EP2545216B1 - Method for operating a dosing system inside a water-guiding household appliance - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a method and a system for energy-optimized operation of a particular energy self-sufficient metering system inside a water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher.

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, portions of washing or cleaning agents are automatically or semiautomatically introduced into the interior of the interior in the course of several successive cleaning processes Cleaning machine dosed. 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 10 2005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch and Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH).

Furthermore, it is off DE102008033108 a dosing device that can be positioned inside a dishwasher and which is configured to exchange signals between the dosing device and the dishwasher. Dosing devices of this type, however, usually only have a capacitively limited power source, so that it is desirable to make the operation of the dosing in the way that the energy source, for example in the form of a battery, has the longest possible life. Furthermore, it is basically desirable for cost reasons as well as aspects of resource conservation and environmental protection that dosing systems of the type described, consume as little energy. Furthermore, also disclosed WO 2010/006761 A1 a dosing device, which can be positioned inside a dishwasher and which is adapted to exchange signals with the dishwasher.

Object of the invention

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a method and a system for operating a metering device of the type described above, which ensures the lowest possible energy consumption of the energy source of the metering device.

This object is achieved by a method for operating a metering system in the interior of a water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, comprising a water-conducting household appliance, comprising at least one household appliance side transmitter S _h and at least one household appliance side receiver E _h , and a dosing device inside the can be positioned, which comprises at least one dosing device side transmitter S _d and at least one dosing device side receiver E _d , and which is characterized in that at least one dosing device side receiver E _{d is} alternately connected to the way that it in a first interval .DELTA.T _{1, d , e h} can not receive signals of a corresponding home appliance-side transmitter S and that it can be sent within a second interval .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} signals of a corresponding home appliance-side transmitter S _h wherein said first interval ΔT _{1, d, e} ≥ the second interval ΔT _{2, d, e} and at least one home appliance-side transmitter S _{h is} configured to emit a signal that can be received by a corresponding dispenser-side receiver E _d , the signal having a duration ΔT _{1, h, s} , which is greater than the first interval .DELTA.T _{1, d, e} , within which the corresponding dosing device-side receiver E _{d can} not receive signals from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h .

This makes it possible to set the dosing device with respect to the communication with the household appliance during the interval .DELTA.T _{1, d, e} in a sleep or stand-by mode and only intermittently in a receive mode .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} , so that the energy consumption of the dosing device can be reduced by the method according to the invention.

A receiver can be put into a state in which it can not receive signals, for example, by power-down or voltage reduction. Furthermore, a receiver can be placed, for example, by energization in a state in which it can receive signals. For example, the change between the two states can be realized by an on / off circuit.

It is preferred that the dosing device-side receiver is connected in such a way that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} constant. It is particularly preferred that the dosing device-side receiver is connected in such a way that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} less than 30 seconds, preferably less than 20 seconds, more preferably less than 10 seconds.

In order to make the method particularly advantageous with respect to energy consumption, it is preferred that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} at least twice, preferably at least three times, more preferably at least four times as long as the second interval ΔT _{2, d, e} ,

According to the inventive method, the dosing device-side receiver E _{d is connected} after receipt of the household appliance-side signal ΔT _{1, d, e} in such a way that it can receive signals from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h .

In a preferred further development of the invention, the transmitter-side transmitter S _h sends at least one further signal, preferably at least two further signals, after the transmission of the signal ΔT _{1, h, s} . As a result of these signals, which follow ΔT _{1, h, s} , the dosing device can recognize that the signal is a signal from the household appliance and not an accidental light incidence, for example, that can occur when a dishwasher door is opened.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention sends the dosing device side transmitter S _d after receiving the household appliance side signal .DELTA.T _{1, h, s} by the dosing device at least one signal, the signal in particular information about the operating status of the dosing device such as the number of remaining doses or the battery status. Of course it is possible to transmit any information or measurand present in the dosing device to it by means of a corresponding signal.

It is furthermore preferable that at least one home appliance-side transmitter S _h , at least one home appliance-side receiver E _h and at least one doser-side transmitter S _d and at least one doser-side receiver E _d are configured for transmitting or receiving optical signals. It is particularly preferred that at least one household appliance-side transmitter S _h , at least one household appliance-side receiver E _h and at least one doser-side transmitter S _d and at least one doser-side receiver E _d configured for transmitting or receiving light in the visible range and / or infrared signals are.

