JP2024511583A - Dishwashers and processing agent cartridges for dishwashers - Google Patents

Abstract

The dishwasher (1) has a cleaning section (110) with one or more dispensing devices (111a-d) and one or more cartridges (2) for one or more treatment agents. a docking part (120) for docking a docking part (120), each for using said one or more treatment agents for one or more cleaning processes of said dishwasher (1); 120) directly into the one or more dispensing devices (111a-d) or into the wash tank (180) or boiler (190) of the dishwasher (1). or one or more connections (130) for indirect connection. [Selection diagram] Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a processing agent cartridge for a dishwasher, a system comprising a plurality of cartridges, a dishwasher, and a system comprising a dishwasher and one or more cartridges.

Dishwashers typically require one or more treatment agents, such as cleaning agents, rinse agents, and/or enzyme solutions used in one or more cleaning processes. Refilling the treatment agent poses a risk to the user, as the user can directly touch the treatment agent in this step, which can injure the skin and eyes and pose a health risk.

Furthermore, multiple treatment agents, such as cleaning and rinsing agents, used simultaneously in one or more cleaning processes are easy to mix up, thereby degrading the quality of the cleaning process or processes. If cleaning and rinsing agents are mixed, a chemical precipitate may form and block the dosing hose, which may reduce the service life of the dishwasher or cause it to malfunction. be.

In particular, commercial dishwashers consume large amounts of processing chemicals in a short period of time. For this reason, large storage vessels or tanks are used especially in the commercial sector for the continuous operation of treatment agents. Smaller or lighter containers are becoming more popular for economic reasons, especially for large-scale dishwashing operations, as the amount of treatment agent required shortens the lifespan or service life of the storage pack. Not obtained.

With the aid of a dosing lance, the treatment agent is removed directly from the storage container or tank and used in the cleaning process of one or more dishwashers. If this arrangement is not possible due to lack of space, a dishwasher with an integrated storage tank is used as an alternative, and the user has to fill the treatment agent from the storage container.

However, today's commercial dishwasher storage containers are heavy and cumbersome due to the size of the commercial dishwasher storage container itself. Additionally, normal storage container transportation requires the transportation of hazardous materials. The risks are particularly high due to the size of the container, so if the storage container leaks or the treatment agent is unintentionally released, significant damage to people, the environment and resources can occur during transport. This is because there is. For this reason, special safety measures have to be taken, which increases transportation costs.

In small-scale dishwashing businesses or "small-scale dishwashing enterprises", the service life of large storage containers is also increased. As a result, the quality of the processing agent deteriorates and the processing agent is not easy to use. Particularly in the case of solid treatment agents, solid treatment agents are typically hygroscopic substances, such that water collects in storage containers, for example. Due to temperature fluctuations between runs and pauses during dishwasher operation, the chemicals in the treatment can dissolve and precipitate again, creating pesky deposits that can clog the dishwasher pump and hoses. Cause. Finally, the solubility limits of some substances can be exceeded by evaporation of the processing agent's solvent, limiting the usability of the processing agent.

Additionally, large storage vessels or containers also make it difficult to fill the dishwasher with processing liquid. Dishwasher chemicals tend to spill because the container is strained and difficult for the user to aim at. In particular, closure of the container can lead to non-constant flow behavior of the treatment agent, for example if the container is still full. This leads to splashing and spilling of the treatment agent, endangering the health of the user.

One or more cartridges for one or more treatment agents that improve the replenishment of treatment agents in a dishwasher with respect to ease of use and/or hazards, taking into account the desired application; It is an object of the present invention to provide a machine and a system for configuring one or more cartridges.

This object is solved by means of a dishwasher according to claim 1, a system of cartridges according to claim 13, a dishwashing system according to claim 15 and a cartridge according to claim 18. Claims 2 to 12 relate to particularly preferred embodiments of the dishwasher with respect to claim 1, claim 14 relates to particularly preferred embodiments of the cartridge system with respect to claim 13, and claims 16 and 17 relate to particularly preferred embodiments of the dishwasher with respect to claim 1. Claim 15 relates to a particularly preferred embodiment of the dishwashing system.

