EP3579734B1 - Cleaning device and method for cleaning articles to be cleaned - Google Patents

Description

Field of the invention

The invention relates to a method, a cleaning device and a cleaning system for cleaning items to be cleaned, in particular for use in commercial dishwashing technology and/or in large kitchens. Cleaning devices of the type mentioned can be used, for example, in communal catering facilities, such as in particular in company canteens, canteens in schools, authorities, hospitals or care facilities. The cleaning device can be used in particular for cleaning items to be cleaned in the form of items to be washed, which are used directly or indirectly for the preparation, storage or presentation of food and drinks. In particular, these can be dishes and/or trays. Other areas of application of the present invention are also conceivable in principle, in particular areas of application with basically any items to be washed and/or in the household sector. Furthermore, use in the cleaning of care utensils is also conceivable, for example in cleaning and disinfection devices, in particular so-called bedpan washers.

State of the art

A large number of cleaning devices, also referred to as cleaning appliances, are known from the prior art, which can clean and/or disinfect items to be cleaned. The invention refers in the following, without restricting other possible areas of application, primarily to dishwashing technology, in particular commercial dishwashing technology, for example commercial dishwashing technology. In addition to program dishwashers with a static dishwashing process, conveyor dishwashers or pass-through dishwashers are known, in which the items to be cleaned are transported through one or more cleaning chambers by means of a transport device or can be pushed into a cleaning chamber. The design of these cleaning devices depends largely on the various boundary conditions, such as the type of items to be cleaned, the soiling, the throughput or similar conditions. Examples include cleaning devices which are used in EN 10 2004 056 052 A1 , in EN 10 2007 025 263 A1 or in EN 10 2013 220 035 A1 Furthermore, the invention can in principle be used for cleaning devices in other areas in addition to cleaning devices for use in dishwashing technology and in particular dishwashing technology. For example, the invention can be used in cleaning devices which are designed as cleaning and disinfection devices, such as in EN 10 2004 056 052 A1 , EN 10 2007 025 263 A1 or EN 10 2013 220 035 A1 which are designed for example for cleaning care utensils such as bedpans or urinals. Alternatively or additionally, the invention can also be used in cleaning devices which can be used for cleaning personal protective equipment, such as in WO 2011/144518 A2 described. However, other areas of application are also conceivable.

In contrast to domestic dishwashing technology, commercial dishwashers usually have several fluid tanks in order to be able to speed up the throughput of items to be cleaned. For example, in addition to the actual wash tank, there is usually also a rinse tank in which the rinse or final rinse fluid can be tempered while the main wash cycle is still running. Conveyor dishwashers usually have a number of cleaning zones in which the items to be cleaned are cleaned sequentially. However, this increase in throughput is usually associated with a significant increase in energy consumption and, in many cases, an increase in the need for cleaning solution compared to domestic dishwashing technology.

In particular, commercial dishwashers, but also sometimes privately used dishwashers or other cleaning devices, which are used in authorities or clubs, for example, often represent a significant investment for the operators. Smaller companies in particular, or even clubs and authorities, are often not financially able to bear the investment costs associated with purchasing cleaning devices. Therefore, particularly in the area of cleaning technology, more and more flexible usage models are becoming established, which do not involve the operator purchasing the cleaning devices in full. Rental models, hire purchase or other usage models are just a few examples.

However, a challenge with many alternative usage models is the selection of suitable billing modalities that balance the interests of the operator and the provider of the cleaning device. In addition to billing based purely on a rental period, billing models are also known that take into account the actual use of the cleaning device. EN 10 2011 109 801 B3 and EP 2 742 495 B1 a dishwasher with a storage unit for storing an identification number (ID) and a key, which allow a unique identification of the dishwasher. The dishwasher further comprises a data input unit for entering a rinse cycle voucher number (SBN), wherein a number of permitted rinse cycles can be derived from the rinse cycle voucher number (SBN). The dishwasher also comprises an authorization unit, which is designed to check whether the rinse cycle voucher number (SBN) is valid for the dishwasher identified by the identification number (ID) and the key, and which is further designed to unlock the dishwasher for the number of rinse cycles using the rinse cycle voucher number (SBN) in the event of a positive identification, or to block the dishwasher in the event of a negative identification.

US 4 076 554 A discloses a cost monitoring system for a dishwashing operation. The pumps and/or valves through which water flows during a dishwashing operation are monitored. Monitoring devices provide output values based on identical base costs. These output values are combined and a visual display of the cost of the dishwashing operation is provided.

US 2006 / 0 144 430 A1 discloses a method for providing information to a user of a car wash. The method includes receiving one or more signals from a car wash, the signal or signals representing one or more payment transactions. One or more signals representing a value of one or more car wash functions purchased with the one or more payment transactions are received from the car wash. An indication of the value of the one or more car wash functions purchased with the one or more payment transactions is included. The method further includes providing information including the indication of the value of the one or more car wash functions purchased with the one or more payment transactions. Further Embodiments relate to a messaging device of a vending machine and a car wash.

DE 199 05 979 A1 discloses a water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher or a washing machine. In order to create a simpler and more precise control of the amount of raw water added in the water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher or a washing machine, with a water softening device consisting essentially of a regenerable ion exchanger, in which the water softened in the ion exchanger is mixed by adding raw water, taking into account the degree of exhaustion of the ion exchanger, according to the invention the water softened in the ion exchanger is filled into a storage container. On the one hand, the filling time for the storage container is recorded and, on the other hand, this is added up to a total filling time since the time of the last regeneration of the ion exchanger and, on the basis of the filling time, the amount of soft water to be mixed is determined and, on the basis of the total filling time, the amount of water softened by the ion exchanger since the time of its last regeneration and the corresponding exhaustion state of the ion exchanger are determined and, on the basis of the total filling time, the amount of water softened by the ion exchanger since the time of its last regeneration and the corresponding exhaustion state of the ion exchanger are determined and, from this, the amount of raw water to be added for a predetermined degree of hardness of the cleaning liquid is determined.

US 5 371 681 A describes a vending device that can respond to a selection of different vending goods during the vending process by recalculating a period of time remaining in the vending process as a function of an allocation of an original payment amount and new calculation parameters associated with the newly selected selection of goods.

DE 31 46 725 A1 describes a high-pressure cleaning device. The high-pressure cleaning device described has the task of developing a high-pressure cleaning device with a coin machine in such a way that the coin machine can be constructed in a much simpler and more cost-effective manner and that when changing from one operating mode to the other, the working time not yet used in one operating mode can be transferred to the other. The invention is characterized in that the operating mode can be selected using a switch arranged on the control panel of the control unit, that a running time can be selected for each operating mode using additional control elements and that the sum of the selected running times is recorded by a decoder and is comparable with the total time recorded by the coin pulse counter. One embodiment consists in that each operating mode is assigned a relay coil and associated relay contacts for electromagnetic activation of the selected operating mode, that the respective relay coil can be switched on by means of a switch and that each relay coil is in series with a time reference, whereby the outputs of the time references form the common input of the decoder.

CA 1 189 933 A describes a coin operated car wash control arrangement which allows the user to use the car wash arrangement for different times and different functions. By providing two different timers, two different functions can be requested and paid for and times can be accumulated. Furthermore, the user can change from one function to another at any time and insert additional money as desired. A comparison device compares accumulated time with used time and turns the system off if the two times match. The operator can preset two different time periods for the different functions.

EN 10 2004 056 052 A1 describes a method for assessing and ensuring the thermal hygiene effect on items to be washed that are placed in a washing chamber of a single-chamber dishwasher, or items to be cleaned that are placed in a cleaning chamber of a washer-disinfector, whereby a temperature sensor is permanently assigned to the washing chamber or the cleaning chamber. The thermal hygiene effect is recorded via the temperature and exposure time acting on the items to be washed or cleaned via the temperature sensor and a control system, and the heat equivalent values are calculated from this.

EP 2 241 240 A1 describes a method for cleaning items to be cleaned. The items to be cleaned are exposed to at least one cleaning fluid, whereby heat equivalents are recorded with which the items to be cleaned are exposed. The heat equivalents are summed, whereby when the heat equivalents are summed, they are additionally weighted with a compensation function. The compensation function is a function of the temperature at which the heat equivalents were recorded. The compensation function is set up to give heat equivalents recorded in at least one exceptional temperature range a lower weighting than heat equivalents recorded in other temperature ranges.

WO 2012/046165 A2 describes a household appliance device with an evaluation unit for evaluating the consumption of at least one external resource by a household appliance and an output unit for outputting the evaluated consumption. In order to provide a generic household appliance device with increased ease of use, the evaluation unit according to the invention evaluates the consumption of the external resource taking into account at least one variable evaluation parameter.

Despite the technical advantages associated with these designs, a number of technical challenges remain. In particular, the described flush cycle recording is comparatively inflexible and is tied to prior activation. Accordingly, only prepaid models are possible with such designs. In addition, the pure counting of flush cycles does not take into account the intensity of use or the user's handling of the cleaning device. For the provider of the cleaning device, this has the disadvantage that a less careful handling of the cleaning device by the operator is not taken into account. For the operator himself, the model described has the disadvantage, for example, that careful use of the cleaning device is not taken into account in the billing mode and therefore does not pay off.

