EP2521811B1 - Metering system for releasing at least three different preparations during a washing programme of a washing machine - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a metering system for the release of at least three different preparations during a washing program of a washing machine.

State of the art

Machine detergents are available to consumers in a variety of forms. These mechanical detergents are typically offered to the consumer in solid form, for example as a powder or as tablets, but increasingly also in liquid or gel form. For some time now, the main focus has been on the convenient dosing of detergents and the simplification of the steps necessary to carry out a washing process.

Further, one of the major goals of the machine-washing detergent manufacturers is to improve the washing performance of these agents, with a recent focus on washing performance in low-temperature or low water-consumption launders. To this end, new ingredients, for example more active surfactants, polymers, enzymes or bleaches, have preferably been added to the detergents. However, since new ingredients are available only to a limited extent and the amount of ingredients used per wash can not be increased to any degree for ecological and economic reasons, this approach is naturally limited.

In this context, in particular devices for the multiple dosing of detergents have recently come into the field of vision of the product developers. In these devices it is possible to differentiate between dosing chambers integrated in the textile washing machine on the one hand and independent devices independent of the textile washing machine on the other hand. By means of these devices, which contain the multiple of the amount of detergent necessary for carrying out a washing process, detergent portions are dosed in an automatic or semi-automatic manner in the course of several successive washing processes in the interior of the washing machine. For the consumer, the need for manual dosing with each wash is eliminated. Examples of such devices are disclosed in the European patent application EP 1 759 624 A2 (Reckitt Benckiser) or in the German patent application DE 53 5005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch and Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH). DE 10 2007 041 643 discloses a washing machine with a dosing system having the features of the preamble of claim 1.

Object of the invention

The object of the invention is to provide a metering system for a washing machine that provides an improved dosage of a plurality of preparations in the treatment room of the washing machine.

This object is achieved by a metering system with the features of claim 1 and by a method having the features of claim 17.

• wenigstens ein Dosiergerät und
• wenigstens eine mit dem Dosiergerät koppelbare Kartusche,
  • ▪ wobei die Kartusche wenigstens drei Kammern umfasst, die voneinander verschiedene fließfähige Zubereitungen enthalten, wobei
    • o die erste Kammer wenigstens ein Enzymprotein, ein Enzymstabilisator und ein Tensid bevorratet,
    • o die zweite Kammer wenigstens eine Bleiche, einen Komplexbildner bevorratet,
    • o die dritte Kammer wenigsten einen Duftstoff und/oder einen optischen Aufheller und/oder eine Textilweichmachende Verbindung bevorratet.

The metering system according to the invention for releasing preparations inside a washing machine comprises

• at least one dosing device and
• at least one cartridge which can be coupled to the dosing device,
  • Wherein the cartridge comprises at least three chambers containing different flowable preparations from each other, wherein
    • the first compartment holds at least one enzyme protein, an enzyme stabilizer and a surfactant,
    • o the second chamber holds at least one bleach, one complexing agent,
    • the third compartment stores at least one perfume and / or one optical brightener and / or one fabric softening compound.

It is preferred that the first chamber contains no bleach and / or complexing agent and / or perfume.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the second chamber does not contain an enzyme protein, enzyme stabilizer, perfume and / or surfactant

Furthermore, it is preferred that the third compartment does not contain bleach, enzyme protein and / or enzyme stabilizer. It is very particularly preferred that the third chamber also contains no complexing agent and / or surfactant.

Furthermore, according to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 6-8, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 6-8 and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of 6-8 or 1-3 are set.

However, according to an alternative embodiment, it is also conceivable that the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 3-7, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 6-8 and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of Value of 6-8 or 1-3.

According to a further alternative embodiment, the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 3-7, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 8-12 and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of 6-8 or 1-3 on.

Finally, it is also conceivable that the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 6-8, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 8-12 and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of 6-8. 8, or 1-3 has. In this case, a neutral pH is preferably set in the third chamber and only then set an acidic pH of 1-3, if stored in the third chamber compounds that require such an acidic pH, z. As fabric softening or antimicrobial compounds.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the dosing device comprises at least one sensor which is suitable for detecting the presence of water inside the washing machine. Particularly preferably, the dosing device comprises a conductivity sensor and / or temperature sensor.

It is particularly advantageous to configure the dosing device in such a way that when there is at least one sensor signal that represents the presence of water in the interior of the washing machine, a dosing takes place from the first chamber of the cartridge.

According to an advantageous further development of the invention, the dosing device is configured such that after a predefined time, which is between 0.1 sec and 30 min, preferably between 0.5 min and 15 min, after the dosage has taken place from the first chamber of the cartridge, a dosage from the second chamber is triggered.

• wenigstens ein Dosiergerät mit wenigstens einem Sensor, der geeignet ist, das Vorhandensein von Wasser im Inneren der Waschmaschine zu detektieren und
• wenigstens eine mit dem Dosiergerät koppelbare Kartusche,
  • ▪ wobei die Kartusche wenigstens drei Kammern umfasst, die voneinander verschiedene fließfähige Zubereitungen enthalten, wobei
    • o die erste Kammer wenigstens ein Enzymprotein, ein Enzymstabilisator und ein Tensid, bevorzugt bei einem pH-Wert von 6-8 bevorratet,
    • o die zweite Kammer wenigstens eine Bleiche, einen Komplexbildner bevorzugt bei einem pH-Wert von 8-10 bevorratet,
    • o die dritte Kammer wenigsten einen Duftstoff und/oder einen optischen Aufheller bevorzugt bei einem pH-Wert von 6-8 bevorratet, wobei
• beim Vorliegen wenigstens eines Sensorsignals, dass das Vorhandensein von Wasser im Inneren der Waschmaschine repräsentiert, eine Dosierung aus der ersten Kammer der Kartusche erfolgt und
• nach einer vordefinierten Zeit, die zwischen 0,1 sec und 30 min, bevorzugt zwischen 0,5 min und 15 min liegt, nachdem die Dosierung aus der ersten Kammer der Kartusche erfolgt ist, eine Dosierung aus der zweiten Kammer ausgelöst wird.

Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for releasing preparations inside a washing machine

• at least one dosing device with at least one sensor which is suitable for detecting the presence of water inside the washing machine and
• at least one cartridge which can be coupled to the dosing device,
  • Wherein the cartridge comprises at least three chambers containing different flowable preparations from each other, wherein
    • the first compartment stores at least one enzyme protein, an enzyme stabilizer and a surfactant, preferably at a pH of 6-8,
    • o the second chamber stores at least one bleach, preferably a complexing agent at a pH of 8-10,
    • the third compartment stores at least one perfume and / or one optical brightener preferably at a pH of 6-8, wherein
• in the presence of at least one sensor signal that represents the presence of water inside the washing machine, a dosage from the first chamber of the cartridge takes place and
• after a predefined time, which is between 0.1 sec and 30 min, preferably between 0.5 min and 15 min, after the dosage has taken place from the first chamber of the cartridge, a dosage from the second chamber is triggered.

It can be supplied by the invention liquid detergent preparations delayed in an optimal manner a washing process, so that excellent washing performance can be realized with minimal use of raw materials, especially in the field of enzymatically degradable and bleachable stains in conjunction with a very appealing perfuming on the laundry.

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 preparation and which can be coupled to a metering device for dispensing at least one preparation.

The cartridge is in particular designed so that it is provided for storing a plurality of dosing portions of the preparations to be stored in it. Preferably, the cartridge for storing 10 to 50, more preferably 15 to 30, most preferably 20 to 25 Dosierportionen formed.

Preferably, the cartridge has at least three, preferably dimensionally stable chambers for storing mutually different preparations. In this case, it is preferred that each of the chambers is designed to store from 10 to 50, particularly preferably 15 to 30, very particularly preferably 20 to 25 metering portions.

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.

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 be separated from one another, for example, by webs or material bridges which are formed during or after the blow molding process.

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 be formed by a shrink sleeve (so-called sleeve), which is pulled in a heated state over the entire or sections of the cartridge and firmly encloses the chambers or the cartridge in the cooled state.

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, the release of preparation from the chamber to the Environment is to be delivered. 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.

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.

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, especially if they are used according to the "bag-in-bottle" principle in a substantially dimensionally stable receptacle. By using flexible packaging eliminates - unlike the dimensionally stable cartridge designs described above - the need to provide a ventilation system for pressure equalization.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge has an RFID tag that contains at least information about the contents of the cartridge and that can be read by a sensor unit, which may be provided in particular in the metering device or washing machine.

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.

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

It is particularly preferred that all preparations stored in the cartridge are free-flowing, since this ensures rapid dissolution of the preparations in the washing liquor of the washing machine, as a result of which these preparations have a rapid to immediate cleaning or disinfecting and / or scenting effect, in particular also on the walls of the washroom and in the wash water pipes.

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. In a three-chamber configuration, the volume ratio is preferably 4: 1: 1. It is particularly preferred that one chamber contains an alkaline detergent preparation, another chamber an enzymatic preparation and a third chamber a fragrance-containing preparation, wherein the volume ratio of the chambers is approximately 4: 1: 1. The chamber containing the alkaline detergent preparation preferably has the largest filling volume of the existing chambers. The chambers which store an enzymatic preparation or a fragrance-containing preparation preferably have approximately equal filling volumes.

As mentioned above, the cartridge preferably has three chambers. For the use of such a cartridge in conjunction with a dosing device for a washing machine, it is particularly preferred that one chamber contains an enzyme-containing preparation, another Chamber a bleached preparation and a third chamber contains a fragrance or fragrance-containing preparation.

The cartridge comprises a cartridge bottom, which is directed in the position of use in the direction of gravity down and on which preferably at least one outlet opening arranged in the direction of gravity at the bottom is provided for each chamber. 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.

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 one-time 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.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge for coupling with a positionable inside a washing machine dosing device for dispensing at least one detergent and / or detergent preparation, at least one chamber for storing at least one flowable or pourable detergent and / or cleaning agent preparation on, wherein the cartridge is protected in the coupled state with the dosing device before entering rinse water in the chamber (s) and the cartridge at least one bottom in the direction of gravity discharge opening for - especially gravitational - release of preparation of at least one chamber and at least one bottom side in the direction of gravity Ventilation opening for venting comprises at least one chamber, wherein the ventilation opening is separated from the discharge opening and the ventilation opening communicating with at least one chamber of the cartridge is connected.

It is particularly preferred that the cartridge comprises at least three chambers. In this case, it is advantageous that one ventilation opening and one discharge opening are provided for each chamber.

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.

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 .DELTA.v in the ventilation duct, whereby a pressure .DELTA.p 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 vent opening of a chamber is communicatively connected to the metering device side mandrel before the closed outlet opening of the corresponding chamber is opened, for example by the communicating connection with the inlet opening of the metering device.

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

dosing

The metering system according to the invention comprises a metering device and a multi-chamber cartridge which can be coupled to the metering device and contains flowable preparations. The dosing device is configured such that it can dose a plurality of preparations from the chambers of the cartridge into the interior of a washing machine. For this purpose, at least one actuator and / or at least one closure element and / or at least one control unit and / or at least one sensor and / or at least one energy source may be provided in the dosing device.

The dosing device can be permanently installed with a washing machine.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the dosing device is not permanently installed with the washing machine, but freely movable in, on or on a washing machine can be positioned by a user.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the metering device is detachably or fixedly arranged within the Einspülschublade the washing machine.

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

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 washing machine, as a transmitter-coil operated with alternating current with iron core and the interface of the dosing device may be formed 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 washing machine side, an electrically operated light source and dosiergeräteseitig a light sensor, such as a photodiode or a solar cell comprises. The light emitted by the light source is converted by the light sensor into electrical energy, which in turn feeds, for example, a metering device side accumulator.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, an interface is present on the dosing device and the washing machine for the transmission (ie transmission and reception) of electromagnetic and / or optical signals, which in particular indicate operating state, measuring and and / or control information of the dosing device and / or the washing machine, formed.

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. It has proven particularly advantageous to use wavelengths between 600-800 nm in the visible spectrum.

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

In particular, the interface comprises at least one LED. Particularly preferably, the interface comprises at least two LEDs. 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.

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

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

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. This can be realized by any suitable optical receiving unit, such as photocells, photomultipliers, semiconductor detectors, photodiodes, photoresistors, solar cells, phototransistors, CCD and / or CMOS image sensors. It is particularly preferred that the optical receiving unit is suitable for receiving light in the wavelength range of 600-800 nm.