According to the invention, the dishwasher comprises a washing compartment or washing container with one or more dispensing devices and a docking part for docking one or more cartridges for one or more treatment agents. and one or more dispensing devices, each with a corresponding cartridge docked in the docking portion for use of one or more treatment agents for one or more cleaning processes of the dishwasher. , or one or more connections for direct or indirect connection to the wash tank or boiler of the dishwasher.

In the above, a "direct or indirect connection" of the cartridge to one or more dispensing devices, or to a cleaning tank or boiler means to connect one or more pumps, valves, sensors, in particular to another, such as a level sensor, tank or reservoir. Component means that the cartridge can be connected to one or more dispensing devices or to a cleaning tank or a boiler.

Cartridges are also referred to as hermetically sealed processing agent reservoirs. Each of the one or more cartridges may be a disposable cartridge or a refillable cartridge. The cartridge is designed as a tight-fitting, sturdy container, in which case the cartridge is preferably equipped with a vent valve or a breathable membrane to compensate for volume changes within the cartridge due to consumption of processing agent. Alternatively, the cartridge may be designed as a flexible bag or "back-in-box" system, in which case a vent valve or breathable membrane may be omitted, as volume changes within the cartridge can be compensated for by contraction of the cartridge itself. Good too. In addition to the treatment agent reservoir, the cartridge may also include other components, such as, for example, coded closures and integrated intelligence, which are discussed below.

Each of the one or more treatment agents may be a liquid, a highly concentrated or highly viscous liquid, a gel, a powder, or a solid. Treatment agents are also referred to as detergents, dishwashing detergents, dishwashing chemicals or dishwashing chemicals. Examples of treatment agents are cleaning agents, rinsing agents and enzyme solutions. The one or more processing agents in each cartridge may be the same or different from each other. For example, one cartridge may contain a cleaning agent and another cartridge may contain a rinsing agent. In this case, the treatment agents of one or more cartridges may be used in one or more cleaning processes simultaneously. Alternatively, the two or more cartridges may each contain the same treatment agent. In this case, two or more cartridges are used one after the other, and at least one cartridge is removed by the corresponding connection only if the other cartridge is already completely or as completely empty as possible. , one or more dispensing devices, or as a backup cartridge connected to a wash tank or boiler. Parallel use of two or more cartridges also helps extend cartridge replacement intervals. This contributes to ease of use and minimizing risks. Ultimately, a single cartridge can contain multiple different treatment agents in each walled area within the cartridge. If such a cartridge is connected by corresponding connections to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers, several treatment agents from the cartridge can be used simultaneously for one or more cleaning processes. Good too.

The docking portion may constitute a fastening portion for attaching the one or more cartridges to the dishwasher and/or a positioning portion for positioning the one or more cartridges with respect to the dishwasher. good. In particular, the docking part may constitute a machine-side closure part and the cartridge may constitute a cartridge-side closure part. The machine-side closure part and the cartridge-side closure part can form a closure part in which the cartridge is positioned relative to and/or attached to the docking part. In particular, the closure may be a screw closure, a catch closure, another mechanical closure or an electromechanical closure. Furthermore, the docking part may be designed as a holding part for holding one or more cartridges. In particular, the docking part may be designed as a cartridge compartment into which one or more cartridges are inserted, and the docking part can accommodate the inserted cartridge or cartridges through the respective wall of the cartridge compartment. Surround from one or more sides.

The one or more connections include pins that pass through the membrane of the corresponding cartridge or actuate a check valve of the corresponding cartridge to connect the corresponding cartridge to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers. may be designed respectively. If the cartridge is connected to one or more dispensing devices by a corresponding connection, the treatment agent can flow from the cartridge to the one or more dispensing devices, e.g. via a supply line, to the one or more dispensing devices. may be discharged into the wash compartment via one or more dispensing devices used in the washing process of the dishwasher. If the cartridge is connected by a corresponding connection with a cleaning tank or a boiler, the treatment agent from the cartridge is available for use or to be used in one or more cleaning processes of the dishwasher, e.g. It may also enter a cleaning tank or boiler via a line. Alternatively, the treatment liquid may first enter a reservoir and be discharged from the reservoir into one or more dispensing devices, wash tanks or boilers, as described in more detail below. The one or more connections may be each integrated into the docking part or may be designed separately from the docking part. When the cartridge is docked in the docking part, it may be automatically connected to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers by means of corresponding connections. Alternatively, the cartridge may be docked to the docking part without being automatically connected to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers, in which case the cartridge docked to the docking part is The connection may, for example, be connected to one or more dispensing devices, wash tanks or boilers only by further user action, as will be explained in more detail below.