Object of the invention

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a cleaning device, a cleaning system and a method for cleaning items to be cleaned, which at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of the type mentioned. In particular, the proposed devices and methods should enable more flexible billing models, which are advantageous for both the provider and the operator of the cleaning device.

Disclosure of the invention

This object is achieved by a cleaning device, a cleaning system and a method for cleaning items to be cleaned, with the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are presented in the dependent claims.

In the following, the terms "have", "have", "comprise" or "include" or any grammatical variations thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, in addition to the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B", "A has B", "A comprises B" or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no further element is present in A (i.e. to a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, for example element C, elements C and D or even further elements.

It should also be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more" and grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be provided once or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example when the feature or element is first introduced. When the feature or element is subsequently mentioned again, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element may be provided once or multiple times.

Furthermore, the terms "preferably", "in particular", "for example" or similar terms are used below in connection with optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and it is not intended that these features limit the scope of the claims and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as the person skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in an embodiment of the invention" or by "in an embodiment of the invention" are understood to be optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims. Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave untouched all possibilities of combining the features introduced by them with other features, be they optional or non-optional features.

In a first aspect of the present invention, a cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned is proposed according to claim 1. The cleaning device is selected from a dishwasher and a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning and/or disinfecting care utensils and comprises at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. The cleaning device also comprises at least one controller, wherein the controller is set up to control the cleaning device to carry out at least two operating modes, in particular at least two cleaning programs. The controller is also set up to record at least one usage variable, wherein the usage variable characterizes a current usage of the cleaning device. The controller is also set up to assign at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable. The controller also has at least one counting device which is set up to accumulate usage times of the cleaning device weighted with the weighting and to generate at least one usage information item about usage of the cleaning device therefrom.

A cleaning device is generally understood to mean a device which is designed to at least partially remove adhering contaminants and/or germs from items to be cleaned. The cleaning device according to the invention is selected from a dishwasher, in particular a commercial dishwasher, for example a program dishwasher and/or a conveyor dishwasher, and a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning and/or disinfecting care utensils, for example as a cleaning device which is designed to clean containers for receiving human excreta. In general, reference can be made in this regard, for example, to the EN 10 2004 056 052 A1 and/or in EN 10 2007 025 263 A1 The cleaning device can also be a dishwasher, such as can be used to clean containers in the food production and/or food processing environment. The cleaning device can also be a disinfection dishwasher. However, other designs are also conceivable in principle.

The cleaning device can be designed in particular as a conveyor dishwasher, in particular as a conveyor dishwasher. A conveyor dishwasher is understood to mean a dishwasher, i.e. a machine for cleaning of items to be washed in the form of dishes, which is set up to transport the items to be washed through a cleaning chamber. In particular, this can be a conveyor-type dishwasher and/or a basket-type dishwasher, i.e. a dishwasher in which the dishes are transported through the cleaning device by means of a conveyor belt, for example a conveyor belt onto which the dishes are placed directly and/or onto which one or more baskets with the dishes to be cleaned are placed. The conveyor dishwasher can be designed in particular for commercial use, for example in one or more of the above-mentioned communal catering establishments. However, other types of cleaning devices are also possible in principle.

The cleaning fluid can be, for example, a cleaning liquid and/or a gaseous cleaning fluid. For example, this cleaning fluid can comprise a cleaning liquid, for example an aqueous cleaning liquid, for example water in the form of fresh water and/or with one or more additives, for example with one or more cleaning concentrates and/or one or more rinse aid concentrates and/or one or more disinfectants. For example, the cleaning fluid can have one or more additives, for example at least one additive selected from the group consisting of a cleaning concentrate, a rinse aid and a disinfectant. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can comprise steam, for example. However, other configurations are also conceivable in principle. The at least one cleaning fluid can in principle comprise, for example, at least one cleaning liquid, in particular at least one aqueous cleaning liquid. Other types of cleaning fluids can also be used in principle. A cleaning fluid can therefore be understood to mean any fluid, in particular a liquid, which can have a cleaning effect on the items to be cleaned.

A cleaning chamber is generally understood to mean a chamber in which the above-described cleaning process of the items to be cleaned is carried out completely or partially. In particular, the cleaning fluid or one of several cleaning fluids can be applied in a cleaning chamber. Furthermore, the cleaning device can comprise at least one transport device which is set up to transport the items to be cleaned in a transport direction from an inlet area through the cleaning chamber to an outlet area. The chamber is preferably completely or partially enclosed by a housing. In particular the cleaning chamber can be designed like a tunnel or comprise part of a tunnel, for example with an inlet and an outlet, wherein the items to be cleaned are introduced into the cleaning chamber at the inlet and exit the cleaning chamber at the outlet. An inlet is therefore understood to be an area outside the cleaning chamber which is arranged directly in front of the cleaning chamber in the transport direction and in which the items to be cleaned can be placed on the transport device. Accordingly, an outlet is understood to be an area outside the cleaning chamber which is arranged directly behind the cleaning chamber in the transport direction and in which the items to be cleaned can be removed from the transport device. In the context of the present invention, a transport device is generally understood to mean any device which is set up to transport the items to be cleaned through the cleaning chamber in the transport direction. For example, this transport device can be selected from a belt transport device with at least one conveyor belt, a ratchet transport system and a roller transport device with at least one transport roller or a plurality of transport rollers, for example one or more driven transport rollers, by means of which, for example, the items to be cleaned can be transported directly and/or one or more baskets holding the items to be cleaned can be transported in the transport direction through the cleaning chamber. The transport device can, for example, have at least one drive, for example at least one drive motor. For example, this can be a drive which drives at least one conveyor belt and/or at least one transport roller or another type of transport element of the transport device.

An application device is basically any device or combination of devices by means of which the cleaning fluid can be applied to the items to be cleaned, for example by spraying, irradiating or dripping the cleaning fluid onto the items to be cleaned. For example, the application device can have at least one nozzle system. For example, one or more nozzle systems can be provided in the conveyor dishwasher. If, for example, several cleaning zones are provided, each cleaning zone can be assigned at least one such nozzle system. For example, the cleaning device can be set up in such a way that the items to be cleaned pass through the cleaning zones one after the other. For example, reference can be made to the above-mentioned prior art for an arrangement of such cleaning zones.

As stated above, the cleaning device comprises at least one controller. In the context of the present invention, a controller is understood to mean a one-part or multi-part device of the cleaning device, which is set up to completely or partially control and/or regulate the operation of the cleaning device. In particular, the controller can be set up to change, in particular to control and/or regulate, one or more operating parameters of the cleaning device, for example at least one temperature, at least one pressure, at least one transport speed or also a combination of the above and/or other operating parameters. The controller can in particular comprise at least one data processing device, for example at least one processor. The controller can in particular be set up in terms of programming, for example to control at least one cleaning program of the cleaning device and to control or carry out a method according to the invention. Furthermore, as will be explained in more detail below, the controller can comprise at least one volatile and/or non-volatile data memory. Furthermore, the control can comprise at least one interface, for example a human-machine interface for entering commands and/or for outputting information, and/or a wireless or wired interface for unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and/or commands between the cleaning device and at least one further device. The control can in particular comprise at least one computer and/or at least one processor. The control can in particular be a central or decentralized machine control of the cleaning device.

As stated above, the control is set up to control the cleaning device to carry out at least two operating modes. An operating mode is understood to mean an operation of the cleaning device which is characterized by at least one operating parameter. An operation is generally understood to mean a use of the cleaning device. The use can either be designed in such a way that the cleaning device is actually used to clean items to be cleaned, or that the cleaning device is otherwise operated in such a way that, for example, it is either ready for operation or, for example, a cleaning program or maintenance program is carried out. An operating mode in which the cleaning device is used to clean items to be cleaned can also be referred to as a cleaning mode. The at least two operating modes can thus comprise at least one cleaning mode or even at least two different cleaning modes. In general, the at least two operating modes can in particular be selected from the group consisting of: cleaning programs in which the items to be cleaned are exposed to the cleaning fluid; drying programs for drying the items to be cleaned; maintenance programs for maintaining the cleaning device; a stand-by mode; a self-cleaning mode of the cleaning device. However, other configurations are also possible.

A cleaning program is generally understood to be a continuous, time-limited or cyclical process in which the items to be cleaned are cleaned under controlled conditions. Each cleaning program can be characterized by certain operating parameters, for example, which can be specified and preferably monitored, for example by the control system.