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

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

dosing

The dosing system according to the invention comprises a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, and a dosing device for dispensing at least one preparation into the interior of the household appliance during a rinsing, washing and / or drying program, wherein the dosing device can be positioned inside a domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher. The household appliance and the dosing device further comprise transmitters and receivers for the preferably optical transmission of signals between the household and dosing device.

dosing

In the dosing device necessary for the operation of the dosing unit control unit, dosing device side transmitter and receiver and at least one actuator are integrated. Preferably, an energy source is also arranged in the metering device.

The dosing device is able to dose at least one preparation inside the household appliance. For this purpose, it can be coupled in particular with a preparation-storing cartridge. The dosing device and the cartridge as well as the basic functionality of the dosing device are in WO2010 / 006761 whose disclosure content is added by this reference of the present application.

It is particularly preferred that the dosing device comprises at least a first interface which cooperates in or on a water-conducting domestic appliance, preferably a dishwasher, formed corresponding interface in such a way that a transfer of electrical energy from the water-conducting household appliance to the dosing device 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 is effected.

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

Transmitter and receiver of dosing and water-conducting household appliance

Both the dosing device and the water-conducting household appliance have mutually corresponding transmitter and receiver, so that a transmission of information between the dosing and the water-conducting household appliance is possible.

The dosing device is thus configured such that it can receive signals from a household appliance-side transmitter and send signals to a household appliance-side receiver. The dosing device-side transmitter and dosing device-side receiver can be positioned at a suitable location on the dosing device.

The household appliance side transmitter and / or receiver can be arranged at any suitable location within the household appliance. Preferably, the household appliance side transmitter and / or receiver in the door of the household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, integrated in the way that the household appliance side transmitter and / or receiver is directed into the interior of the household appliance. It is particularly preferred that the household appliance side transmitter and / or receiver is arranged in a detergent dispenser, a rinse aid or salt dispenser or a Kombidosiergerät.

The domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, and the dosing device advantageously comprise at least one transmitter and at least one receiver for the wireless transmission of signals to the interior of the dishwasher or for the wireless reception of signals from the interior of the dishwasher.

It is particularly preferred that the household appliance and metering device side transmitters and receivers are configured to transmit or receive optical signals. It is very particularly preferred for the household appliance and metering device-side transmitters and receivers to be 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 range, for example in the form of signal pulses or light flashes, can be emitted and detected.

Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the household appliance and metering device side transmitters and receivers are configured to transmit or receive infrared signals. In particular, it is advantageous that the household appliance and metering device side transmitters and receivers are configured for transmitting or receiving infrared signals in the near infrared range (780nm-3,000nm).

In particular, the household appliance-side transmitter comprises at least one LED. The household appliance-side transmitter particularly preferably comprises at least two LEDs. In this case, it is particularly advantageous that at least two LEDs are arranged in a staggered emission angle, which is particularly preferably approximately 90 °. As a result, the danger of signal shadows, in which a freely positionable receiver of the signals, in particular a dosing device, could be due to the generated multiple reflections within the dishwasher reduce.

Also, according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is possible to provide at least two household appliance-side 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 metering and / or household appliance-side LED is an RGB LED whose wavelength can be set. For example, different signal bands can be defined with one LED which 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 household appliance-side transmitter can be configured in a dispensing device such as a Kombidosiergerät so that the LED both for transmitting signals to the inside of the dishwasher, especially when the dishwasher door is closed, as well as for visual display of an operating condition, such as the level of salt or Rinse aid storage container of a dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door is open.

Furthermore, it is advantageous that the household appliance-side transmitter is configured such that it emits an optical signal when the dishwasher is closed, that a mean illuminance E between 0.01 and 100 lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux measured at the the Spülraum limiting Causes walls.

The dosing and / or household appliance-side receiver may in particular comprise a photodiode.

dishwasher

A dishwashing machine suitable for the method according to the invention has, in particular, a closable washing compartment. Usually, the washing compartment of a dishwasher is opened or closed by a door or drawer. Usually, the washing compartment is protected against the entry of ambient light.

The walls of the washing compartment have in particular a gloss level of at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, particularly preferably at least 45 gloss units measured according to DIN 67530 with a 60 ° geometry. As a result, multiple reflections of the emitted optical signals on the walls of the washing compartment are made possible, whereby the danger of possible signal shadows, in particular for optical signals in the visible and / or IR range in the interior of the washing compartment of the dishwasher, is reduced.

Average gloss level means the gloss level averaged over the entire surface of a wall. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the average gloss level of Spülraumwände is at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, more preferably at least 45 gloss units measured according to DIN 67530 with a 60 ° geometry.

