EP2913431B1 - System for detecting the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning assembly or the like. - Google Patents

Description

The device initially relates to a system for recording the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system.

The applicant has been developing and selling dosing devices, control devices and software for the operation of washing or cleaning systems, in particular in the field of commercial dishwashing and commercial laundry, for decades.

In order to enable efficient operation of a washing or cleaning system, it would be desirable to automate dosing processes to a large extent. It would also be desirable if a controller for a dosing device—particularly largely automatically—obtained information about which containers are currently connected to the dosing device.

From the EP 2 368 645 A1 shows an arrangement and a method for machine cleaning of objects. Provision is made here for containers containing a consumable to be marked with an RFID tag containing a UID (= unique identify number). The publication also proposes a filling level sensor that monitors the filling level of the consumables used. If this level sensor gives an empty message, the corresponding container must be replaced. After an empty message from a filling level sensor, the container can only be put back into operation after the RFID reading device has identified an RFID tag with a new UID number to ensure that a new container with consumables is actually connected.

Out U.S. 2010/0161143 A1 a system emerges which B. a washing machine or other household appliance, a module and at least one container that can be accommodated in the module. The module can accommodate multiple containers of different sizes, with each container having its own pump and motor. Exemplary embodiments include a data carrier in the form of an SFN module in which information can be written. The information can be read out via a data connection cable. A microcontroller in the washing machine can process the information. In all of the exemplary embodiments of the publication, fluid level sensors are provided, which measure the level of the container, for example by means of ultrasound or optically. The reference discloses that media usage counts can be tracked and written to container memory. If the number of media uses exceeds a maximum use number written by the container manufacturer, a signal is generated that the container is no longer usable. The publication also discloses that the data carrier in the form of an SFN module can have filling level data which are compared with the measured filling level in order to be able to determine whether an invalid container has been used.

The object of the invention is to provide a system, starting from a device of the applicant that cannot be documented in printed form, which enables intelligent, in particular largely automated, process control and management of a cleaning system or a washing system.

The invention solves this problem with the features of claim 1.

According to the invention, a system is made available with which the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system can be recorded.

As a car wash, any system is understood that at least one washing machine, so in particular a household washing machine, or a commercial washing machine, in particular for washing textiles.

In the context of the present patent application, a cleaning system is understood to mean any system which comprises at least one dishwasher, in particular a commercial dishwasher.

At least one container containing a medium can be coupled to the washing or cleaning system.

A medium is understood as meaning a detergent or a dishwashing detergent or a component of such an aforementioned agent. Any other medium to be used in connection with a washing or cleaning process in the washing or cleaning installation is also understood as a medium in the sense of the present patent application. For example, in the case of a system having a dishwashing installation, the medium can also be provided by a rinse aid.

The medium is preferably in liquid form, a concentrate, or a solution. It is also covered by the invention if the medium is provided in powder or granular form.

The container can be provided by a conventional container of any size and can be made of glass or plastic, for example.

The container can be detachably coupled to a coupling point. The coupling point is part of the washing or cleaning system and is spatially assigned to it. It can be such a coupling point that has a carrier or a receiving device for the container has. However, a coupling point within the meaning of the present patent application can also be understood as a mounting position for the container at which the container is coupled to the washing and cleaning system, for example with the aid of a discharge device for the medium, for example a suction lance. The coupling point and thus the assembly position is then the place at which the suction lance is to be inserted into the container.

According to the invention, the container includes a data carrier, for example an RFID tag. An information data record is written into the data carrier. The information data record is written, for example, when the container is filled with the medium.

The information data record contains at least information about the type of medium, for example about the type of detergent, or the type of dishwashing detergent, or the type of cleaner, or the type of rinse aid, and also information about the volume of medium in the container . In other words, the container size is made available as part of the information data record in the data carrier.

The system according to the invention also includes a dosing device. The dosing device serves to dose the medium.

A dosing device in the sense of the present application is understood in particular as a device as described in the German patent application DE 10 2011 119 021 A1 or in the DE 10 2011 108 396 , both of which are assigned to the applicants.

The dosing device essentially serves to determine dosing quantities in order to provide the medium in the desired quantity or concentration. Typically, it can be provided within the scope of the invention that the dosing device mixes the medium with water.

The system also includes a pump arrangement which advantageously interacts with the dosing device. The pump arrangement serves to supply the medium to a target container. The medium can thus be conveyed to at least one washing machine or to at least one dishwasher by means of the pump arrangement.

In an advantageous arrangement according to the invention, the pump arrangement can serve both to discharge the medium from the respective container and to supply the medium, preferably mixed with water, to the target container.