The dishwasher according to the invention is capable of discharging the necessary treatment agents for one or more cleaning processes by the user docking and connecting a new cartridge or replacing the cartridge without direct contact with the treatment agents. It has the advantage of being easily replenished. This reduces the chances of endangering the user's health and improves user friendliness.

Furthermore, no additional equipment such as a dosing lance or replenishment device is required to replenish the treatment agent. This allows faster and easier replenishment of the treatment agent and reduces effort for the user, thereby improving user-friendliness.

Furthermore, compared to conventional storage containers, the cartridge according to the invention is held in a dishwasher, so it takes up less space and is even more convenient to use.

Finally, the cartridge can be designed with flexibility in shape and size, in particular being smaller and lighter than traditional storage containers, making it easier for the user to lift the cartridge. This also makes it easier to control the amount of treatment agent, especially for small-scale dishwashing businesses and "small-scale dishwashing enterprises." Additionally, as discussed in more detail below, the effort and cost of transporting the cartridge may also be reduced if the cartridge's maximum volume holding capacity for treatment agent is within the "limited volume" regulations for transporting hazardous substances.

In other words, the dishwasher according to the present invention makes it easier to replenish the treatment agent (for example, because the treatment agent is transferred from the storage container by replacing the cartridge, and the user's direct contact with the treatment agent is avoided). safer, faster (because heavy, cumbersome storage containers are replaced by lighter, easier-to-handle cartridges, and additional or refilling equipment is no longer needed), and cheaper (for example, because the transport route to the customer is cheaper). ``Amount'' rules and ``businesses that clean dishes on a small scale'' can better estimate the amount of dishwasher chemicals needed, so starting storage containers are not left unattended). Make it cheaper. The flexibility of machine operation is also increased by using different processing agents in smaller packaging units without completely using up the different processing agents.

In a preferred embodiment of the dishwasher according to the present invention, the docking section includes a first docking section for docking with the first cartridge, a second docking section for docking with the second cartridge, and a second docking section for docking with the second cartridge. One cartridge is not dockable with the second docking portion and/or the second cartridge is not dockable with the first docking portion. The first docking section and the second docking section may each be subsections of an integrated docking section, or the first docking section and the second docking section may be separately molded parts of the dishwasher. It can be done.

In particular, the first docking part may be provided with a closure part on the first machine side, and the second docking part may be provided with a closure part on the second machine side. Furthermore, the first cartridge may include a first cartridge-side closure and the second cartridge may include a second cartridge-side closure. As mentioned above, the closure part on the first machine side and the closure part on the first cartridge side can create a first closure, while the closure part on the second machine side and the closure part on the second cartridge side With the parts a second closure can be made. The first closure is arranged such that the first cartridge side closure part is not attached to the second machine side closure part and/or the second cartridge side closure part is not attached to the first machine side closure part. Preferably, the part and the second closing part are designed differently. In this case, the first closure and the second closure may also be referred to as coded closures, the machine-side closure part and the cartridge-side closure part of the first and second closure. and may be designed as a coded closure part. That is, the first docking part and the second docking part are each designed for precise, but preferably, but not exclusive, distinctive positioning and/or mounting of the corresponding cartridge. Good too.

Additionally or alternatively, the first docking portion and the second docking portion are each of a different size or shape, such that only cartridges of corresponding size or shape are docked to each docking portion. In particular, the first docking part and the second docking part are each designed as a separate holding part for holding a corresponding cartridge. Specifically, each docking portion is designed as a separate cartridge compartment into which only cartridges of the appropriate size or shape are inserted.

Additionally or alternatively, the first docking portion and the second docking portion may each have a different color coding that corresponds to a corresponding color coding of the cartridge. For example, a docking portion marked with a first color may be provided or suitable for docking with a cartridge marked with a first color, and a docking portion marked with a second cartridge may be provided with or suitable for docking with a cartridge marked with a first color, and a docking portion marked with a second cartridge may be provided with or suitable for docking with a cartridge marked with a first color. may be provided or suitable for docking to a cartridge marked with . Because the docking locations and cartridge colors are different, users can easily assign cartridges to each docking location, even without language skills.

