EP2573251A2 - Water-bearing household appliance having a metering pump - Google Patents

Abstract

The appliance (1) comprises reservoirs (2,4) for receiving the flowable treatment agents (3,5). The reservoirs (2,4) are connected to connectors (9,10) of metering pump (6) through directional valves (11,12) respectively. The treatment agents (3,5) are supplied from the reservoirs (2,4) through the direction valves (11,12) to the connectors (10,9) of the metering pump in the pumping directions (7,8) respectively.

Description

The invention relates to a water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular laundry treatment appliance for washing and / or drying laundry, with a first reservoir, which serves to receive a first flowable treatment agent, and a second reservoir, which serves to receive a second flowable treatment agent. Specifically, the invention relates to the field of washing machines and washer-dryers.

From the DE 10 2007 032 759 A1 a laundry treating machine is known in which a laundry treatment room is arranged within a housing, can be filled in the laundry for the purpose of their treatment. Within the housing reservoir for different liquid or gelatinous laundry treatment means are arranged, the contents of which can be given via outlet lines and metering in a common dosing. At the highest point of the dosing a purge line is coupled, which can be controlled by a detergent control fed from a detergent source. The metering devices and the flushing agent control are supplied with signal technology by a control device, so that each of these devices conveys the respective assigned medium at points in time determined by the control device. The rinsing agent source may be a storage or intermediate storage container for a certain amount of rinsing agent, preferably water, or a connection device to a fresh water network. In the known laundry treatment machine should be avoided that residues of dilute laundry treatment agents nucleate and that different proportions in the rinsing solutions can react with each other and their reaction results severely disturb the further process in a laundry treatment machine. Therefore, in the known laundry treating machine, the dosing line is rinsed immediately before delivering a dose.

The from the DE 10 2007 032 759 A1 known laundry treating machine has the disadvantage that for each reservoir, which receives a laundry treatment agent, an outlet and a metering device are required to promote the laundry treatment agent in the common dosing. In addition, each metering device must be supplied by the control device separately signal technology, so that a correspondingly large number of outputs of the control device is occupied. The design of the known laundry treatment machine is therefore complicated.

The object of the invention is to provide a water-conducting household appliance, which has an improved structure. Specifically, it is an object of the invention to provide a household appliance in which the number of required components for a dosage and the control effort required for this purpose are optimized.

The object is achieved by a water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a laundry treatment appliance for washing and / or drying laundry, wherein a first reservoir, which serves to receive a first flowable treatment agent, and a second reservoir, which serves to receive a second flowable treatment agent, are provided, wherein a metering pump is provided with changeable pumping direction, wherein the first reservoir is connected via a first directional valve to a first port of the metering pump, wherein the second reservoir is connected via a second directional valve to a second port of the metering pump, wherein the metering pump in a first pumping direction, the first treatment agent from the first reservoir via the first directional valve to the second port of the metering pump promotes and wherein the metering pump in a second pumping direction, the second treatment agent from the second Vor advances via the second directional valve to the first port of the metering pump.

The measures listed in the dependent claims advantageous refinements of the household appliance according to the invention are possible.

The household appliance is particularly suitable for the automatic dosing of two or more treatment agents. The stockpiled in the reservoirs treatment agent can each be stored here in an amount that is sufficient for several program runs, especially washing programs. Depending on the selected treatment program, the required quantities of the treatment agents required in each case can then be automatically metered automatically. The embodiment according to the invention makes it possible to reduce the number of metering pumps required, since a metering pump is used for metering from two storage containers. As a result, the control effort can be reduced.

The metering pump with exchangeable pumping direction is preferably designed as a volume pump. For example, the metering pump can be designed as a gear pump. Changing the pumping direction can be done for example by reversing the polarity. In this case, for example, the activation with a positive voltage can bring about an operation in the one pumping direction and a triggering with a negative activation voltage can bring about an operation in the other pumping direction.

A flowable treatment agent is to be understood as meaning a treatment agent which, on the one hand, can be metered in suitable amounts and, on the other hand, can be conveyed by the metering pump. Specifically, such a treating agent may be configured as a liquid treating agent of suitable viscosity. In this case, however, pulverulent constituents may also be contained in the flowable treatment agent. Examples of such flowable treatment agents are a detergent and a fabric softener, which are stored in the storage containers and are metered at different times. However, the dosage of the two treatment agents may also relate to a single treatment step. An example of this is a detergent composed of components, in which the components are metered individually, for example with regard to degree of soiling and water hardness.