Mean washroom gloss level means the gloss level averaged over the entire surface of all washroom walls. In a further preferred development of the invention, the mean flushing gloss level is at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, particularly preferably at least 45 gloss units measured according to DIN 67530 with a 60 ° geometry.

In order to further reduce the risk of signal shadows in the washing compartment, in particular for optical signals in the visible or IR range, it is particularly advantageous that the walls of the washing compartment have a reflectance of at least 50%.

Average reflectance means the reflectance averaged over the entire surface of a wall. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the mean reflectance of the Spülraumwände is at least 50%.

Average washdown reflectance means the reflectance averaged over the entire surface of all washroom walls. In a further preferred development of the invention, the average Spülraumreflexionsgrad is at least 50%.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the walls of the washing compartment on optical reflection elements. The reflection elements serve the most homogeneous possible distribution of the optical signals, in particular in the visible and / or IR range within the washing compartment, so that reduced or completely avoided by the corresponding reflections zones of optical signal shadow within the washing compartment. It is particularly preferred that the reflection elements are formed integrally with the Spülraumwänden. According to an advantageous embodiment, the optical reflection elements protrude out of the plane of the Spülraumwände and into the washing compartment inside. However, it is also conceivable that the optical reflection elements are formed as depressions in the Spülraumwänden. The optical reflection elements can take any suitable spatial form, in particular, the optical reflection elements are, for example, dome-shaped, cup-shaped, frustoconical, quarry-shaped, cube-shaped, with rounded or pointed edges and / or combinations thereof.

The reflection elements can be arranged in particular approximately in the middle of a Spülraumwand. However, it is also conceivable additionally or alternatively, to provide reflection elements at the edges or corners of a Spülraumwand to reduce the risk of signal shadows in particular in the rear, lower and upper corners of the washing compartment (viewed from the dishwasher door of).

preparation

1. a) eine erste wässrige tensidhaltige Zubereitung, bzw.
2. b) eine Zubereitung, die einen pH-Wert von kleiner 5,5, bevorzugt kleiner 4, insbesondere bevorzugt kleiner 3,5 (10-ige Lösung, 20°C) aufweist oder
3. c) eine wässrige Zubereitung, die sowohl Tensid enthält und einen pH-Wert von kleiner 5,5, bevorzugt kleiner 4, insbesondere bevorzugt kleiner 3,5 (10-ige Lösung, 20°C) aufweist.

The metering system according to the invention comprises at least

1. a) a first aqueous surfactant-containing preparation, or
2. b) a preparation which has a pH of less than 5.5, preferably less than 4, particularly preferably less than 3.5 (10% solution, 20 ° C) or
3. c) an aqueous preparation which contains both surfactant and a pH of less than 5.5, preferably less than 4, more preferably less than 3.5 (10-ige solution, 20 ° C).

The use of surfactant or the acidic setting of the preparation, in particular limescale deposits on the walls of the washing compartment can be prevented, which can reduce the gloss and the reflectivity of the walls.

Furthermore, it has surprisingly been found that the transparency of optical transmitter and / or receiver surfaces of the dosing device or the dishwasher can also be kept constant over a large number of rinsing cycles by means of such a surfactant preparation or acid preparation. Particularly advantageous effects are achieved when an aqueous, acidic surfactant preparation is used.

1. a) einer spezifischen, im Klarspülgang freizusetzenden tensidhaltigen Zubereitung oder
2. b) einer spezifischen, im Klarspülgang freizusetzenden sauer Zubereitung oder
3. c) einer spezifischen tensidhaltigen, sauren Zubereitung gewährleistet.

As stated at the outset, the securing and improvement of an optical signal transmission for controlling the dosing systems positioned in the washing compartment is inventively by means of

1. a) a specific surfactant-containing preparation to be released in the rinse cycle or
2. b) a specific acidic preparation to be liberated in the rinse cycle or
3. c) ensures a specific surfactant-containing, acidic preparation.

