EP3666157A1 - Metering device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a metering device for the metered introduction of a pourable cleaning agent into a treatment room of a program-controlled cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher, with a storage container (18) serving to accommodate the cleaning agent and a support unit (19) which can be rotated about an axis of rotation (20) the storage container (18) interchangeably, the storage container (18) having a storage chamber (21) and a metering channel (23) opening into a metering opening (24), as well as with a discharge channel that is in fluidic connection with the metering channel (23) , which opens into the treatment room with a discharge opening, and with a flushing device for flushing the discharge channel with flushing liquid at least in regions.

Description

The invention relates to a metering device for the metered introduction of a pourable cleaning agent into a treatment room of a program-controlled cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher, with a storage container serving to accommodate the cleaning agent and a support unit rotatably arranged about an axis of rotation which exchangeably accommodates the storage container, the storage container being one Storage chamber and has a metering channel opening into a metering opening, and with a discharge channel which is in fluidic operative connection with the metering channel in the case of metering and which opens into the treatment room with a discharge opening. Furthermore, the invention relates to a cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher, with such a metering device.

Cleaning devices in general as well as dishwashers, washing machines and / or the like in particular are well known per se from the prior art. A separate documentary proof is therefore not required at this point.

A previously known dishwasher of typical design is used for cleaning dishes and has for this purpose a washing area, also called a treatment room. The wash cabinet is provided by a wash tank that holds items to be cleaned when used as intended.

The rinsing container provides a loading opening for loading the wash cabinet with items to be washed, which can be, for example, crockery and / or cutlery items. This can be closed in a fluid-tight manner by means of a wash cabinet door, which wash cabinet door is preferably mounted so as to be pivotable about a horizontally running pivot axis.

A spray device, which usually has a plurality of spray arms which can be rotated within the washing container, is used to apply washing liquid, the so-called washing liquor, to washware to be cleaned.

In order to achieve an optimized rinsing or cleaning result, process chemicals are generally used which are fed to the rinsing room during a rinsing and / or drying process. Such process chemicals are, in particular, cleaning chemicals that are supplied to the wash cabinet in a program-controlled manner.

According to a previously known construction, a metering device which is provided on the inside of the wash cabinet door and has a storage chamber is used to hold pourable cleaning agents. This storage chamber is open at one end and has a pivotable cover for closing the open side. The cover is under the force of a spring and, because of this, strives to pivot into its open position, that is to say into its position releasing the volume space of the storage chamber.

When the wash cabinet door is open, the storage chamber of the metering device, which is formed on the inside of the door, is accessible to the user. After manual filling with cleaning agent for a cleaning cycle, the user should close the cover against the spring force acting on it. The wash cabinet door can then be closed and a wash program started as intended. During the washing program, the locking of the closure cover is released under program control, as a result of which the closure cover moves into its open position due to the spring force acting on it. The detergent stored inside the chamber can now be completely washed out and into the washing compartment provided by the washing container.

Devices are also known from the prior art which can accommodate pourable cleaning agents for a plurality of successive cleaning cycles, for example from the DE 38 35 719 A1 which relates to a device for adding granular detergent. This previously known device has a storage container which houses granular detergent in an amount which is sufficient for a plurality of cleaning cycles. The device has a rotatable dosing device with two dosing receptacles for dosing detergent in portions. Both receptacles each have a piston-like movable receptacle to discharge the detergent that has been taken up. In the event of removal, this is done translationally, so that previously absorbed cleaning agent can be expelled and transferred into an intermediate chamber, from where it can then be transported further into the treatment room.

The one from the DE 38 35 719 A1 Known device has in particular the disadvantage that the cleaning agent, even in the intended use, gets into the structurally unavoidable gaps between the movable parts of the device, which leads to leaks. Moisture originating from the wash cabinet can therefore migrate up into the storage container, where undesirable clumps of cleaning agent then occur, which can lead to a failure of the entire device.

From the prior art is further according to the EP 2 982 288 B1 a dosing device for storing pourable detergent for a plurality of successive detergents known, the disadvantages of the DE 38 35 719 A1 Do not adhere to the known device. This from the EP 2 982 288 B1 Known metering device relates to a generic metering device.

The generic dosing device according to the EP 2 982 288 B1 has a storage container for storing detergents. Furthermore, the dosing device has a support unit which can be rotated about an axis of rotation. This holds the storage container interchangeably.

The storage container in turn has a storage chamber and a metering channel opening into a metering opening. In the case of dosing, the carrying unit and thus also the storage container accommodated by it rotates, as a result of which detergent contained in the storage chamber of the storage container is discharged through the dosing channel connected to the storage chamber in terms of flow technology.

The dosing device also has a discharge channel that is in fluidic connection with the dosing channel in the case of dosing. This discharge channel has an inlet opening on the metering channel side and a discharge opening opposite the inlet opening, which discharge opening opens into the treatment room.

The discharge channel after the EP 2 982 288 B1 is provided by a flexible tube that can be pivoted from a rest position into a metering position and vice versa. In the metering position, the tube providing the discharge channel is in fluidic operative connection with the metering channel, so that cleaning agent dispensed from the storage container can pass through the metering channel and then through the discharge channel into the treatment room. In the case of non-metering, the tube providing the discharge channel is in the rest position, in which it is fluidically decoupled from the metering channel.

The flexible design of the tube providing the discharge channel has the advantage that, in the event of non-metering, fluidic decoupling of the discharge channel and metering channel is achieved, which avoids that any moisture in the discharge channel can rise into the metering channel and into the adjoining storage container.

In order to ensure that no detergent residues remain in the tube providing the discharge channel, a spray device accommodated by the treatment room is designed in a special manner according to the prior art. A spray device for loading wash ware with wash liquid typically has a plurality of spray nozzles. According to the prior art, one of these spray nozzles is aligned with the outlet opening, into which the discharge channel provided by the flexible pipe opens. When the spraying device is operated as intended, the outlet opening is thus exposed to flushing liquid, which results in the discharge channel being flushed out.

Although the construction described above has proven itself in everyday practical use, there is room for improvement. It has been shown that safe rinsing out of the discharge channel is not guaranteed by a spray nozzle provided by the spraying device. For example, the spray jet path between the spray nozzle and the outlet opening can be blocked by improperly loading the treatment room with items to be washed. Another disadvantage is that the spray nozzle aligned with the outlet opening is not available for loading the wash ware with cleaning liquid. This reduces the rinsing quality of the cleaning device. In addition, the Change the orientation of the spray nozzle so that the discharge opening cannot be hit safely in the long term.

Starting from the above-described prior art, it is therefore the object of the invention to provide a metering device of the type mentioned at the outset, which contributes to the fact that any cleaning agent residues can be safely rinsed out in the discharge channel and / or that an uncontrolled delivery of cleaning agent residues is avoided and / or that manual cleaning of the pouring channel to remove unwanted detergent buildup can be avoided as far as possible.