It is preferred that a further valve is provided which has a first input, a second input and an output, wherein the output in a first position of the further valve with the first input and in a second position of the further valve with the second input is connected, that the first port of the metering pump is connected to the first input of the further valve and that the second port of the metering pump is connected to the second input of the further valve. As a result, both the first treatment agent and the second treatment agent can be guided via the outlet of the further valve. By the two positions of the other valve in each case the respectively unnecessary branch can be locked. Thus, a check valve can be saved.

It is further preferred here that the further valve is designed as a piston valve, in which a sealing effect is ensured even when switching between the first position and the second position. This allows a temporary connection between the two outputs of the other valve are avoided when switching. As a result, a media separation in the region of the other valve is ensured.

It is also preferred that a third directional valve is provided, that an input of the third directional valve is connected to the first port of the metering pump, that a fourth directional valve is provided and that an input of the fourth directional valve is connected to the second port of the metering pump. As a result, when changing the pumping direction of the metering pump, the previously selected path can be blocked via the third directional valve or the fourth directional valve and the other path, d h. via the fourth directional valve or the third directional valve.

It is also preferred that a flushing device is provided, via which flushing water can be guided to the first connection of the metering pump. If the dosing pump is switched off when supplying rinse water, then an outlet side, for example via the third directional valve or the other valve, can be rinsed. By operating the metering pump in the first pumping direction then the other output side can be flushed. Optionally, it is also possible that by operating the metering pump in the second pumping direction, the second treatment agent is conveyed and mixed after passing through the metering pump with the rinse water. As a result, a mixture of the second treatment agent and the rinse water is still possible within the metering system. This is particularly advantageous when fresh water is supplied as rinse water.

It is also preferred here for the metering pump to have a delivery rate at which a volume flow is generated from the first connection of the metering pump to the second connection of the metering pump, which is smaller than a volume flow of the flushing water conducted via the flushing device to the first connection of the metering pump , This ensures that when operating the metering pump in the first pumping direction, the first directional valve remains closed when rinse water is supplied.

It is also preferred that the purging device has a line in which a check valve and / or a directional valve are arranged. Here, it is also advantageous that the line of the purging device in a conveying direction of the first treatment means behind the first directional valve directly to the first port of the metering pump connected is. This results in a simple embodiment, in which reliably blocks the first directional valve when supplying the rinse water.

It is also preferred that the first directional valve has a valve chamber and a valve closing body arranged in the valve chamber and that the line of the flushing device opens into the valve chamber, wherein with the first directional valve closed, the flushing water from the flushing device via the valve chamber of the first directional valve to the first port the metering pump is feasible. In this embodiment, when supplying fresh water and the valve chamber of the first directional valve can be flushed, wherein the first directional valve blocks. As a result, a substantial separation of media between the treatment agents is possible.

It is also preferred that a first upstream directional valve is provided, via which the first treatment agent from the first reservoir to the first directional valve is conveyed, and that the line of the purging device opens into a connection between the first upstream directional valve and the first directional valve. This arrangement ensures that after rinsing any contaminated parts of the system are not part of the shared line area, so that cross-contaminations are excluded. Specifically, in a symmetrical configuration, a second upstream directional valve can be provided, via which the second treatment agent from the second reservoir to the second directional valve is conveyed, wherein a line of the purging device opens into a connection between the second upstream directional valve and the second directional valve.

It is further preferred that the flushing device has a switching valve, that in a first switching position of the switching valve, the flushing water to the first port of the metering pump is feasible and that in a second switching position of the switching valve, the flushing water to the second port of the metering pump is feasible. In this way, a symmetrical configuration can be achieved, in which a substantial flushing is possible both with respect to the first treatment agent and with respect to the second treatment agent.