• ▪ Eine Geschirrspülmaschine mit einem zur Aufnahme von Spülgut vorgesehenen, verschließbaren Spülraum,
  • ∘ Wobei die Geschirrspülmaschine eine optische Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit umfasst, die optische Signale in den Spülraum aussendet und/oder aus dem Spülraum empfängt,
  • ∘ Wobei die Wände des Spülraums einen Glanzgrad von wenigstens 10 Glanzeinheiten, bevorzugt wenigstens 20 Glanzeinheiten, insbesondere bevorzugt wenigstens 45 Glanzeinheiten gemessen nach DIN 67530 mit einer 60°-Geometrie aufweisen,
• ▪ ein Dosiergerät, das im Inneren des Haushaltsgeräts und beabstandet von der optische Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit der Geschirrspülmaschine angeordnet ist,
  • ∘ Wobei das Dosiergerät eine optische Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit umfasst, die optische Signale in den Spülraum aussendet und/oder von der optischen Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit der Geschirrspülmaschine empfängt,
  • ∘ wobei das Dosiergerät mit wenigstens einem Behälter, insbesondere einer Kartusche, verbunden ist, in dem diese Zubereitung bevorratet ist,
  • ∘ Wobei die Geschirrspülmaschine und das Dosiergerät in der Art zusammenwirken, dass wenigstens eine Abgabe der Zubereitung aus dem Dosiergerät in den Spülraum im Klarspülprogramm der Geschirrspülmaschine erfolgt,

ist ein weiterer Gegenstand der vorliegenden Anmeldung.The use of the listed preparations in a dosing system according to the invention for dispensing this preparation into the interior of a dishwasher comprising

• ▪ a dishwasher with a closable washing compartment provided for receiving items to be washed,
  • ∘ Wherein the dishwasher comprises an optical transmitting and / or receiving unit which emits optical signals into the washing compartment and / or receives from the washing compartment,
  • Where the walls of the washing compartment have a gloss of at least 10 gloss units, preferably at least 20 gloss units, particularly preferably at least 45 gloss units measured according to DIN 67530 with a 60 ° geometry,
• ▪ a dosing device, which is arranged inside the domestic appliance and at a distance from the optical transmitting and / or receiving unit of the dishwasher,
  • ∘ wherein the dosing device comprises an optical transmitting and / or receiving unit which emits optical signals in the washing compartment and / or receives from the optical transmitting and / or receiving unit of the dishwasher,
  • ∘ wherein the dosing device is connected to at least one container, in particular a cartridge, in which this preparation is stored,
  • ∘ Wherein the dishwasher and the dosing device interact in such a way that at least one discharge of the preparation from the dosing device into the washing compartment takes place in the rinse aid program of the dishwasher,

is a further subject of the present application.

1. a. Positionierung eines Dosiergeräts im Inneren der Geschirrspülmaschine,
2. b. Verschluss der Geschirrspülmaschinentür,
3. c. Auswahl und Start eines Waschprogramms an der Geschirrspülmaschine,
4. d. Aussenden wenigstens eines optischen Signals ins Innere der Geschirrspülmaschine mittels einer mit der Geschirrspülmaschine gekoppelten optischen Sendeeinheit zumindest im Klarspülprogramm des gewählten Waschprogramms der Geschirrspülmaschine,
5. e. Reflektion des optischen Signals an den den Spülraum begrenzenden Wänden der Geschirrspülmaschine
6. f. Detektion des optischen Signals an dem Dosiergerät mittels einer optischen Empfangseinheit,
7. g. Wandlung des optischen Signals im Dosiergerät in einen Steuerbefehl zur Abgabe wenigstens einer in den vorherigen Tabellen aufgeführten Zubereitung aus dem Dosiergerät ins Innere der Geschirrspülmaschine

Claimed is also a method for dispensing at least one listed preparation inside a dishwasher, in particular by a metering system according to the invention, comprising the steps

1. a. Positioning a dosing device inside the dishwasher,
2. b. Closure of the dishwasher door,
3. c. Selection and start of a washing program on the dishwasher,
4. d. Emitting at least one optical signal into the interior of the dishwasher by means of an optical transmitter unit coupled to the dishwasher, at least in the rinse program of the selected washing program of the dishwasher,
5. e. Reflection of the optical signal on the washing compartment walls delimiting the dishwasher
6. f. Detection of the optical signal at the dosing device by means of an optical receiving unit,
7. G. Conversion of the optical signal in the dosing device in a control command for dispensing at least one listed in the previous tables preparation from the dosing device inside the dishwasher

Figur 1

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

Figur 2

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

Figur 3

Verfahrensablauf zur Steuerung einer Dosiervorrichtung und Geschirrspülmaschine dargestellt anhand der zeitlichen Schaltzustände von haushaltsgeräte- und dosiergeräteseitigen Sendern und Empfängern

Figur 4

Signal- und Empfindlichkeitsverlauf an einer Empfangseinheit

Figur 5

Drei-Kammer-Kartusche mit Dosiergerät im separierten Zustand in einer perspektivischen Ansicht