To achieve this object, the invention proposes a metering device of the type mentioned at the outset, which is characterized by a flushing device for flushing the discharge channel with flushing liquid at least in regions.

According to the embodiment according to the invention, a flushing device is provided which serves to flush the discharge channel at least in regions. By means of this rinsing device it is ensured in the intended operating case that any cleaning agent residues located on the inside of the discharge channel can be reliably rinsed out. In contrast to the state of the art, a spray nozzle of the spray device arranged within the treatment room of the cleaning device is not used to rinse the discharge channel. Rather, a rinsing device is provided which is separate from the spraying device and which only serves to interact with the discharge channel, so that a safe and residue-free rinsing out of the discharge channel is ensured in the intended use.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the flushing device has a flushing nozzle which opens into the discharge channel. The flushing device according to the invention therefore has at least one flushing nozzle. In the intended use, this rinses the discharge channel by rinsing liquid flowing through the rinsing nozzle into the discharge channel. For this purpose, the rinsing nozzle opens into the discharge channel, so that the rinsing liquid can be acted upon directly via the rinsing nozzle.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the flushing nozzle is connected to a pump in terms of flow technology with the interposition of a line carrying flushing liquid. A pump is used to apply flushing liquid to the flushing nozzle. Either a pump already provided by the cleaning device can be used, or a separate pump that interacts solely with the flushing device according to the invention is provided. It is preferred, however, to provide a separate pump which interacts solely with the flushing device according to the invention, since a pump of only small dimensions is required for the intended discharge of the discharge channel with flushing liquid. Incidentally, the discharge channel is not rinsed out permanently, but only at regular intervals, so that a pump designed for continuous operation is not required.

For the fluidic connection of the rinsing nozzle and pump, a line is provided through which the rinsing liquor conveyed by the pump reaches the rinsing nozzle in the intended operating case. On the suction side, the pump is preferably connected to the treatment room of the cleaning device, so that rinsing liquor originating from the treatment room can serve as the rinsing liquid for the rinsing device.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that within the discharge channel a sealing flap is pivotally arranged, which can be transferred from a closed position to an open position and vice versa, the discharge channel being closed in a fluid-tight manner in the closed position of the sealing flap and divided into a drying area on the metering channel side and a wet area on the treatment room side is.

Accordingly, in contrast to the prior art, the discharge channel is not provided by a flexible tube. Instead, it is provided that the position of the discharge channel is unchangeable with respect to the discharge opening opening into the treatment room. A sealing flap is provided to protect the storage container and the cleaning agent housed therein from moisture coming from the treatment room, which is an integral part of the discharge channel. It is provided that the sealing flap is arranged to be pivotable within the discharge channel. Preferably, the motor-driven sealing flap can optionally be pivoted, namely from a closed position into an open position and vice versa. The discharge channel is closed in a fluid-tight manner in the closed position of the sealing flap, with the result that the discharge channel is divided into a dry area on the metering channel side and a wet area on the treatment room side.

In the non-metering case, the sealing flap is in its closed position. The dry area and wet area of the discharge channel are thus separated from one another in a fluid-tight manner and the dry area is protected against the undesired migration of moisture from the wet area.

In the case of dosing, the sealing flap opens so that the detergent dispensed from the storage container falls down under the weight and can pass through the discharge channel into the treatment room. The sealing flap only opens for the brief moment of dosing and then closes again.

Any remnants of detergent trickling down fall into the discharge channel, but cannot pass through when the sealing flap is closed and remain in the dry area until the next dose. Any residues of detergent sprinkled on the closed sealing flap and fall during the next dosing process together with the cleaning agent that is then properly introduced into the discharge channel through the opening released by the sealing flap in the dosing case into the wet area of the discharge channel, from where it is forwarded to the treatment room .

This configuration has the advantage that moisture entry into the cleaning agent housed by the storage container is reliably avoided, and this while simultaneously ensuring that any cleaning agent trickling out of a dosing case does not escape uncontrollably and can fall onto the floor at the installation site of the cleaning device.

The separation of the dry area and the wet area by means of the pivotable sealing flap also has the advantage that when the discharge channel is rinsed, the rinsing device according to the invention does not inadvertently rinse any rinsing liquid into the Dry area of the discharge channel immigrate. For this purpose, it is provided according to a further feature of the invention that the flushing nozzle opens into the wet region of the discharge channel. In the intended washing case, there is therefore only a rinsing out of the wet area of the discharge channel, the drying area being protected from the entry of rinsing liquid by the sealing flap in the closed position. The flushing nozzle is in particular arranged such that in a first position of the sealing flap, in particular in the closed sealing flap position, a first side of the sealing flap, in particular the side of the sealing flap facing the wet area in the closed sealing flap position, can be supplied with flushing liquid. This can prevent cleaning powder from adhering to the sealing flap. However, the flushing nozzle can also be arranged in such a way that in a second position of the sealing flap, in particular in the opened sealing flap position, a second side of the sealing flap, in particular the side of the sealing flap facing the drying area in the closed sealing flap position, can be supplied with flushing liquid. Although this causes an undesired introduction of moisture into the dry area, this possibility can be advantageous in connection with special dosing device cleaning or maintenance programs, in order to also prevent cleaning powder from adhering to the dry side of the sealing flap.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the rinsing nozzle is aligned transversely to the direction of fall of detergent falling through the metering opening into the discharge channel and following the weight force. In this way, an optimized loading of the discharge channel with rinsing liquid is guaranteed in the intended rinsing case. The flushing liquid emitted by the flushing nozzle does not act directly on the sealing flap, which helps to avoid unnecessary functional stress on the sealing flap.

According to a further feature of the invention, a distribution contour which interacts with the flushing nozzle during operation is provided and which is configured opposite the flushing nozzle. Accordingly, the rinsing device has a rinsing nozzle on the one hand and a distribution contour on the other hand, the rinsing nozzle interacting with the distribution contour. A rinsing jet emitted by the rinsing nozzle during operation strikes the distribution contour formed opposite the rinsing nozzle, as a result of which, depending on the distribution contour, there is a division and distribution of those emitted by the rinsing nozzle Flushing liquid comes. The particular advantage of such a distribution contour is that an optimal rinsing of the entire wet area of the discharge channel is guaranteed. In this respect, distribution contours are also particularly preferred which, as a result, lead to an expansion of the rinsing jet. In addition, the distribution contour should be designed in such a way that the rinsing liquid discharged from the rinsing nozzle is at least partially brought back from the distribution contour to the opposite wall of the discharge channel, so that cleaning of the channel wall also takes place, through which the rinsing nozzle opens into the discharge channel.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the sealing flap is arranged in the open position outside the drop corridor of the cleaning agent falling through the discharge channel in the case of dosing.

