one speaks of a pulse-controlled valve. A major advantage of such pulse-controlled valves is that they do not consume energy in the Ventilendlagen, the

Closing position and delivery position to stay, but only need an energy pulse to change the valve layers, thus the Ventilendlagen are considered to be stable. A bistable valve remains in that switching position, which last received a control signal.

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

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

It is therefore particularly preferable that the closure element is coupled to the actuator in such a way that the closure element from the actuator in a closed position and in a passage position (dispensing position) is displaceable, wherein the closure element is designed as open / close valve element, that the actuator is designed such that it controlled by a suitable pulse selectively determinable occupies one of two end positions and without activation, the reached end position stably maintained, and thus that the combination forms a pulse-controlled, bistable open / close valve.

In particular, the actuator may for this purpose be designed as a bistable solenoid having an armature receiving space and an outer receiving space surrounding it be. The armature of the bistable solenoid may be configured to receive the

Closure element forms or is coupled thereto.

In order to effect a separation between a wet and a dry space in the dosing, the armature receiving space of the actuator of the outer

Recording space of the actuator liquid-tight and preferably also be separated gas-tight.

It is furthermore advantageous to form at least the outer surface of the armature from a material which can not be attacked by the washing or cleaning agent to be metered, in particular from a plastic material.

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

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

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

Further, yoke rings can be arranged in the armature at its axial ends, wherein in the outer receiving space at both axial ends of permanent magnets are arranged axially antipolig and between these a coil winding is arranged. The axial distance of the permanent magnets is in this case preferably greater than the axial distance of the yoke rings.

In particular, the one actuator / closure element combination is provided in a metering device of a metering system with a cartridge for flowable washing or

Detergent having a plurality of chambers for spatially separated receiving in each case different preparations of a detergent or cleaning agent and a detachable with the cartridge dosing device, wherein the dosing device comprises: an energy source, a control unit, a sensor unit, an actuator, so with the

Energy source and the control unit is connected to that a control signal of the control unit causes an actuation of the actuator, a closure element which is coupled to the actuator in such a way that it from the actuator in a Verschließstellung and in a

Durchlassstellung (delivery position) is displaceable, at least one metering chamber, the at with a cartridge composed dosing with at least one of

Cartridge chambers communicating the cartridge is connected, wherein the metering chamber has an inlet for the inflow of detergent or cleaning agent from a

Cartridge chamber and an outlet for the discharge of detergent or cleaning agent from the metering chamber into the environment and wherein at least the outlet of the metering chamber is closable or releasable by the closure element.

In particular, the actuator is arranged in a component carrier in the manner that in the use position of the metering device, a receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier in the direction of gravity above the metering chamber is arranged. In this case, it is particularly advantageous that in the position of use of the dosing device, the inlet of the

Metering chamber is arranged on the component carrier above the receptacle of the actuator.

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

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

closure element

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

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

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

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

 For the purposes of this application, a sensor is a sensor or sensor that has certain physical or chemical properties and / or material properties

Quality of the environment or as a quantitative measure.

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

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

In a further development of the invention, the dosing unit has a sensor which detects physical, chemical and / or mechanical parameters from the environment of the

Can determine dosage unit. The sensor unit may comprise one or more active and / or passive sensors for the qualitative and / or quantitative detection of mechanical, electrical, physical and / or chemical variables, which are passed as control signals to the control unit.

In particular, the sensors of the sensor unit from the group of timers, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, temperature sensors,

Motion sensors, strain sensors, speed sensors, proximity sensors,

Flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, sound pressure sensors, "lab-on-a-chip" sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, humidity sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and / or MEMS sensors.

Particularly in the case of preparations whose viscosity varies greatly depending on the temperature, it is advantageous for the volume or mass control of the dosed preparations,

Provide flow sensors in the metering device. Suitable flow sensors can be selected from the group of aperture flow sensors, magnetic-inductive

Flow meters, mass flow measurement according to the Coriolis method, vortex flow measurement method, ultrasonic flow measurement method,

Float flow measurement, ring piston flow measurement, thermal

Mass flow measurement or differential pressure measurement be selected. It is particularly preferred that at least two sensor units are provided for measuring mutually different parameters, wherein very particularly preferably a sensor unit includes a conductivity sensor and a further sensor unit

 Temperature sensor is. Furthermore, it is preferred that at least one sensor unit is a brightness sensor.

The sensors are especially adapted to detect the beginning, the course and the end of a washing program. For this purpose, by way of example and not limitation, the sensor combinations listed in the following table can be used

 By means of the conductivity sensor can be detected, for example, whether the

 Conductivity sensor is wetted by water, so that, for. determine if, for example, water is in the washing machine.