Figur 6

Kombidosiergerät mit Sende- und Empfangseinheit

Figur 7

Kombidosiergerät mit Sende- und Empfangseinheit mit geöffnetem Dosierkammerdeckel

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments representing figures. Show it:

FIG. 1

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

FIG. 2

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

FIG. 3

Procedure for controlling a dosing device and dishwasher shown using the temporal switching states of household appliances and dosing equipment side transmitters and receivers

FIG. 4

Signal and sensitivity curve at a receiving unit

FIG. 5

Three-chamber cartridge with dosing device in the separated state in a perspective view

FIG. 6

Combined dosing unit with sender and receiver unit

FIG. 7

Combined dosing unit with sender and receiver unit with opened dosing chamber lid

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

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

The Dosierkammereinlässe 21a, 21b further comprise means for the insertion of the cartridge 1 on the dosing device 2, the opening of the outlet openings 5a, 5b of the chambers 3a, 3b effect, so that in the coupled state of dosing device 2 and cartridge 1, the interior of the chambers 3a 3b is communicatively connected to the metering chamber inlets 21a, 21b.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It is particularly advantageous that each of the outlet openings 5a, 5b is formed so that it fits only one of the Dosierkammereinlässe 21a, 21b, thereby preventing a chamber is accidentally plugged onto a wrong Dosierkammereinlass. This can be realized, for example, by outlet openings 5a, 5b and / or metering chamber inlets 21a, 21b of different sizes or different in terms of their basic shape.

The cartridge 1 usually has a filling volume of <5,000 ml, in particular <1,000 ml, preferably <500 ml, more preferably <250 ml, most preferably <50 ml. The metering device 2 and the cartridge 1 can be adapted in the assembled state, in particular the geometries of the devices or in which they are applied to ensure the least possible loss of useful volume. To use the dosing device 2 and the cartridge 1 in dishwashers, it is particularly advantageous to mold the dosing device 2 and the cartridge 1 on the basis of dishes to be cleaned in dishwashers. Thus, the dosing device 2 and the cartridge 1, for example, plate-shaped, be formed in approximately the dimensions of a plate. As a result, the dosing device can be positioned to save space in the lower basket (see also FIG. 4 )

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

The dosing device furthermore has a dosing device-side transmitter S _d and a dosing device-side receiver E _d , which are each arranged in the lateral surface of the dosing unit 2. The dosing device-side transmitter S _d is preferably a light source, such as an LED or a laser diode, which emits light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range. The dosing device-side receiver E _d is preferably a light sensor, such as a photodiode, which can receive light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range.

The dosing device side transmitter S _d and dosing device side receiver E _d are connected in the dosing device 2 with the control unit and an electrical energy storage such as a battery or accumulator (not shown). The Control unit switches the dosing device side transmitter S _d and dosing device side receiver E _d according to the method described below, de-energized or energized.

FIG. 1 shows a self-sufficient dosing device with a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the dish drawer 11 with the dishwasher door 39 of a dishwashing machine 38 open. It can be seen that the dosing device 2 with the cartridge 1 can in principle be positioned anywhere within the dish drawer 11, wherein It is advantageous to provide a dish-shaped or cup-shaped metering system 1, 2 in a corresponding dish 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. If the dosing system 1, 2 is in the ready-to-use state inside the dishwasher 38, then a cleaning preparation addition for each rinsing cycle via the dosing chamber 53 is not necessary, since a detergent dispensing for a plurality of rinsing cycles is implemented via the dosing system 1, 2, which will follow is explained in more detail. It is advantageous in this embodiment of the invention that in the arrangement of the self-sufficient dosing 1.2 in the lower dish drawer 11, the delivery of the preparations 40a, 40b from the cartridge 1 directly via the bottom of the dispenser arranged outlet openings in the rinsing water liquor, so that a fast Solution and uniform distribution of the rinse formulations in the wash program is guaranteed.

The dishwasher 38 further comprises a household appliance side transmitter S _h and a household appliance side receiver E _h , which are each arranged in the door 39 of the dishwasher 38. The household appliance-side transmitter S _h is preferably a light source, such as an LED or a laser diode, which emits light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range. The household appliance-side receiver E _h is preferably a light sensor, such as a photodiode, which can receive light preferably in the visible and / or infrared range.