Fig. 1

ein wasserführendes Haushaltsgerät in einer auszugsweisen, schematischen Schnittdarstellung entsprechend einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 2

ein wasserführendes Haushaltsgerät in einer auszugsweisen, schematischen Schnittdarstellung entsprechend einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 3

ein wasserführendes Haushaltsgerät in einer auszugsweisen, schematischen Schnittdarstellung entsprechend einem dritten Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 4

ein wasserführendes Haushaltsgerät in einer auszugsweisen, schematischen Schnittdarstellung entsprechend einem vierten Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 5

ein wasserführendes Haushaltsgerät in einer auszugsweisen, schematischen Schnittdarstellung entsprechend einem fünften Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 6

ein wasserführendes Haushaltsgerät in einer auszugsweisen, schematischen Schnittdarstellung entsprechend einem sechsten Ausführungsbeispiel und

Fig. 7

ein wasserführendes Haushaltsgerät in einer auszugsweisen, schematischen Schnittdarstellung entsprechend einem siebten Ausführungsbeispiel.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description with reference to the figures of the accompanying drawing, in which corresponding elements are provided with corresponding reference numerals. Show it:

Fig. 1

a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a first embodiment;

Fig. 2

a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 3

a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a third embodiment;

Fig. 4

a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a fourth embodiment;

Fig. 5

a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a fifth embodiment;

Fig. 6

a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a sixth embodiment and

Fig. 7

a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a seventh embodiment.

Fig. 1 shows a water-conducting household appliance 1 in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a first embodiment. The household appliance 1 can be configured in particular as a laundry treatment appliance 1 and serve for washing and / or drying laundry. Specifically, the household appliance 1 can be configured as a washing machine or washer-dryer. However, the household appliance 1 of the invention is also suitable for other applications, in particular, it may be configured as a dishwasher.

The domestic appliance 1 has a first storage container 2, which serves to receive a first treatment agent 3, and a second storage container 4, which serves to receive a second treatment agent 5. In this case, the treatment agents 3, 5 are flowable treatment agents 3, 5. In particular, the treatment agents 3, 5 may be formed as liquid treatment agents 3, 5. However, the flowable treatment agents 3, 5 may also have powdered ingredients or the like.

The household appliance 1 also has a metering pump 6, which can be operated both in a first pumping direction and in a second pumping direction. Thus, it is in the metering pump 6 to a metering pump 6 with changeable pumping direction 7, 8. For example, the change of the pumping direction 7, 8 are caused by a change in direction.

The metering pump 6 has a first connection 9 and a second connection 10. The first reservoir 2 is connected via a first directional valve 11 to the first port 9 of the metering pump 6. The second reservoir 4 is connected via a second directional valve 12 to the second port 10 of the metering pump 6. When the metering pump 6 is operated in the first pumping direction 7, then it conveys the first treatment agent 3 from the first reservoir 2 via the first directional valve 11 to the second port 10. Conversely, the metering pump 6 conveys the second treatment agent 5 in the second pumping direction 8 the second reservoir 4 via the second directional valve 12 to the first port. 9

In this embodiment, the household appliance 1 also has a third directional valve 13 and a fourth directional valve 14. The directional valves 11 to 14 each have an input 11 ', 12', 13 ', 14'. In addition, the directional valves 11 to 14 each have an output 11 ", 12", 13 "and 14".

In the case of the Fig. 1 described domestic appliance 1, the input 11 'of the first directional valve 11 associated with the first reservoir 2. The outlet 11 "of the first directional valve 11 is connected to the first port 9 of the metering pump 6. The inlet 13 'of the third directional valve 13 is connected both to the first port 9 of the metering pump 6 and to the outlet 11" of the first directional valve 11. The input 12 'of the second directional valve 12 is the second reservoir 4 assigned. The outlet 12 "of the second directional valve 12 is connected to the second port 10 of the metering pump 6. The inlet 14 'of the fourth directional valve 14 is connected to both the second port 10 and the outlet 12" of the second directional valve 12. Each of the directional valves 11 to 14 is permeable in the direction from its respective input 11 'to 14' to its respective output 11 "to 14" and blocks in the reverse direction.