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

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

The dosing device is arranged outside the washing machine in a preferred embodiment. The metering device can be designed such that it can be coupled with a cartridge and is provided for positioning outside the treatment chamber of the washing machine and has no connection to the water-carrying line of the washing machine. Furthermore, such a dosing device comprises at least one sensor which detects at least the presence of water in the washing machine, at least one pump which effects the conveyance of preparation from the dosing device, at least one control unit connected to the sensor and the pump in the washing machine Art cooperates, that is conveyed in the presence of a defined sensor signal, at least one preparation from the cartridge or dosing by means of the pump, and at least one fluid line which connects the cartridge or the dosing device with the treatment room of the washing machine, so that a preparation from the outside of the treatment room of the washing machine positioned metering device via a communicating with the treatment room opening of the washing machine in the treatment room of the washing machine can be fed.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the dosing device is arranged within the rotating treatment chamber of the washing machine.

It is also conceivable to provide a plurality of movable dosing devices which can be positioned in the treatment chamber of the washing machine for dispensing at least one flowable preparation, the preparations which are dispensed from the dosing devices being different from one another and the dosing devices comprising means for releasing the preparations, which are configured in such a way that the dispensing of the preparations takes place at different times during a treatment program of the washing machine.

actuator

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

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

In one embodiment of the invention, the actuator is designed as a pump or compressor.

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 to dwell in the Ventilendlagen, the closed position and discharge position, but only an energy pulse to change the Need valve positions, so the valve end positions are considered to be stable. A bistable valve remains in that switching position, which last received a control signal.

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.

sensor

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

The dosing system 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 system comprises a sensor for detecting the conductivity, whereby in particular the presence, the flushing and / or the spraying of water is detected in a washing machine / are.

In order to avoid polarization at the contacts of a 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 positive and negative poles. so that no charge surpluses can form at the contacts.

In particular, a 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, Sonic Pressure Sensors, Lab-on-a-Chip Sensors, Force Sensors, Acceleration Sensors, Tilt Sensors, pH Sensors, Humidity Sensors, Magnetic Field Sensors, RFID Sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors, position sensors, gyroscopes, optical, electrical and / or mechanical displacement sensors, and / or MEMS sensors.

For the formation of a dosing system which can be introduced into the treatment chamber of the washing machine, sensors may preferably be selected from the group of temperature sensors, motion sensors, rotational speed sensors, vibration sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, position sensors, gyroscopes, optical, electrical and / or mechanical displacement sensors.

It is particularly preferred that at least two sensors for measuring mutually different parameters are provided in or on the dosing system, wherein very particularly preferably one sensor is a conductivity sensor and another sensor is a temperature sensor.

The sensors are in particular adapted to detect the beginning, course and end of a treatment program of a washing machine, such as a washing or rinsing program. For this purpose, by way of example and not limitation, the sensor combinations listed in the following table can be used. Sensor 1 Sensor 2 Sensor 3 Sensor 4 conductivity sensor temperature sensor conductivity sensor temperature sensor conductivity sensor temperature sensor sound sensor conductivity sensor temperature sensor sound sensor turbidity sensor sound sensor temperature sensor sound sensor conductivity sensor vibration sensor conductivity sensor vibration sensor temperature sensor conductivity sensor motion sensor vibration sensor motion sensor

By means of the conductivity sensor can be detected, for example, whether the conductivity sensor is wetted by water, so that it can be determined, for example, whether water is in the washing machine or flushed.

Treatment programs in washing machines, such as washing and rinsing programs, usually have a characteristic temperature profile, the u. a. is determined by the heating of the washing or rinsing water, which can be detected by a temperature sensor.

By means of a vibration sensor, it is for example possible to detect natural oscillations or the resonance of a washing machine with a rotating treatment chamber, for example, if the washing drum is accelerated to spin the laundry to correspondingly high numbers of revolutions. Thus, it is conceivable to detect by means of a vibration sensor the beginning or the end of a spin cycle.

With a motion sensor can - especially if the dosing is intended to be positioned in the rotating treatment room of a washing machine as the washing drum of a washing machine - to detect the movement of the dosing in the treatment room. For example, the rotation of the washing drum can be detected in the washing program or spinning.

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 system which is appropriate for the identified contamination situation.

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

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

The data line between the sensor and the control unit can be realized via an electrically conductive cable or wirelessly. In principle, it is also conceivable that at least one sensor outside the metering system in the interior of the washing machine, such as in the treatment room, in or on the washing drum and / or in or on the Einspülschublade, positioned or positioned and a data line - especially wireless - for transmission the measurement data from the sensor to the dosing system is formed. A wirelessly formed data line is formed in particular by the transmission of electromagnetic waves or light. It is preferable to form a wireless data line according to standardized standards such as Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS, etc.

It is preferred that at least one sensor is arranged on the distal end of a fluid line which projects into the treatment space and connects the dosing device to the treatment space, such as, for example, the dispensing drawer, the washing drum, etc. The sensor is in particular configured such that it is suitable for detecting the operation of the washing machine and / or the flushing of water into the washing machine. In particular, the sensor on the distal end of the fluid line projecting into the treatment space is a conductance and / or a temperature sensor and / or a sound or vibration sensor.

control unit

A control unit in the sense of this application is a device which is suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and / or information. For this purpose, the control unit influences at least one actuator with the aid of information, in particular of measuring signals of the sensor unit, which processes it in the sense of the control target. In particular, at least one sensor is connected to the control unit, wherein it is particularly preferred that the sensor sends a signal to the control unit that represents the presence of water in the washing machine and / or the operation of the washing machine.

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

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

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

The delivery of preparations from the dosing device can be controlled by the control unit, sequentially or simultaneously.

It is particularly preferred to dose a plurality of preparations sequentially in a rinsing program. In particular, dosing sequences are to be preferred, which are explained in more detail below.

Dosiersequenzen

It is preferred that a signal is provided by means of the sensor that represents the presence of water and / or the operation of the washing machine, this signal triggering the metering of at least one first preparation into the treatment space of the washing machine.

The sensor signal can be provided in particular by means of a conductivity sensor, temperature sensor, sound sensor, vibration sensor, motion sensor and / or turbidity sensor - and any combination of the aforementioned sensors.