The household appliance-side transmitter S _h and household appliance-side receiver E _h are connected in the dishwasher 38 with the control unit and an electrical connection or energy storage (not shown). The control unit of the dishwasher 38 switches the dosing device side transmitter S _d and dosing device side receiver E _d according to the method described below.

FIG. 3 shows the procedure for controlling the Figure 1-2 known metering device and dishwasher 38 based on the temporal switching states of household appliances and dosing equipment side transmitters and receivers.

In the upper area of the figure, above the dashed line, the switching states of dosing device side receiver E _d and dosing device side transmitter S _{d are} plotted against a time axis. In the lower area of the figure, below the dashed line, the switching states of the household appliance-side transmitter S _h and household appliance-side receiver E _{h are} plotted against a time axis.

It can be seen that the dosing device-side receiver E _{d is} initially connected in constant, periodic first intervals ΔT _{1, d, e} such that it can not receive any signals from a corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h . This is preferably effected by a currentless switch of the receiver E _d or by lowering the voltage applied to the receiver E _d . In this context, one can also speak of a stand-by or sleep mode of the dosing device-side receiver E _d .

Between these first standby or sleep mode intervals .DELTA.T _{1, d, e} is the dosing device side receiver E _d during a second interval .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} switched so that it can receive signals from a corresponding household appliance side transmitter S _h , the Receiver E _{d is} thus in a wake-up or monitoring mode with a high sensitivity. This is preferably effected by energizing the receiver E _d or by increasing the voltage applied to the receiver E _d . This can be recognized by the rectangular jump function in the dosing device-side receiver E _d assigned graph. It can also be seen that the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e is} significantly longer than the second interval ΔT _{2, d, e} .

In order to be able to receive a signal from the corresponding household appliance-side transmitter S _h , this signal must have at least a duration ΔT _{1, d, e} that is greater than the duration of the first interval ΔT _{1, d, e,} so that it is ensured that the signal duration ΔT _{1, h, s} falls, at least in sections, into the second interval ΔT _{2, d, e} , within which the dosing device-side receiver E _d can receive signals from a corresponding household-appliance-side transmitter S _h .

If a household appliance-side signal ΔT _{1, h, s is} received by the dosing device-side receiver E _d , then the receiver Ed remains switched in monitoring mode. One recognizes this in the Figure 4 at the time interval .DELTA.T _{3, d, e} , which is greater than the second time interval .DELTA.T _{2, d, e} , in which the dosing device-side receiver E _d is in the monitoring mode.

While the dosing device-side receiver Ed is thus in the monitoring mode, the household-appliance-side transmitter S _h transmits two further signals ΔT _{2, d, s} and ΔT _{3, h, s} after the transmission of the signal ΔT _{1, d, s} . This allows the dosing device to recognize that it is is about signals of the household appliance and not to eg accidental light by opening the dishwasher door. Therefore, the signals .DELTA.T.sub.2 _{, h, s} and .DELTA.T.sub.3 _{, h, s can} also be referred to as verification signals.

After the home appliance-side signal .DELTA.T _{1, h, s} , the household appliance-side receiver E _{h is switched} out of a stand-by or sleep mode out in such a way that it can receive signals from the doser-side transmitter E _d . The dosing device-side transmitter E _d remains in its monitoring mode for the time interval .DELTA.T _{1, h, s} , wherein the interval .DELTA.T _{1, d, e} ends after receiving a corresponding switch-off signal .DELTA.T _{3, d, s} from dosing device-side transmitter S _d .

In response to the dosing device to the signals of the household appliance sends the dosing device side transmitter S _d after receiving the household appliance side signal .DELTA.T _{1, h, s} and Prüf.- or Verification signals .DELTA.T _{2, h, s} and .DELTA.T _{3, h, s} two consecutive Signals .DELTA.T _{1, d, s} and .DELTA.T _{2, d, s} , wherein the signals .DELTA.T _{1, d, s} and .DELTA.T _{2, d, s} in particular information about the type and / or the version of the dosing device and / or the operating status of the metering device, such as the number of remaining dosages or the battery status.

In the following, the household appliance-side transmitter S _h sends signals ΔT _{4, d, s} , which in particular represent control commands, status information, counter and / or timer information, measured values, program updates or the like.

At the conclusion of the transfer of information from the household to the dosing unit, the home-station-side transmitter S _h sends a switch-off signal ΔT _{5, h, s} which, after receiving, puts the dosing device-side receiver E _d back into its standby or sleep mode.