When the metering pump 6 delivers in the first pumping direction 7, the first treatment agent 3 is delivered to the second port 10 with the pump pressure. This pressure causes the second directional valve 12 to remain in its locked position while the fourth directional valve 14 is opened. In addition, the suction side of the metering pump 6 is then at the first port 9. As a result, the third directional valve 13 remains locked, while according to the delivery volume of the metering pump 6, the first treatment agent 3 is further promoted. Thus, the first treatment agent 3 is dispensed at the outlet 14 "of the fourth directional valve 14. The metered quantity can in this case be specifically predefined via the delivery volume of the metering pump 6. The metered quantity can thereby be metered as desired.

In a corresponding manner, the second treatment agent 5 can be conveyed from the second reservoir 4 via the second directional valve 12 and the third directional valve 13 to the outlet 13 "when the metering pump 6 is operated in the second pumping direction 8.

Thus, with only one metering pump 6, the promotion of two treatment agents 3, 5 carried out in any desired dosage. The contact of the two treatment agents 3, 5 is low. In particular, an entry of the first treatment agent 3 into the second reservoir 4 by the second directional valve 12 is reliably prevented. Accordingly, the second treatment agent 5 can not get into the first reservoir 2. The mixing amount is essentially limited to the line cross-section, wherein a small mixture occurs only with a change of the pumping direction 7, 8 of the metering pump 6.

Fig. 2 shows a water-conducting household appliance 1 in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a second embodiment. In this Embodiment, a line 20 is provided, which can be supplied via a check valve 21 fresh water from a fresh water line 22. The line 20 leads the fresh water in this embodiment to the first port 9 of the metering pump 6. With the fresh water supplied in this way, a partial flushing of the system can take place. When the metering pump 6 is stationary, the third directional valve 13 can be flushed. If the metering pump 6 is operated in the first pumping direction 7, then also the fourth directional valve 14 can be flushed. Here, the respective line sections are flushed. Thus, an optionally undesirable mixture of the treatment agent 3, 5 can be further reduced.

In addition, the fresh water line 22 allows the supply of fresh water. Here, a mixture of the fresh water with the second treatment agent 5 is possible, if at the same time the metering pump 6 is operated in the second pumping direction 8 when the check valve 22 is open.

When supplying fresh water and simultaneous actuation of the metering pump 6, the delivery rate of the metering pump 6 and the delivery pressure is adjusted appropriately. Specifically, during operation of the metering pump 6 in the first pumping direction 7, the delivery volume is limited to the effect that the water pressure applied to the first port 9 when the shut-off valve 21 is open is sufficient to keep the first directional valve 11 closed.

Fig. 3 shows a water-conducting household appliance in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a third embodiment. In contrast to that on the basis of Fig. 2 described second embodiment, a Rücksaugsicherung 23 is disposed in the line 20 in this embodiment. The Rücksaugsicherung 23 is designed here as a check valve 23 and thus as a directional valve 23. As a result, a closed Rücksaugsicherung 23 is formed. This ensures that the dosing system is not ventilated. This would not be the case with an open backwash system operating, for example, over an air gap, with a venturi, or with a breather pipe bend.

Based on Figures 2 and 3 Thus, possible configurations for purging devices 24 are described, such purging device 24 also having further components can. The rinsing device 24 may also work with other liquids, in particular a cached water, instead of fresh water.

Fig. 4 shows a water-conducting household appliance 1 in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, the household appliance 1 has a further valve 30. The further valve 30 has a first input 31, a second input 32 and an output 33. In a first position of the further valve 30, the output 33 is connected to the first input 31. In a second position of the further valve 30, the output 33 is connected to the second input 32. The further valve 30 is thereby configured as a double valve 30. The further valve 30 has a sealing element 34. The sealing element 34 may be configured as a spherical sealing element 34. Depending on the flow and / or pressure conditions, the sealing element 34 can seal on both sides and preferably only allows one of the treatment agents 3, 5 in the first switching position or the second switching position. The respective opposite line is thus closed off. Here, the sealing element 34 may also be designed as a piston-shaped sealing element 34 in order to achieve a sealing effect over the entire travel path. The sealing effect is then achieved not only when applied to the sealing seats.

The further valve 30 can advantageously replace two directional valves, for example, the third directional valve 13 and the fourth directional valve 14, as shown in the FIGS. 1 to 3 are shown.