A particularly preferred method for controlling a dosing device for use in the dosing system according to the invention comprises a dosing device with at least one temperature sensor and / or a conductivity sensor, wherein the temperature sensor and / or the conductivity sensor can be arranged in and / or on and / or outside of the dosing, and a dispensing means for releasing a preparation from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine machine comprising measuring a first resistance R, wherein when the condition R <R _Ref , where R _{Ref is} a predefined reference resistance representing the presence of water at the conductivity sensor, is one Release of at least one volume V1 of a first preparation from the metering device takes place inside the washing machine.

According to an extremely preferable embodiment of the method for controlling the dosing device, a measurement of a first temperature T ₁ inside the washing machine by means of the temperature sensor and measurement of the resistance R at the conductivity sensor, wherein in the presence of conditions T ₁ > T _Ref1 , where T _Ref1 a predefined, first reference temperature, which is at least 21 ° C, preferably at least 30 ° C and wherein in the presence of the condition R <R _Ref , where R _{Ref is} a predefined reference resistor, which represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor, a release of at least one Volume V1 of a first preparation from the metering device takes place inside the washing machine.

The use of temperature and conductivity information prevents, among other things, that the dosing device in a warm environment, such as during transport, initiates an undesired dosing process, which could happen by the sole use of temperature information for the control of the dosing device.

The measurement of the temperature T ₁ and of the resistance R at the conductivity sensor can take place in succession or at the same time. It is preferred that first the temperature T ₁ and subsequently the resistance R is measured. However, it is also conceivable first to measure the resistance R and then the temperature T ₁ .

Furthermore, it is also possible in the presence of the aforementioned conditions, to dose more than a volume V1 of a preparation from the metering device inside the washing machine. For example, a first volume V1 of a first preparation and a second volume V2 of a second preparation can also be dosed substantially simultaneously, wherein it is particularly preferred that the preparations are different from one another.

It is particularly preferred to design the method in such a way that, when the condition T ₁ > T _Ref1 and R <R _Ref, a temperature measurement of a second temperature T ₂ after a predefined time interval t _dif , in particular after 10-600 sec, preferably after 30 -240 sec, more preferably 45-100 sec by means of the temperature sensor and when the condition T ₂ > T ₁ + ΔT, where ΔT within the limits of the functional interval (0.5 [° C / min] * t _dif [min] ) to (5 [° C / min] * t _dif [min]), a release of at least one volume V1 of a first preparation from the metering device takes place inside the washing machine. In this way, in particular, a temperature rise, which is detected in the heating phase of the washing machine, in particular in the pre-washing or main washing or washing section of a rinsing or washing program.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the method, if the condition T _{1 ≦} T _{Ref1 is present,} a renewed temperature measurement of the first temperature T ₁ after a predefined time t _dif , in particular after 2-10 min, preferably after 3-7 min, particularly preferably 4 -6 min initiated. In order to keep the energy consumption for temperature monitoring low, the temperature is preferably measured not continuously, but at predefined time intervals.

However, it is also conceivable that in the washing machine - especially at the beginning of a cleaning program - the temperature increase of the measured temperature T ₁ in the washing machine after a time interval t _{dif is} so great that a second reference _temperature T _Ref2 , which is greater than the first reference _temperature T. _Ref1 is exceeded. In this case of a rapid and significant temperature rise, it is also advantageous that, when the condition T ₁ > T _{Ref 2,} where T _Ref2 , a second reference _temperature which is at least 35 ° C, preferably at least 40 ° C, is a measurement of Resistance R takes place at the conductivity sensor and when the condition R <R _Ref , where R _{Ref is} a predefined reference resistance which represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor, an immediate release of at least one volume V1 of a first preparation from the metering device takes place inside the washing machine.

In an advantageous further development of the method according to the invention, if R ≥ R _Ref , where R _{Ref is} a predefined reference resistance which represents the presence of water on the conductivity sensor, a renewed temperature measurement of the first temperature T _{1 occurs} after a predefined time t _dif , in particular after 10-600 sec, preferably after 30-240 sec, more preferably 45-100 sec. Preferably, this time interval is less than or equal to the time interval that is before the measurement of the first temperature T ₁ in the presence of the condition T ₁ ≤T _Ref1 . Thus, if a temperature inside the washing machine is measured above the first reference temperature T _Ref1 , but no water at the conductivity _sensor , the dosing device is switched by shortened monitoring intervals in the measurement of the first temperature T ₁ in a tightened monitoring mode, so that by the shortened monitoring intervals a timely detection of water in the washing machine is enabled.

It may also be advantageous to provide the dosage of two different preparations, with a time delay. This is the case in particular when dosing two preparations which are not storage-stable with one another. Thus, it is provided in a further development of the method according to the invention that after the metering of the first volume V1, a second volume V2 of a second preparation from the metering device takes place inside the washing machine, wherein the first preparation is different from the second preparation and between the dosage of V1 and V2 is a predefined time interval t _diff , preferably between 30-300 sec, more preferably between 60-240 sec, very particularly preferably between 60-150 sec.

It is particularly preferred that the first preparation is an enzyme-containing preparation and the second preparation is an alkaline and / or bleach-containing preparation.

Of course, it is also conceivable that the method according to the invention further develop in such a way that after the metering of the first volume V1 and the second volume V2, the metering of a third volume V3 of a third preparation from the metering device takes place inside the washing machine, the third preparation is different from the first and the second preparation.

In this case, it is particularly preferred that the third preparation is, for example, fragrance-containing preparation.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the metering of the third volume V3 takes place after the start of a wash program section in a wash program. The beginning of a wash program section is characterized in particular by the fact that after the main wash cycle has ended and before the start of the wash program section, a water change takes place in the washing machine, in which normally heated water is pumped off and cold wash water is fed to the wash process. This can be sensed by a conductivity measurement in connection with a temperature measurement, for example. Of course, other possible metrologically detectable characteristics that represent such a water change can be used.

It is particularly preferred that the metering of the third volume V3 takes place after a delay of 0.5 to 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 20 minutes, particularly preferably 5 to 15 minutes after the start of a washing program section in a washing program.

