EP2544578B1 - Method for controlling a dosing system which can be positioned inside a water-conducting domestic appliance - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a method for controlling a dosing system which can be positioned inside a water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, having the features of claim 1.

State of the art

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

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

In this context, in particular, devices for the multiple dosing of detergents and cleaners have recently come into the field of vision of the product developers. In these devices, it is possible to distinguish between dosing chambers integrated in the dishwasher or textile washing machine on the one hand and independent devices which are independent of the dishwasher or textile washing machine on the other hand. By means of these devices, which contain the multiple of the amount of detergent necessary for carrying out a cleaning process, detergent or cleaner portions are automatically or semi-automatically

Way metered in the course of several successive cleaning process in the interior of the cleaning machine. For the consumer eliminates the need for manual dosing with each cleaning or washing cycle. Examples of such devices are disclosed in the European patent application EP 1 759 624 A2 (Reckitt Benckiser) or in the German patent application DE 53 5005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch and Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH).

EP0611159 A1 (Brightwell Dispensers LTD) discloses a method of controlling a dosing system for a water-bearing household appliance. The dosing system includes either temperature sensors or electrical contacts for measuring temperature or detecting water.

A problem of self-sufficient, so independent of the control of a dishwasher metering devices is the detection and assignment of individual Spülprogrammabschnitte, such as the beginning of a wash program, the Vorspülabschnitl, the Hauptspülabschnitt, the Klarspülabsrhnitt and / or the drying section. Only by a comparatively accurate detection of the corresponding Spolprogrammabschnitte, a needs-based and accurate dosage of one or more automatic Dishülülüleln can be realized from such a metering device.

Object of the invention

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a cost-effective and reliable detection of the beginning of a cleaning program for self-sufficient metering devices of the type described.

This object is achieved by a method according to claim 1 and by a metering system for carrying out the method according to claim 13.

The invention will be explained in more detail below by way of example for dishwashers. However, the invention is also readily suitable for other water-bearing household appliances, such as a washing machine.

The invention allows the cost-effective detection of the beginning of a cleaning program with technically simple and inexpensive components. In this way, in particular a rapid dosing is ensured at the beginning of a cleaning program in the dishwasher, whereby the longest possible dwell time of the respectively dosed dishwasher preparation in the wash liquor can take place. The correspondingly optimized exposure times of the dishwashing preparation finally results in a better cleaning performance.

The method according to the invention for controlling a dosing system which can be positioned inside a dishwasher comprises a cartridge filled with at least one preparation, a dosing device which can be coupled to the cartridge, wherein the dosing device comprises at least one temperature sensor and a conductivity sensor, wherein the temperature sensor and / or the conductivity sensor can be arranged in and / or on and / or outside the dosing device, and a dispensing means for releasing a preparation from the cartridge into the interior of the dishwasher, comprising Steps of measuring a first temperature T ₁ inside the dishwasher by means of the temperature sensor and measuring the resistance R at the conductivity _sensor , wherein T ₁ > T _Ref1 , where T _{Ref1 is} a predefined, first reference _temperature , which is at least 21 ° C., is preferably at least 30 ° C and R <R _Ref , where R _{Ref is} a predefined reference resistance, which represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor, a release of at least one volume V _{1 of} a first preparation from the cartridge takes place inside the dishwasher.

By using temperature and conductivity information, i.a. prevents the dosing device from initiating an undesired dosing operation in a warm environment, for example, during transportation, which could happen if only temperature information were used to control 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, if the aforementioned conditions are met, it is also possible to dose more than one volume V _{1 of} a preparation from the cartridge into the interior of the dishwasher. For example, a first volume V _{1 of} a first preparation and a second volume V2 of a second preparation may 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 cartridge takes place inside the dishwasher. In this way, in particular, a temperature rise, which is detected in the heating phase of the dishwasher, in particular in the main rinse section of a 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 dishwasher - especially at the beginning of a cleaning program - the temperature rise of the measured temperature T ₁ in the dishwasher 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 on the conductivity sensor and in the presence of the condition R <R _Ref , where R _{Ref is} a predefined reference resistance representing the presence of water at the conductivity sensor, an immediate release of at least one volume V1 of a first preparation from the cartridge takes place inside the dishwasher ,

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 dishwasher is measured above the first reference temperature TR _ef1 , 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 the shortened monitoring intervals a timely detection of water in the dishwasher 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, in a further development of the method according to the invention, it is provided that after the first volume V1 has been metered, a second volume V2 of a second preparation is passed from the cartridge to the inside of the dishwasher, the first preparation being from the second Preparation is different and between the dosage of V1 and V2 a predefined time interval t _diff , preferably between 30-300 sec, more preferably between 60-240 sec, most 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 preparation.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the metering volume V2 is approximately 1 * V1 to 10 * V1, particularly preferably 2 * V1 to 7 * V1, very particularly preferably 3 * V1 to 5 * V1.