As explained above, the controller is set up to record at least one usage variable. A usage variable is generally understood to be a measurable quantity, a measurable variable or another detectable value that characterizes a current use of the cleaning device. This can generally be a value that can be measured using at least one sensor or a value that is actively specified by the controller, for example based on a program sequence. A usage is generally understood to be a type of operation of the cleaning device that is determined by a program currently selected by the user, another specification by the user or another mode of operation of the cleaning device. As explained in more detail below, the usage can be characterized in particular by one or more operating parameters. An operating parameter is generally understood to be any measurable or detectable quantity that characterizes an operation of the cleaning device or a part thereof. While the at least one usage variable generally describes how the cleaning device is used by a user, the at least one operating parameter describes the technical implementation of this usage. The usage variable is to be understood as a generic term here, since usage by a user in a certain way naturally affects the setting of one or more operating parameters. Accordingly, the at least one usage variable can comprise at least one operating parameter. Alternatively or additionally, however, the at least one usage variable can also comprise other information, for example information derived from the at least one operating parameter, such as information about correct care or maintenance of the cleaning device and/or information about the use of suitable media in the cleaning device. Furthermore, the at least one usage variable can also include, for example, information about loading the cleaning device with items to be cleaned and/or about a throughput of items to be cleaned through the cleaning device. Furthermore, the at least one usage variable can also include at least one piece of identification information that is uniquely assigned to the cleaning device. For example, the controller can generate such information. For example, a unique machine identifier can be part of the at least one usage variable.

"Current" use is generally understood to mean the use characterized above at an observation point in time or over an observation period. The evaluation of the use and the weighting described in more detail below can therefore take place in real time. Alternatively, the evaluation of the use and the weighting described in more detail below can also take place with a time delay, for example after a specified period of time or after a cleaning program has been carried out or only upon request, for example by the user or an operator of the cleaning device.

As explained above, the control is set up to assign at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable. A weighting is generally understood to mean information about the contribution that a certain usage variable from a plurality of possible usage variables makes to the usage information actually generated at the end for an observation period. In particular, the weighting can be at least one weighting factor. For example, the weighting or, if several weightings are used, each of these weightings can be a real number, in particular a real number from 0 to 1. However, other values or value ranges are also possible in principle. The technical background here is, for example, that certain types of use and thus certain usage variables in particular contribute more to wear of the cleaning device than other types of use. For example, if it is known that certain wearing parts exist in a cleaning device, a usage variable that characterizes a load on such a wearing part or several such wearing parts can be weighted more heavily than a usage variable that has a smaller effect on wear of the cleaning device.

The usage variables can be kept simple or can be relatively complex and based on empirical values. For example, the cleaning device can be simply designed to carry out a gentle cleaning program at a lower temperature, for example just 85 °C, and a more intensive cleaning program at a higher temperature, for example 95 °C. The type of cleaning program itself can be recorded as a usage variable, for example by assigning the usage variable p=1 to the gentler program and the usage variable p=2 to the intensive cleaning program. The weighting for the usage variable p=1 can, for example, be half the weighting for the usage variable p=2, for example f(p=1) = 0.5 and f(p=2) = 1.0. For example, in the counting device described in more detail below, usage times in which the cleaning device is operated with the gentle cleaning program can be weighted with 0.5 and usage times in which the cleaning device is operated with the intensive cleaning program can be weighted with 1.0. This provides a more realistic picture of the wear and tear of the cleaning device over an observation period than, for example, with pure time recording. However, this simple example can be made as complex as desired, since numerous cleaning programs can exist or numerous different operating modes, each of which can be characterized by certain operating parameters, for example. In particular, operating parameters that are known to have a high impact on the use and/or wear and tear of the cleaning device can be recorded as usage variables or in usage variables and weighted accordingly.

The assignment of the at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable can be carried out in such a way that each recorded usage variable is assigned exactly one weighting. However, other configurations are also possible in principle, for example by assigning groups of usage variables together or by assigning multiple weightings to one usage variable. For example, a weighting function can be used as a function of multiple usage variables, so that, for example, this weighting function determines a weighting factor for weighting a time unit from multiple usage variables. The assignment of the at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable can be predetermined, for example fixed, can take place in real time or can also take place with a time offset before or after the usage is observed.

The assignment of the at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable can in particular be carried out automatically, for example by a corresponding control program. In particular, the control can contain at least one algorithm which assigns the at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable, for example in the form of at least one function f(p). Several functions can also be provided, from which a function is selected, for example depending on whether at least one predetermined condition is met. Alternatively or additionally, the control can contain at least one table, for example an electronic table and in particular at least one lookup table, which contains weightings for a plurality of usage variables. This table can also be viewed as a function, for example. In the simple example mentioned above, for example, the value of the weighting f=0.5 would be stored in the table for the value of the usage variable p=1, and the value of the weighting f=1.0 for the value of the usage variable p=2. However, the tables can be designed to be as complex as desired. Other types of assignment, for example within the framework of a fixed computer program, are also possible and are generally known to the person skilled in the art.

As stated above, the controller also has at least one counting device. As will be explained in more detail below, in the context of the present invention, a "counting device" is generally understood to mean a device which is set up to generate usage information about use of the cleaning device, taking into account actual use of the cleaning device. The counting device can be designed entirely or partially in hardware and/or entirely or partially as a software program. In particular, the counting device can be designed entirely or partially as a software module of a control software. For example, the counting device can comprise a processor, for example a processor of the controller, which is programmatically set up to generate the usage information. Alternatively or additionally, however, the counting device can also be designed entirely or partially as a separate software module or entirely or partially as a separate hardware module. As stated above, the controller can be designed in one or more parts, so that the counting device can also be designed, for example, as a separate module, which can, however, be connected to other components of the controller and which is to be considered as a component of the controller.

The counting device is designed to accumulate weighted usage times of the cleaning device and to derive at least one usage information item about the use of the cleaning device. "Usage time" is generally understood to mean an infinitesimal or finite period of time during which the cleaning device is operated, in particular in at least one operating mode. For example, this can be a period of time during which the cleaning device or a part thereof is supplied with electrical energy, is switched on or is in a standby mode. The period of time does not have to extend over the entire period of operation in the operating mode, but can also be a part of it. In particular, the usage time can comprise small time intervals, each of which is weighted and summed up or integrated. Examples are explained in more detail below.

In this context, "cumulation" is generally understood to mean a summation or integration of values. In particular, it can be a summation of time intervals, each of which is weighted with at least one weighting. Alternatively or additionally, integration can also take place, i.e. a continuous summation of weighted time intervals, for example in the form of so-called weighted Riemann sums. In the simple example given above of the gentle operating mode with the weighting f=0.5 and the intensive operating mode with the weighting f=1.0, for example, in a case in which the cleaning device is operated for a total of 100 minutes in the gentle cleaning program and 500 minutes in the intensive cleaning program, a cumulation can lead to a result S = c·(0.5·100 + 1.0·500) = c·550, where c represents a calibration factor, for example. However, much more complex cumulations are also possible.

In the context of the present invention, "usage information", also referred to below as N, is generally understood to mean information about the use of the cleaning device, for example about an observation period or usage period within which the above-described accumulation takes place. The usage information can in particular comprise one or more pieces of information selected from the group consisting of: an intensity of use, wear, proper or improper use, a type of use. The usage information can result directly from the above-mentioned accumulation of the weighted usage times, so that, for example, the value S=550 described above can directly represent the usage information N(T) . With time T, the usage information will change with a continuous or discontinuous further accumulation, so that it is a function of time.

Alternatively or additionally, this accumulation can also be converted into usage information by an algorithm or, for example, using a table. For example, fictitious "usage units" can be defined which, for example, correlate linearly with the accumulation. Alternatively or additionally, however, one or more bonuses B or penalties M can also be added or deducted, so that, for example, during maintenance or self-cleaning, a predetermined number b of usage units is deducted from the accumulation: N = S - B. In this way, for example, such maintenance or self-cleaning can be rewarded, for example by deducting 5 usage units per self-cleaning. Various models are conceivable here and can be implemented within the scope of the present invention.

The usage information can in particular be directly or indirectly converted into a fee with a provider of the cleaning device, for example according to a certain tariff, in particular a tariff table. Examples are given in more detail below. For example, the usage information can be converted directly into a fee, can be converted to a flat rate, or a flat rate can be deducted, can be deducted from a credit, a credit can be credited to the usage information or similar. In contrast to known billing methods, however, the intensity of use or the regularity of use, for example the regular implementation of self-cleaning programs or maintenance, can now be included in the billing. This encourages the user to handle the cleaning device carefully, as such careful and careful handling can have a positive effect on a reduced fee. Furthermore, environmental aspects can also play a role here, so that, for example, environmentally friendly behavior has a positive effect for the user, as, for example, more environmentally friendly use can be remunerated at a lower rate than more environmentally damaging use. Various models are basically possible.

For the provider of the machine, the present invention offers the advantage that more realistic remuneration can be offered, which takes into account actual use and thus actual wear and tear of the cleaning device. This is particularly important when cleaning devices are only made available to a user for a certain period of time and are then to be used for other purposes. In conventional models, either a flat rate or simply billed according to the rental period or, alternatively, for example, according to cycles, without taking into account the type and/or intensity of use.