The manner in which the signals, in particular the signals for transmitting information such as type and / or version of the dosing device, the operating status of the dosing device, such as the number of remaining doses or the battery status, control commands, measured values, program updates or the like, may be formed by way of example based on Fig. 4 explained in more detail.

In the lower section of Fig. 4 the temporal waveform is shown on a positioned inside a dishwasher dosing with a receiver. The dosing device-side receiver consists of at least one photodiode, which is suitable for the detection of light pulses in the visible range. At time (1), the dosing device-side receiver receives a light pulse I ₁ having a fixed and predefined pulse duration I _t1 . The light pulse I ₁ ends at the time (2). The light pulse is delivered by a home appliance transmitter into the interior of the dishwasher, wherein the transmitter comprises an LED that emits light in the visible range. Again Fig. 4 as can be clearly seen, a light pulse always has the same duration I _t1 .

By receiving the light pulse I ₁ , a time measurement is started. This will be discussed in more detail below.

The dosing device side receiver is set to a high sensitivity immediately before the reception of the light pulse, so that the emitted light pulse can be well received. This is in the upper section of Fig. 4 shown in which the sensitivity of the receiving unit is plotted parallel to the time or signal waveform. It can be seen that the sensitivity at time (1) is set to high sensitivity.

After receiving the light pulse I ₁ at the time (2), the output signal of the receiver initially rises slowly in the direction of quiescent level due to the still high sensitivity of the receiver. By switching the receiving unit after receiving the light pulse I ₁ from a high to a low sensitivity at the time (3), it is achieved that the output signal of the receiving unit increases faster again to the quiescent level. The duration of the low sensitivity is chosen so that the output signal of the receiving unit again safely reaches the quiescent level. In this fixed transmission pause, whose time duration t _p between the times (2) and (4), no light pulses are emitted into the dishwasher inside.

At the time (4), ie after the fixed transmission pause t _p , the sensitivity of the receiving unit is switched back to the high sensitivity.

The time period t _v between the times (4) and (5) is variable, which is indicated inter alia by the broken dimension line. Due to the variable pause, in which also no light pulses are emitted, one or more information can be encoded. The duration of the variable break thus contains the information to be transmitted.

After the variable interval t _v starts the second light pulse I _{2 of} the transmitter, which the receiver can detect well due to the high sensitivity again. At this time (5), the timing started at the time (1) is ended and the time difference between the reception of the first light pulse I ₁ and the second light pulse I _{2 is} determined.

Since the fixed pulse duration I _{t1 of} the first light pulse I ₁ and the temporally adjoining fixed pause t _p , in which no light pulses are transmitted, are known, the transmitted information can be coded or decoded from the time difference t _I2 -t _I1 ,

FIG. 5 shows a further embodiment of the cartridge 1 and the dosing device 2 for performing the method explained in the non-coupled state ..

FIG. 5 shows the cartridge 1 in a perspective view. At the cartridge bottom 4 are alternately outlet openings 5 and ventilation openings 81 arranged. For each of the chambers in the cartridge 1, an outlet opening 5 and a ventilation opening 81 are respectively provided. The width (B) is substantially greater than the depth (T) of the cartridge 1. The ratio of the depth (T) to the width (B) of the cartridge 1 is approximately 1:20.

FIG. 6 shows a metering chamber 53 in which a transmitting unit 87 and a receiving unit 91 is integrated. Such a metering chamber 53 is also referred to as Kombidosiergerät. The dosing chamber 53 has a receptacle for a dishwashing agent which can be closed by a hinged closure lid. FIG. 7 shows the closure lid in its open position. In addition, the metering chamber 53 may still have a receptacle for a rinse aid, which by the circular closure to the right of the cap in the FIGS. 6 and 7 is indicated.

The transmission unit 87 comprises a luminous means, which is arranged in the transmission unit 87 such that the luminous means radiates into the interior of the dishwasher. The lighting means may in particular be an LED or a laser diode. The LED is arranged so that it protrudes from the plane of the transmission unit 87, so that the LED generates the largest possible radiation angle.

The transmission unit 87 can be configured such that the LED both for transmitting signals inside the dishwasher 38, in particular when the dishwasher door 39 is closed, and for visually displaying an operating state, for example the level of the salt or rinse aid storage container of a dishwasher, in particular when opened Dishwasher door 39 is provided.