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 cartridge takes place inside the dishwasher, the third preparation is different from the first and the second preparation.

In this case, it is particularly preferred that the third preparation is a rinse aid formulation.

The individual elements of the method and system according to the invention are explained in more detail below.

dosing

In particular, the control unit necessary for carrying out the method according to the invention and at least one sensor unit, in particular a conductivity sensor, are integrated in the dosing device. Preferably, an actuator and / or an energy source are also arranged on or in the metering device.

It is particularly preferred that the dosing device comprises at least a first interface which cooperates in or on a dishwasher formed corresponding interface in such a way that a transfer of electrical energy and / or signals from the dishwasher to the dosing and / or from the dosing to the dishwasher 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 dishwasher, as a transmitter-coil operated with alternating current with iron core and the interface of the dosing device can be designed 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 dishwasher 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 dishwasher for the transmission (ie sending and receiving) of electromagnetic and / or optical signals, which in particular represent operating state, measuring and / or control information of the dosing device and / or the dishwasher. educated.

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

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

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

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

In particular, the interface comprises at least one LED. Particularly preferably, the interface comprises at least two LEDs. 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. Thus, for example, it is also conceivable that light is emitted at a different wavelength during the drying process, during which there is a high level of atmospheric humidity (mist) in the washing compartment, than, for example, during a washing step.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

sensors

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

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor unit comprises at least one, at least 2-pole conductivity sensor. Preferably, at least two poles of the conductivity sensor have a distance of 2-25 mm, preferably 5-15 mm, particularly preferably about 12 mm.

It has proven to be particularly advantageous that at least two poles of a conductivity sensor are coated with an electrically conductive silicone, wherein it is particularly preferable that a substantially planar surface between the silicone and the Dosiergeräteboden is formed. Due to the elastomeric properties of the conductive silicone, the sensor can be sealed in a simple and effective manner with respect to the environment and embedded in a housing wall of the dosing device.

In order to maintain the measurement accuracy over a large number of measurements, it is advantageous that, after each resistance measurement, a polarity reversal occurs at the 2-pole conductivity sensor, so that no charge excesses can form on the conductivity sensor.

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

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

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

The conductance or conductivity sensor may consist of an electrically conductive anode and a cathode which protrude from the housing of the metering device into the interior of the dishwasher or are electrically conductively connected to the interior of the dishwasher. Preferably, the distance of the anode and cathode is selected so that an electrically conductive water bridge between the anode and cathode can form during operation of the dishwasher, which can be measured by a drop in the resistance between the anode and cathode.

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

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

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

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

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

In order to extend the energy consumption of the dosing device or the life of the energy source, in particular a battery, the energy consumers of the dosing device, in particular the control unit, including an on / off switch can be connected to the power source and the energy source only after reaching the On-state of the on / off switch loaded with 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 when an electrically conductive Connection between the contacts of the off-state on / off switch switches to the on state.

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, a sensor unit designed as a conductivity sensor is provided, which has two contacts in contact with the environment at the bottom of the dosing device and the anode contact of the on / off Sensor unit is simultaneously the anode contact of the conductivity sensor forming sensor unit. 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.

It is particularly preferred that the contacts of a conductivity sensor arranged on the bottom side are surrounded by an electrically conductive silicone. The conductivity sensor may in this case be designed, in particular in the form of a resistance measurement, between two contacts spaced apart from one another and in contact with the surroundings of the dosing device. It is particularly preferred that the silicone is flush-mounted in the bottom of the metering device. Advantageously, this has Silicone on a roughly circular base. The silicone shows a good wettability with water and thus provides good measurement results regarding the detection of water in the dishwasher.