The system according to the invention also includes a control unit. The control unit is connected to the pump arrangement and the dosing device and can control or respond to both. One or more washing or cleaning programs can be stored in the control unit, which—in a manner known per se—determine at what time and in what sequence which metered quantities of which medium are to be supplied.

The system also includes a reading device, for example an RFID reader, with which the information data record can be read. The reading device can be part of the controller or can be arranged separately from the control unit and can communicate with the control unit.

The information contained in the information data record can be made accessible to the control unit, at least in part.

The system according to the invention also includes a counting device for determining the volume of medium removed from the container.

The counting device can record or determine the consumption quantity of the medium. The determination is based on the respective dosing process. A determination can only be made for the current dosing process, or possibly also cumulatively, that is to say summed up over many dosing processes.

The consumption volume can be determined, for example, with the aid of the control information of the pump arrangement and the dosing device.

However, alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the system has a device for flow measurement or flow rate determination, which directly measures the respective quantities consumed.

According to the invention, a current filling level of the container can be calculated by the control unit, taking into account the volume removed. The control unit therefore knows the current fill level of the container.

According to the invention, a writing device is also provided. This can be an RFID writing device, for example.

In particular, the current filling level of the container can be written to the data carrier as information using the writing device.

In the event that the container is removed from the coupling point, the container can take information about its own filling level with it.

If the container is subsequently used at a different location, a control system arranged there with a reading device arranged there can read out the fill level information that is then current and use it further.

In this respect, the system according to the invention enables containers to be exchanged and handling to be flexible. In this case, flexible use is made possible, particularly in larger washing or cleaning systems with a number of washing machines or with a number of dishwashers, if containers have to be subjected to a different positioning.

A vacancy is also referred to as the current fill level within the meaning of the present application. The writing device of the system according to the invention can also write the information on the data carrier that the container is empty or completely empty.

Such information can be used, for example, for later refilling of the container.

The invention encompasses systems that continuously write the current filling level as information on the data carrier. Such an ongoing or permanent writing of the fill level information on the data medium can, for example, immediately after the end of each dosing process or alternatively at the beginning or during of each dosing process. The fill level can be managed as a kind of account on the data carrier, and each individual metered quantity consumed in the case of a metering process can be booked directly on the RFID tag in the manner of an account debit.

The preceding passages explain the invention using an example in which the control unit can calculate a current fill level of the container, taking into account the volume removed, and a writing device is provided by means of which the current fill level can be written to the data carrier as information.

However, the invention also includes an alternative exemplary embodiment of a system in which the control unit does not necessarily have to be able to calculate the current fill level of the container, but can further process information about how large the volume removed, i.e. the amount dosed by the dosing device on medium, is. According to one variant of the invention, the information about the volume removed can, for example, be information about the last volume removed in each case. Further processing can then be carried out by the control unit, for example in such a way that this value is stored and possibly summed up or forwarded to the writing device.

It is also covered by the invention that the information about the volume removed is recorded as information about the entire volume removed, summed up or accumulated over a number of dosing processes.

In these variants of the invention can also be provided that - in the course of further processing of the information about the removed volume - the writing device not the information about writes the current fill level as information on the data carrier, but writes information about the removed volume, either as an individual amount of the removed volume, or as a cumulative total volume, on the data carrier.

In this variant, it is not the difference that is written on the data medium in the container, but only the difference amount to be subtracted from the initial amount.

According to the variant of the invention, this information is also stored on the data carrier of the container. In the event that the container is subjected to reconnection to the same system or to another system after it has been decoupled from the system, the data carrier can be read out by the respective control unit there, and the control unit can provide information about the current, actual filling level receive.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the writing device writes the current filling level as information on the data carrier when the container is removed from the coupling point. In this embodiment, an operator, the user, is required to log off the container from the system when a container is removed from the coupling point, and to ensure that the writing device writes the current filling level onto the data carrier. According to the invention, this registration can also take place automatically each time the container is removed from the coupling point.

The last-described system enables simplified handling, which in particular - even when using several containers - manages with just one reading device or one writing device. With this system, the user is kept in containers to log in or out of the controller. In the course of each sign-off process, the current filling level of each container is noted on the respective data medium.

In this way, reliable process control can be achieved with only a very small outlay in terms of design and equipment.

The invention relates both to systems that use only one container and to such systems to which multiple containers can be coupled. In particular - but not exclusively - the invention relates to systems to which several containers with different media can be coupled.

According to the invention--after a container has been coupled to a coupling point--an assignment is made between the container and the coupling point. This can be done, for example, by assigning a reading device to the coupling point, which read device immediately recognizes that a container with a corresponding data carrier is coupled to the corresponding coupling point. In this case, the reading device assigned to the coupling point can also transmit this information directly to the controller—possibly also automatically.