In the case of dosing, the cleaning agent falls radially out of the storage container rotating about an axis of rotation over a specific case corridor or range, which, with reference to a clock face, lies approximately between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. It is preferably provided that the sealing flap is arranged in the open position outside of this fall corridor of the cleaning agent, which ensures that the metering flap does not constitute an obstacle to diarrhea for the cleaning agent to be introduced into the treatment room. It also ensures that there is no unwanted deposition of cleaning agents on the sealing flap that is in the open position.

In this context, it is provided according to a further feature that the discharge channel provides a flap space which receives the sealing flap in the open position. The flap space provided according to the invention thus represents a type of drop shadow for the sealing flap, which ensures in the case of dosing that detergent dispensed from the storage container and falling down due to the weight force does not land on the sealing flap which is in the open position.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the sealing flap has a flap body and a seal carried by it, the seal being inserted into a recess provided by the flap body. The seal of the sealing flap is in the closed position of the sealing flap on a corresponding one Counter contour, which provides the fluid-tight separation of the dry area and the wet area. In order to ensure that the seal comes to rest securely in a fluid-tight manner on the opposite contour, a flap body is provided which holds the seal securely in position.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the seal inserted into the recess of the valve body is flush with the valve body. This configuration is particularly advantageous because any cleaning agent residues accumulating on the sealing flap can easily slip off in the subsequent opening of the sealing flap. In this respect, there is deliberately no seal protruding beyond the outer surface of the flap body, so that any detentive projections are avoided.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the flap body has a base body and a closure body which, in the final assembled state of the sealing flap, accommodate the seal carried by the flap body between them at least in sections. The seal is therefore arranged in the final assembled state of the sealing flap between the base body and the closure body, which provides a secure hold of the seal on the flap body.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the seal is designed as a closed ring seal which has an internally circumferential web, at least in sections. This web is used to secure the position of the seal and is arranged in the final assembled state of the sealing flap between the base body and the closure body. The actually desired sealing effect of the seal is therefore not impaired by the intermediate arrangement between the base body and the closure body. Rather, a web provided by the seal, which is clamped between the base body and the closure body in the final assembled state, is used for the positionally secure arrangement of the seal on the valve body.

According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the base body and the closure body are mechanically locked together and / or welded and / or glued or otherwise permanently connected to one another. In this way, a sealing flap is created which, while at the same time being robust, enables a permanently secure, fluid-tight closure of the discharge channel in the event of non-metering. According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the geometry and positioning of the first part of the discharge channel, which provides the drying area, is matched to the detergent discharge of the rotating storage container, so that the detergent falling in the dosing case comes into contact with the detergent forming the discharge channel Channel walls are largely avoided. For this purpose, it is provided that the first part of the discharge channel has end channel walls which are oriented vertically, that is to say parallel to the direction of fall of the cleaning agent leaving the storage container in the case of dosing. This alignment of the end channel walls ensures that the detergent discharged from the reservoir in the case of dosing does not come into contact with the channel walls. Unintentional accumulations of cleaning agents on the channel walls in the dry area of the discharge channel are thus excluded from the outset.

• Ausführungsform A1:
  Dosiergerät für das dosierte Einbringen eines schüttfähigen Reinigungsmittels in einen Behandlungsraum eines programmgesteuerten Reinigungsgeräts, insbesondere einer Geschirrspülmaschine, mit einem der Beherbergung des Reinigungsmittels dienenden Vorratsbehälter und einer um eine Drehachse verdrehbar angeordneten Trageinheit, die den Vorratsbehälter auswechselbar aufnimmt, wobei der Vorratsbehälter eine Vorratskammer und einen in eine Dosieröffnung mündenden Dosierkanal aufweist, sowie mit einem im Dosierfall mit dem Dosierkanal in strömungstechnischer Wirkverbindung stehenden Ausschleusungskanal, der mit einer Ausschleusungsöffnung in den Behandlungsraum mündet,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet,
  dass innerhalb des Ausschleusungskanals eine Dichtklappe verschwenkbar angeordnet ist, die aus einer Verschlussstellung in eine Offenstellung und umgekehrt überführbar ist, wobei der Ausschleusungskanal in Verschlussstellung der Dichtklappe fluiddicht verschlossen und in einen dosierkanalseitigen Trockenbereich und einen behandlungsraumseitigen Feuchtbereich unterteilt ist.
• Ausführungsform A2:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform A1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Dichtklappe in Offenstellung außerhalb des Fallkorridors des im Dosierfall durch den Ausschleusungskanal hindurchfallenden Reinigungsmittels angeordnet ist.
• Ausführungsform A3:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform A1 oder A2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Ausschleusungskanal einen Klappenraum bereitstellt, der die Dichtklappe in Offenstellung aufnimmt.
• Ausführungsform A4:
  Dosiergerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Dichtklappe einen Klappenkörper und eine davon getragene Dichtung aufweist, wobei die Dichtung in eine vom Klappenkörper bereitgestellte Ausnehmung eingesetzt ist.
• Ausführungsform A5:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform A4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die in die Ausnehmung des Klappenkörpers eingesetzte Dichtung mit dem Klappenkörper oberflächenbündig abschließt.
• Ausführungsform A6:
  
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform A4 oder A5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Klappenkörper einen Grundkörper und einen Verschlusskörper aufweist, die im endmontierten Zustand der Dichtklappe die vom Klappenkörper getragene Dichtung zumindest abschnittsweise zwischen sich aufnehmen.
• Ausführungsform A7:
  Dosiergerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen A4 bis A6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Dichtung als geschlossene Ringdichtung ausgebildet ist, die innenseitig einen zumindest abschnittsweise umlaufenden Steg aufweist.
• Ausführungsform A8:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform A7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Steg im endmontierten Zustand der Dichtklappe zwischen Grundkörper und Verschlusskörper angeordnet ist.
• Ausführungsform A9:
  Dosiergerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen A6 bis A8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Grundkörper und der Verschlusskörper miteinander mechanisch verrastet und/oder verschweißt und/oder verklebt oder sonst wie dauerhaft miteinander verbunden sind.