In order to avoid a, affecting the sense accuracy, polarization at the contacts of the conductivity sensor when using a DC power source to avoid, it is advantageous, two consecutive resistance measurements on the conductivity sensor, each with different polarity, ie with a permutation of plus and minus pole or anodes - And cathode contact to perform, so that no charge excesses 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. For this purpose, the control unit influences actuators with the aid of information, in particular of measuring signals of the sensor unit, which processes them in the sense of the control target.

In particular, the control unit may be a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dosing programs are stored on the microprocessor.

The control unit has, in a preferred embodiment, no connection to the possibly existing control of the household appliance. Accordingly, no information, in particular electrical, 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 position a transmitter on or in a dishwasher, preferably on or at the dosing chamber embedded in the door of the dishwasher, which wirelessly transmits a signal to the dosing unit when the control of the domestic appliance controls the dosing of, for example, a detergent from the dosing unit Dosing or rinse aid causes.

The control unit can store several programs for releasing different preparations or for releasing automatic dishwashing preparations.

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

It is particularly preferred that the Dosierintenralle for delivering a preparation between 30-90 sec, more preferably 45-75 sec lie.

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 1st dosage 2nd dosage 3.Dosierung 4.Dosierung Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid disinfecting preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid perfume pretreatment preparation Enzymatic cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning preparation rinse aid

Furthermore, it is advantageous that at least one enzyme-containing preparation and / or alkaline preparation is released in the pre- and / or main wash program of the dishwasher, the release of the enzyme-containing preparation preferably taking place before the release of the alkaline preparation. Furthermore, it is preferred that the dosage of the rinse aid takes place in the final-rinse program of the dishwasher.

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

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.

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

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

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

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 are connected to the inlet openings of the outlet openings Metering device are communicatively connected, so preparation via the outlet openings from the cartridge in the metering device, preferably gravitational effects, can flow.

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.

List of Figures

Fig. 1

Positioning of the dosing device in a dishwasher

Fig. 2

Positioning the dosing device in a dish rack

Fig. 3

Dosing device with bottom-mounted conductivity sensor

Fig. 4

Sequence diagram for the dosing process for the delivery of a preparation

Fig. 5 (A and B)

Sequence diagram for the dosing process for the time-delayed delivery of two preparations

Fig. 6 [a] (A and B)

Sequence diagram for the dosing process for the time-delayed delivery of three preparations

Fig. 1 shows a positionable dosing device 2 with a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the dish drawer 11 with the dishwasher door 39 open a dishwasher 38. In the dosing device, the control unit and the conductivity sensor are arranged. It can be seen that the dosing device 2 can be positioned with the cartridge 1 in principle anywhere in the dish drawer 11, wherein it is advantageous to provide a dish-shaped or cup-shaped dosing 1.2 in a corresponding plate or cup receptacle of the dish drawer 11 , In the dishwasher door 39 is a metering chamber 53, in which a dishwasher cleaner preparation can be given, for example in the form of a tablet. It is advantageous in this embodiment of the invention that when the positionable metering system 1,2 in the lower or upper (not shown) dish drawer 11, the delivery of the preparations 40a, 40b from the cartridge 1 directly through the bottom of the dispenser arranged outlet openings in the rinsing water liquor takes place, so that a quick solution and uniform distribution of the rinse formulations is guaranteed in the washing program. Furthermore, this ensures that the conductivity sensor, which is arranged in the operating position of the dosing device in the direction of gravity at the bottom of the dosing device, during operation of the dishwasher direct spraying of the conductivity sensor with rinse water is effected by a spray arm and the control unit and the conductivity sensor are configured such that a discontinuous, discrete resistance measurement is made on the conductivity sensor.

FIG. 2 the possible arrangement of the dosing device can be seen in the dish rack of a dishwasher. FIG. 2 shows the coupled with a cartridge 1 dosing device 2 in the plate receptacle 110 of a dish drawer 41. The usually grid-like trained dish drawer 41 has struts 109 into which the fixing means 108 of the dosing device 2 engage. In this way, a lateral slipping of the dosing device 2, for example, when pulling out or pushing the dish drawer 41 into the dishwasher 38, avoided. Furthermore, it is ensured by this arrangement in the plate receptacle that the conductivity sensor, which is arranged in the operating position of the dosing device in the direction of gravity at the bottom of the dosing, a direct spraying of the conductivity sensor with rinse water is effected by a spray arm during operation of the dishwasher.