In this exemplary embodiment, the first input 31 of the further valve 30 is connected to the first connection 9 and to the output 11 "of the first directional valve 11. In this embodiment, there is also a connection to the line 20 of the rinsing device 24. The second input 32 the further valve 30 is connected both to the second port 10 of the metering pump 6 and to the outlet 12 "of the second directional valve 12. The actuation of the sealing element 34 of the further valve 30 can take place here via the delivery pressure of the metering pump 6 in the respectively selected pumping direction 7, 8. However, the additional valve 30 can optionally also be activated.

Fig. 5 shows a water-conducting household appliance 1 in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a fifth embodiment. In this embodiment, a further purging device 35 is provided which comprises a conduit 36. In addition, a first upstream directional valve 37 and a second upstream directional valve 38 are provided. The first upstream directional control valve 37 has an inlet 37 'associated with the first reservoir 2 and an outlet 37 "connected to the inlet 11' of the first directional valve 11. In addition, the line 20 of the flushing device 24 opens into the connection between the first upstream directional valve 37 and the first directional valve 11.

The second upstream directional valve 38 has an inlet 38 'and an outlet 38 ", respectively, and the inlet 38' is associated with the second reservoir 4. The outlet 38" is connected to the inlet 12 'of the second directional valve 12. In addition, the conduit 36 of the further purging device 35 opens into the connection 40 between the second upstream directional valve 38 and the second directional valve 12.

Thus, the first treatment agent 3 from the first reservoir 2 via the first upstream directional control valve 37 and the first directional valve 11 through the metering pump 6 to the second port 10 can be conveyed when the metering pump 6 operates in the first pumping direction 7. The first treatment agent 3 is then discharged via the outlet 14 "of the fourth directional valve 14. Accordingly, the second treatment agent 5 can be conveyed from the second reservoir 4 to the outlet 13" of the third directional valve 13 when the metering pump 6 operates in the second pumping direction 8 , In this embodiment, there is the advantage that flushed by the purging devices 35, 36, the first directional valve 11, the second directional valve 12, the third directional valve 13, the fourth directional valve 14, the metering pump 6 and the existing between these components 6, 11 to 14 compounds can be. As a result, contact between the two treatment means 3, 5 can be prevented. After rinsing with one of the treatment agents 3, 5 contaminated components, in particular the upstream directional valves 37, 38 are not part of the shared line area. Cross-contamination is excluded.

A significant advantage of this variant is also that you can supply the flushing system from a single supply line. In this case, the purging devices 24 and 35 are connected in parallel. Without the two valves 11 and 12 (as in the embodiment with symmetrical Spülwasserbeaufschlagung), would result in a short circuit of the pump via the connection of the two flushing channels, with correspondingly prevented / reduced and inaccurate fluid delivery. Through the two valves 11 and 12, this short circuit is avoided on the pressure conditions that arise.

Fig. 6 shows a water-conducting household appliance 1 in a partial, schematic sectional view according to a sixth embodiment. The first directional valve 11 has a valve space 45 and a valve closing body 46 arranged in the valve space 45. In addition, in this embodiment, in the valve chamber 45, a spring element 47 is arranged, which acts on the valve closing body 46 in the direction of the input 11 'of the first directional valve 11. In an initial position of the first directional valve 11, therefore, the valve closing body 46 closes the inlet 11 'of the first directional valve 11, while seen from the valve space 45, the outlet 11 "is open.

The line 20 of the flushing device 24 is connected in this embodiment to the first directional valve 11. In this case, the line 20 opens into the valve chamber 45. In the starting position, in which the valve closing body 46 is located at the input 11 ', the fresh water, guided via the line 20 into the valve chamber 45 of the first directional valve 11, can be opened via the outlet 11 "of the first directional valve 11 drain.

In this way, an improved flushing is possible. For example, if the metering pump 6, then not only the third directional valve 13, but also the valve chamber 45 of the first directional valve 11 can be flushed. If the metering pump 6 is actuated in the second pumping direction 8, then an additional flushing of the valve space 45 of the first directional valve 11 likewise results.

In a corresponding manner, a valve chamber 48 of the second directional valve 12 can be flushed. For this purpose, for example, the line 36 of a further rinsing device 35, as shown in the Fig. 5 is illustrated in the valve space 48 of the second directional valve 12 open. In this way, cross-contamination between the two treatment agents 3, 5 can be prevented.