Alternatively, the invention also includes the fact that a data carrier with information about the coupling point is also arranged at the coupling point. With a mobile reader, for example a mobile RFID reader, an operator can, after coupling the container to the respective coupling point, both read the container with the data carrier attached there and scan the associated coupling point with the data carrier arranged there, so that in the Control automatically an assignment of the respective container to the respective coupling point can be made.

Finally, the invention also encompasses a system in which the operator has to register and deregister packs, ie containers. For this purpose, a user interface can be assigned to the controller, ie an interface by means of which it can communicate with the operator.

For example, using software, for example with the aid of a drum menu or the like, the user can—possibly also manually—inform the controller that a specific container is being coupled to a specific coupling point or has been decoupled from it.

For example, it is conceivable that every time a user brings a container to a coupling point, the container is first scanned past a RFID reader, which may also be permanently installed, i.e. not mobile, and the controller then recognizes that a new container is to be connected to the system and asks the user individually at which coupling point, for example to which suction lance, the container that has just been scanned is to be connected or has been connected. The user can then identify the coupling point, for example suction lance No. 3, individually, for example manually.

A corresponding procedure can be carried out when registering a container from the system. It can then be provided, for example, that the user, when detaching the container from the respective coupling point, again brings the container to the—permanently installed—read/write unit, and in this way deregisters the container.

As soon as the system has recognized or accepted a certain container as registered in the system, it is also part of the invention includes when, with the help of the writing unit, further information is written into the data carrier of a container, which states that the container is "in service". An identification of the "master", ie the washing or cleaning system to which the container is connected, can also be written into the data carrier of the container.

Such plant identification or system identification can also be made using an ID number of the control unit.

According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a system for managing a washing or cleaning system, and in particular for detecting the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system, according to claim 4.

The object of the invention is in turn to provide a system that enables intelligent, in particular largely automated, process control and management of a cleaning or washing system.

The invention solves this problem with the features of claim 4.

Accordingly, it is provided that the system comprises at least one container which can be detachably coupled to a coupling point of the washing or cleaning system. A medium is located in the container, ie a detergent or cleaning agent or a component thereof or an agent used in a washing or cleaning process.

The container includes a data carrier, for example an RFID tag. An information data record is written into the data carrier. This contains at least information about the type of medium, for example about the chemical used.

The information data record is written directly or indirectly into the data carrier. A direct inscription can, for example, include the name of the medium being contained directly, ie directly readable by a control unit. Indirect writing of information about the type of medium is understood in the context of the application if, for example, a code or article number or the like is used that allows the system to be controlled, for example by comparison or with the help of other sources of information, a Identify the type of medium.

The system includes a dosing device, a pump assembly, and a control unit.

The system also includes a reading device and a counting device.

Finally, the control unit is able to calculate a current fill level of the container, taking into account the volume removed.

However, the control unit is at least able to determine that the container has been completely emptied. A complete emptying of the container can be determined in any way.

According to the invention, a writing unit is also provided. The writing unit is able to write information onto the data carrier.

The writing device is at least designed to write information on the data carrier that this container has already been subjected to a connection to the system. This information is preferably written to the data carrier by the writing device when it is initially coupled to the system. The moment the container is registered with the system, a corresponding write process can take place.

Assuming that only containers of a predetermined size are permitted on the system, the system can - in the course of carrying out the writing process, marking the data carrier that a connection or coupling to the system has taken place - assume that in the Container contains a certain amount of medium. The system can then calculate or at least determine when the container has been emptied, for example on the basis of the package size information received and taking into account the measurement of the metered amounts and their summation.

According to an advantageous embodiment of this invention, information can be written to the data carrier by means of the writing device, to which system the container has been coupled. In this way, the controller can ensure or check that only those containers are connected to it that also contain written information that they are connected to the respective system. In this way, operating errors and mix-ups can be avoided.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the information data record contains information about the filling level of the container. In addition to the information that it is already subject to a connection to the system, the information about the current filling level is advantageous in order to carry out or check an automated method for recording consumption.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control unit is in possession of the information about the filling level of the container. The controller acquires this ownership as a result of the transmission of information about the filling level of the container via a separate path, independently of the process of reading out the information data record. For example, the operator can provide information about the container size manually via the interface, the user interface, known to the controller. Finally, according to this variant of the invention, the controller can also have information about the fact that only packs of a certain size are permitted for coupling. In this case, the controller can assume that the container connected to it has a specific container size.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, information about the current filling level of the container when the container is removed from the coupling point can be written into the data carrier by means of the writing device. Such a writing process can either take place automatically, each time the container is taken or removed from the coupling point. However, it can also be provided within the scope of the invention that the operator has to initiate such a writing process manually.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that if the container is removed from the coupling point, the writing device can write information onto the data carrier that this container has been disconnected from the system. As a result, a type of usage history can be stored on the data carrier on the container itself. This enables a further improved, largely automated process management and control of a system according to the invention. Containers that contain this information written on the data carrier can also be used particularly flexibly,

According to a further embodiment of the system according to the invention for recording the consumption of the medium in a washing or cleaning system or the system according to the invention for managing a washing or cleaning system, a container for receiving the medium is provided.