The discharge quantities of the first volume V1, of the second volume V2 and of the third volume V3 preferably have a ratio of 1: 4: 1, wherein the first volume V1 particularly preferably contains an enzyme-containing preparation, the second volume V2 an alkaline detergent preparation and the third volume a fragrance-containing preparation is.

energy

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

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

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

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

Lead acid batteries (lead dioxide / lead), nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, for example, are suitable as accumulators. Alkaline-manganese batteries, silver-zinc batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, zinc-bromine batteries, sodium nickel chloride batteries and / or nickel-iron batteries.

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

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

The energy source is dimensioned such that the dosing device can pass through about 1000 dosing cycles before the energy source is exhausted. It is particularly preferred that the energy source can run between 1 and 1000 dosing cycles, most preferably between 10 and 500, more preferably between 100 and 300, before the energy source is exhausted.

Schwingzerstäuber

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

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

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

As a result, several advantageous effects can be achieved before the start of a water-releasing washing program of the washing machine. On the one hand, a suitable preparation can suppress the formation of bad odors through biological decomposition processes. On the other hand, a corresponding preparation can effect a "soaking" of the soiling possibly adhering to the laundry, so that These can easily and completely replace in the washing program of the washing machine, especially in low-temperature programs.

Furthermore, it is possible to apply a preparation by means of the vibrating atomizer on the laundry after completion of a washing program. This may be, for example, an antibacterial preparation or a preparation for the modification of textile surfaces.

It is further preferable to form the vibrating atomizer as a piezoelectric element.

• □ die Sensoreinheit ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, das geeignet ist Schwingungen, insbesondere Schallwellen in einem Frequenzbereich von 1 kHz - 300 kHz , bevorzugt 20-25 kHz und/oder Körperschall aus der Umgebung des Dosiergeräts aufzunehmen und in ein Sensorsignal zu wandeln, welches in der Steuereinheit in ein Steuersignal, insbesondere für das Abgabeelement, gewandelt wird,
• □ das Abgabeelement ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, dass von der Steuereinheit mit elektrischen Signalen beaufschlagt wird und wenigstens eine erste Zubereitung aus wenigstens einer Kammer der Kartusche, die kommunizierend mit dem Abgabeelement verbunden ist, versprüht,
• □ die Sensoreinheit und das Abgabeelement als ein Bauteil ausgebildet sind.

It is very particularly preferred to configure and operate a piezoelectric element both as a sound or vibration sensor and atomizer or nebulizer in a component. For this purpose, the dosing device can be configured such that a control unit is provided, which is connected to the energy source, a sensor unit, a delivery element and a sound transducer, wherein

• □ the sensor unit is a piezoelectric element, which is suitable to absorb vibrations, in particular sound waves in a frequency range of 1 kHz - 300 kHz, preferably 20-25 kHz and / or structure-borne noise from the environment of the dosing and convert it into a sensor signal which in the Control unit is converted into a control signal, in particular for the delivery element,
• The delivery element is a piezoelectric element that is supplied with electrical signals by the control unit and that sprays at least one first preparation from at least one chamber of the cartridge, which is communicatively connected to the delivery element,
• □ the sensor unit and the discharge element are formed as a component.

It is very particularly preferred that the electrical signals which cause the spraying of a preparation have a frequency of 70-400 kHz, preferably 80-90 kHz.

• □ die Sensoreinheit ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, das geeignet ist Schwingungen, insbesondere Schallwellen in einem Frequenzbereich von 1 kHz - 300 kHz , bevorzugt 20 - 25 kHz und/oder Körperschall aus der Umgebung des Dosiergeräts aufzunehmen und in ein Sensorsignal zu wandeln, welches in der Steuereinheit in ein Steuersignal, insbesondere für das Abgabeelement, gewandelt wird,
• □ das Abgabeelement ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, dass von der Steuereinheit mit elektrischen Signalen beaufschlagt wird und wenigstens eine erste Zubereitung aus wenigstens einer Kammer der Kartusche, die kommunizierend mit dem Abgabeelement verbunden ist, versprüht,
• □ der Schallwandler ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, dass von der Steuereinheit mit elektrischen Signalen beaufschlagt wird und die das piezoelektrische Element in hörbare akustische Signale in einem Frequenzbereich von 20 Hz bis 20 kHz, bevorzugt 5 - 15 kHz, insbesondere bevorzugt 7 - 10 kHz wandelt und
• □ die Sensoreinheit, das Abgabeelement und der Schallwandler als ein Bauteil ausgebildet sind.

It is highly preferred to configure and operate a piezoelectric element both as a sound or vibration sensor, atomizer or nebulizer and sound transducer in one component. For this purpose, the dosing device can be configured such that a control unit is provided, which is connected to the energy source, a sensor unit, a delivery element and a sound transducer, wherein

• □ the sensor unit is a piezoelectric element which is suitable for absorbing vibrations, in particular sound waves in a frequency range from 1 kHz to 300 kHz, preferably 20-25 kHz, and / or structure-borne noise from the environment of the metering device and to convert a sensor signal which is converted in the control unit into a control signal, in particular for the output element,
• The delivery element is a piezoelectric element that is supplied with electrical signals by the control unit and that sprays at least one first preparation from at least one chamber of the cartridge, which is communicatively connected to the delivery element,
• □ the transducer is a piezoelectric element that is acted upon by the control unit with electrical signals and the piezoelectric element in audible acoustic signals in a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, preferably 5 - 15 kHz, particularly preferably 7 - 10 kHz converts and
• □ the sensor unit, the delivery element and the sound transducer are designed as a component.

It is very particularly preferred that the electrical signals which cause the spraying of a preparation have a frequency of 70-400 kHz, preferably 80-90 kHz, and the electrical signals which cause the generation of an audible acoustic signal have a frequency of 20 Hz - 20 kHz, preferably 5 - have 15 kHz and more preferably 7-10 kHz.

The electrical signals that cause the spraying of a preparation and the generation of an audible acoustic signal can be applied by the control unit at the same time and / or with a time delay to the piezoelectric element.