The metering device 2 has on the bottom side a conductivity sensor 5 with a protruding from the bottom of the metering 2 anode and cathode, which is also good in Fig. 3 can be seen. The conductivity sensor 5 is in the in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown operating position of the dosing device 2 in the direction of gravity on the bottom side of the dosing device 2.

The control unit (not visible) arranged in the dosing device 2 and the conductivity sensor 5 are configured such that a discontinuous, discrete resistance measurement is carried out on the conductivity sensor 5. The control unit is designed as, in particular programmable microcontroller. The frequency of the resistance measurement is adjusted via the control unit so that it corresponds to at least the maximum rotational frequency of a spray arm inside the dishwasher. In particular, the frequency of the resistance measurement is selected so that at least 100, preferably at least 200, resistance measurements are made on the conductivity sensor per second.

Fig. 4 shows a flow chart for the inventive method for controlling a positionable in the interior of a dishwasher metering system for dispensing a preparation inside the dishwasher. The illustrated method makes it possible to detect the start of a rinsing cycle in the interior of a dishwasher with the aid of a dosing system which can be positioned inside the dishwasher and to deliver a volume V1 of a first preparation to the interior of the dishwasher.

The start of the method can be initiated for example by a manually operated or automatic switch or button. For example, it is conceivable to initiate the start by a switch or push-button triggering the coupling of the cartridge and the metering device.

It is preferable that a first counter n _{v1 representing} the number of doses of volume V1 of a first preparation be reset to zero before or at the start of the process.

Temperature monitoring detects a temperature rise in the dishwasher, which causes the beginning of a rinsing cycle, which is usually associated with an increase in the temperature in the dishwasher. First of all, after the start, a measurement (i) of a first temperature T ₁ in the interior of the dishwasher is carried out by means of the temperature sensor. If the measured temperature T _{1 is} less than a first reference temperature (i.1), which is preferably at least 21 ° C, particularly preferably at least 30 ° C, a new measurement of the temperature T _{1 is} initiated after a time interval, wherein the corresponding time interval between 1 minute and 10 minutes, preferably between 2 and 5 minutes. In order to keep the energy consumption for this temperature monitoring low, the temperature is preferably measured not continuously, but discretely at predefined time intervals.

If the measured temperature T ₁ exceeds the first reference temperature, then the resistance R at the conductivity sensor (ii.a) is determined. If the measured resistance R is greater than a predefined reference resistance R _ref (ii.1), which represents the presence of water on the conductance sensor, then after a time interval that is preferably between 30 sec and 10 minutes, particularly preferably between 45 sec and 3 min , initiates a re-measurement of the temperature T ₁ (i).

However, if the measured resistance R (ii.a) is less than the predefined reference resistance R _ref (ii.2), which represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor, after a time interval t _diff , which is preferably between 30 sec and 2 min , a second temperature T ₂ measured by means of the temperature sensor. Is there not a sufficient increase in temperature T ₁ + ΔT (ii.2.1) between the measurement of the first temperature T ₁ and the second temperature T ₂ , where ΔT is within the limits of the functional interval (0.5 [° C / min] * t _diff [ min]) to (5 [° C / min] * t _diff [min]), then, after a time interval t _diff , which is preferably between 30 seconds and 10 minutes, particularly preferably between 45 seconds and 3 minutes, a new measurement of the temperature T ₁ (i) initiated.

However, if a sufficiently large temperature rise T ₁ + ΔT (ii.2.2) has taken place between the measurement of the first temperature T ₁ and the second temperature T ₂ , a release of the volume V _{1 of} a preparation from the cartridge into the dishwasher is effected by a corresponding Dispensing means of the dosing initiated and a first counter n _{V1 representing} the number of doses of the volume V1 is increased by one (ii.2.2.1). If the number of dosages is below a defined maximum number n _V1.max (ii.2.2.1.2), where n _{V1.max is} preferably between 2 and 50, particularly preferably between 5 and 35, very particularly preferably between 10 and 30, then it has the cartridge still has a sufficient filling volume for a further dosage of a first preparation and after a time interval t _diff , which is preferably between 30 sec and 10 minutes, particularly preferably between 45 sec and 3 min, a renewed measurement of the temperature T ₁ (i).

However, if the counter n _V1 has reached the maximum number n _{V1, max} (ii.2.2.1.1), the method is ended. A start of the method can then be initiated, for example, by inserting a new, filled cartridge, in which case the counter n _V1 is reset to zero.