According to a second aspect of the ancillary object underlying the invention following further embodiments will be proposed a dispensing device of the type mentioned for the solution of the invention:

• Embodiment A1:
  Dosing device for the metered introduction of a pourable cleaning agent into a treatment room of a program-controlled cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher, with a storage container serving to accommodate the cleaning agent and a support unit which can be rotated about an axis of rotation and which interchangeably receives the storage container, the storage container having a storage chamber and an in has a metering opening opening out, as well as with a discharge channel which is in fluidic connection with the metering channel in the case of metering and which opens into the treatment room with a discharge opening,
  characterized by
  that a sealing flap is pivotably arranged within the discharge channel, which can be transferred from a closed position to an open position and vice versa, the discharge channel being closed in a fluid-tight manner in the closed position of the sealing flap and divided into a dry area on the metering channel side and a wet area on the treatment room side.
• Embodiment A2:
  Dosing device according to embodiment A1, characterized in that the sealing flap is arranged in the open position outside the drop corridor of the cleaning agent falling through the discharge channel in the case of dosing.
• Embodiment A3:
  Dosing device according to embodiment A1 or A2, characterized in that the discharge channel provides a flap space which receives the sealing flap in the open position.
• Embodiment A4:
  Dosing device according to one of the preceding embodiments, characterized in that the sealing flap has a flap body and a seal carried by it, the seal being inserted into a recess provided by the flap body.
• Embodiment A5:
  Dosing device according to embodiment A4, characterized in that the seal inserted into the recess of the valve body is flush with the valve body.
• Embodiment A6:
  
  Metering device according to embodiment A4 or A5, characterized in that the flap body has a base body and a closure body which, in the final assembled state of the sealing flap, accommodate the seal carried by the flap body between them at least in sections.
• Embodiment A7:
  Dosing device according to one of the preceding embodiments A4 to A6, characterized in that the seal is designed as a closed ring seal, which has an at least partially circumferential web on the inside.
• Embodiment A8:
  Metering device according to embodiment A7, characterized in that the web in final assembled state of the sealing flap is arranged between the base body and the closure body.
• Embodiment A9:
  Dosing device according to one of the preceding embodiments A6 to A8, characterized in that the base body and the closure body are mechanically locked together and / or welded and / or glued or otherwise permanently connected to one another.

• Ausführungsform B1:
  Dosiergerät für das dosierte Einbringen eines schüttfähigen Reinigungsmittels in einen Behandlungsraum eines programmgesteuerten Reinigungsgeräts, insbesondere einer Geschirrspülmaschine, mit einem der Beherbergung des Reinigungsmittels dienenden Vorratsbehälter und einer um eine Drehachse verdrehbar angeordneten Trageinheit, die den Vorratsbehälter auswechselbar aufnimmt, wobei der Vorratsbehälter eine Vorratskammer und einen in eine Dosieröffnung mündenden Dosierkanal aufweist, sowie mit einem im Dosierfall mit dem Dosierkanal in strömungstechnischer Wirkverbindung stehenden Schüttkanal, der eine dosierkanalseitige Einlassöffnung und eine der Einlassöffnung gegenüberliegende Auslassöffnung aufweist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Schüttkanal stirnseitige Kanalwände aufweist, die parallel zur Fallrichtung von im Dosierfall der Gewichtskraft folgend durch die Dosieröffnung hindurch in den Schüttkanal fallendem Reinigungsmittel ausgerichtet sind.
• Ausführungsform B2:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform B1,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
  die stirnseitigen Kanalwände außerhalb des Fallkorridors des im Dosierfall durch die Dosieröffnung hindurch fallenden Reinigungsmittels angeordnet sind.
• Ausführungsform B3:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform B1 oder B2,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
  die Einlassöffnung größer als die Auslassöffnung ausgebildet ist.
• Ausführungsform B4:
  Dosiergerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen B1 bis B3:,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
  zwischen den beiden stirnseitigen Kanalwänden eine erste Führungswand und eine der ersten Führungswand gegenüberliegende zweite Führungswand angeordnet sind, die die beiden Kanalwände miteinander verbinden, wobei die beiden Führungswände in Richtung der Auslassöffnung zumindest abschnittsweise einander zugeneigt ausgerichtet sind.
• Ausführungsform B5:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform B4,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
  mindestens eine der beiden Führungswände außerhalb des Fallkorridors des im Dosierfall durch die Dosieröffnung hindurch fallenden Reinigungsmittels angeordnet ist.
• Ausführungsform B6:
  Dosiergerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen B1 bis B5,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
  die Auslassöffnung fluiddicht verschließbar ist.
• Ausführungsform B7:
  Dosiergerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen B1 bis B6,
  gekennzeichnet durch
  eine um eine Drehachse verschwenkbar gelagerte Dichtklappe, die in Verschlussstellung die Auslassöffnung fluiddicht verschließt.
• Ausführungsform B8:
  Dosiergerät nach Ausführungsform B7,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
  die Dichtklappe in Offenstellung außerhalb des Fallkorridors des im Dosierfall durch die Dosieröffnung und die Auslassöffnung hindurch fallenden Reinigungsmittels angeordnet ist.
• Ausführungsform B9:
  Dosiergerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen B1 bis B8,
  dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
  sich an den Schüttkanal ein in den Behandlungsraum mündender Überführungskanal strömungstechnisch anschließt.

According to a further independent third aspect of the problem underlying the invention following further embodiments will be proposed a dispensing device of the type mentioned for the solution of the invention:

• Embodiment B1:
  Dosing device for the metered introduction of a pourable cleaning agent into a treatment room of a program-controlled cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher, with a storage container serving to accommodate the cleaning agent and a support unit which can be rotated about an axis of rotation and which interchangeably receives the storage container, the storage container having a storage chamber and an in has a metering opening opening, as well as with a pouring channel in fluidic connection with the metering channel in the case of metering, which has a metering channel-side inlet opening and an outlet opening opposite the inlet opening, characterized in that the pouring channel has end-side channel walls which parallel to the direction of fall of the Following weight force are aligned through the metering opening in the pouring channel cleaning agent.
• Embodiment B2:
  Dosing device according to embodiment B1,
  characterized in that
  the end channel walls are arranged outside the drop corridor of the cleaning agent falling through the metering opening in the case of dosing.
• Embodiment B3:
  Dosing device according to embodiment B1 or B2,
  characterized in that
  the inlet opening is larger than the outlet opening.
• Embodiment B4:
  Dosing device according to one of the preceding embodiments B1 to B3 :,
  characterized in that
  a first guide wall and a second guide wall opposite the first guide wall are arranged between the two end channel walls and connect the two channel walls to one another, the two guide walls being at least partially inclined towards one another in the direction of the outlet opening.
• Embodiment B5:
  Dosing device according to embodiment B4,
  characterized in that
  at least one of the two guide walls is arranged outside the drop corridor of the cleaning agent falling through the metering opening in the case of dosing.
• Embodiment B6:
  Dosing device according to one of the preceding embodiments B1 to B5,
  characterized in that
  the outlet opening can be closed in a fluid-tight manner.
• Embodiment B7:
  Dosing device according to one of the preceding embodiments B1 to B6,
  marked by
  a sealing flap pivotally mounted about an axis of rotation, which closes the outlet opening in a fluid-tight manner in the closed position.
• Embodiment B8:
  Dosing device according to embodiment B7,
  characterized in that
  the sealing flap is arranged in the open position outside the drop corridor of the cleaning agent falling through the metering opening and the outlet opening in the case of dosing.
• Embodiment B9:
  Dosing device according to one of the preceding embodiments B1 to B8,
  characterized in that
  fluidically adjoins a transfer duct opening into the treatment room at the pouring duct.

In the embodiments A1 to A9 and B1 to B9, a flushing device can optionally be provided for flushing the discharge channel as described above, but it is not absolutely necessary.