1. a. eine Sensoreinheit, die ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, Schwingungen, insbesondere Schallwellen in einem Frequenzbereich von 1 kHz - 300 kHz, bevorzugt 20 - 25 kHz, und/oder Körperschall aus der Umgebung der Abgabevorrichtung aufnimmt und in ein Sensorsignal wandelt,
2. b. ein Abgabeelement, dass ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, von der Steuereinheit beim Vorliegen eines definierten Sensorsignals, dass insbesondere das Vorhandensein von Wasser und/oder den Betrieb der Waschmaschine repräsentiert, mit elektrischen Signalen beaufschlagt wird, so dass wenigstens eine erste Zubereitung aus wenigstens einer Kammer der Kartusche, die kommunizierend mit dem Abgabeelement verbunden ist, insbesondere ins Innere der Waschmaschine, bevorzugt in den Behandlungsraum der Waschmaschine versprüht und/oder vernebelt wird,
3. c. ein Schallwandler, der ein piezoelektrisches Element ist, von der Steuereinheit vor und/oder während und/oder nach dem Versprühen der Zubereitung mit elektrischen Signalen beaufschlagt wird, die das piezoelektrische Element in hörbare akustische Signale in einem Frequenzbereich von 20 Hz bis 20 kHz, bevorzugt 5 - 15 kHz, insbesondere bevorzugt 7 - 10 kHz wandelt.

Thus, the above-described piezoelectric element provides a method of operating a metering system comprising:

1. a. a sensor unit, which is a piezoelectric element, receives vibrations, in particular sound waves in a frequency range of 1 kHz-300 kHz, preferably 20-25 kHz, and / or structure-borne noise from the environment of the dispenser and converts them into a sensor signal,
2. b. a delivery element, which is a piezoelectric element, from the control unit in the presence of a defined sensor signal, which in particular the presence of water and / or the operation of the washing machine, is supplied with electrical signals, so that at least a first preparation of at least one chamber of Cartridge which is communicatively connected to the discharge element, in particular into the interior of the washing machine, preferably sprayed into the treatment room of the washing machine and / or atomized,
3. c. a sound transducer, which is a piezoelectric element, is acted upon by the control unit before and / or during and / or after the spraying of the preparation with electrical signals, the piezoelectric element in audible acoustic signals in a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, preferably 5 - 15 kHz, particularly preferably 7 - 10 kHz converts.

The piezoelectric element is particularly preferably configured in such a way that it detects the natural frequency or a multiple of the natural frequency of the washing machine, in particular during spin processes.

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

It is preferred that all preparations are metered by means of a vibrating atomizer. However, it is also conceivable that each preparation is metered in each case via a vibrating atomizer assigned to the corresponding preparation.

It is of course possible to meter a preparation by means of a vibrating atomizer and another preparation by means of a pump, a valve or gravitationally effected inside a washing machine. The person skilled in the art will here select a suitable combination of the listed delivery elements for the corresponding preparations.

preparations

According to a preferred embodiment, the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers are flowable, preferably they have a viscosity between 10 and 10 000 mPas (Brookfield viscometer RVD-VII at 20 rpm and 20 ° C., spindle 3).

According to the invention, the preparations in the cartridge chambers are different from one another. The possible constituents of the preparations are explained in more detail below.

enzymes

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers contains at least one enzyme, in particular e.g. from the group of proteases, amylases, catalases, peroxidases, cellulases, mannanase, polyesterases, xylanases, carrageenases, perhydrolases, pectinases, pectate lyases, oxidases, e.g. Glycose oxidases and / or lipases, and / or enzyme stabilizers, preferably in amounts of 0 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 5-30 wt .-%, particularly preferably 10-25 wt .-% in each case based on the total agent.

As enzymes are in particular those from the classes of hydrolases such as proteases, Esterases, lipases or lipolytic enzymes, amylases, cellulases or other Glykosylhydrolasen and mixtures of said enzymes in question. All of these hydrolases in the wash contribute to the removal of stains such as proteinaceous, greasy or starchy stains and graying. In addition, cellulases and other glycosyl hydrolases may contribute to color retention and to enhancing the softness of the fabric by removing pilling and microfibrils. Oxireductases can also be used for bleaching or inhibiting color transfer.

Particularly suitable are bacterial strains or fungi such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Streptomyceus griseus and Humicola insolens derived enzymatic agents. Preferably, subtilisin-type proteases and in particular proteases derived from Bacillus lentus are used. Enzyme mixtures, for example from protease and amylase or protease and lipase or lipolytic enzymes or protease and cellulase or from cellulase and Lipasebzw. lipolytic enzymes or from protease, amylase and lipase or lipolytic enzymes or protease, lipase or lipolytic enzymes and cellulase, but in particular protease and / or lipase-containing mixtures or mixtures with lipolytic enzymes of particular interest. Examples of such lipolytic enzymes are the known cutinases. Peroxidases or oxidases have also proved suitable in some cases. Suitable amylases include in particular α-amylases, iso-amylases, pullulanases and pectinases. As cellulases are preferably cellobiohydrolases, endoglucanases and β-glucosidases, which are also called cellobiases, or mixtures thereof used. Since different cellulase types differ by their CMCase and avicelase activities, the desired activities can be set by targeted mixtures of the cellulases.

bleaching

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers contains at least one bleach.

As oxidizing agent or bleaching, all conceivable oxidizing agents can be used, for example perborates, percarbonates, peroxycarboxylic acids (in particular 6-phthalimidoperoxyhexanoic acid), hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite. Hydrogen peroxide H ₂ O ₂ proves to be particularly useful here, since it can also be used in liquid form.

surfactants

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers contains at least one surfactant.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least one preparation contains at least 0.1% by weight of surfactants. The surfactant content of the entire agent is preferably 0.1-60 wt .-%.

In addition to the ingredients already mentioned, the preparations may contain further ingredients which further improve the performance and / or aesthetic properties of the preparation. In the context of the present invention, the preparations may additionally contain one or more substances from the group of builders, bleach catalysts, bleach activators, enzyme stabilizers, electrolytes, solvents, pH adjusters, perfume carriers, fluorescers, dyes, hydrotopes, foam inhibitors, silicone oils, antiredeposition agents, grayness inhibitors, anti-shrinkage agents , Anti-wrinkling agents, color transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial agents, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, bittering agents, ironing aids, repellents and impregnating agents, swelling and anti-slip agents, fabric softening components and UV absorbers.