However, it is also conceivable that the temperature rise of the measured temperature T ₁ (i) in the dishwasher after a time interval t _diff (i.1) is so large that a second reference _temperature T _Ref2 , which is greater than the first reference _temperature T _Ref1 , is exceeded (i.3). Preferably, the second reference _temperature T _{Ref2 is} between 35 ° C and 45 ° C, more preferably between 37 ° C and 42 ° C.

In this case, a resistance measurement R (ii.b) is carried out, wherein for a measured resistance R (ii.b), which is lower than the predefined reference resistance R _ref (i.3.2), which represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor, Thus, a release of the volume V1 of a preparation from the cartridge into the dishwasher is initiated by a corresponding dispensing means of the dispenser and the first counter n _V1 , which represents the number of doses of the volume V1, increased by one (i.3.2.1 the number of doses below the defined maximum number n _v1.max (i.3.2.1.1), then the cartridge still has a sufficient filling volume for a further dosage of a first preparation and a renewed measurement of the temperature T ₁ (i) ,

However, if the counter n _V1 has reached the maximum number n _V1.max (i.3.2.1.2), the method is ended. A start of the method can then be initiated, for example, by inserting a new, filled cartridge, in which case the counter n _V1 is reset to zero.

It is preferable for each conductance measurement to be reversed in polarity of the electrodes of the conductance sensor in order to preclude electron isolation by ion clouds of the DC operation as a possible measurement error source.

Fig. 5 shows a flow chart for a dosing method for the staggered delivery of two mutually different preparations. Like from the Fig. 5 can be seen, the procedure initially corresponds essentially to that of the Fig. 4 known procedure for dosing a preparation.

However, the process steps (i.3.2.1.1) and / or (ii.2.2.1.2) do not take place as in Fig. 5 shown a re-measurement of the temperature T1 (i), but it is followed by the process section (iii), which will be explained in more detail below.

After the first volume V1 of the first preparation has been metered in, t _diff (iii.1), which is preferably between 30 sec and 10 minutes, particularly preferably between 45 sec and 5 min, very particularly preferably between 1 min and 3 min, occurs after a time interval , the dosing of a second volume (iii.2) of a second preparation which is different from the first preparation. Preferably, the first preparation is an enzyme-containing preparation and the second preparation is an alkaline preparation. It is further preferred that the metering volume V2 in about 1 * V1 to 10 * V1, more preferably 2 * V1 to 7 * V1, most preferably 3 * V1 to 5 * V1.

It is advantageous that for the metering of V2 multiple subsets of V2 are metered to come to the target volume V2, wherein it is particularly preferred that the metered subsets are equal and V1 or a multiple of V1 amount.

In a further, preferred embodiment of the invention, a time interval without product delivery can lie between the metering of the partial quantities, wherein the time interval is selected such that the floating of the floating body in the predosing chamber is ensured.

Optionally, after the dosing of the volume V2 (iii.2), a second counter n _v2 , which represents the number of doses of the volume V2, can be increased by one (iii.3). If the number of dosages is below a defined maximum number n _{v2, max} (iii.3.2), where n _{v2.max is} preferably between 2 and 50, particularly preferably between 5 and 35, very particularly preferably between 10 and 30, and corresponds in a particularly advantageous manner In the manner of the defined maximum number n _{v1.max of} the dosages of V1, the cartridge still has a filling volume of the second preparation which is sufficient for a further dosage and a renewed measurement of the temperature T ₁ (i) takes place.

However, if counter n _v2 has reached the maximum number n _{v2, max} (iii.3.1), the method is ended. A start of the method can then be initiated for example by inserting a new, filled cartridge, in which case the counter n _v2 - and preferably also the counter n _V1 - is reset to zero.

A flowchart for a dosing method for laterally offset delivery of three different preparations is shown in FIG Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B. Again Fig. 6A Is good, is the procedure initially the out Fig. 5 known procedure for the time offset dosage of two preparations. Notwithstanding the in Fig. 5 (A and B), but is shown in Fig. 6A at step (iii.3.2) does not initiate a re-measurement of the temperature T ₁ (i) but the process step (iv) is carried out by, for example, metering a rinse aid preparation after a predefined time.