In general, fresh water can be supplied by at least one purging device 24, 35 in order to realize a purging line for the metering system. This can be done automatically after each dosing by which the metered treatment agent 3, 5 are rinsed in a tub or the like, a cleaning.

Fig. 7 shows a water-conducting household appliance 1 according to a seventh embodiment. In this embodiment, a rinsing device 24 is provided with a Rücksaugsicherung 23. The purging device 24 also has a switching valve 50 in this embodiment, wherein an input 51 of the switching valve 50 is connected to the line 20. Thus, the switching valve 50 can be supplied with open check valve 21 via the Rücksaugsicherung 23 fresh water. The switching valve 50 has a first output 52 and a second output 53. Here, the switching valve 50 has two switching positions. In the first switching position, the input 51 is connected to the first output 52. In the second switching position, the input 51 is connected to the second output 53. The first output 52 of the switching valve 50 is at least indirectly connected to the first port 9 of the metering pump 6. Further, the second output 53 of the switching valve 50 is at least indirectly connected to the second port 10 of the metering pump 6. In this embodiment, the first output 52 of the switching valve 50 is connected via a line 54 to the first directional valve 11. The line 54 in this case opens into the valve chamber 45 of the first directional valve 11. Thus, in the first switching position of the switching valve 50, the fresh water or another rinse water to the first port 9 of the metering pump 6 can be guided, wherein the first directional valve 11 is purged.

Accordingly, the second output 53 of the switching valve 50 is connected via a line 55 to the second directional valve 12, wherein the line 55 opens into the valve chamber 48. As a result, in the second switching position, the fresh water or another rinse water via the valve chamber 48 to the second terminal 10 of the metering pump 6 can be guided. Thus, there is an at least indirect connection of the second output 53 of the switching valve 50 to the second port 10 of the metering pump 6, wherein the connection in this case takes place by means of the valve chamber 48.

For metering, the metering pump 6 is actuated in the suitable pumping direction 7, 8. As a result, either the first treatment agent 3 or the second treatment agent 5 can be guided to the further valve 30. This results in a common output through the output 33 of the other valve 30. The output 33 of the other valve 30 is connected via a line section 56 with a container 57, in particular a tub 57. The tub 57 encloses a treatment area 58, in which the respective treatment agent 3, 5 and the rinse water is performed. In this case, the system can be largely rinsed, so that a mixture of the treatment agent 3, 5 can be prevented.

The further valve 30 may be configured as a double valve 30, which is spring-loaded on both sides. An initial position of the sealing element 34 may be located between the two inputs 31, 32. Thus, a given by the valve spring back pressure for the treatment agent 3, 5 and the supplied fresh water is generated at the flow.

The switching valve 50 can be switched via a controller. The metering pump 6 may be configured as a gear pump 6.

If a metering takes place, then the metering pump 6 can be operated in the respective required pumping direction 7, 8, wherein the required amount is metered within certain tolerances. Subsequently, water can be supplied to the system via the lines 54, 55, so that the metered treatment agent 3, 5 is completely rinsed into the treatment area 58.

It is advantageous if the metering pump 6 continues to run or is activated again. In addition, it makes sense if the volume flow of the rinse water is significantly higher than that of the metering pump 6. Thus, the system is completely flushed and any residues replaced by the rinse water. Specifically, at each start of a dosing process, the respectively unneeded branch of the system from the previous cleaning process can be filled with water. With only one-sided supply of fresh water can by simultaneous addition of fresh water and operation the metering pump 6 for the treatment agent 3, 5 a good mixing with the water can be achieved directly within the system.

The back pressure generated by the metering pump 6 is divided depending on the active pumping direction 8 or 7 via the line 54 or 55 with the switching valve 50 and pushes the ball in position 53 or 52. Since no restoring element (such as spring) is provided in this switching valve 50 , the switching valve 50 remains in this last position, esp. Even when switched off metering pump 6 and is possibly stabilized by the flowing through the input 51 rinsing liquid in this position. As a result, the channel to be flushed can be selected by previously activating the metering pump 6 in the appropriate direction. It would thus by a suitable sequence of control of metering pump 6 and a purge valve even a mixing of metering substance and water for both channels feasible.