Washing and drying programs usually have a characteristic

 Temperature profile, the u.a. is determined by the heating of the wash water and the drying of the laundry, which can be detected by a temperature sensor.

By means of a brightness sensor, for example, the light incidence into the interior of a

 Trockners or a washing machine when opening the machine door are detected, resulting in e.g. suggests an end to the washing or drying program.

In order to determine the degree of soiling of the laundry to be cleaned in the washing machine, a turbidity sensor can also be provided. From this it is also possible, for example, to select a dosing program in the dosing device that applies to the determined contamination situation. It is also conceivable to detect the course of a washing or drying program with the help of at least one sound sensor by specific sound and / or

Vibration emissions e.g. when pumping or pumping out of water, are detected.

Of course, it is possible for the skilled person to use any suitable combinations of several sensors to achieve a washing or drying program monitoring.

According to a further development of the invention, it is conceivable for a temperature-dependent viscosity curve of at least one preparation to be deposited in the control unit, the dosage being adapted by the control unit in accordance with the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a device for direct

Determination of the viscosity of the preparation provided.

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

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

A wirelessly formed data line is in particular by the transmission

electromagnetic waves or light formed. It is preferable to have a wireless

Data line according to standardized standards such as Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS, etc. train.

However, in order to enable efficient production and assembly of the dosing device, it is also possible for at least one sensor unit to be arranged on or in the control unit. For example, it is possible to provide a temperature sensor in the dosing device or directly on the board carrying the control unit, so that the

Temperature sensor has no direct contact with the environment. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor unit is arranged at the bottom of the dosing device, wherein in the position of use the bottom of the dosing device is directed downward in the direction of gravity. In this case, it is particularly preferred that the sensor unit comprises a temperature and / or a conductivity sensor. Such a configuration ensures that the rotation of the laundry drum water is brought to the bottom of the dosing and thus in contact with the sensor.

In order to reduce the energy consumption of the dosing device, the energy consumers of the dosing device, in particular the control unit, including an on / off switch can be connected to a power source and the power source charged only after reaching the on state of the on / off switch wherein a sensor unit forms the on / off switch or is connected to this and switches.

It is particularly preferred for the sensor unit to have two contacts in contact with the environment at the bottom of the dosing device, in particular configured as contact pins projecting downwards from the bottom, one contact as anode contact and the other contact as cathode contact the power source is connected and that without electrically conductive connection between the contacts of the off-state located on / off switch remains in the off state and upon the emergence of an electrically conductive connection between the contacts of the off-state on / off Switch in the on state switches.

It is further preferred that the on / off switch is provided or combined with a self-holding circuit which ensures latching of the energy supply of the energy consumers after reaching the on state of the on / off switch up to a switch-off signal of the control unit . causes.

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

The drive circuit preferably has at least one drive resistor, which is designed in particular as a resistance voltage divider. It is particularly advantageous that in addition to the on / off sensor unit as a

Conductance sensor designed sensor unit is provided, which has at the bottom of the metering two contacts in contact with the environment below and that the anode contact of the on / off sensor unit is simultaneously the anode contact of the sensor forming the conductivity sensor. This makes it possible to realize an on / off switch and a conductivity sensor in a component, a transistor.

It is also possible for the sensor unit forming the temperature sensor to be integrated in 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, may preferably be designed as a hollow contact pin, in which the temperature sensor of the sensor unit forming the temperature sensor is arranged.

To realize a compact size, it is also advantageous that the

Energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit is arranged in an assembly on or in the component carrier.

It is particularly preferred that the contacts of a bottom side arranged

Conductive sensors are surrounded by an electrically conductive silicone. Of the

Conductivity sensor may be formed in particular in the form of a resistance measurement between two spaced-apart, in contact with the environment of the dosing in contact. It is particularly preferred that the silicone is flush-mounted in the bottom of the metering device. Advantageously, the silicone has an approximately circular base. The silicone shows good wettability with water and thus provides good measurement results with regard to the detection of water in the washing machine or tumble dryer.

In order to avoid a polarization on the contacts of the conductivity sensor which impairs sensor accuracy when using a direct current source, it is advantageous to carry out two successive resistance measurements on the conductivity sensor, each with a different polarity, that is to say with an exchange of plus and minus pole. so that no charge surpluses can form at the contacts.

control unit

A control unit in the sense of this application is a device which is suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and / or information. The control unit For this purpose, actuators are influenced by means of information, in particular measurement signals from the sensor unit, which they process in the sense of the control target.