Claims (14)

1. A method for controlling a dispensing system (1, 2) positionable in the interior of a water-conveying household appliance (38), encompassing

   - a cartridge (1) filled with at least one preparation,

   - a dispenser (2) that is coupled detachably or nondetachably to the cartridge (1), the dispenser (2) encompassing at least
   ○ a temperature sensor and a conductivity sensor (5), such that the temperature sensor and/or the conductivity sensor (5) can be arranged in and/or on and/or outside the dispenser (2), and
   ○ a delivery means for releasing a preparation from the cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38),

   encompassing the steps of

   a. measuring (i) at least one first temperature T₁ in the interior of the water-conveying household appliance by means of the temperature sensor,

   b. measuring (ii) the resistance R at the conductivity sensor (5),

   wherein steps (a.) and (b.) can occur in any sequence,
   and when a defined temperature T_ref is exceeded, and when the resistance falls below a predefined reference resistance R_ref that represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor (5), a release of at least one volume V1 of a first preparation from the cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38) occurs.
2. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that when the conditions

   - T₁ > T_Ref1, where T_Ref1 is a predefined first reference temperature that is equal to at least 21°C, preferably at least 30°C, and

   - R < R_Ref, where R_Ref is a predefined reference resistance that represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor (5),

   exist,
   a release of at least one volume V1 of a first preparation from the cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38) occurs.
3. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

   - when the condition T₁ > TR_ef1 (i.2) and R < R_Ref (ii.1) exists, a temperature measurement of a second temperature T₂ occurs by means of the temperature sensor after a predefined time interval t_dif, in particular after 10 to 600 sec, preferably after 30 to 240 sec, particularly preferably 45 to 100 sec, and

   - when the condition T₂ > T₁ + ΔT (ii.2.2) exists, where ΔT lies within the limits of the functional range (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 cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38) occurs.
4. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when the condition T₁ > T_Ref2 (i.3) exists, where T_Ref2 is a second reference temperature that is equal to at least 35°C, preferably at least 40°C, a measurement (ii.b) of the resistance R at the conductivity sensor (5) occurs, and when the condition R < R_Ref (i.3.2) exists, where R_Ref is a predefined reference resistance that represents the presence of water at the conductivity sensor (5), a release of at least one volume V1 of a first preparation from the cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38) occurs.
5. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after dispensing of the first volume V1, dispensing of a second volume V2 of a second preparation from the cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38) occurs, the first preparation being different from the second preparation and a predefined time interval t_diff, preferably between 30 and 300 sec, particularly preferably between 60 and 240 sec, very particularly preferably between 60 and 150 sec, being present between the dispensing of V1 and of V2.
6. The method according to Claim 5, characterized in that the first preparation is an enzyme-containing preparation and the second preparation is an alkaline preparation.
7. The method according to one of Claims 5 to 6, characterized in that after the dispensing of the first volume V1 and of the second volume V2, dispensing of a third volume V3 of a third preparation from the cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38) occurs, the third preparation being different from the first and the second preparation.
8. The method according to Claim 7, characterized in that the third preparation is a rinse aid preparation.
9. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that at least the release of a volume V2 of a second preparation from the cartridge (1) into the interior of the water-conveying household appliance (38) occurs, the release occurring substantially simultaneously with the first volume V1 of the first preparation, and the first and the second preparation being different from one another.
10. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensed volume V2 is equal to approximately 1 * V1 to 10 * V1, particularly preferably 2 * V1 to 7 * V1, very particularly preferably 3 * V1 to 5*V1.
11. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at each conductivity measurement, a polarity reversal of the electrodes of the conductivity sensor occurs.
12. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water-conveying household appliance is an automatic dishwasher.
13. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one measured value of the temperature sensor and/or conductivity sensor is transferred by means of an optical interface to an automatic dishwasher.
14. A dispensing system for carrying out the method according to one of the preceding claims, encompassing

    - a cartridge filled with at least one preparation,

    - a dispenser that is couplable to the cartridge, the dispenser encompassing at least
    ○ a temperature sensor and a conductivity sensor, wherein the temperature sensor and/or the conductivity sensor can be arranged in and/or on and/or outside the dispenser, and
    ○ a delivery means for releasing a preparation from the cartridge into the interior of a water-conveying household appliance, and
    ○ a control unit that is coupled to the temperature sensor and to the conductivity sensor and to the delivery means, and in which the dispensing method according to one of the preceding claims is stored.

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