A container is advantageously specified which can be used in a system which enables intelligent and largely automated process control and management of a cleaning system or a washing system.

At least one item of information, preferably a large number of items of information, is written into the data carrier on the container.

This information can be processed by the system, in particular by the control unit of the system.

For example, in the data carrier already at the factory, ie when manufacturing the container or when filling the container with the Medium, information to be inscribed as a product property can be described, or at least is related to the product, i.e. to the medium. For example, a so-called hose load factor can be entered as information. A hose load factor is a variable that enables a calculation of maintenance intervals for a metering pump, in particular an interval for changing a hose of a hose pump. The hose load factor depends on the chemicals. Depending on the type of medium, different hose load factors can be of interest.

If the controller knows the connected media and their consumption quantities, it can automatically initiate a change of a hose of a peristaltic pump and, for example, inform an operator that maintenance is required.

The information about the number of dosing processes can be used by the control unit of the system for statistical purposes, for example, in order to determine and improve the service life of containers.

Information about the number of times the container has been filled can be of particular importance in a multi-way concept for containers. For example, it can be provided that a container must not exceed a specific number of filling processes.

Information about other product properties such as viscosity, density, permitted temperature, processing range, etc. of the medium can be used by the control unit of the system to optimize the process control or at least to design it safely or to ensure it. For example, if the permissible temperature processing range is known, an emergency shutdown can take place if there are operational risks due to measuring a temperature outside the permissible range.

By knowing the viscosity or the density of the medium arranged in the container, the control unit of the system can adapt the processing.

Information about the expiry date of the medium or a best before date of the chemical can also be taken into account by the control unit.

In the event that the expiry date is exceeded, the controller can also output appropriate warnings, for example.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the information is stored in the data carrier in encoded or encrypted form. This enables protection against unauthorized access and against unauthorized manipulation of the information.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the data carrier is an RFID tag.

Furthermore, a suction lance is advantageously provided.

It is advantageous to provide a suction lance which is suitable for use in a system for managing a washing or cleaning installation or in a system for recording the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning installation.

A reading device is advantageously assigned to the suction lance.

The reading device can be an RFID reader, for example. This reading device can also include a writing device with which the data set on the container can be addressed and additional information can be written on the data medium on the container.

The reading device is advantageously arranged directly on the suction lance.

The suction lance also advantageously has an electrical or electronic interface for the purpose of connection to the control unit of a system for recording consumption or for managing a washing or cleaning system.

Fig. 1

in einer schematischen, schaltbildartigen Ansicht ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Systems,

Fig. 2

eine entsprechende Ansicht eines zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Systems,

Fig. 3

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Systems,

Fig. 4

in einer schematischen Darstellung ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Sauglanze, und

Fig. 5

in einer schematischen Ansicht ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Behältnisses.

Further advantages of the invention result from the uncited dependent claims and from the following description of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures. The figures show:

1

in a schematic, circuit diagram-like view a first embodiment of a system according to the invention,

2

a corresponding view of a second embodiment of the system according to the invention,

3

another embodiment of a system according to the invention,

4

in a schematic representation an embodiment of a suction lance according to the invention, and

figure 5

in a schematic view a first embodiment of a container according to the invention.

The designated in its entirety with 10 system for detecting the consumption of a medium of a washing or cleaning system, which can also be called a system for managing a washing or cleaning system, will first be explained using an exemplary embodiment in which according to 1 only one washing machine 42 is connected. In the 1 The washing machine shown schematically can be a conventional household washing machine or a conventional commercial textile washing machine.

However, the invention also encompasses systems in which several washing machines or, alternatively, one or more dishwashers are provided as target containers.

It should be noted at this point that in the following description of the figures, parts or elements that are the same or comparable to one another, even if they are shown in different exemplary embodiments, have been denoted by the same reference symbols, sometimes with the addition of lowercase letters.

It should also be noted at this point that features which are only described in one exemplary embodiment can be regarded as features which are essential to the invention and which can also be arranged in any other exemplary embodiment within the scope of the invention.

The embodiment of 1 shows a controller 11, a dosing device 13, three different containers 22, 23, 24, a pump 43, optionally a flow meter 44, an RFID read/write device 47, and an interface (the so-called user interface) 49.