The usage information can be used for other purposes other than calculating a fee. For example, maintenance intervals can also be adapted to actual usage and thus to the usage information provided and/or selected based on the usage information. For example, the usage information can be compared with one or more threshold values in order to then output information about required maintenance and/or self-cleaning. For example, when 1000, 5000 or 10,000 usage units are reached, self-cleaning can be carried out automatically or a request for self-cleaning can be issued. In this way, self-cleaning and/or maintenance can be adapted to actual usage, which can bring about cost advantages and lead to more environmentally friendly behavior, since when the intervals are calculated without taking actual usage into account, the worst possible case of usage must usually be assumed.

The cleaning device according to the present invention can be advantageously developed in various ways. As stated above, the cleaning device can be designed in various ways. The cleaning device is selected from a dishwasher, in particular a commercial dishwasher, although applications in a household area are also possible, and a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning and/or disinfecting care utensils. The cleaning device can in particular be selected from the group consisting of: a single-chamber dishwasher, in particular a commercial single-chamber dishwasher; a pass-through dishwasher; a hood dishwasher; a conveyor dishwasher, in particular a belt conveyor or basket conveyor dishwasher.

The controller can be set up in particular to record the usage times according to a time recording mode, wherein the time recording mode is selected from the group consisting of: continuous time recording; cumulative time recording in discrete time intervals; cumulative time recording in discrete usage cycles. The term "time" can therefore generally encompass a continuous time within the scope of the present invention, for example a time in the form of an absolute time, a time period in seconds, minutes, hours or other time units or similar. The time can be recorded continuously or in discrete intervals, for example if the smallest time unit is 5 minutes or something similar. Alternatively or additionally, cycles can also be used as time units, which do not necessarily have to have the same duration. However, time units of the same duration are preferably accumulated. However, other configurations are also possible in principle.

As explained above, the assignment of weights can be rigid or flexible. In particular, the assignment of weights can be carried out using at least one assignment algorithm and/or using an assignment table, as explained above as an example.

The usage variable can in particular comprise at least one operating parameter of the cleaning device recorded by the controller or can be determined by means of at least one operating parameter of the cleaning device recorded by the controller. A large number of operating parameters can be used alternatively or cumulatively. In particular, the at least one operating parameter can be selected from the group consisting of: a temperature of the at least one cleaning fluid; a media consumption, in particular a consumption of at least one medium selected from the group consisting of: water or a cleaning agent; a duty cycle of at least one consumer of the cleaning device, in particular at least one heater and/or at least one pump, for example a circulating pump; a speed of at least one nozzle arm of the application device; a property of at least one cleaning fluid, in particular a pH value and/or a hardness of at least one cleaning fluid, in particular a pH value and/or a hardness of water used in the cleaning fluid; a type of the at least one cleaning fluid and/or a component of the at least one cleaning fluid; a heating output of at least one heating element of the cleaning device; an electrical energy consumption of the cleaning device; a speed of at least one pump; a number of pump revolutions; a pressure applied to the items to be cleaned; a volume flow that is sprayed via a loading device; a door operation of at least one door of the cleaning device; a transport parameter of at least one transport device of the cleaning device, in particular a transport speed; a transport distance per unit of time; an absolute transport distance; a number of items to be cleaned; a number of transport baskets for items to be cleaned; a throughput of items to be cleaned; a type of selected cleaning program; a quantity of cleaning fluid in at least one fluid tank of the cleaning device; a vibration of the cleaning device; an ambient temperature of the cleaning device; a type of at least one item to be cleaned that is cleaned in the cleaning device; a quantity of at least one item to be cleaned that is cleaned in the cleaning device; a material of at least one item to be cleaned that is cleaned in the cleaning device; a degree of soiling of at least one item to be cleaned that is cleaned in the cleaning device; a location of the cleaning device.

As stated above, the at least one operating parameter can be recorded or can be recorded or can also be specified or can be specified. It can thus be, for example, at least one operating parameter that can be recorded by sensors. Alternatively or additionally, however, it can also be at least one operating parameter that is specified by the control itself, for example as part of one or more rinsing programs, and is therefore known. Again alternatively or additionally, the at least one operating parameter, as stated above, can comprise at least one loading of the cleaning device with items to be cleaned, wherein at least one operating parameter selected from a type, a quantity, a material or a degree of soiling of the items to be cleaned can be recorded. This recording can in turn be carried out by sensors, for example by means of at least one image sensor and/or at least one material sensor such as at least one metal sensor. Alternatively or additionally, however, the items to be cleaned can also have at least one identifier which, for example, characterizes the type and/or identity of the items to be cleaned, such as at least one RFID chip and/or barcode, which can be recorded by sensors by the cleaning device. Various designs are conceivable. Both actual values and, for example, target values can be used as operating parameters. In particular, the cleaning device can have at least one sensor connected to the controller for detecting the at least one operating parameter. It should be noted that any combination is possible, for example combinations of sensor-detectable operating parameters and predetermined operating parameters.

As stated above, the at least one operating parameter can be, for example, an operating parameter which is actually present or which is specified by the control system, for example as a setpoint. In particular, the at least one operating parameter can be specified by the user, either directly or in the form of a specification of a control program or cleaning program, which implies the operating parameter. For example, the control can have at least one user interface, by means of which a user can specify the at least one operating parameter and/or change a value of the operating parameter, for example directly or by selecting a corresponding cleaning program, which, for example, implies a certain value or progression of the operating parameter. For example, the control can be set up to enable the user to select at least one cleaning program by means of the user interface.

1. i) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\int }_{T}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\mathit{dt}},$$
   
2. ii) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\sum }_{i}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\cdot {\mathit{\Delta t}}_i},$$
   
3. iii) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\int }_{T}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\mathit{dt}-B\left(T\right)},$$
   
4. iv) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\sum }_{i}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\cdot {\mathit{\Delta t}}_i-B\left(T\right)},$$
   

wobei

• N(T) ein aktueller Wert der Benutzungsinformation zum Zeitpunkt T ist,
• c ein Kalibrationskoeffizient sein kann, beispielsweise eine reelle Zahl,
• T ein Beobachtungszeitpunkt ist, in welchem die Benutzungsinformation bestimmt werden soll,
• p, ... , p_n Nutzungsvariablen, beispielsweise Betriebsparameter, der Reinigungsvorrichtung sind,
• f eine Gewichtungsfunktion ist, welche von mindestens einem Betriebsparameter p_i abhängig ist,
• i eine Laufvariable über alle erfassten diskreten Benutzungsintervalle ist, und
• B(T) eine Bonusfunktion ist, welche mindestens eine Durchführung mindestens eines Pflegevorgangs der Reinigungsvorrichtung berücksichtigt.

Further possible embodiments relate to the possible calculation of the usage information. As was explained above by way of example, there are numerous different possibilities. In particular, the accumulation can be continuous or discontinuous, as explained above. For example, the counting device can be set up to determine the usage information according to at least one algorithm selected from the group consisting of:

1. i) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\int }_{T}e\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\mathit{engl}},$$
   
2. (ii) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\sum }_{i}e\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\cdot {\mathit{\Delta t}}_i},$$
   
3. (iii) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\int }_{T}e\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\mathit{engl}-B\left(T\right)},$$
   
4. (iv) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\sum }_{i}e\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\cdot {\mathit{\Delta t}}_i-B\left(T\right)},$$
   

where

• N(T) is a current value of the usage information at time T,
• c can be a calibration coefficient, for example a real number,
• T is an observation time at which the usage information is to be determined,
• p , ... , p _n are usage variables, such as operating parameters, of the cleaning device,
• f is a weighting function which depends on at least one operating parameter p _i ,
• i is a running variable over all recorded discrete usage intervals, and
• B(T) is a bonus function which takes into account at least one execution of at least one maintenance process of the cleaning device.

As stated above, other usage variables may be used instead of or in addition to the operating parameters. One or more operating parameters and/or usage variables may be used, so that n=1 or n>1.

If there is a single usage variable p, a simple function or table can be used as a weighting function to determine the weighting. If several usage variables p are planned, more complex tables or multi-dimensional functions can be used. A particularly simple possibility is to create at least one weighting function in the form of linear combinations of the usage variables. For example, the weighting function can be a linear combination of at least two usage variables weighted with weighting factors b _j , for example operating parameters: $$e\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)={\displaystyle \sum _{j=1}^n{b}_j\cdot p_j}$$

$$ƒ\left(p_1=2,p_2=1\right)=1.0\cdot 0.2$$

$$ƒ\left(p_1=1,p_2=2\right)=0.5\cdot 1.0$$

$$ƒ\left(p_1=2,p_2=2\right)=1.0\cdot 1.0$$

As explained above, the at least one usage variable can characterize a use of the cleaning device in any way. In particular, the at least one usage variable or, if several are provided, at least one of the usage variables can also be set up to record at least one downtime and/or at least one standby time of the cleaning device. These times, which in principle also stress and wear out electronic components of the cleaning device, for example, can also be recorded and, for example, associated with a low weighting, for example a weighting of 0.2 compared to a weighting of 1.0 for regular operation. In the simple example mentioned above with the gentle cleaning program and the intensive cleaning program, a first usage variable p ₁ can characterize, for example, whether the gentle cleaning program is running ( p ₁ =1) or the intensive cleaning program ( p ₁ =2), and a second usage variable p ₂ can characterize whether standby mode prevails ( p ₂ =1) or rinsing mode ( p ₂ =2). For example, the weighting function f for time intervals dt or Δt can be designed as follows: $$ƒ\left(p_1=1,p_2=1\right)=0.5\cdot 0.2$$

$$ƒ\left(p_1=2,p_2=1\right)=1.0\cdot 0.2$$

$$ƒ\left(p_1=1,p_2=2\right)=0.5\cdot 1.0$$

$$ƒ\left(p_1=2,p_2=2\right)=1.0\cdot 1.0$$

The time intervals are then weighted accordingly during the accumulation. Other, more complex options are also available.