Embodiments Cartridge

Possible flowable compositions for the cartridge chambers of the metering system according to the invention are listed below in examples:

example 1

Example 1 shows in the following table a first assignment of three cartridge chambers. The first chamber is designed as an enzyme chamber, the second chamber as a bleaching chamber and the third chamber as a perfume chamber. Further components of the respective chamber can be taken from the following table.

The chamber 1 has a substantially neutral pH between 6-8, the chamber 2 has a substantially alkaline pH of 8-12, preferably 8-11, more preferably 8-10, and the chamber 3 has one essentially acidic pH between 1-3.

The chamber 1 is dosed in a time interval immediately at the beginning up to 15 minutes after the start of a washing program. The second chamber is dosed between 10 and 30 minutes after the start of a wash program, it being preferred that the release of the first chamber and the second chamber is not simultaneous.

Furthermore, it is preferred that between the metering of the first chamber and the second chamber there is a time interval of 0.5-30 minutes, preferably 1-15 minutes, particularly preferably 5-15 minutes.

The third chamber is dosed after the beginning of a rinse program section. Preferably, the third chamber is metered for 0.5-30 minutes, preferably 1-15 minutes, more preferably 5-15 minutes after the start of a wash program section. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X Textile softening compound X water X X X solvent X pH 6-8 8-12 1-3 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 2

Example 2 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains a component for improving the softness in the form of at least one surfactant, preferably a cationic surfactant. Alternatively or additionally, suitable polymers may be used to improve the softness. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X pH 6-8 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 3

Example 3 differs from Example 1 in that in chamber 3 additionally an antimicrobial compound, for. B. contains a disinfectant. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X antimicrobial compound X pH 6-8 8-12 1-3 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 4

Example 4 differs from Example 1 in that in chamber 3 additionally contains an optical brightener. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X Optical brightener X pH 6-8 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 5

Example 5 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an antimicrobial compound, e.g. As a disinfectant, and contains an optical brightener. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X antimicrobial compound X Optical brightener X pH 6-8 8-12 1-3 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 6

Example 6 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 2 additionally contains a bleach catalyst. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X bleach catalyst X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X X pH 6-8 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 7

Example 7 differs from Example 1 in that in chamber 1 and chamber 2 additionally a foam inhibitor is present. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X X foam inhibitor X X pH 6-8 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 8

Example 8 differs from Example 1 in that in chamber 1 and chamber 2 additionally a color transfer inhibitor is present. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X X Color transfer inhibitor X X pH 6-8 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 9

Example 9 differs from Example 1 in that there is additionally an ironing aid in chamber 3. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X Ironing adjuvant X pH 6-8 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 10

Example 10 differs from Example 1 in that the preparation stored in chamber 1 has a substantially acidic pH of 3-7, preferably 3-6. The dosage of a first, acidic preparation can prevent the formation and the setting of poorly soluble deocomponents (aluminum salts) by high pH values, so that such soiling can be easily removed by the surfactants and enzymes contained in an acidic environment. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X X pH 3-7 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min After starting a rinse program section

Example 11

Example 11 differs from Example 1 in that the bleached preparation stocked in chamber 2 is dosed into the washing process at two different times. Preferably, the bleach-containing preparation is dosed a first time between 10 and 30 minutes after the start of a wash program and a second time after the beginning of a wash program section, preferably 0.5-30 minutes, preferably 1-15 minutes, more preferably 5-15 minutes after the start of a Rinse program section dosed. It is very particularly preferred to dispense the bleach-containing preparation from the second chamber not at the same time but with a time delay to the fragrance-containing preparation from the third chamber after the beginning of the rinse program section. Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 enzyme X enzyme stabilizer X bleaching X surfactant X complexing X perfume X water X X X solvent X pH 3-7 8-12 6-8 Dosierzeitpunkt 0-15 min 10-30 min and after the beginning of a washing program section After starting a rinse program section

Of course, it is possible to form any combinations of Examples 1-11.

Fig. 1

Dosiersystem für eine Waschmaschine mit einer in der Einspülschublade der Waschmaschine mündenden Fluid-Leitung

Fig. 2

Dosiersystem für eine Waschmaschine mit in der Einspülschublade der Waschmaschine mündenden Fluid-Leitungen

Fig. 3

Dosiersystem für eine Waschmaschine mit einer Mehrzahl von Dosiergeräten

Fig. 4

Adapter zur Kopplung des Dosiersystems mit einer Einspülschublade einer Waschmaschine

Fig. 5

Dosiersystem für eine Waschmaschine mit einer Fluid-Leitung die durch die Waschmaschinentür in den Behandlungsraum geführt ist

Fig. 6

Waschmaschine mit einer Schnittstelle für das erfindungsgemäße Dosiersystem

The dosing system will be explained in more detail on the basis of illustrations showing merely exemplary embodiments. Show it;

Fig. 1

Dosing system for a washing machine with an opening in the Einspülschublade the washing machine fluid line

Fig. 2

Dosing system for a washing machine with opening in the Einspülschublade the washing machine fluid lines

Fig. 3

Dosing system for a washing machine with a plurality of dosing devices

Fig. 4

Adapter for coupling the metering system with a Einspülschublade a washing machine

Fig. 5

Dosing system for a washing machine with a fluid line which is guided through the washing machine door in the treatment room

Fig. 6

Washing machine with an interface for the metering system according to the invention

Fig. 1 shows a first possible embodiment of the metering system 1 according to the invention. The metering system 1 consists of a metering device 5 which is detachably coupled to a cartridge comprising three chambers 3a, 3b, 3c. The cartridge chambers 3a, 3b, 3c can be removed individually from the dosing device 5 in the embodiment shown. Of course, it is also possible to form the cartridge chambers 3a, 3b, 3c as an inseparable cartridge unit.

Within the dosing device 5 is a control unit for controlling the dosing device 5, an energy source, preferably as a battery, accumulator or power plug and a pump that promotes the preparations from the cartridge chambers 3a, 3b, 3c.

At the metering device 5, a fluid line 7 is arranged, through which the pumped by the pump preparation to Einspülschublade 8 of the washing machine 2 are passed. The free, distal end of the fluid line 7 is positioned in the dispenser drawer 8. It is also possible to couple the fluid line 7 with the Einspülschublade 8 by means of an adapter provided for this purpose. This will be discussed in more detail elsewhere. About the Einspülschublade 8 then passes a dosed by the dosing device 5 preparation in the treatment room 6 of the washing machine. 2

At the free, distal end of the fluid line 7 is a conductivity sensor, through which the presence or the flushing of water is detected in the Einspülschublade 8 of the washing machine 2.