The preferred embodiments described above are particularly preferred as they prevent confusion between different cartridges and users from mixing up different treatments for dishwashers. This improves user convenience and safety regarding replenishment of treatment agents.

Furthermore, the dishwasher has a first connection for connecting a first cartridge docked in the first docking part to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers, and a first connection part docked in the second docking part. A second connection may be provided for connecting the second cartridge to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers. The first connection and the second connection may be designed separately or independently of each other to connect the first cartridge and the second cartridge to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers. Good too. In this way, the treatment agents from the first cartridge and the second cartridge may be used independently of each other in one or more cleaning processes, depending on the user's desired settings. Alternatively, the first connection and the second connection may be connected or coupled to each other such that they can only be connected to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers at the same time. In this way, by using the two processing agents simultaneously, optimal cleaning results can be obtained and the use of the dishwasher can be simplified.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first docking part comprises a first identification and stop part. The first identification and stop portion is designed to engage a first mating stop portion of the first cartridge for identifying the first cartridge. The first identification and stop portion is further designed to engage the first mating stop portion of the first cartridge for docking the identified first cartridge to the first docking portion. In particular, the first identification/stop part may be a component of the first closure part on the machine side. Similarly, the second docking portion includes a second identification and stop portion. The second identification/stop portion is designed to engage a second mating stop portion of the second cartridge for identifying the second cartridge. The second identification and stop portion is further designed to engage the fourth mating stop portion of the second cartridge to dock the identified second cartridge to the second docking portion. In particular, the second identification/stop part may be a component of the second closure part on the machine side.

In particular, the first identification/stop portion may include a convex portion, and the first fitting stop portion and the third fitting stop portion of the first cartridge are respectively of the first identification/stop portion. It may also include a recess into which the projection can engage. Alternatively, the first identification and stop portion may include a recess, and the first and third mating stop portions of the first cartridge each have a recess in the first identification and stop portion. It may also include a protrusion that can be engaged with. The same applies to the second cartridge, for example, the second identification/stop part may include a convex part, and the second fitting stop part and the fourth fitting stop part of the second cartridge each have It may also include a recess into which the projection of the second identification/stop portion can engage. Alternatively, the second identification and stop portion may include a recess, and the second and fourth mating stop portions of the second cartridge each have a recess in the second identification and stop portion. It may also include a protrusion that can be engaged with.

The size and shape of the first identification/stop part may be different from the size and shape of the second identification/stop part, and the first identification/stop part is the second fitting stop of the second cartridge. or the fourth fitting stopper portion, and/or the second identification/stopping portion is not caught on either the first fitting stopper portion or the third fitting stopper portion of the first cartridge. Make sure you don't get caught in either. In particular, this enables identification or detection of the first cartridge by the first identification and stop portion by securing the first identification and stop portion to the first mating stop portion of the first cartridge; Similarly, securing the second identification and stop portion to the second mating stop portion of the second cartridge allows identification or detection of the second cartridge by the second identification and stop portion. Thereby, the first cartridge or the second cartridge is docked to the first docking part or the second docking part, respectively, and the first cartridge or the second cartridge is connected to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers by the first connecting part or the second connecting part. recognized before being connected to. This may prevent the first cartridge from docking to the second docking portion, or may prevent the second cartridge from docking to the first docking portion. In other words, this prevents the docking of incorrect or inappropriate cartridges, especially cartridges of incorrect or inappropriate processing agents, into the docking station, or that the user It is possible to prevent attempts to dock the cartridge in the docking section. This prevents damage to the cartridge, docking part, connections and/or other components of the dishwasher and prevents deterioration of the cleaning quality. The different size and/or shape of each identification/stop portion represents a particularly efficient, easy to manufacture, and cost effective means for identifying each cartridge. Further advantages of this embodiment are explained below in connection with a cartridge system consisting of a first cartridge and a second cartridge.