The invention furthermore proposes a cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher, for example a household dishwasher, with a metering device of the type described above. The advantages already described arise with a cleaning device equipped in this way.

Fig. 1

schematisch in geschnittener Draufsicht von vorn ein erfindungsgemäßes Dosiergerät;

Fig. 1a

in schematischer Ansicht das Dosiergerät nach Fig. 1 mit an einer Spülflüssigkeit führenden Leitung angeschlossenen Spüldüse;

Fig. 2a

in schematisch perspektivischer Darstellung die Innenseite einer Spülraumtür eines Reinigungsgerätes mit Dosiergerät der erfindungsgemäßen Art;

Fig. 2b

in schematisch perspektivischer Darstellung die Innenseite einer Spülraumtür eines Reinigungsgerätes mit Dosiergerät der erfindungsgemäßen Art und mit zu Wartungszwecken geöffnetem Deckel;

Fig. 2c

in schematisch perspektivischer Detailansicht die Ausschleusungsöffnung des erfindungsgemäßen Dosiergeräts bei weggelassenem Deckel und halb geöffneter Dichtklappe gemäß einer ersten Blickrichtung;

Fig. 2d

die Ausschleusungsöffnung nach Fig. 2c gemäß einer zweiten Blickrichtung;

Fig. 3

in schematischer Darstellung die Verdrehbewegung eines Vorratsbehälters eines erfindungsgemäßen Dosiergeräts zwecks Reinigungsmittelabgabe;

Fig. 4a

in schematisch geschnittener Seitenansicht das erfindungsgemäße Dosiergerät mit sich in Verschlussstellung befindlicher Dichtklappe;

Fig. 4b

in schematisch geschnittener Seitenansicht das erfindungsgemäße Dosiergerät mit sich in Offenstellung befindlicher Dichtklappe;

Fig. 5a

in schematisch geschnittener Seitenansicht das erfindungsgemäße Dosiergerät im Nicht-Dosierfall;

Fig. 5b

in schematisch geschnittener Seitenansicht das erfindungsgemäße Dosiergerät im Dosierfall;

Fig. 6

schematisch in geschnittener Seitenansicht eine erfindungsgemäß vorgesehene Dichtklappe;

Fig. 7

in schematisch perspektivischer Darstellung eine erfindungsgemäße Dichtklappe;

Fig. 8a

in schematisch perspektivischer Darstellung eine Spüldüse mit gegenüberliegender Verteilkontur gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 8b

in schematisch perspektivischer Darstellung eine Spüldüse mit gegenüberliegender Verteilkontur gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 8c

in schematisch perspektivischer Darstellung eine Spüldüse mit gegenüberliegender Verteilkontur gemäß einer dritten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 8d

in schematisch perspektivischer Darstellung eine Spüldüse mit gegenüberliegender Verteilkontur gemäß einer vierten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 9

in schematischer Darstellung eine Geschirrspülmaschine nach dem Stand der Technik;

Fig. 10

in einer Draufsicht die Spülraumtür nach Fig. 9 mit einem aus dem Stand der Technik bekannten Dosiergerät, und zwar in Blickrichtung IV gem. Fig. 8;

Fig. 11

die Darstellung nach Fig. 10 mit sich in Offenstellung befindlichem Dosiergerät und

Fig. 12

in geschnittener Draufsicht die Spülraumtür nach Fig. 9 mit einem aus dem Stand der Technik bekannten Dosiergerät, und zwar gemäß Blickrichtung XII nach Fig. 9.

Further advantages and features of the invention result from the following description with reference to the figures. Show

Fig. 1

schematically in sectioned plan view from the front an inventive dosing device;

Fig. 1a

in a schematic view of the dosing device Fig. 1 with a rinsing nozzle connected to a line carrying rinsing liquid;

Fig. 2a

in a schematic perspective view, the inside of a washroom door of a cleaning device with a metering device of the type according to the invention;

Fig. 2b

in a schematic perspective view, the inside of a washroom door of a cleaning device with a metering device of the type according to the invention and with the cover open for maintenance purposes;

Fig. 2c

in a schematic perspective detail view of the discharge opening of the metering device according to the invention with the cover omitted and the sealing flap half open according to a first viewing direction;

Fig. 2d

the discharge opening after Fig. 2c according to a second line of sight;

Fig. 3

the rotation of a storage container of a dosing device according to the invention for the purpose of dispensing detergent in a schematic representation;

Fig. 4a

in a schematically sectional side view, the dosing device according to the invention with the sealing flap in the closed position;

Fig. 4b

in schematic side view, the metering device according to the invention with the sealing flap in the open position;

Fig. 5a

in schematic side view, the dosing device according to the invention in the non-dosing case;

Fig. 5b

in schematic side view, the dosing device according to the invention in the dosing case;

Fig. 6

schematically in sectional side view an inventive sealing flap;

Fig. 7

a sealing flap according to the invention in a schematic perspective illustration;

Fig. 8a

a schematic perspective representation of a flushing nozzle with an opposing distribution contour according to a first embodiment;

Fig. 8b

a schematic perspective representation of a flushing nozzle with an opposing distribution contour according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 8c

a schematic perspective representation of a flushing nozzle with an opposing distribution contour according to a third embodiment;

Fig. 8d

a schematic perspective representation of a flushing nozzle with an opposing distribution contour according to a fourth embodiment;

Fig. 9

in a schematic representation of a dishwasher according to the prior art;

Fig. 10

in a plan view of the washroom door Fig. 9 with a metering device known from the prior art, namely in the viewing direction IV acc. Fig. 8 ;

Fig. 11

the representation after Fig. 10 with dosing device in open position and

Fig. 12

in a sectional top view of the washroom door Fig. 9 with a metering device known from the prior art, specifically according to viewing direction XII Fig. 9 .

Fig. 9 can be seen in a purely schematic representation of a dishwasher 1, as is known per se from the prior art. The dishwasher 1 typically has a housing 2 which accommodates a washing container 3. The washing compartment 3 in turn provides a washing compartment 4 for receiving items to be cleaned. To load the wash cabinet 4 with items to be cleaned, the wash tank 3 has a loading opening 5. This can be closed in a fluid-tight manner by means of a wash cabinet door 6, the wash cabinet door 6 being mounted so as to be pivotable about a horizontally running pivot axis.

Fig. 10 the washroom door 6 subsides Fig. 9 Recognize in a top view, in the X direction Fig. 9 .

How Fig. 10 can be seen, the wash cabinet door 6 has on the inside a combination device 9 known per se from the prior art, which can be closed by means of a corresponding cover. The combination device 9 is used in a manner known per se, for example for taking up detergent, rinse aid and / or the like.