As stated above, the present invention can also be used to reward maintenance measures for the cleaning device, in particular maintenance measures initiated by the user. This can be, for example, a maintenance process in the form of a self-cleaning program and/or maintenance or cleaning of the cleaning device. The control can be set up to record the performance of at least one maintenance process, with the counting device being set up to take the maintenance process into account when generating the usage information. The control can in particular be set up to take the maintenance process into account in the usage information with an opposite sign compared to regular use. For example, as described above, this can take place in the form of a bonus which is deducted from the cumulative value. The bonus can, for example, be fixed or can also be determined variably, for example according to the intensity and/or duration of the maintenance process. For example, a table for different maintenance processes and the corresponding bonuses can also be specified. The maintenance process can in particular comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a self-cleaning cycle; use of a maintenance medium, in particular a water softener and/or a decalcifier; routine cleaning; maintenance of the cleaning device. However, other configurations are also possible in principle.

In a further aspect of the present invention, the cleaning device can be used as part of a cleaning system according to one or more of the embodiments described above and/or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. A system is generally understood to mean a device which is composed of a plurality of interacting components. The components can, for example, communicate with one another via one or more interfaces and thus interact and work together. A cleaning system is accordingly understood to mean a system which is designed to carry out at least one cleaning operation as defined above.

In the second aspect of the present invention, a cleaning system for cleaning items to be cleaned is therefore proposed, comprising at least one cleaning device according to the present invention and further comprising at least one reading device, wherein the reading device is configured to read the usage information from the cleaning device.

A reading device is generally understood to be a device which is set up to read at least one item of information from another device and/or to receive such information. Reading can be done actively or passively, for example by the reading device requesting the information or by the information being transmitted to the reading device without being requested. The reading device can in particular be designed separately from the cleaning system and can be connected to the cleaning device via at least one interface. For example, the at least one interface can be selected from the group consisting of: a wireless interface, a wired interface, an electrical interface, an optical interface, an acoustic interface, an electromagnetic interface. Various designs are conceivable here and are generally known to those skilled in the art.

The reading device can be designed and/or used in various ways. For example, it can be a handheld device. This handheld device can be carried by a service technician or a sales representative, for example, in order to read the usage information on site at a cleaning device. As explained above, the service technician can use this information, for example, to determine whether maintenance is required and, if applicable, in what form and/or intensity this is necessary. The sales representative can, for example, use the usage information to calculate a usage fee. For example, the reading device can also have at least one cost calculation device, which is set up to assign at least one usage fee, also referred to as a usage fee, to the usage information read out. As explained above, this can be done, for example, in the form of a tariff table or in another way. Alternatively or in addition to being designed as a handheld device, the reading device can also be designed in whole or in part in another way, for example as a computer, for example, a computer integrated into a network, which is connected to the cleaning device via the network and can read the usage information. Alternatively or additionally, the reading device can also be designed as a mobile communication device, for example a smartphone.

In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for operating a cleaning device is proposed. The cleaning device is selected from a dishwasher and a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning and/or disinfecting care utensils and is designed according to the present invention, so that reference can be made, for example, to the above description of the cleaning device according to the invention and its design options or to the following description of possible embodiments and vice versa. The method comprises the method steps described in more detail below. These method steps can in particular be carried out in the order mentioned. However, a different order is also possible in principle. Furthermore, one, several or all method steps can be carried out simply or individually or in groups. Furthermore, two or more method steps can also be carried out in an overlapping manner or in parallel. Furthermore, one, several or all method steps can also be carried out continuously.

1. a) Erfassung mindestens einer Nutzungsvariablen der Reinigungsvorrichtung, wobei die Nutzungsvariable eine aktuelle Nutzung der Reinigungsvorrichtung charakterisiert;
2. b) Zuordnung mindestens einer Gewichtung zu der mindestens einen Nutzungsvariablen;
3. c) Generierung mindestens einer Benutzungsinformation über eine Benutzung der Reinigungsvorrichtung aus einer Kumulierung der mit der Gewichtung gewichteten Nutzungszeiten der Reinigungsvorrichtung.

The method is generally used to operate a cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning device is selected from a dishwasher and a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning and/or disinfecting care utensils and has at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. The method comprises the following steps:

1. a) recording at least one usage variable of the cleaning device, wherein the usage variable characterizes a current usage of the cleaning device;
2. b) assigning at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable;
3. c) Generation of at least one item of usage information on a use of the cleaning device from a cumulation of the usage times of the cleaning device weighted with the weighting.

As stated above, a cleaning device according to the invention can be used in particular. Accordingly, reference can be made to the above description with regard to possible embodiments and definitions.

In particular, process steps a) and b) can be carried out repeatedly. In particular, process steps a) and b) can be carried out continuously, at regular intervals or at predetermined times. However, other configurations are also possible in principle.

The proposed method can be implemented in particular easily using at least one computer. This computer can in particular be contained in at least one control of the cleaning device, since, as stated above, this can in particular contain at least one data processing device, in particular at least one computer. In particular, the method steps a) to c) can be carried out using at least one computer or computer program.

Accordingly, a computer-readable data structure is also proposed which is set up to carry out the method according to the invention in one of the described embodiments when the data structure is executed by a computer or computer network, in particular a computer or computer network of the control of the cleaning device. The computer-readable data structure can in particular be stored on at least one data carrier. A computer program with program code for carrying out the method according to the invention in one of the described embodiments is also proposed, wherein the implementation takes place when the computer program is executed on a computer or computer network, for example on a control of the cleaning device. A computer program product with program code means is also proposed, wherein the program code means are stored or can be stored on a storage medium, wherein the program code means are set up to carry out the method according to one of the preceding method claims when the program code means are executed on a computer or computer network, in particular on a control of the cleaning device.

In a further aspect, the use of the cleaning device according to the invention in one or more of the embodiments described above or in one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below for use-dependent Calculation of a usage fee for the cleaning device is proposed.

Short description of the characters

Further details and features of the invention emerge from the following description of preferred embodiments, in particular in conjunction with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented alone or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the embodiments. The embodiments are shown schematically in the figures. The same reference numbers in the individual figures designate the same or functionally identical elements or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions.

Figur 1

ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Reinigungsvorrichtung in Form einer Einkammer-Geschirrspülmaschine sowie ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Reinigungssystems;

Figur 2

einen Ablaufplan eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Verfahrens zum Betrieb der Reinigungsvorrichtung; und

Figur 3

ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Reinigungsvorrichtung in Form einer Durchlaufgeschirrspülmaschine sowie ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel eines Reinigungssystems.

In detail:

Figure 1

an embodiment of a cleaning device in the form of a single-chamber dishwasher and an embodiment of a cleaning system;

Figure 2

a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for operating the cleaning device; and

Figure 3

an embodiment of a cleaning device in the form of a conveyor dishwasher and another embodiment of a cleaning system.

Description of the embodiments

In the Figures 1 and 3 Examples of cleaning devices 110 according to the invention are shown. The example according to Figure 1 a single-chamber dishwasher 112, whereas in the embodiment according to Figure 3 a conveyor dishwasher 312 is shown, also referred to as a conveyor dishwasher. It should be noted that these are merely examples of possible cleaning devices 110. Alternatively or additionally, Other cleaning devices should also be considered, such as cleaning and disinfection devices or cleaning devices for types of items other than dishes.

The cleaning device 110 in Figure 1 can be designed in particular as a commercial single-chamber dishwasher. However, a design as a household dishwasher is also possible in principle. For examples of possible designs of such single-chamber dishwashers 112, reference can be made to EN 10 2008 015 796 B4 However, other configurations are also possible.

The cleaning device 110 has at least one cleaning chamber 114. In the cleaning chamber 114, items to be cleaned 116, for example dishes, are subjected to cleaning fluid 118. One or more application devices 120 can be provided for this application, which can also be referred to as fluid devices in this exemplary embodiment. These application devices 120 can, for example, comprise a rinsing nozzle system 122 and a rinsing nozzle system 124. The application device 120 comprises, for example, a plurality of nozzles 123, which can be arranged, for example, in spray arms 125 of the application device 120, for example in rotating spray arms 125. The nozzle systems 122, 124 can, for example, be arranged within the cleaning chamber 114 above and/or below a basket 126 in which the items to be cleaned 116 are accommodated. The cleaning chamber 114 can be loaded with the items to be cleaned 116 via a door 128, for example a front flap.