Furthermore, the material of the first identification/stop portion may be different from the material of the second identification/stop portion. In particular, the electrical, magnetic or optical properties of the material of the first identification/stop part may be different from the electrical, magnetic or optical properties of the material of the second identification/stop part. . For example, the material of the first identification/stop part may be magnetic, and the material of the second identification/stop part may be non-magnetic, or the magnetic susceptibility of the first identification/stop part may be the same as that of the first identification/stop part. 2. The magnetic susceptibility may be different from that of the identification/stop part. Further, the material of the first identification/stop portion may be conductive, and the material of the second identification/stop portion may be non-conductive, or the material of the first identification/stop portion may be electrically conductive. , may be different from the conductivity of the second identification/stop portion.

When the first identification/stop portion and the second identification/stop portion are engaged with the first mating stop portion of the first cartridge or the second mating stop portion of the second cartridge, the first The material of the identification/stop portion or the material of the second identification/stop portion may be detected or recognized by each cartridge. Characteristics of the material of the identification/stop part, such as electrical conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, or optical properties such as color or transparency of the material, can be determined by, for example, a conductivity sensor, a Hall sensor or an optical sensor in the cartridge. It may be detected or measured by each cartridge. Alternatively, the material of each identification/stop portion may be detected by interacting with the material of the mating stop portion of each cartridge, such as by magnetic attraction or repulsion between the two materials.

The result of the detection may be converted into a signal, preferably an electrical signal, which controls, for example, the mechanical fixation of each cartridge or each docking part and the first identification/stop part or the second identification/stop part. Further engagement of the stop portion to the third mating stop portion of the first cartridge or the fourth mating stop portion of the second cartridge, and thus docking of each cartridge to the respective docking portion, is detected. Enable or prevent depending on the material (the third and fourth mating stop parts will be explained in more detail below). Alternatively, a signal may be output to inform the user whether each cartridge is suitable for docking in each docking station. For example, the presence or absence of magnetic attraction or repulsion between a cartridge and a docking portion may indicate to a user whether a cartridge is suitable for docking in a particular docking portion. In particular, this allows the first cartridge or the second cartridge to be identified by the first identification/stop part or the second identification/stop part. The use of different materials for the first identification/stop portion or the second identification/stop portion is a particularly efficient, easy to manufacture and cost effective means of identifying cartridges.
In another preferred embodiment, the first docking part (or the first identification/stop part) comprises a first identification transmitter for transmitting the first identification signal, and the second docking part (or the second identification/stop part) comprises a first identification transmitter for transmitting the first identification signal. the stopper portion) comprises a second identification transmitter for transmitting a second identification signal, the second identification signal being different from the first identification signal. Further, the first cartridge (or the first mating stop portion) includes a first identification receiver for receiving and identifying the first identification signal, and the second cartridge (or the second mating stop portion) includes a second identification receiver for receiving and identifying the second identification signal. Furthermore, the dishwasher and/or the first cartridge and the second cartridge are configured such that: i) the first cartridge is dockable to the first docking portion when the first identification receiver receives the first identification signal; and/or connectable by the first connection to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers; ii) when the first receiver receives the second signal, the first cartridge is not dockable to the second docking portion; and or iii) the second identification receiver receives the second identification signal, the second cartridge is docked in the second docking part; and/or connectable by the second connection to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers; and/or ii) when the second receiver receives the first signal, the second cartridge is It may be arranged such that it cannot be docked to the first docking part and/or cannot be connected to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers by means of the first connection part.

The first identification transmitter and the second identification transmitter may each be an RFID tag, and the first identification receiver or the second identification receiver may each be an RFID reader. Conversely, an identification transmitter may be included in each cartridge and an identification receiver may be included in each docking part.

It should be noted that in the above only two different docking stations have been described for docking respective respective cartridges. However, the dishwasher may be equipped with three or more docking parts, and each docking part may be of a different shape or the same shape for docking one cartridge at a time. For example, a dishwasher has three docking docks, each docking a cartridge for cleaning agent, a cartridge for rinsing agent, and a cartridge for another treatment agent (e.g., antifoam, enzymatic cleaner, germicidal ingredient). It may also have a section.