In the presence of a corresponding sensor value representing the presence or the flushing in of water, the metering device 5 doses at least one of the preparations from the cartridge chambers 3a, 3b, 3c in accordance with a metering program stored in the control unit.

The fluid line 7 may in particular be formed of a flexible hose, preferably of plastic. In this way, the fluid conduit 7 can be positioned in the Einspülschublade 8 in a manner that is simple for a user. Additionally, the fluid conduit 7 may be configured to be pinch-proof, i. the conduit cross-section is substantially maintained, even if the fluid conduit 7 is e.g. is squeezed through the Einspülschublade 8 of an object standing on the line. It is also conceivable to form the fluid line 7 as a rigid channel.

Fig. 2 shows that off Fig. 1 known dosing system 1, wherein for each of the to be released from the cartridge chambers 3a, 3b, 3c preparation, a separate fluid line 7a, 7b, 7c is provided. The free distal ends of the fluid lines 7a, 7b, 7c can be positioned in a dispensing chamber of the dispensing drawer 8 or in different dispensing chambers of the dispensing drawer 8.

In principle, it is also conceivable to combine a plurality of dosing devices 5a, 5b, 5c to form a dosing system 1, wherein a respective cartridge chamber 3a, 3b, 3c is coupled to each dosing device 5a, 5b, 5c, each with different preparations. This is exemplary in Fig. 3 played. Each of the dosing devices 5a, 5b, 5c has in each case a fluid line 7a, 7b, 7c whose free, distal end open into in each case different dispensing chambers 8a, 8b, 8c of the dispensing drawer 8.

If preparations from the dosing system 1 are to be dosed into a dispensing drawer 8 of a washing machine 2, it is advantageous to use a corresponding adapter 11, as shown by way of example in FIG Fig. 4 is shown, provided by means of which the fluid lines 7a, 7b, 7c are releasably fixed in the Einspülschublade and with respect to their position relative to the existing Einspülkammern 8a, 8b, 8c of the Einspülschublade 8 are fixed.

In addition to the introduction of a preparation by means of a fluid line 7 in the treatment chamber 6 via the Einspülschublade 8 a washing machine 2 is - as in Fig. 5 shown - also possible to introduce a preparation by means of a fluid conduit 7 via the door 9 of the washing machine 2 in the treatment room 6.

Furthermore, it is also possible that interfaces 10a, 10b, 10c are provided on the washing machine 2, which allow a coupling with the dosing device 5 in such a way that a fluid connection via the interfaces 10, 10b, 10c between a preferably rigid fluid line 7a, 7b, 7c of the metering device 5 and the treatment chamber 6 of the washing machine can be produced.

Claims (17)

1. Dosing system for releasing preparations inside a washing machine, comprising

   • at least one dosing device (5) and

   • at least one cartridge which is coupleable to the dosing device,

   • wherein the cartridge includes at least three chambers (3a, 3b, 3c) containing flowable preparations which are different from one another, characterized in that

   ∘ the first chamber stores at least one enzyme, one enzyme stabilizer, and one surfactant,

   ∘ the second chamber stores at least one bleach and one complexing agent,

   ∘ the third chamber stores at least one fragrance and/or one optical brightener and/or one textile-softening compound.
2. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 6-8, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 6-8, and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of 6-8 or 1-3.
3. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 3-7, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 6-8, and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of 6-8 or 1-3.
4. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 3-7, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 8-12, and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of 6-8 or 1-3.
5. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the preparation in the first chamber has a pH of 6-8, the preparation in the second chamber has a pH of 8-12, and the preparation in the third chamber has a pH of 6-8 or 1-3.
6. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first chamber contains no bleach and/or complexing agent and/or fragrance.
7. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second chamber contains no enzyme, enzyme stabilizer, fragrance, and/or surfactant.
8. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the third chamber contains no bleach, enzyme, and/or enzyme stabilizer.
9. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device includes at least one sensor for detecting the presence of water during operation of the washing machine.
10. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device includes at least one conductivity sensor and/or temperature sensor and/or acoustic sensor.
11. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device is configured in such a way that dosing from the first chamber of the cartridge takes place when at least one sensor signal which represents the presence of water inside the washing machine is present.
12. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device is configured in such a way that dosing from the second chamber is initiated after a predefined period of time between 0.1 sec and 30 min, preferably between 0.5 min and 15 min, after the dosing from the first chamber of the cartridge has taken place.
13. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device is detachably or fixedly situated outside the washing machine and/or the treatment chamber of the washing machine.
14. Dosing system according to one of preceding Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the dosing device is detachably or fixedly situated inside the rotating treatment chamber of the washing machine.
15. Dosing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device is detachably or fixedly situated inside the dispensing compartment (8) of the washing machine.
16. Cartridge for use in a dosing system according to one of Claims 1 to 15, wherein the cartridge includes at least three chambers (3a, 3b, 3c) containing flowable preparations which are different from one another, characterized in that

    • the first chamber stores at least one enzyme, one enzyme stabilizer, and one surfactant,

    • the second chamber stores at least one bleach and one complexing agent,

    • the third chamber stores at least one fragrance and/or one optical brightener and/or
17. Method for releasing preparations inside a washing machine, comprising

    • at least one dosing device having at least one sensor which is suitable for detecting the presence of water inside the washing machine and

    • at least one cartridge which is coupleable to the dosing device,

    • wherein the cartridge includes at least three chambers (3a, 3b, 3c) containing flowable preparations which are different from one another, characterized in that

    ∘ the first chamber stores at least one enzyme, one enzyme stabilizer, and one surfactant,

    ∘ the second chamber stores at least one bleach and one complexing agent,

    ∘ the third chamber stores at least one fragrance and/or one optical brightener and/or one textile-softening compound,

    wherein

    • dosing from the first chamber of the cartridge takes place when at least one sensor signal which represents the presence of water inside the washing machine is present, and

    • dosing from the second chamber is initiated after a predefined period of time between 0.1 sec and 15 min after the dosing from the first chamber of the cartridge has taken place.

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