The rinsing nozzle system 122 can be supplied with cleaning fluid 118, for example a cleaning solution, from a rinsing tank 136, which can be located in the floor area of the cleaning chamber 114, for example, via rinsing lines 130, a rinsing pump 132 and a 3-way valve 134. The optional rinsing nozzle system 124 can be supplied with cleaning fluid 118 from a rinsing tank 144, for example with rinsing fluid in the form of rinse aid solution, via rinsing lines 138, a rinsing valve 140 and a rinsing pump 142. The rinsing tank 144 can be supplied with fresh water, for example, via a fresh water supply line 146. Furthermore, the cleaning device 110 can have a drain line 148, which can be connected, for example, to the rinsing tank 136 via the 3-way valve 134, which can optionally have a drain pump 150 and which can optionally be connected to a drain 152.

The cleaning device 110 can also have at least one temperature control device 153 for controlling the temperature of the at least one cleaning fluid 118. Furthermore, the heating device 110 can have a further heating element 156 in the rinsing tank 144 for heating the cleaning fluid 118 held there in the form of the rinsing fluid. For example, the rinsing tank 144 can be designed as a boiler and/or can have a continuous flow heater or be connected to a continuous flow heater.

In the cleaning device 110, which can be designed as a program machine, for example, at least one cleaning program can run. For example, at least one controller 157 can be provided for this purpose, by means of which a program sequence can be controlled. In this cleaning program, for example, a first program step can be carried out in which the items to be cleaned 116 are rinsed from the rinse tank 136. The rinsing can take place, for example, in a circulation mode via the rinse pump 132, which can also be referred to as a circulation pump. The rinsing liquid can then be partially or completely drained from the rinse tank 136 via the drain pump 150 and the 3-way valve 134. Parallel to the rinsing step, the rinsing fluid can already have been prepared, for example heated, in the rinsing tank 144. In a further program step following the rinsing step, the items to be cleaned 116 can then be rinsed or clear rinsed with cleaning fluid from the rinsing tank 144, which can be done in a single pass or, optionally, also in a circulation mode. One or more further program steps can follow, for example one or more drying steps, before the cleaning program can be ended.

The controller 157 can, for example, comprise at least one processor 158 and at least one data memory 160. The controller 157 can also have at least one user interface 162 and/or at least one data interface 164, for example for wireless or wired exchange of data and/or control commands. The controller 157 is in particular designed to control the cleaning device 110 in at least two operating modes. For example, these can be two or more cleaning programs. These can be selected by a user, for example, via the user interface 162. Alternatively or additionally, the user can also select further details via the user interface 162, such as directly setting certain operating parameters.

The cleaning device 110 also has, for example, a plurality of sensors for detecting operating parameters. For example, these sensors can include a temperature sensor 166 in the washing tank 136 and a temperature sensor 168 in the rinsing tank 144. Furthermore, the controller 157 can also be set up to detect operating parameters in other ways, for example pump speeds of the pumps 132, 142 and 150, pump speeds of the pumps 132, 142 and 150, valve positions of the valves 134, 140 and heating outputs of the heating elements 154, 156. Other operating parameters can also be detected alternatively or additionally, for example by means of pressure sensors, volume flow sensors or similar sensors or control information.

The controller 157 is accordingly set up to record at least one usage variable, wherein the at least one usage variable can, for example, comprise at least one operating parameter. Alternatively or additionally, however, the at least one usage variable can also comprise other types of information, for example which rinsing program the user has selected. The at least one usage variable characterizes a current use of the cleaning device 110. The controller 157 is set up to assign at least one weighting to the at least one usage variable. Furthermore, the controller 157 has a counting device 170, which in this case can, for example, comprise the processor 158 and the data memory 160. The counting device is set up, for example in terms of programming, to accumulate usage times of the cleaning device 110 weighted with the weighting and to generate at least one usage information item about a use of the cleaning device from this. This is to be explained using a flow chart of a possible method for operating the cleaning device 110 in Figure 2 be explained by way of example.

In the method, first, after the start 210, a value for a current, already cumulative usage variable N(t ₀ ) is read from the data memory 160. The start time of this method t is therefore set to t = t ₀ , and the usage variable at the beginning of this run of the method is set to N(t) = N(t ₀ ). This method step 212 serves to ensure that cumulative values can be reused when the method was previously carried out, so that a total cumulative value for the usage variable N over several method sequences can be generated. However, maintenance personnel can also, for example, reset the value N in the data memory 160 or set it to a predetermined start value.

In step 212, a query is then made as to whether a maintenance process is currently being carried out. This query can be decided, for example, by corresponding information from the controller 157, for example by whether a user has set a maintenance program or another cleaning program. If the maintenance program is carried out (method step 216), a bonus B is deducted from the current value N(t ₀ ), and in method step 228 the current value N = N(t ₀ ) - B is written to the data memory 160. The program is then terminated. If, on the other hand, no maintenance program is carried out, the one or more usage variables are then recorded in method step 218. These are designated as p ₁ , ..., p _n as an example. A weighting is then assigned to these usage variables in method step 220. This is shown as an example in Table 1. <i>Table 1: Example of an assignment of a weighting to the usage variables in the form of two heating capacities in fluid tanks</i> _p2 = 3.0 kW _p2 = 6.0 kW _p1 = 2.0 kW f = 0.5 /min f = 0.8 Imin _p1 = 2.5 kW f = 0.6 /min f = 0.9 Imin _p1 = 3.0 kW f = 0.8 /min f = 1.1 /min

In this table 1, two operating parameters are set as examples which are used as usage variables, namely a heating output p ₁ of the heating element 154 in the rinse tank 136 and a heating output p ₂ of the further heating element 156 in the rinse tank 144. It should be noted, however, that much more complex assignments are also possible using multi-dimensional tables. In this exemplary embodiment, the heating output can, for example, be set to the values 2.0 kW, 2.5 kW and 3.0 kW for the heating element 154, depending on the program, and the heating output p ₂ can be set to the values 3.0 kW and 6.0 kW. The values for the weighting f assigned to each of these possible combinations are given in the table. As can be seen here, the weighting can have a dimension or can basically be dimensionless, depending on the ultimately desired value for the usage variable. In this case, for example, the weighting is given in units of /min, since a subsequent multiplication with time units, given in min, takes place, as will be explained in more detail below.

The assignment according to Table 1 is only one of many possible assignments that represent an actual use, for example an actual load, of the cleaning device 110. If, for example, in addition to the operating parameters p ₁ , p ₂ mentioned in the form of the heating outputs mentioned, a pump speed, for example of the rinse pump 142 in revolutions/min, is recorded as the usage variable p ₃ and a temperature in °C recorded by the temperature sensor 168 in the rinse tank 144 is recorded as the usage variable p ₄ , then an assignment could also be made using an assignment algorithm, for example of the following type: $$e\left(p_1,p_2,p_3,p_4\right)=\frac{0.5\cdot p_1}{10\mathit{kW}\cdot \mathit{min}}+\frac{0.8\cdot p_2}{10\mathit{kW}\cdot \mathit{min}}+\frac{0.3\cdot p_3}{\mathrm{10,000}}+\frac{0.1\cdot p_4}{85°C\cdot \mathit{min}}$$

As can be seen, here too the determined weighting ultimately has the time unit /min.

Following the method step 220, which can be carried out by the counting device 170, in the method step 222 the usage variable N is incremented for the time period between t ₀ and t ₀ + Δt, for example according to the formula $$N\left(t+\mathit{\Delta t}\right)=N\left(t\right)+c\cdot e\cdot \mathit{\Delta t}$$

Here, c denotes a calibration factor, which can optionally be added. This new value of N can be stored in the data memory 160, for example, also in step 222, so that the next program run and the next program loop can be carried out with this incremented value. Then the time period Δt is waited for, in step 224. The time period Δt can be rigid or flexible, for example depending on the program sequence. For example, the time period Δt can be 0.5 min or 1 min. Other values are also conceivable.

Then, in step 226, the program asks whether the program has been aborted. If this is the case, the current value for the usage information N is written into the data memory 160 in step 228. If this is not the case, the program can, for example, jump back to step 218 with the current value N(t) as the starting value and record the usage variables again. In this way, a cumulative usage is calculated over the operation of the cleaning device using this simple program. which takes into account the actual loads on the cleaning device 110. It should be noted that the process shown is merely an example of a process which can be made much more complex in practice.

The Figure 1 simultaneously represents an embodiment of a cleaning system 172. This cleaning system 172 comprises, in addition to the cleaning device 110, at least one reader 174, which is set up to read the usage information from the cleaning device 110, in particular from the controller 157. For this purpose, the reader 174 can, for example, comprise at least one interface 176, which can communicate, for example, with the data interface 164 of the cleaning device 110. Furthermore, the reader 174 can comprise various types of user interfaces 178. In addition, the reader 174 can also comprise at least one cost calculation device 180, for example again as a component of a processor 182 and/or as a software program that can run on the processor 182. The cost calculation device 180 is set up to assign at least one usage fee to the usage information read out. Alternatively, however, the reading device 174 can also be simply configured to read out the usage variable, for example by service personnel, and then, for example upon returning to a provider's premises, to calculate a usage fee from this usage information or to use the usage information in another way, for example for determining maintenance intervals based on actual usage.