In another preferred embodiment, the docking portion is designed to dock a plurality of identical or substantially identical cartridges. Thus, in particular, a plurality of cartridges for the same treatment agent may be docked in a docking part and connected by corresponding connections to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers. As a result, the size and weight of individual cartridges can be reduced, further simplifying cartridge transport and handling. Furthermore, a plurality of identical or substantially identical cartridges can be used in succession. For example, if a first cartridge connected by a first connection to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers is already as completely or completely emptied as possible, it acts as a backup cartridge. The second cartridge cannot be connected to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers by means of the second connection. This has the advantage that the quality of the processing agent in the backup cartridge does not deteriorate until the backup cartridge is connected to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers. As a result, especially in the case of small-scale dishwashing businesses or small-scale dishwashing enterprises, the amount adjustment of the treatment agent is further simplified.

In a further preferred embodiment, the docking part includes a docking position for docking the one or more cartridges and a docking part for docking the docked one or more cartridges by means of the one or more connections. It is arranged to be movable back and forth with respect to the washing compartment between an operating position for connection to a dispensing device, a washing tank or a boiler, the operating position being different from the docking position.

This ensures that one or more cartridges are not automatically connected to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers by one or more connections, but are docked with the docking part at the docking position. can be done. In particular, when the docking part is moved into the operating position, one or more cartridges are automatically connected to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers until later connected by one or more connections. cannot be connected. This allows the cartridge or cartridges to be gradually and securely docked in the docking part and to connect the cartridge or cartridges safely to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers, thereby causing the cartridges to Preventing damage to the docking part, one or more connections or components of the dishwasher. In particular, the user may choose the time to connect one or more cartridges to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers, regardless of the time to dock one or more cartridges in a docking part. This improves ease of use.

When the docking part is in the operating position, the at least one connection part is arranged so as to be movable back and forth relative to the docking part between a first position and a second position, according to a particularly preferred embodiment. When the at least one connection is in the first position, the cartridge is docked with a docking part in which the corresponding at least one connection is not connected to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers, and the connection is in the first position. In the 2 position, the cartridge is connected to one or more dispensing devices, wash tanks or boilers. This is preferred for each of the one or more connections, i.e. each of the one or more connections has a respective first position and a respective second position relative to the docking part as described above. It may be arranged so as to be movable back and forth between.

In this way, one or more cartridges may be docked to a docking part in a docking position, and one or more cartridges may be connected by one or more connections to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning The docking part may be moved to the operating position without being automatically connected to the tank or boiler. For example, in the first step, one or more cartridges may be docked to a docking portion. In a second step, the docking part may be moved to an operational position. In a third step, the one or more connections may be moved from the first position to the second position for connecting to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers. This steps the safe docking of one or more cartridges into the docking part, the safe movement of the docking part into the operating position, and the safe connection to one or more dispensing devices, wash tanks or boilers. and thereby prevent damage to the cartridge, docking area, connection(s) or components of the dishwasher. In particular, the user can choose the time to connect one or more cartridges to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers, regardless of the time of docking and the time of moving the docking part into the operating position. This improves ease of use.

According to another preferred embodiment, the dishwasher further comprises a housing having an opening for inserting one or more cartridges into the dishwasher and a closure, the closure being particularly , may be designed as a folding, sliding, rotating or pivoting device. The opening/closing part is arranged so as to be movable back and forth between an open position for opening the opening and a closed position for closing the opening, and is particularly arranged in a folding type, sliding type, rotating type or pivoting type. Ru. The opening/closing part is connected to the docking part such that when the opening/closing part is in the open position, the docking part is in the docked position, and when the opening/closing part is in the closed position, the docking part is in the operating position.

In particular, the opening/closing part may be a dosing flap which opens and closes a dosing port provided in the housing of the dishwasher, through which one or more cartridges are inserted into the dishwasher. When the opening/closing part is in the open position, the docking part is in the docking position, so that one or more cartridges can be easily docked to the docking part by the user. By moving the opening and closing part to the closed position, one or more cartridges may be conveyed through the opening and into the interior of the dishwasher. At the same time, the docking section moves to the operating position, so that after moving the opening/closing section to the closed position, there is no need for a user's operation to further move the docking section to the operating position. This improves user-friendliness regarding replenishment of processing agents.