The controller 11 is shown only schematically, in the form of a circuit diagram. It includes at least one processor or one computing unit.

The control unit 11 is connected to the aforementioned elements via electrical lines shown schematically. In fact, they can be signal lines or control lines, which can typically be designed with two or more wires. Operating voltages for the individual subscribers 12, 43, 44, 49, 47 of the system can also be transmitted via the indicated lines.

In the exemplary embodiment, the controller 11 is connected to the motor 12 of the dosing device 13 via a connecting line 51 and to the pump 43 via a connecting line 45 . It is also connected to the flow measuring device 44 via a connecting line 46 and to the user interface 49 via a connecting line 50 and finally to the RFID read/write device 47 via a connecting line 48 .

Each of the three containers 22, 23 and 24—shown only as examples in terms of geometry and number—is equipped with a data carrier 31, 32, 33, with an RFID tag in all exemplary embodiments. The RFID tag 31, 32, 33 is permanently connected to the container 22, 23, 24.

In the exemplary embodiments that are not shown, the data carrier 31, 32, 33 can also be provided by another medium from which the stored information can be read electronically or optically. The data carrier can be written to or rewritten in order to also be able to write information into the data carrier using the RFID writing device 47 .

The data carrier is preferably arranged on a wall of the container 22, 23, 24.

In order to connect the container 24 to the system 10, for example, the container 24 can be brought to the associated coupling point 39 according to a variant of the invention.

The RFID reader 47 can then communicate with the RFID tag 33 . This communication can either take place automatically, for example by the reading device 47 constantly or periodically sending out signals or receiving signals from the RFID tag 33, or alternatively it can be user-controlled.

The reading device 47 can recognize the RFID tag 33 as such, and can recognize or read out the information, in particular about the type of container and the size of the container, and forward it to the controller 11 . In particular, information about the container size, ie about the amount of medium 27 in the container 24, and about the type of medium can be output and, for example, encoded via the connecting line 48 to the control unit 11 can be transmitted.

The control unit 11 thus receives the information that the container 24 containing the medium 27, with a certain level 30, to the Coupling point 39, and thus to the suction lance 36 of the connecting line 21 has been coupled.

A corresponding coupling process is carried out successively with the containers 23 and 22 .

For a washing process in the washing machine 42, different media 25, 26, 27 are required at different times and in different quantities--corresponding, for example, to a program selection by activating the program selector switch 52.

The controller 11 can address the dosing device 13 via the motor 12 . The dosing device 13 comprises - as in 1 indicated only schematically—an input disk 14 and an output disk 15. In the exemplary embodiment, the output disk 15 can be rotated by the motor 12 about the only schematically indicated axis of rotation 53 relative to the fixed input disk 14. Three inlets 16, 17, 18 for the three different media are arranged on the input disk.

It is also conceivable that a different number of inlets is provided, for example corresponding to the number of different media.

It is also conceivable that an inlet for a rinsing agent, for example water, is additionally provided.

By rotating the output disk 15, the outlet 40 of the output disk 15--depending on the rotational position of the output disk 15--can be brought into communication with different inlets 16, 17, 18.

With regard to the possible configuration of a dosing device, reference is made to the previously published documents of the prior art described at the outset, which go back to the applicants, also for the purpose of making reference to individual features.

The pump 43 can also be activated by the control unit 11 and can ensure, for example by generating a negative pressure, that a corresponding quantity, i.e. a certain volume, of medium is pumped out of the respective container 22 through the corresponding connecting line 19, 20, 21 , 23, 24 is discharged out, and the dosing device 13 happens. The pump 43 also ensures that the medium, possibly together with added water, is thereby fed through the connecting line 41 to the washing machine 42 .

The control unit 11 can determine the respective dosing quantity from the control signals of the pump 43 or, additionally or alternatively, also from the motor control signals, in conjunction with information about the rotational position of the output disk 15 .

Alternatively, or optionally additionally, at least one flow measuring device 44 can also be provided, which determines the flow quantities and transmits them directly to the control unit 11 .

The control unit 11 preferably has a counting device 61 as a component. This does not have to be in the form of a separate physical unit, but can be present as part of a processor in control unit 11 or just as an algorithm in control unit 11 . In any case, the counting device serves to To determine consumption values of the individual media of the connected containers.

Knowing the consumption values of the corresponding media, the control unit 11 can transmit a signal via the control line 48 to the RFID writing device, which causes the writing device 47 to write into the corresponding RFID tag 31, 32, 33 on the corresponding container 24, 23, 22 write information about the current fill level.

In this context it should be noted that in the embodiment of 1 the device 47 is designed as a combined RFID reading and writing device. The writing device can therefore both read and write to RFID tags 31, 32, 33.