The washroom door 6 is further equipped with a metering device 7, which stores detergents for several successive ones Cleaning cycles. For this purpose, the metering device 7 provides a storage container for storing pourable, ie preferably powdery and / or granular, cleaning agent for a plurality of cleaning cycles. In the course of an intended use, the corresponding amount of cleaning agent is removed from the storage container provided by the metering device 7 for each washing program cycle and fed to the washing area 4 of the washing container 3 via the cleaning agent outlet 8. The storage container provided by the metering device 7 is preferably dimensioned such that it can absorb detergent in an amount sufficient to complete 20 to 30 rinsing processes.

How Fig. 11 can also be seen, the dosing device 7 has a cover 11 which, when opened, allows access to a receptacle 10. In the intended use, this receptacle 10 serves to accommodate a storage container, not shown in the figures.

A detergent outlet 8 is used for dispensing the detergent originating from the metering device 7. This outlet, like a synopsis of the Figures 10 and 11 reveals a discharge opening 12 ready, which is covered by a cover 13. The cover 13 is not used to close the discharge opening 12 in a fluid-tight manner, but rather as a splash guard in order to minimize the penetration of food and beverage residues into the discharge opening 12 during the loading of the basket.

How further the illustration after Fig. 12 can be recognized, a funnel-shaped pouring channel 15 connects to the metering device 7. This provides an outlet opening 14, through which cleaning agent originating from the storage container is discharged in the case of dosing. In the intended use, cleaning agent dispensed from the storage container of the metering device 7 therefore flows via the funnel-shaped pouring channel 15 to the outlet opening 14.

A pipe 16 is interposed between the outlet opening 14 of the pouring channel 15 and the discharge opening 12 of the detergent outlet 8 opening into the washing compartment 4. This tube 16 is designed to be pivotable and can be moved from the Fig. 12 shown starting position in a dosing position, in which provides a fluidic connection between the outlet opening 14 and the discharge opening 12.

The tube 16 has two end sections, namely an end section close to the discharge opening 12 on the one hand and an end section opposite this end section on the other hand. Between these two end sections, a bending section is formed, in which area the jacket of the tube 16 is wave-shaped and, due to this, is flexible. The end section of the tube 16 corresponding to the discharge opening 12 is fixed in relation to the wash cabinet door 6, whereas the other end section is movable relative to this due to the bending section of the pipe, this end section being guided by means of the guide plate 17. In the case of dosing, this end section of the tube 16 guided by the guide plate 17 is brought into operative connection with the outlet opening 14 of the pouring channel 15 by means of an actuator, so that in this position of the tube 16 cleaning agent from the dosing device 7 via the pouring channel 15 and the tube 16 to the discharge opening 12 and thus into the treatment room, ie Washroom 4 can reach.

This construction known from the prior art shows the EP 2 982 288 B1 .

Although the construction described above after the EP 2 982 288 B1 has proven itself in everyday practice, there is room for improvement. This is because it has been shown that the funnel-shaped configuration of the pouring channel 15 leads to unwanted detergent buildup within the pouring channel 15. It can also happen that residues of cleaning agent are dispensed via the pouring channel 15 when the flexible pipe 16 is in its position in Fig. 9 shown starting position. In such a case, any cleaning agent dispensed from the pouring channel 15 then enters a collecting container of the cleaning device 7 provided for this purpose, which container fills up over time. It is not ensured over the entire life of the cleaning device that the volume space provided by the collecting container is completely sufficient to be able to completely absorb all cleaning agent residues that leave the pouring channel with the pipe 16 in the starting position.

In order to counter the disadvantages described above, the invention proposes the design of a metering device 7, as shown in FIGS Figures 1 to 8 shown is.

As can be seen from the illustration Fig. 1 results, the metering device 7 has a storage container 18, which is used to accommodate detergents. Furthermore, a support unit 19 is provided which can be rotated about an axis of rotation 20, the support unit 19 serving for the exchangeable receptacle of the storage container 18.

The storage container 18 in turn provides a storage chamber 21 and a metering channel 23 opening into a metering opening 24. The storage container 18 and the metering channel 23 are in fluidic connection with the interposition of a metering chamber 22.

In the case of dosing, the carrying unit 19 together with the storage container 18 rotates about the axis of rotation 20, namely counterclockwise. As a result, detergent stored in portions from the storage chamber 21 in 360 ° rotations reaches the metering chamber 22 and from there into the metering channel 23. The metering chamber 22 is used for metering portions of detergent, which is then dispensed through the metering channel 23 through the metering opening 24 becomes.

The dosing device 7 also provides a discharge channel 36 which is in fluidic operative connection with the dosing channel 23 in the case of dosing. This has an inlet opening 26 on the metering channel side, on the one hand, and the discharge opening 12, which is opposite the inlet opening 26 and opens into the washing compartment 4, as shown in particular by the illustrations in FIGS Figures 4a and 4b reveal.

A sealing flap 33 is arranged inside the discharge channel 36. This can be pivoted from a closed position into an open position and vice versa, whereby Fig. 1 shows the closed position.

In the closed position, the sealing flap 33 divides the discharge channel 36 into a drying area 25 on the metering channel side and a wet area 34 on the treatment room side. The second part of the discharge channel 36, which opens into the washing area 4 and provides the wet area 34, is therefore connected to the first part of the discharge channel 36 which provides the drying area 25 fluidically. In this case, the sealing flap 33 is provided for the fluid-tight closure of the transfer opening between the dry area 25 and the wet area 34, ie the outlet opening 27 of the first part of the discharge channel 36. Fig. 1 shows the closed position of the sealing flap 33 in a plan view and Fig. 4a in a side view. Fig. 4b shows the open position of the sealing flap 33, according to which the outlet opening 27 of the first part 25 of the discharge channel 36 is opened, so that cleaning agent 35 originating from the reservoir 18 can be channeled through the drying area 25 and the wet area 34 into the washing area 4.

According to the invention, the metering device 7 also has a rinsing device 48 which, in the event of operation, serves to rinse out the discharge channel 36 at least in regions with rinsing liquid. According to the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, only the wet area 34 of the discharge channel 36 is rinsed during operation, and this with the sealing flap 33 in the closed position, so that the rinsing liquid discharged from the rinsing device in the case of washing does not get into the dry area 25 of the discharge channel 36 can.

The rinsing device 48 has at least one rinsing nozzle 49 which opens into the discharge channel 36, preferably into the wet region 34 of the discharge channel 36. In this case, the flushing nozzle 49 is connected to a pump, not shown in detail in the flow, with the interposition of a line 50 carrying flushing liquid. On the suction side, the pump is preferably connected to the washing compartment 4 of the dishwasher 1 in terms of flow technology, so that, in the event of operation, the washing liquor originating from the washing compartment 4 can be pumped as washing liquid to the washing device 48.

The fluidic connection of the flushing nozzle 49 of the flushing device 48 to a line 50 carrying a flushing liquid is shown in FIG Fig. 1a shown.