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

It is also possible that the metering chamber 53 has a receptacle 107, by means of which a movable metering system consisting of metering device 2 and cartridge 1 can be detachably or firmly coupled to the metering chamber 53

Claims (12)

1. A method for operating a dosing system inside a water-bearing domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, comprising a water-bearing domestic appliance, comprising:

   at least one transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance and

   at least one receiver (E_h) on the domestic appliance

   a dosing device which can be positioned inside the water-bearing domestic appliance, comprising

   at least one transmitter (S_d) on the dosing device and

   at least one receiver (E_d) on the dosing device

   characterized in that at least one receiver (E_d) on the dosing device is alternately connected such that it cannot receive any signals from a corresponding transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance in a first interval (ΔT_1,d,e) and such that it can receive signals from a corresponding transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance within a second interval (ΔT_2,d,e), the constant first interval (ΔT_1,d,e) being ≥ the second interval (ΔT_2,d,e) and at least one transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance being designed to transmit a signal that can be received by a corresponding receiver (E_d) on the dosing device, the signal having a duration (ΔT_1,h,s) that is longer than the first interval (ΔT_1,d,e) within which the corresponding receiver (E_d) on the dosing device cannot receive any signals from the corresponding transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance, the receiver (E_d) on the dosing device, after it has received the signal (ΔT_1,h,s) from the domestic appliance, being connected such that it can receive signals from the corresponding transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance.
2. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the receiver (E_d) on the dosing device is connected such that the first interval (ΔT_1,d,e) is less than 30 seconds, preferably less than 20 seconds, particularly preferably less than 10 seconds.
3. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first interval (ΔT_1,d,e) is at least twice, preferably at least three times, particularly preferably at least four times, as long as the second interval (ΔT_2,d,e).
4. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance, after the signal (ΔT_1,h,s) has been transmitted, transmits at least one additional signal (ΔT_2,h,s, ΔT_3,h,s, ΔT_4,h,s, ΔT_5,h,s), preferably at least two additional signals (ΔT_2,h,s, ΔT_3,h,s, ΔT_4,h,s, ΔT_5,h,s).
5. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmitter (S_d) on the dosing device, after the signal (ΔT_1,h,s) from the domestic appliance has been received by the dosing device, transmits at least one signal (ΔT_1,d,s, ΔT_2,d,s, ΔT_3,d,s), the signal (ΔT_1,d.s, ΔT_2,d,s, ΔT_3,d,s) containing in particular information about the type and/or the version of the dosing device and/or the operating status of the dosing device, for example the number of remaining doses or the battery status.
6. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, after the signal (ΔT_1,h,s) from the domestic appliance has been received by the receiver (E_d) on the dosing device, the receiver (E_d) remains connected such that it can receive signals from the corresponding transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance.
7. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance, at least one receiver (E_h) on the domestic appliance, and at least one transmitter (S_d) on the dosing device and at least one receiver (E_d) on the dosing device are designed to transmit or receive optical signals.
8. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance, at least one receiver (E_h) on the domestic appliance, and at least one transmitter (S_d) on the dosing device and at least one receiver (E_d) on the dosing device are designed to transmit or receive light in the visible range.
9. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance, at least one receiver (E_h) on the domestic appliance, and at least one transmitter (S_d) on the dosing device and at least one receiver (E_d) on the dosing device are designed to transmit or receive infrared signals.
10. A dosing system which is designed to carry out the method according to one of claims 1 to 9, comprising:

    a water-bearing domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher, comprising:

    at least one transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance and

    at least one receiver (E_h) on the domestic appliance

    a dosing device which can be positioned inside the water-bearing domestic appliance, comprising

    at least one transmitter (S_d) on the dosing device and

    at least one receiver (E_d) on the dosing device, wherein

    the transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance is connected by means of a control unit such that the transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance transmits a signal that can be received by the corresponding receiver (E_d) on the dosing device, wherein the signal has a duration (ΔT_1,h,s) that is longer than the first interval (ΔT_1,d,e) within which the corresponding receiver (E_d) on the dosing device cannot receive any signals from the corresponding transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance, wherein the receiver (E_d) on the dosing device, after it has received the signal (ΔT_1,h,s) from the domestic appliance, is connected such that it can receive signals from the corresponding transmitter (S_h) on the domestic appliance.
11. The dosing system according to claim 10, characterized in that the transmitters and receivers on the domestic appliance and the dosing device are designed to transmit or receive light in the visible range and/or infrared signals.
12. The dosing system according to claim 10, characterized in that the transmitter (S_h) and/or receiver (E_h) on the domestic appliance is/are integrated in a combined dosing device of a dishwasher.

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