In particular, the control unit may be a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention is on the

Microprocessor stored a plurality of dosing programs, which are selectable and executable in a particularly preferred embodiment according to the container coupled to the dosing device.

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

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the control unit is coupled to the existing control of the household appliance. Preferably, this coupling is wireless. For example, it is possible to have a transmitter on or in a washing machine or a tumble dryer which wirelessly transmits a signal to the dosing unit when the control of the tumble dryer or the washing machine causes the dosage of, for example, a detergent from the dosing chamber or softener.

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

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the call of the corresponding program can be effected by means of corresponding RFID labels or geometric information carriers formed on the container.

For the dosage of particularly prone to gel preparations may

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 gels of the preparation surge occur. This can be realized, for example, by an interval-like release, whereby the individual metering intervals are set in such a way that the corresponding metered amount dissolves completely during a cleaning cycle. It is particularly preferred that the metering intervals for dispensing a preparation are between 30-90 seconds, particularly preferably 45-75 seconds.

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

It is particularly preferred to dose a plurality of preparations sequentially in a rinsing program. In particular, the following metering sequences are to be preferred

1. Dosage 2. Dosage S.Dosierung 4. Dosage

 Enzymatic Alkaline

Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

ng ng

 Alkaline rinse aid

 Reinigungszubereitu

ng

 Enzymatic Alkaline Fabric Softener

Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

ng ng

 Enzymatic Alkaline Softener Disinfectant Cleaning Cleaning Cleaning Cleaning /

ng ng hygiene preparation

Enzymatic Alkaline softener perfume

Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

ng ng

 PretreatmentEnzymatic Alkaline Fabric Softener Preparation Cleaning Reat Cleaning Purpose

 ng ng

 PretreatmentEnzymatic Bleached Fabric softener preparation Cleaning preparation Cleaning preparation

 ng ng

 Enzymatic alkaline bleach-containing softener

Cleaning supplies Cleaning cleaning Cleaning cleaning

ng ng ng

 Bad smell odor /

eliminating scent absorber

preparation

Perfume anti-static preparation

 Anti-static anti-wrinkle preparation Preparation

In an advantageous further development of the invention, data such as e.g. Control and / or dosing programs of the control unit or stored by the control unit operating parameters or protocols from the control unit read or in the

Control unit to be loaded. This can be realized for example by means of an optical interface, wherein the optical interface is correspondingly connected to the control unit. The data to be transmitted are then coded and transmitted or received as light signals, in particular in the visible range, the wavelength range between 600-800 nm being preferred. However, it is also possible to use a dosing device

existing sensor for transmitting data from and / or to use the control unit. For example, the contacts of a conductivity sensor, which are connected to the control unit and the conductivity determination by means of a

Resistance measurement at the contacts of the conductivity sensor provides, for

Data transmission can be used.

Schwinqzerstäuber

 In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the dosing system has at least one vibrating atomizer, via which it is possible to transfer a preparation into the gas phase or to keep it in the gas phase. So it is conceivable, for example

To evaporate preparations by means of the vibrating atomizer, to atomize and / or to atomize, whereby the preparation passes into the gas phase or forms an aerosol in the gas phase, wherein the gas phase is usually air.

This embodiment is particularly advantageous when used in a dishwashing machine or washing machine, where a corresponding release of preparation into the gas phase takes place in a closable dryer or washroom. The introduced into the gas phase preparation can evenly distributed in the dryer or laundry room and precipitate on the laundry located in the washer or dryer.

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

Preparations. Abbildunqsverzeichnis

Fig. 1 washing machine with arranged in the door metering device

Fig. 2 washing machine with a closed door and arranged on the outside of the door machine control

Fig. 3 door with integrated dosing

Fig. 4 door with a receptacle for coupling with a Dosergerät

Fig. 5 washing machine with arranged in the door metering device and a

 Mobile device for placement in the washing drum

Fig. 6 Washing machine with a coupled with the door mobile device

Bezuqszeichenverzeichnis

1 washer / dryer

2 door

 3 opening

 4 windows

 5 central area

 6 cartridge

 7 dosing device

 8 machine control

 9 washing / drying drums

10 connecting channel

 1 1 intake (cartridge)

 12 discharge opening

 13 inlet openings

 14 intake (dosing device)

15 mobile device

1 shows a washing machine or a tumble dryer 1 with an opened door 2, which releases an opening 3 to the washing or drying drum 9. On the inside of the door 2 is centrally located a central region 5 in which the dosing device 7 and a coupled with the dosing device 7 cartridge 5 are located. The central area 5 is bordered by an annular window 4, which looks into the interior of the washing /

Drier drum 9 with the door closed 9 releases. This is shown by way of example in FIG. 2.