How Fig. 1a Furthermore, it can be seen that the flushing nozzle 49 interacts with a distribution contour 51 which is formed opposite the flushing nozzle 49. The distribution contour 51 can be incorporated into the channel wall of the discharge channel 36. Alternatively, the distribution contour 51 is designed as a separate component, that of the flushing nozzle 49 is arranged opposite on the associated channel wall of the discharge channel 36.

In the intended operating case, the flushing liquid jet emitted by the flushing nozzle 49 hits the distribution contour 51, which then leads to a fanning out of the flushing jet. The result of this fanning out results in an optimized rinsing out of the entire wet area 34 of the discharge channel 36. The distribution contour 51 is preferably designed in such a way that the rinsing liquid impinging on the distribution contour 51 at least partially also returns in the direction of the rinsing nozzle 49, so that cleaning also takes place the channel wall of the discharge channel 36 takes place, into which the flushing nozzle 49 opens.

A metering of detergent into the washing compartment 4 together with the subsequent rinsing cycle is preferably carried out as follows.

First, the sealing flap 33 opens by a preferably 90 ° rotary movement, as a result of which the discharge channel 36 is released over its entire length. Figures 4b and 5b reveal the sealing flap 33 in this open position, while the Figures 2c, 2d show the sealing flap in a half open position.

Cleaning agent 35 is then metered out via a 360 ° rotary movement of the carrying unit 19 together with the storage container 18 received therefrom. This rotational movement of the support unit 19 may also take place several times depending on the selected washing program. After the detergent 35 has been dosed, the sealing flap 33 moves back into the closed position, as for example in FIGS Figures 1 and 1a is shown. The wet area 34 of the discharge channel 36 is then rinsed out, for which purpose the rinsing device 48 according to the invention serves. The distribution contour 51 formed opposite the rinsing nozzle 49 ensures that the rinsing liquid emitted by the rinsing nozzle 49 rinses out the entire wet area 34 including the rear side of the sealing flap 33 without residue. Such a rinsing process can be carried out repeatedly, for example also in different rinsing sections of the rinsing program, which ensures the highest degree of cleanliness and hygiene in the wet area 34 of the discharge channel 36. For additional intensive cleaning, the front side of the sealing flap 33 as well as partial areas of the drying area 25 can also be rinsed when the sealing flap 33 is open. Thus the Maintenance and cleaning of the discharge channel 36 by the user is reduced to a minimum.

The first part 25 of the discharge channel 36 has end channel walls 29 on the one hand and guide walls 31 and 32 on the other hand, as can be seen in particular from an overview of the Figures 1 , 4a and 4b results. The guide walls 31 and 32 are arranged between the two end channel walls 29, with which the two guide walls 31 and 32 connect the two end channel walls 29 to one another.

Fig. 3 shows the dosing case schematically. Driven by the support unit 19, the storage container 21 rotates counterclockwise. As a result, the detergent stored in the storage chamber 21 is dispensed every 360 ° and is portioned with the fluidic interposition of the metering chamber 22 and discharged via the metering channel 23. The cleaning agent 35 falls radially out of the reservoir 18 following the weight force as in FIG Fig. 3 shown. The falling direction of the cleaning agent 35 is designated 28.

As a result of the twisting movement of the storage container 18, the cleaning agent 35 is dispensed over a certain swiveling range which, with reference to the dial of a clock, is approximately between 6:00 and 9:00, as is also the case Fig. 3 results.

How Fig. 3 can also be seen, the dosing channel 23 and the first part 25 of the discharge channel 36 are decoupled from one another in their physical configuration. Only in the case of dosing, i.e. only when the support unit 19 receiving the storage container 18 is rotated as intended, do the dosing channel 23 and the discharge channel 36 come into fluidic operative connection as a result of the rotating movement, and this only for the brief moment of dosing. This decoupling of metering channel 23 and discharge channel 36 structurally protects the metering channel 23 against unwanted moisture entry from the discharge channel 26

The detergent 35 which is dispensed from the storage container 18 in the metering case enters the fluidically adjoining the metering channel 23, the first part 25 of the discharge channel 36. According to the invention, it is provided that the end channel walls 29 of this channel section fall parallel to the falling direction of the weight force falling through the metering opening 24 into the first part 25 of the discharge channel 36 Cleaning agents 35 extend, as can be seen in particular from the illustration Fig. 1 can be seen. The vertical design of the end channel walls 29 provides the advantage that the cleaning agent 35 discharged from the storage container 18 can pass the first part 25 of the discharge channel 36 without collision, so that there can be no unwanted adherence of cleaning agent 35 on the front channel walls 29. It is preferred that the end walls 29 are spaced apart from one another which exceed the dimensions of the drop corridor 30 in the width direction. The end walls 29 are therefore arranged outside the drop area of the cleaning agent 35, which additionally helps to reliably prevent unwanted adherence of the cleaning agent on the channel walls 29.

The second part 34 of the discharge channel 36 opens into the discharge opening 12 on the washing compartment side, as is the case in particular Figures 2a , 4a - 5b reveal. The opening 12 is designed as a metering gap directed downward in the closed position of the wash cabinet door, so it is partially covered by a cover 13 while leaving this metering gap. In contrast, the metering gap itself always remains open, ie both in the case of metering and in the case of non-metering. In the fully open position of the wash cabinet door, the cover 13 only covers the opening 12 directed to the side in this horizontal position of the wash cabinet door and thus prevents the ingress of food or liquid residues or the like falling from the crockery basket. into the opening 12 or the second part 34 of the discharge channel 36.

In the intended dosing case, cleaning agent 35 thus falls from the storage container 18, passes the first part 25 of the discharge channel 36, the outlet opening 27 opened due to the pivoted sealing flap 33, and reaches the discharge opening 12 via the second part 34 of the discharge channel 36, thus introducing it into the treatment room 4 take place. This factual context also results from a synopsis of Figures 5a and 5b , in which Fig. 5b shows the dosing case.

How Fig. 2b shows the cover 13 can also be moved, for example as shown in particular in FIG Fig. 2b shown to be foldable or slidable, so that in the open position of the cover 13 accordingly Fig. 2b enlarged access to the transfer channel 34 is provided. This open position serves to improve the possibility of maintenance and, if necessary, the possibility of cleaning the metering device and in particular the sealing flap 33. This can be done, for example, by means of a brush or the like. can be achieved. In contrast, during operation of the metering device, the cover 13 remains in its closed position.

How from the Figures 5a and 5b can also be seen, the two guide walls 31 and 32 of the pouring channel 24 in the direction of the outlet opening 27 are at least partially inclined towards one another. As a result, there is a certain channeling of the cleaning agent 35 discharged from the storage container 18 in the direction of the second part 34 of the discharge channel 36.

The guide wall 31 is like this Fig. 5b can be recognized, preferably arranged in the drop shadow of the cleaning agent 35, ie outside the drop corridor 30 which arises in the case of dosing. In this way, exposure of the guide wall 31 to cleaning agent is avoided.