If the rinsing device 24 is connected only on one side, as it is based on the Figures 2 . 3 . 4 . 5 and 6 is described, then at least for the second treatment means 5 a reliable mixing can be ensured. At the same time the metering pump 6 are activated and the check valve 21 is opened. In this case, the second treatment agent 5 may be the substance mainly used, especially a detergent.

The described directional valves 11 to 14, 37, 38 can be configured as spring-loaded valves. In this case, the spring does not necessarily have to be accommodated in a large chamber in the downstream part of the valve. There are also valve variants with tension springs or bending springs conceivable, wherein the springs may optionally be accommodated in the upstream part and not in the downstream part of the respective valve. In particular, this valve variants are possible in which the valve closing body 46 is configured by a suitably shaped portion of a flexible membrane. The design as a check valve, in which exclusively or additionally switch flow or pressure forces, is also possible. In addition, external forces, in particular gravity or magnetic forces, can be used.

That on the basis of Fig. 7 Feeding of fresh water via the flushing device 24 described can be realized by different configurations of the switching valve 50. In this case, the switching valve 50 can not only be controlled externally. It is possible, for example, a mechanical coupling with the other valve 30. Specifically, a combined valve 30, 50 can be realized in which a common piston is used for synchronous switching. In this way, the switching valve 50 can be switched in a suitable manner via the pressure applied by the metering pump 6. During the subsequent supply of fresh water, the switching valve 50 is then kept in the current switching position via the fresh water pressure.

It is also possible to build a Dosiergegendrucks for switching such a Spülwasserdoppelventils by installing a throttle point.

In addition, an embodiment with respect to a preferred treatment agent 3, 5 is possible. Here, one of the treatment agents 3, 5 is considered as a preferred treatment agent and the system designed for the dosage of this. Here, the individual components, in particular the valves, have a preferred direction, which is maintained for example by springs, gravity or magnetic fields. As a result, no initial pressure build-up in the system for switching the switching valve 50 serving as flushing water valve 50 is required. In particular, when dosing the preferred treatment agent 3, 5, the water-conducting household appliance 1 then works faster and less demanding. In addition, the system can be kept more easily depressurized.

In addition, a mixing chamber may be provided, for example in the line section 56. In this way, the rinse water with the metered treatment agent 3, 5 are mixed intensively. This is passive, for example, by a labyrinth mixer, or active, for example by a circular chamber in which circulates through the water flow a mixing ball, possible.

In addition, the individual components, in particular the valves, can be internally provided with a non-stick coating, so that adhering residues are reduced to a minimum. Furthermore, a regular and / or controlled by the user running through a cleaning program with fresh water addition and metering pump operated changing pumping directions 7, 8 are performed. Furthermore, the housing of the metering pump 6 together with one or more valves or an additional valve and manifold block made of substantially three parts. Here, a soft elastic sealing part and two housing halves can be used. By correspondingly shaped recesses and stops in the housing halves check valves can be formed very easily together with a soft elastic membrane pressed in between with suitably shaped tongue-like sections. In this integrated design, it is possible to accommodate a larger number of valves together with the appropriate conduit and pump chamber, which is required in the case of a gear pump, and other components, such as a labyrinth mixer, in a highly integrated assembly of only three parts.

It is also possible to electrically control the metering pump 6 via rectifier diodes, which allows a control concept that is completely electrically compatible with known controls.

Thus, compared to two substance metering systems with two metering pumps, the manufacturing costs can be reduced. This also applies to a larger number of treatment agents, since the number of required metering pumps 6 is halved especially with an even number of storage containers 2, 4. To switch the pumping direction 7, 8 of the metering pump 6, a reversal of the power supply may be sufficient, for example in gear pumps. The cleaning system can be combined with a flushing system. In this way, a thorough mixing of at least one of the treatment agents 3, 5 with the fresh water can already take place in the dosing system. Another advantage is the high integrability of all important functions in a substantially consisting of three components module. On the control side, this is largely compatible with conventional two-substance metering systems. This allows an application in conventional systems with little adaptation effort.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Water-conducting household appliance