It should be noted that in this exemplary embodiment of the cleaning system 172, the reading device 174 is designed as a handheld device. However, this is not necessarily the case. For example, the reading device 174 can be a computer connected to the cleaning device 110 via a computer network, so that, for example, the usage information can also be read online. Various designs are conceivable.

The examples of recording usage variables and their assignment described above can be designed as complex as desired. Another possible design is, for example, that the cleaning device 110 comprises a GPS device 184 as an additional sensor. This GPS device 184 can, for example, determine the location of the cleaning device 110. Such information can also be of interest for use. For example, a single-chamber dishwasher 112, as in Figure 1 shown, can be easily transported. However, different tariffs for calculating a usage fee can apply to different users. This can be taken into account, for example, by recording the location as an additional usage variable and, for example, depending on the installation location, a different allocation of weightings is carried out in method step 220. For example, the location can be included in the allocation by means of a tariff factor or a tariff table, or, alternatively, different formulas and/or different tables can be used depending on the installation location.

The cleaning device 110 is shown as an example in Figure 1 as a single-chamber dishwasher 112. However, this is not necessarily the case, as can be seen from the example of Figure 3 will be explained. Thus, alternatively or additionally, other types of cleaning devices, for example for the care sector or also larger dishwashers, can be designed according to the invention. Figure 3 shows a sectional view of an example of a cleaning device 110 and a cleaning system 172.

The cleaning device 110 is in Figure 3 designed as a conveyor dishwasher 312 and has a transport device 314, by means of which items to be cleaned 116, for example dishes, can be transported through a cleaning chamber 114 of the cleaning device 110. For example, the cleaning device 110 can be designed as a basket transport machine and can be set up to transport the items to be cleaned 116 in transport baskets 316, or as a belt transport machine, in which the items to be cleaned 116 are transported directly on a conveyor belt, as shown in this embodiment.

By means of the transport device 314, the items to be cleaned 116 can be transported in a transport direction 318 from a feed zone 320 to an outlet zone 322. The cleaning chamber 114 can be divided into several zones, whereby, for example, a pre-clearing zone 324, a washing zone 326 and a rinsing zone 328 can be provided. Adjoining these zones, at least one drying zone 330 can also be provided, in which the items to be cleaned 116 are dried by means of a fan 332.

The zones 324, 326 and 328 can generally be referred to as rinsing zones 334, within which application devices 336, in the form of nozzle systems with nozzles 123, are provided to apply at least one cleaning fluid 118 to the item 116 to be cleaned.

For example, a pre-clearing nozzle system 338 can be provided in the pre-clearing zone 324, which is fed from a pre-clearing tank 342 via a pre-clearing pump 340. A washing zone nozzle system 344 can be provided in the washing zone 326, which can be fed from a washing tank 348 via a washing zone pump 346. The rinsing zone 328 can have a pump rinsing system 350 and a fresh water rinsing system 352 following in the transport direction 318. The pump rinse 350 has a pump rinse nozzle system 354, and the fresh water rinse 352 has a fresh water rinse nozzle system 356. While the pump rinse nozzle system 354 is fed from a rinse tank 358 via a rinse pump 360, the fresh water rinse nozzle system 356 is fed via a fresh water supply line 362 with fresh water from a building-side fresh water connection 364. The fresh water supply line 362 can, for example, comprise a temperature control device 153 in the form of a heating device 366, by means of which the supplied fresh water can be heated, for example to a temperature of 80°C to 100°C, preferably to a temperature of at least 85°C. The fresh water supply line 362 can optionally be routed via at least one heat recovery device 368, in which waste heat from the cleaning device 110 can be used to heat the fresh water supplied.

By means of the transport device 314, the items to be cleaned 116 can be guided continuously or discontinuously through the rinsing zones 334 before the items to be cleaned 116 are dried in the drying zone 330. The rinsing zones 334 can each be closed off by dividing curtains 370.

The cleaning device 110 preferably uses several types of cleaning fluid 118 in the form of rinsing liquids, which are preferably all aqueous rinsing liquids. In the fresh water rinse 352, fresh water is preferably used as the rinsing liquid, optionally with the addition of rinse aid. In the fresh water rinse 352, the rinsing liquid only comes into contact with the items to be washed 116 once. In the pump rinse 350, however, the items to be cleaned 116 are exposed to rinse liquid from the rinse tank 358 in a circulating operation. In the wash tank 348, cleaning agents, such as cleaning solution, can be added to the rinsing liquid. In the wash zone 326, the items to be cleaned can be cleaned 116 in circulation mode with the rinsing liquid from the washing tank 348. In the pre-clearing zone 324, the cleaning material 116 can be subjected to circulation mode.

As stated above, one or more detergent substances can be added to the cleaning fluid 118 in the form of the rinsing liquids in the tanks 342, 348 and 358. For this purpose, one or more dosing devices can be provided, which in Figure 3 are not shown. For example, a dosing device can optionally be provided on the fresh water supply line 362, by means of which a rinse aid and/or a disinfectant can be supplied to the fresh water rinse 352. The connection of the at least one dosing point can be, for example, in front of and/or behind the heating device. Alternatively or additionally, a dosing device can be provided on the rinse tank 358, by means of which a rinse aid and/or a disinfectant can be dosed into the rinse tank 358. In the washing zone 326, for example, at least one dosing device can optionally be provided, by means of which one or more cleaning agents can be dosed into the washing tank 348. Alternatively or additionally, at least one dosing device can be provided in the pre-clearing zone 324, by means of which at least one cleaning agent can be dosed into the pre-clearing tank 342. The dosing devices can be implemented individually, in pairs or in the combinations mentioned. However, a different arrangement, combination and type of dosing is also possible in principle.

Furthermore, the cleaning device 110 in the illustrated arrangement again has at least one control 157, which, for example, is analogous to the control in the Figure 1 can be designed. This can be, for example, a central machine control, which can, however, also be designed decentrally. By means of the at least one controller 157, for example, one or more cleaning programs in the cleaning device 110 can be controlled. The controller 157 can in particular be connected to at least one supply valve 372, which can control a fresh water supply, and/or to one or more of the aforementioned dosing devices and control these elements. Furthermore, the controller 157 can, for example, be connected in whole or in part to the pumps 340, 346 and 360 and control these pumps. Furthermore, the controller 157 can, for example, be connected to the at least one transport device 314 and control the transport device 314. The controller 157 can, for example, be designed in whole or in part as a control device and/or comprise at least one control. The controller 157 includes, for example, analogous to the design according to Figure 1 , a counting device 170, which may, for example, completely or partially comprise the processor 158 and the data memory 160, may be designed completely or partially as a hardware and/or software component or may also be designed separately.

The controller 157 is in turn set up to detect one or more usage parameters, which may include one or more operating parameters, for example. Thus, the cleaning device 110, as in the embodiment according to Figure 1 , for example, generate one or more usage parameters by setting a specific program and/or in the form of one or more setpoint values for controlling the cleaning device 110, for example setpoint values for pump speeds. Alternatively or additionally, however, again as in the embodiment according to Figure 1 , one or more usage parameters are recorded by sensors. Thus, the cleaning device 110 can, again, as in Figure 1 , one or more sensors for detecting one or more operating parameters. For example, the cleaning device 110 can have one or more sensors for detecting a pressure applied to the items to be cleaned, or a volume flow sensor for detecting the flow of a cleaning fluid. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning device 110 can have one or more sensors for detecting a supply and/or a concentration of one or more components of the rinsing liquid. The sensors can generally be connected directly or indirectly to the at least one controller 157. For example, the cleaning device 110 can have at least one flow meter for detecting a volume flow and/or mass flow of a supply of fresh water. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning device 110 can also have one or more sensors in the tanks 342, 348 and 358. For example, turbidity sensors and/or conductivity sensors can be provided there, by means of which, for example, a cleaning agent concentration and/or a degree of contamination can be detected. To carry out the control of a supply of one or more components of the rinsing liquids of the cleaning device 110, for example to control a fresh water supply and/or to control a dosage of cleaning agent, the controller 157 can, for example, comprise one or more controllers, which can be implemented, for example, in the form of software and/or in the form of hardware. These can, for example, record one or more actual values by means of the sensors and/or by means of a flow meter and, for example, by means of the aforementioned dosing devices and/or the supply valve 372, regulate a supply to at least one target value.

By means of the cleaning device 110, a similar process can be carried out as described above using the example in Figure 2 However, the usage variables in the cleaning device 110 can be Figure 3 be designed much more complex, since significantly more control variables in the cleaning device 110 according to Figure 3 are present. Thus, a transport speed, several tank temperatures, other pump speeds or fluid pressures of the individual flushing zones 334, a heating output of the blower 332 and/or an air output of the same or other parameters can be used as further operating parameters. Furthermore, throughput parameters can also be used here, for example a number of transport baskets 316 per unit of time or a total number of transport baskets 316. Various configurations are possible.