However, the invention also includes systems in which a reading device for the data carriers 31, 32, 33 and a writing device for the data carriers 31, 32, 33 are formed by different components.

The corresponding RFID tags 31 , 32 , 33 can be read out automatically by the unit 47 whenever a container 22 , 23 , 24 has been brought to a corresponding coupling point 37 , 38 , 39 .

However, it is also conceivable that the reading process of the RFID tags 31, 32, 33 is user-controlled, for example by interacting with the interface 49. The interface 49 can, for example, contain a display, as well as a keyboard, a touch screen or another possibility for an operator to transmit information to the controller.

The writing process, i.e. the writing of the RFID tags 31, 32, 33 by the RFID writing device 47, can take place in different ways according to the invention:
On the one hand, the RFID tag 31, 32, 33 can be written to every time the medium has been dosed. This approach can be used, for example, to constantly debit sales from an RFID medium bulk account, so to speak

Alternatively, there is the possibility of not writing filling level information to the corresponding RFID tag 31, 32, 33 until the corresponding container 22, 23, 24 is removed or removed from the associated coupling point 37, 38, 39. The controller 11 can then send information to the corresponding container 22, 23, 24 by means of the writing device 47 that in the respective container 22, 23, 24 after removal and removal from the system 11 a specific fill level 28, 29, 30 of a medium , i.e. also a vacancy, for example.

In the following, with regard to the exemplary embodiments of the Figures 1 to 3 be explained that different variants of systems are covered by the invention.

ID 1 the system 10 has only a single reading and writing device 47 with which the data carriers 31, 32, 33 can be read out together. In this exemplary embodiment, the read/write device 47 has a sufficiently large reception area to monitor all coupling points 37, 38, 39 to determine whether or not there are containers at them, and to read out the RFID tags 31, 32, 33 located there to be able to

In this exemplary embodiment, automated registration and deregistration of the individual containers at the controller 11 of the system 10 is thus advantageously already possible in that the container 22, 23, 24 is brought to the corresponding coupling point. A logoff is preferably also carried out automatically here when the corresponding container is taken or removed from the coupling point.

In contrast, in the embodiment of 2 provided that the coupling points 37, 38, 39 and/or the individual suction lances 34, 35, 36 are each assigned their own RFID read/write devices. These permanently arranged read/write devices 54a, 54b, 54c are each connected to the controller 11 via a connecting line 48a, 48b, 48c. The individual RFID read/write units 54a, 54b, 54c have already been assigned to the individual coupling points 37, 38, 39 here.

If, for example, the container 24 is now brought to the coupling point 39, the RFID reading device 54a can read out the information content of the RFID tag 33 directly. Then, after transmission of a corresponding signal from the reading device 54a via the connecting line 48a, the controller 11 knows immediately which coupling point, namely the coupling point 39, the container 24 is assigned to.

In contrast, in a variant of the system 10 according to FIG 1 It may be necessary for the user to send information to the controller 11 via the interface 49, which of the coupling points 37, 38, 39, if there are several coupling points, is to be assigned the corresponding container that has just been registered or has been registered.

3 finally shows a further exemplary embodiment of a system 10 according to the invention, in which a reading/writing device 55 is arranged centrally. Here the stylized hand of a user indicates that a container 24 with the RFID tag 33 must be brought close to the read/write device 55 in order to register the container with the controller 11 and/or to register it.

Here, too, the container to be registered must still be assigned to the respective coupling point 37, 38, 39. This assignment can in turn be user-controlled.

Evidence of the embodiment of 4 an exemplary embodiment of a suction lance 36 according to the invention is shown. This can be in the form of a suction pipe and can be connected to a hose line 58 via a coupling 57, for example. The hose line 58 of the embodiment of 4 can, for example, the connecting line 21 of the embodiment of 1 correspond.

In the embodiment of the invention 4 a reading device 54a is attached directly to the suction lance 36 . The reading device 54a is preferably an RFID reading device. This is also preferably designed as an RFID writing device 54a at the same time.

The device 54a is connected by means of an electrical or electronic interface 62 via an electrical connecting line 56, which is 4 is indicated only schematically, and which preferably runs along the hose line 58, or runs at least in sections along the hose line 58, with which in 4 controller 11 of the system 10, not shown, is connected.

The interface 62 can be designed, for example, as a plug, or screw, or clamp connection, and in any case enables data transmission via the connecting line 56.

The reading/writing device 54a is preferably arranged on such a section of the suction lance 36 which usually does not protrude into the medium.