2

first storage tank

3

first treatment agent

4

second reservoir

5

second treatment agent

6

metering

7

first pumping direction

8th

second pumping direction

9

first connection

10

second connection

11

first directional valve

12

second directional valve

13

third directional valve

14

fourth directional valve

11 '- 14'

entrance

11 "- 14"

output

20

management

21

check valve

22

Fresh water pipe

23

Rücksaugsicherung

24

flushing

30

another valve

31

first entrance

32

second entrance

33

output

34

sealing element

35

further rinsing device

36

management

37

first upstream directional valve

38

second upstream directional valve

37 ', 38'

entrance

37 ", 38"

output

39

connection

40

connection

45

valve chamber

46

Valve closing body

47

spring element

48

valve chamber

50

switching valve

51

entrance

52

first exit

53

second exit

54, 55

management

56

line section

57

tub

58

treatment area

Claims (11)

A water-conducting domestic appliance (1), in particular a laundry treatment appliance for washing and / or drying laundry, having a first storage container (2) for receiving a first flowable treatment agent (3) and a second storage container (4) for receiving a second flowable treatment agent (5),
characterized,
that a metering pump (6) with changeable pumping direction (7, 8) is provided, that the first reservoir (2) via a first directional valve (11) is connected to a first terminal (9) of the metering pump (6), that the second reservoir (4) is connected via a second directional valve (12) to a second connection (10) of the metering pump (6) that the metering pump (6) in a first pumping direction (7) the first treatment means (3) from the first reservoir (2 ) via the first directional valve (11) to the second port (10) of the metering pump (6) and that the metering pump (6) in a second pumping direction (8), the second treatment means (5) from the second reservoir (4) via the second Directional valve (12) to the first port (9) of the metering pump (6) promotes. Domestic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that a further valve (30) is provided, which has a first input (31), a second input (32) and an output (33), wherein the output (33) in a first position the further valve (30) is connected to the first input (31) and in a second position of the further valve (30) to the second input (32) that the first connection (9) of the metering pump (6) to the first input (31) of the further valve (30) is connected and that the second connection (10) of the metering pump (6) with the second input (32) of the further valve (30) is connected. Domestic appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that the further valve (30) is designed as a piston valve (30) in which a sealing effect is ensured even when switching between the first position and the second position. Domestic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that a third directional valve (13) is provided, that an input (13 ') of the third directional valve (13) to the first port (9) of the metering pump (6) is connected, that a fourth directional valve (14) is provided, and that an input (14 ') of the fourth directional valve (14) with the second port (10) of the metering pump (6) is connected. Domestic appliance according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that a flushing device (24) is provided, via the rinse water to the first port (9) of the metering pump (6) can be guided. Domestic appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that the metering pump (6) has a delivery rate at which a volume flow from the first port (9) of the metering pump (6) to the second port (10) of the metering pump (6) is generated is smaller than a volume flow of the flushing water via the flushing device (24) to the first port (9) of the metering pump (6). Domestic appliance according to one of claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the flushing device (24) has a line (20, 22) in which a check valve (21) and / or a Rücksaugsicherung (23) are arranged. Domestic appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that the line (20) of the flushing device (24) directly to the first port (9) of the metering pump (6) is connected. Domestic appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that the first directional valve (11) has a valve chamber (45) and a in the valve chamber (45) arranged valve closing body (46) and that the line (20) of the purging device (24) opens into the valve chamber (45), wherein, when the first directional valve (11) is closed, the rinsing water from the rinsing device (24) via the valve space (45) of the first directional valve (11) to the first port (9) of the dosing pump (6 ) is feasible. Domestic appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that a first upstream directional valve (37) is provided, via which the first treatment agent (3) from the first reservoir (2) to the first directional valve (11) can be conveyed, and that the line (20 ) of the purging device (24) opens into a connection (39) between the first upstream directional valve (37) and the first directional valve (11). Domestic appliance according to one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that the flushing device (24) has a switching valve (50) that in a first switching position of the switching valve (50) the rinse water to the first port (9) of the metering pump (6) feasible is and that in a second switching position of the switching valve (50), the rinse water to the second port (10) of the metering pump (6) is feasible.

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