Again, Figure 3 also represents an example of a cleaning system 172 which, in addition to the cleaning device 110, comprises a reading device 174. This at least one reading device 174 can in turn be designed as a handheld device or as a stationary device. In the case of a fixed installation of the cleaning device 110, it may be advisable, for example, to use a landline network or a mobile network as a means of transmitting the usage information.

List of reference symbols

110

Cleaning device

112

Single chamber dishwasher

114

Cleaning chamber

116

Cleaning items

118

Cleaning fluid

120

Loading device

122

Flushing nozzle system

123

Nozzles

124

Rinse nozzle system

125

Spray arms

126

Basket

128

door

130

Flushing line

132

Flushing pump

134

3-way valve

136

Rinse tank

138

Rinse line

140

Rinse valve

142

Rinse pump

144

Rinse tank

146

Fresh water supply

148

Drain line

150

Drain pump

152

Drain

153

Tempering device

154

Heating element

156

additional heating element

157

steering

158

processor

160

Data storage

162

User interface

164

Data interface

166

Temperature sensor

168

Temperature sensor

170

Counting device

172

Cleaning system

174

Reader

176

interface

178

User interface

180

Cost calculation device

182

processor

184

GPS device

210

begin

212

Read value N(t ₀ ) from memory, set t=t ₀ , N(t)=n(t ₀ )

214

Query: Is maintenance procedure being carried out?

216

Deduction Bonus

218

Capture usage variables

220

Allocation weighting

222

Incrementation of usage information for time interval Δt

224

Wait time interval Δt

226

Cancellation?

228

Write current value for usage information to memory

312

Conveyor dishwasher

314

Transport device

316

Transport basket

318

Transport direction

320

Task zone

322

Run-off area

324

Pre-clearance zone

326

Washing area

328

Rinse zone

330

Drying zone

332

fan

334

Rinse zone

336

Loading device

338

Pre-clearing nozzle system

340

Pre-clearance pump

342

Pre-clearance tank

344

Wash zone nozzle system

346

Wash zone pump

348

Wash tank

350

Pump rinse

352

Fresh water rinse

354

Pump rinse nozzle system

356

Fresh water rinse nozzle system

358

Rinse tank

360

Rinse pump

362

Fresh water supply

364

Fresh water connection

366

Heating device

368

Heat recovery device

370

Divider curtains

372

Supply valve

Claims (17)

1. Cleaning device (110) for cleaning articles (116) to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning device (110) is selected from amongst a dishwasher and a cleaning and disinfection apparatus for cleaning and/or disinfecting care utensils, comprising at least one cleaning chamber (114) and at least one application device (120) for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the articles (116) to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber (114), further comprising at least one controller (157), wherein the controller (157) is designed to actuate the cleaning device (110) for carrying out at least two operating modes, wherein the controller (157) is further designed to detect at least one utilization variable, wherein the utilization variable characterizes a current utilization of the cleaning device (110), wherein the controller (157) is further designed to assign at least one weighting to the at least one utilization variable, wherein the controller (157) further has at least one counting device (170), characterized in that the counting device (170) is designed to cumulate utilization times of the cleaning device (110) which are weighted with the weighting and to generate at least one item of use information about a use of the cleaning device (110) therefrom, wherein a utilization time is defined as an infinitesimal or finite time period during which the cleaning device (110) is operated, in particular in at least one operating mode.
2. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cleaning device (110) is selected from the group consisting of: a single-chamber dishwasher (112); a pass-through dishwasher; a hood-type dishwasher; a conveyor dishwasher (312).
3. Cleaning device (110) according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (157) is designed to detect the utilization times in accordance with a time detection mode, wherein the time detection mode is selected from the group consisting of: a continuous time detection operation; a cumulative time detection operation in discrete time intervals; a cumulative time detection operation in discrete utilization cycles.
4. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (157) is designed to carry out the assignment of the weighting by means of at least one assignment algorithm and/or by means of at least one assignment table.
5. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the utilization variable comprises at least one operating parameter of the cleaning device (110), which operating parameter is detected by the controller (157), or is ascertained by means of at least one operating parameter of the cleaning device (110), which operating parameter is detected by the controller (157).
6. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one operating parameter is selected from the group consisting of: a temperature of the at least one cleaning fluid; a level of media consumption, in particular a level of consumption of at least one medium selected from the group consisting of: water or a detergent; a switch-on period of at least one consumer of the cleaning device; a rotation speed of at least one nozzle arm (125) of the application device (120); a property of at least one cleaning fluid, in particular a pH value and/or a hardness of at least one cleaning fluid, in particular a pH value and/or a hardness of water which is used in the cleaning fluid; a type of the at least one cleaning fluid and/or of a component of the at least one cleaning fluid; a heating power of at least one heating element (154, 156; 366) of the cleaning device (110); an electrical energy intake of the cleaning device (110); a rotation speed of at least one pump (132, 142, 150; 340, 346, 360); a number of pump revolutions; a pressure with which the articles to be cleaned are acted on; a volume flow which is sprayed by means of the application device; a door operation of at least one door (128) of the cleaning device (110); a transportation parameter of at least one transportation device (314) of the cleaning device (110), in particular a transportation speed; a transportation distance per unit of time; an absolute transportation distance; a quantity of articles (116) to be cleaned; a quantity of transportation racks (316) for articles (116) to be cleaned; a throughput of articles (116) to be cleaned; a type of a selected cleaning program; a quantity of cleaning fluid in at least one fluid tank (136, 144; 342, 348, 358) of the cleaning device (110); a vibration of the cleaning device (110); an ambient temperature of the cleaning device (110); a type of at least one article to be cleaned which is cleaned in the cleaning device; a quantity of at least one article to be cleaned which is cleaned in the cleaning device; a material of at least one article to be cleaned which is cleaned in the cleaning device; a degree of soiling of at least one article to be cleaned which is cleaned in the cleaning device; a location of the cleaning device (110).
7. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the counting device (170) is designed to determine the use information in accordance with at least one algorithm selected from the group consisting of:

   i) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\int }_{T}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\mathit{dt},}$$

   

   ii) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\sum }_{i}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\cdot {\mathit{\Delta t}}_i},$$

   

   iii) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\int }_{T}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\mathit{dt}-B\left(T\right),}$$

   

   iv) $$N\left(T\right)=c\cdot {\displaystyle {\sum }_{i}f\left(p_1,\dots ,p_n\right)\cdot {\mathit{\Delta t}}_i-B\left(T\right),}$$

   

   where

   • N(T) is a current value of the use information at time T,

   • c is a calibration coefficient,

   • T is an observation time at which the use information is intended to be determined,

   • p ₁ , ... , p_n are utilization variables of the cleaning device (110),

   • f is a weighting function which is dependent on at least one utilization variable p_i,

   • i is a running variable over all detected discrete use intervals, and

   • B(T) is a bonus function which takes into account at least one performance of at least one maintenance process of the cleaning device (110).
8. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (157) is further designed in such a way that the at least one utilization variable comprises at least one service life and/or at least one standby time of the cleaning device (110).
9. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (157) is further designed to detect performance of at least one maintenance process, wherein the counting device (170) is designed to take into account the maintenance process when generating the use information.
10. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the maintenance process comprises at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a self-cleaning cycle; a use of a maintenance medium, in particular a water softener and/or a descaler; a routine cleaning operation; a servicing operation of the cleaning device.
11. Cleaning system (172) for cleaning articles (116) to be cleaned, comprising at least one cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one reading apparatus (174), wherein the reading apparatus (174) is designed to read out the use information from the cleaning device (110).
12. Cleaning system (172) according to the preceding claim, wherein the reading apparatus (174) is designed separately from the cleaning system (172) and can be connected to the cleaning device (110) via at least one interface (176).
13. Cleaning system (172) according to either of the two preceding claims, wherein the reading apparatus (174) further has at least one cost calculation device (180), wherein the cost calculation device (180) is designed to assign at least one use fee to the read-out use information.
14. Method for operating a cleaning device (110) for cleaning articles (116) to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning device (110) is selected from amongst a dishwasher and a cleaning and disinfection apparatus for cleaning and/or disinfecting care utensils, wherein a cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, which relate to a cleaning device (110), is used, wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least one cleaning chamber (114) and at least one application device (120) for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the articles (116) to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber (114), wherein the method comprises the following steps:

    a) detecting at least one utilization variable of the cleaning device (110), wherein the utilization variable characterizes the current use of the cleaning device (110);

    b) assigning at least one weighting to the at least one utilization variable;

    c) generating at least one item of use information about a use of the cleaning device (110) from a cumulation of the utilization times of the cleaning device (110) which are weighted with the weighting.
15. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the method steps a) to c) are carried out using at least one computer or computer program.
16. Computer program comprising program code for carrying out the method according to one of the preceding method claims if the computer program is executed on a computer or computer network.
17. Use of a cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, which relate to a cleaning device (110), for use-dependent calculation of a utilization fee for the cleaning device (110).

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