The metering device 8 is electrically conductively connected to the washing machine or the tumble dryer 1 via the connecting channel.

It is also possible that the door 2 is located in the head of the washing machine or the tumble dryer 1, which is also known as a "top loader".

Furthermore, it is possible that the window 4 is omitted and the entire door 1 for receiving a dosing system, consisting of dosing device 7 and cartridge 6, is provided.

FIG. 3 shows the door 2 known from FIGS. 1 and 2. The metering device is firmly connected to the door 2 in this embodiment. Above the metering device 7, a receptacle 1 1 is provided for a cartridge 6, in which the cartridge 7 can be received and coupled to the metering device 7. The metering device 7 has three inlet openings 13a-c, which are communicatively connected to the corresponding discharge openings 12a-c in the coupled state of metering device 7 and cartridge 6.

It is also possible that the dosing device 7 is not fixed, but releasably fixed to the door 2. This is shown by way of example in FIG. 4. The dosing device 7 can in a corresponding

Receiving 14 are arranged in the door 2, with corresponding interfaces for the transmission of energy and data between the metering device 7 and the receptacle 14 are provided.

It is also conceivable, as can be seen in FIG. 5, that the dosing device 7 is connected in a wirelessly communicating manner to a mobile device 15 which is arranged inside the washing or drying drum 9. The mobile device can be, for example, a sensor unit for recording physical and / or chemical parameters, a unit for assisting the cleaning performance, for example an ultrasound unit, or the like.

The mobile device 15 can be coupled to the dosing device 7 after a cycle of use, in particular for electrically recharging the energy source of the mobile device 15. This is shown in FIG.

Claims

claims

1. Door (2) for at least splash-proof closure of a Wäscheaufgabe- or

 Removal opening (9) of a laundry treatment device (1), in particular a

 Washing machine and / or a tumble dryer comprising:

• At least one hinge for fixing the door (2) to one

 Laundry treatment appliance (1), wherein the door (2) on the laundry treatment appliance (1) by a hinge in a closed position and a task or

 Removal position is movable, characterized in that

The door (2) comprises at least one interface by means of which energy and / or

 Data from the laundry treatment appliance (1) can be coupled into the door (2),

• In or on the door (2) a metering device (7) for dispensing at least one flowable laundry treatment preparation is arranged that can be coupled with a at least one flowable laundry treatment preparation stocking cartridge (6) and

• The dosing device (7) is connected to the interface for receiving power and / or data

2. Door according to claim 1, characterized in that the cartridge (6) in

 Gravity direction above the metering device (7) is arranged.

3. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the

 Dosing device (7) releasably or firmly connected to the door (2).

4. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the

 Dosing device at least one sensor from the group of timers,

 Temperature sensors, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, motion sensors, strain sensors, speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, sound pressure sensors, "lab-on-a-chip" sensors,

Force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors Sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and / or MEMS sensors.

5. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the door

 comprises at least one interface by means of which energy and / or data from the door in the laundry treatment device can be coupled / are.

6. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the

 Interface by means of which energy and / or data from the laundry treatment appliance (1) in the door (2) and / or from the door (2) in the laundry treatment appliance (1) can be coupled / are designed such that the transmission of energy and / or Data is wireless.

7. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge has a plurality of chambers, in each of which different preparations are stored.

8. Door according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the cartridge chambers can be coupled individually with the dosing device and individually removed from the dosing device.

9. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the

 Dosing device is positioned in the closed position of the door within the washroom

10. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the

 Dosing device is arranged in the type in or on the door, that it at a

 Washing program of a washing machine at least partially immersed in the wash liquor.

1 1. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a

 Treatment device for introduction into the washing or drying drum is provided that can be coupled with the metering device (7) in such a way that energy and / or data from the treatment device to the metering device (7) and / or from the metering device (7)

 Treatment device are transferable.

12. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the

Treatment device comprises a sound emitter, preferably an ultrasonic emitter.

13. Door according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an operating unit (8) for controlling the laundry treatment appliance (1) on the outwardly right side of the door (2) is arranged.

14. laundry treatment appliance, characterized in that it comprises a door according to one of claims 1 to 15.

15. Dosing system for a laundry treatment device comprising

A door (2) for the liquid-tight closure of a Wäscheaufgabe- or

 Removal opening (9) of a laundry treatment appliance (1), in particular a washing machine and / or a tumble dryer,

 A dosing device arranged in or on the side of the door (2) adjacent to the interior of the laundry treatment device (1),

 A cartridge (6) which can be coupled with the dosing device (7)