How Fig. 5b can still be seen, the sealing flap 33 is open in the dosing case. There is therefore no action on the sealing flap 33 with cleaning agent 35. In addition, it is provided that a recess is formed between the first part 25 and the second part 34 of the discharge channel 36, which recess forms a flap space 47 which receives the sealing flap 33 in the open position, as can be seen in particular from the illustration Fig. 5b results. This ensures that the sealing flap 33 is not subjected to cleaning agent 35 even in the case of dosing.

In return for the state of the art, the above-described configuration ensures that falling cleaning agent only comes into contact with corresponding deflecting walls when it is in the wet area 34 within the discharge channel 36. Regular cleaning by rinsing with rinsing liquid takes place here, so that any detergent residues adhering to the channel walls of the second part 34 of the discharge channel 36 can be rinsed off. In the drying area 25 provided by the discharge channel 36, the detergent and the channel walls are largely contacted excluded or reduced to a minimum, which means that unwanted detergent buildup in the first part 25 of the discharge channel 36 is already excluded.

The Figures 6 and 7 the sealing flap 33 rotatably arranged in the discharge channel 36 can be seen in detail, wherein Fig. 6 a partially sectioned side view and Fig. 7 show a schematic perspective view.

As a synopsis of Figures 6 and 7 results, the sealing flap 33 has a flap body 37 which carries a seal 38. How in particular Fig. 7 can be seen, the seal 38 is designed as a closed ring seal, which is inserted into a corresponding receptacle 41 of the valve body 37 in the final assembled state.

The flap body 37 in turn has a base body 39 and a closure body 40. In the final assembled state of the sealing flap 33, the seal 38 carried by the flap body 37 is arranged at least in sections between the base body 39 and the closure body 40.

For a positionally secure arrangement of the seal 38 in the recess 41, a web 42 is provided on the inside of the seal 38, at least in sections, which is clamped between the base body 39 and the closure body 40 in the final assembled state of the sealing flap 33.

In the final assembled state, the base body 39 and the closure body 40 are mechanically locked together and / or welded and / or glued or otherwise permanently connected to one another. In this way it is ensured that the seal 38 is carried by the flap body 37 in a positionally accurate and secure position, whereby the sealing function of the sealing flap 33 is ensured over the entire service life of the metering device 7 and / or the cleaning device 1.

How out Fig. 6 Furthermore, the surface 44 of the seal 38, the surface 45 of the base body 39 and the surface 46 of the closure body 40 are flush with the surface. The seal 38 therefore does not project beyond the surfaces 45 and 46 of the base body 39 and the closure body 40 on the seal side. this has the advantage that, in the intended use, cleaning agent 35, which may be lying on the sealing flap 33, can fall freely from any projections from the metering flap 33 when it is moved from a closed position into an open position. This ensures that there is no unwanted accumulation of cleaning agent residues on the seal-side surface of the sealing flap 33.

The Figures 8a to 8d can be seen in a schematic perspective representation of differently shaped distribution contours 51. In operation, the distribution contour 51 interacts with the flushing nozzle 49 formed opposite it in such a way that the flushing agent jet emitted by the flushing nozzle 49 strikes the distribution contour 51. As a result, the rinsing jet emitted by the rinsing nozzle 49 is fanned out, which results in an optimal rinsing out of the entire wet area 34 of the discharge channel 36.

Reference numerals

1

dishwasher

2nd

casing

3rd

Rinsing tank

4th

Washroom (treatment room)

5

Loading opening

6

Washroom door

7

Dosing device

8th

Detergent outlet

9

Combination device

10th

admission

11

cover

12

Discharge opening

13

cover

14

Outlet opening

15

Pouring channel

16

Swivel tube

17th

Guide plate

18th

Storage container

19th

Support unit

20th

Axis of rotation

21st

Pantry

22

Dosing chamber

23

Dosing channel

24th

Dosing opening

25th

first part of discharge channel (dry area)

26

Inlet opening

27th

Outlet opening

28

Fall direction

29

Canal wall

30th

Case corridor

31

first guide wall

32

second guide wall

33

Sealing flap

34

second part of discharge channel (wet area)

35

cleaning supplies

36

Discharge channel

37

Valve body

38

poetry

39

Basic body

40

Closure body

41

Recess

42

web

43

Continuation

44

Surface seal

45

Base body surface

46

Surface closure body

47

Flap space

48

Flushing device

49

Rinsing nozzle

50

management

51

Distribution contour

Claims (11)

Dosing device for the metered introduction of a pourable cleaning agent (35) into a treatment room (4) of a program-controlled cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher, with a storage container (18) serving to accommodate the cleaning agent (35) and a support unit which can be rotated about an axis of rotation (20) (19), which holds the storage container (18) in an exchangeable manner, the storage container (18) having a storage chamber (21) and a metering channel (23) opening into a metering opening (24), as well as a metering channel (23) with the metering channel (23) discharge channel (36), which is in a fluidic connection, which opens into the treatment room (4) with a discharge opening (12), characterized by a flushing device (48) for at least partially flushing the discharge channel (36) with flushing liquid. Dosing device according to claim 1,
characterized in that
the flushing device (48) has a flushing nozzle (49) opening into the discharge channel (36). Dosing device according to claim 2,
characterized in that
the flushing nozzle (49) is connected to a pump in terms of flow technology with the interposition of a line (50) carrying flushing liquid. Dosing device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
Within the discharge channel (36), a sealing flap (33) is pivotably arranged, which can be transferred from a closed position into an open position and vice versa, the discharge channel (36) being closed in a fluid-tight manner in the closed position of the sealing flap (33) and into a drying area (25) on the metering channel side. and a treatment area-side wet area (34) is subdivided. Dosing device according to claim 4,
characterized in that
the flushing nozzle (49) opens into the wet area (34) of the discharge channel (36). Dosing device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the flushing nozzle (49) is aligned transversely to the direction of fall (28) of detergent (35) falling through the metering opening (24) into the discharge channel (36) following the weight force in the case of dosing. Dosing device according to one of the preceding claims,
marked by
a distribution contour (51) which interacts with the flushing nozzle (49) during operation and is formed opposite the flushing nozzle (49). Dosing device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the sealing flap (33) is arranged in the open position outside the drop corridor (30) of the cleaning agent (35) falling through the discharge channel (36) in the case of dosing. Dosing device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
In the drying area (25) of the discharge channel (36), end channel walls are provided, which are aligned parallel to the direction of fall (28) of detergent falling through the metering opening (34) into the discharge channel (36) when the weight is being metered. Dosing device according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 9,
characterized in that
the flushing nozzle (49) can apply flushing liquid to a first side of the sealing flap (33) in a first position of the sealing flap (33) and / or can apply flushing liquid to a second side of the sealing flap (33) in a second position of the sealing flap (33) . Cleaning device, in particular dishwasher, with a metering device (7) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 10.

Images