Evidence of the embodiment of figure 5 is shown in a schematic representation of an embodiment of a container according to the invention. The container 24a has a vessel wall 60 which provides an interior space in which the medium 27a is located. A lid 59 closes the container 24a. The lid can be removed or partially opened, or pierced by a suction lance 36 if necessary. The cover can be formed from a thin film, for example, or have a predetermined passage point for the suction lance.

1. a) Eine eindeutige Seriennummer des Datenträgers, die im Zuge der Befüllung des Behältnisses mit dem Medium vergeben worden ist;
2. b) Ein Produktidentifikationshinweis für das Medium;
3. c) Ein Herstelldatum oder Abfülldatum des Mediums;
4. d) Eine Chargennummer des Mediums;
5. e) Eine Information über ein Verfallsdatum oder ein Mindesthaltbarkeitsdatum des Mediums;
6. f) Eine Information über die Gefahrstoffklassifikation des Mediums;
7. g) Eine Information über die Gebindegröße;
8. h) Eine Information über den initialen Füllstand und/oder über den aktuellen Füllstand;
9. i) Eine Information über eine Produkteigenschaft des Mediums, insbesondere
   • aa)eine Information über die Viskosität des Mediums und/oder
   • bb)eine Information über die Dichte des Mediums und/oder
   • cc) eine Information über den erlaubten Temperaturverarbeitungsbereich des Mediums und/oder
   • dd)eine Information über einen Schlauchbelastungsfaktor;
10. j) Eine Information über eine Temperaturabhängigkeit wenigstens einer der Produkteigenschaften von Merkmal i);
11. k) Eine Information über die mit dem Medium aus diesem Behältnis heraus vorgenommene Anzahl der durchgeführten Dosiervorgänge;
12. l) Eine Information über die Zahl der Befüllungen dieses Behältnisses.

An RFID tag 33a is arranged on the wall 60 of the container 24a. A lot of information is written in this in the exemplary embodiment. In particular, one or preferably more of the following information is written into the RFID tag:

1. a) A unique serial number of the data carrier, which was assigned in the course of filling the container with the medium;
2. b) A product identification notice for the medium;
3. c) A manufacturing date or bottling date of the medium;
4. d) A lot number of the medium;
5. e) Information about an expiry date or a best before date of the medium;
6. f) Information about the hazardous substance classification of the medium;
7. g) information about the container size;
8. h) Information about the initial filling level and/or about the current filling level;
9. i) Information about a product property of the medium, in particular
   • aa) information about the viscosity of the medium and/or
   • bb) information about the density of the medium and/or
   • cc) information about the permitted temperature processing range of the medium and/or
   • dd) information about a hose load factor;
10. j) Information about a temperature dependency of at least one of the product properties of feature i);
11. k) Information about the number of metering processes carried out with the medium from this container;
12. l) Information about the number of fillings of this container.

The information or preferably the plurality of information is preferably written into the RFID tag 33a in the course of filling the container 24a with the medium 27a.

In the case of a connection of this container 24a to one of the systems 10 according to the Figures 1 to 3 After the information has been read out from the data carrier 33a, the corresponding information can be processed or taken into account by the controller 11.

For example, knowing the hose load factor of the corresponding medium 27a, the controller can calculate a maintenance interval and display this to the operator.

Claims (15)

1. System (10) for detecting the consumption of a medium (25, 26, 27) in a washing or cleaning assembly, comprising

   a) at least one receptacle (22, 23, 24, 24a), which is detachably couplable to a coupling point (37, 38, 38) of the washing or cleaning assembly, wherein a medium is located in the receptacle, and wherein the receptacle has a data storage device (31, 32, 33, 33a), e.g. an RFID tag, on which an information record is entered, which contains at least one piece of information about the nature of the medium and one piece of information about the volume of the medium that is in the receptacle,

   b) a dispenser (13), with which the medium can be metered,

   c) a pump arrangement (43), with which the medium can be pumped to a target receptacle (42), e.g. to a washing machine or to a dishwasher,

   d) a control unit (11), with which the pump arrangement and the dispenser can be contacted,

   e) a reading device (47), e.g. an RFID reading device, with which the information record can be read,

   f) a counting device (61) for determining the volume of the medium withdrawn from the receptacle,

   g) wherein, taking into account the withdrawn volume, a current fill level (28, 29, 30) of the receptacle can be calculated by the control unit, or information about the withdrawn volume can be further processed,

   h) and wherein a writing device (47, 54a, 54b, 54c, 55) is provided, by means of which the current fill level (28, 29, 30) can be written onto the data storage device (31, 32, 33) as information, or by means of which one piece of information about the withdrawn volume can be written onto the data storage device.
2. System according to claim 1, characterised in that the writing device (47) continuously writes the current fill level (28, 29, 30) of the receptacle or the volume withdrawn from the receptacle onto the data storage device as information.
3. System according to claim 1, characterised in that the writing device (47, 54a, 54b, 54c, 55) writes the current fill level (28, 29, 30) of the receptacle or the volume withdrawn from the receptacle onto the data storage device as information when the receptacle is removed from the coupling point (37, 38, 38).
4. System (10) for managing a washing or cleaning assembly, and in particular for recording the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning assembly, comprising

   a) at least one receptacle (22, 23, 24, 24a), which is detachably couplable to a coupling point (37, 38, 38) of the washing or cleaning assembly, wherein a medium (25, 26, 26) is located in the receptacle, and wherein the receptacle has a data storage device (31, 32, 33), e.g. an RFID tag, on which an information record is entered, which indirectly or directly contains at least one piece of information about nature of the medium,

   b) a dispenser (13), with which the medium can be metered,

   c) a pump arrangement (43), with which the medium can be pumped to a target receptacle (42), e.g. to a washing machine or to a dishwasher,

   d) a control unit (11), with which the pump arrangement and the dispenser can be contacted,

   e) a reading device (47, 54a, 54b, 54c, 55), e.g. an RFID reading device, with which the information record can be read,

   f) a counting device (61) for determining the volume of the medium withdrawn from the receptacle,

   g) wherein, taking into account the withdrawn volume, a current fill level (28, 29, 30) of the receptacle can be calculated and/or a complete emptying of the receptacle can be detected by the control unit (11),

   h) wherein a writing device (47) is provided, by means of which at least one piece of information can be written onto the data storage device, namely that this receptacle has already been attached to the system,

   i) and wherein a writing device (47, 54a, 54b, 54c, 55) is provided, by means of which the current fill level (28, 29, 30) can be written onto the data storage device (31, 32, 33) as information, or by means of which one piece of information about the withdrawn volume can be written onto the data storage device.
5. System according to claim 4, characterised in that information can be written onto the data storage device by means of the writing device (47, 54a, 54b, 54c, 55), said information enabling an identification of the system (10) to which the receptacle has been coupled.
6. System according to claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the information record contains information about the fill level (28, 29, 30) of the receptacle.
7. System according to claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the control unit (11) is, independent of a reading-out process of the information record, in possession of the information about the fill level of the receptacle, as a result of information about the fill level (28, 29, 30) of the receptacle being transmitted across a specific path.
8. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the system has a washing assembly that comprises at least one household washing machine (42) or at least one commercial washing machine (42) for washing textiles.
9. System according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the system (10) comprises a cleaning assembly that has at least one dishwasher.
10. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that information about the current fill level of the receptacle can be written onto the data storage device when the receptacle is removed from the coupling point, by means of the reading device (47, 54a, 54b, 54c, 55).
11. System (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that, if the receptacle is removed from the coupling point (37, 38, 39), information can be written onto the data storage device, namely that this receptacle has been uncoupled from the system.
12. System according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the receptacle (22, 23, 24, 24a) for receiving the medium (25, 26, 27), in particular a washing agent or a cleaning agent or a component of an above-mentioned agent, wherein the data storage device (31, 32, 33, 33a) on which the information record is written is arranged on the receptacle, the information record comprising at least one piece of information from the following group of information:

    a) a unique serial number of the data storage device, which has been assigned in the course of the receptacle being filled with the medium (27a);

    b) a product identification reference for the medium (27a);

    c) a manufacturing date or bottling date of the medium (27a);

    d) a batch number of the medium (27a);

    e) information about an expiry date or a best-before date of the medium (27a);

    f) information about the hazardous substance classification of the medium (27a);

    g) information about the container size;

    h) information about the initial fill level and/or about the current fill level (28, 29, 30);

    i) information about the product characteristics of the medium, in particular

    aa) information about the viscosity of the medium and/or

    bb) information about the density of the medium and/or

    cc) information about the possible temperature processing range of the medium and/or

    dd) information about a tubing load factor;

    j) information about a temperature dependence of at least one of the product characteristics of feature i);

    k) information about the number of dispensing processes carried out of this receptable with the medium;

    l) information about the number of refills of this receptacle.
13. System according to claim 12, wherein the information is stored in the data storage device in an encoded or encrypted manner, and/or wherein the data storage device (31, 32, 33, 33a) is an RFID tag.
14. System according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a suction pipe (34, 35, 36) for conveying a medium that can be removed from the receptable (22, 23, 24, 24a) and for inserting into the receptacle, wherein a reading device, in particular an RFID reading device, is allocated to the suction pipe, with which an information record, which is arranged in a data storage device on the receptacle, can be read.
15. System according to claim 14, wherein the suction pipe (34, 35, 36) can be connected with the control unit (11) of the system (10) by means of an electrical or electronic interface (62).

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