According to another preferred embodiment, the dishwasher has at least one cartridge for holding the treatment liquid and for dispensing the treatment liquid in one or more dispensing devices, wash tanks or boilers. Contains one reservoir. A reservoir may also be called a buffer tank. The reservoir includes a sensor for determining the amount, such as volume or weight, of treatment agent within the reservoir. The amount of treatment agent is determined, for example, by capacitive, optical, mechanical, or other physical methods to measure the fill level of treatment agent in the reservoir. The maximum amount holding capacity of the processing agent within the cartridge may be greater than or equal to the maximum amount holding capacity of the processing agent within the reservoir. In particular, the maximum amount holding capacity of the processing agent within the cartridge may be multiple times, such as 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times, or 10 times the maximum amount holding capacity within the reservoir. The dishwasher may include a plurality of reservoirs, each of which is designed to hold a corresponding cartridge of treatment agent and to deliver the corresponding cartridge of treatment agent to one or more dispensing devices, wash tanks or boilers. Please note that Additionally, each of the plurality of reservoirs may include a sensor for determining the amount of treatment agent in each reservoir and controlling the dishwasher accordingly.

The embodiments described above have the advantage that even after the cartridge has been completely emptied, one or more cleaning processes are possible by using treatment agents from the reservoir for one or more cleaning processes. have In particular, the reservoir of the dishwasher may function as a stopper for the treatment agent transport function. As a result, the cartridge can be emptied completely, especially with regard to chemicals. Furthermore, the sensor may be used to determine the remaining amount of treatment agent in the reservoir and perform appropriate control of the dishwasher. For example, the amount of processing agent remaining in the reservoir may be displayed to the user so that the cartridge can be replaced in a timely manner and prevent the reservoir from becoming completely empty. For example, another advantage of incorporating the sensor into the dishwasher reservoir rather than the cartridge is that less waste and more durable technology can be used.

In particular, the dishwasher may be configured to issue a warning signal when the amount of treatment agent in the reservoir, as determined by the sensor, falls below a first lower limit value. The warning signal may be realized as an audible signal and/or an indication on the display of the dishwasher. The first lower limit may be greater than or equal to the amount of treatment agent required for one or more cleaning processes. In particular, the first lower limit may be a multiple of the amount used, for example 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x or 10x. The warning signal will prompt you to replace the cartridge in time, even if the cartridge is as completely empty as possible, as long as there is still enough processing agent in the reservoir for one or more cleaning processes. You can prompt the user. This ensures permanent availability of the treatment agent and improves user convenience. In addition, completely emptying the cartridge improves processing efficiency and reduces the amount of processing agent emitted, which helps protect the environment.

According to another preferred embodiment, the dishwasher comprises a valve and a control. At least one cartridge is connected by a connection to one or more dispensing devices, cleaning tanks or boilers, and the processing agent from the cartridge is designed to be able to enter the reservoir when the valve is open. . Additionally, the valve is designed such that no processing agent from the cartridge can enter the reservoir when the valve is closed. The controller is configured to open and close the valve based on the amount of treatment agent in the reservoir as determined by the sensor. In particular, the control is realized by mechanical, hardware and/or software components of the dishwasher.

The valves and controls provide efficient, automatic control of the amount of treatment agent in the reservoir, thereby improving the usability of the dishwasher.

In particular, the controller may be configured to open the valve when the amount of processing agent in the reservoir as determined by the sensor is below a second lower limit, preferably the second lower limit is equal to the first lower limit. greater than the value. The second lower limit may be greater than or equal to the amount of treatment agent required for one or more cleaning processes. In particular, the second lower limit may be multiple times the amount used, such as 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times or 10 times. This configuration of the control ensures that the amount of processing agent in the reservoir does not fall below the second lower limit, at least as long as there is processing agent remaining in the cartridge that can enter the reservoir. This ensures permanent availability of treatment agent in the reservoir, improves user convenience and improves rinsing quality.

Furthermore, the control may be configured to close the valve when the amount of treatment agent in the reservoir as determined by the sensor exceeds a maximum value, the maximum value being preferably greater than the first lower limit value. , and/or larger than the second lower limit. The maximum value may be greater than or equal to the amount of treatment agent required for one or more cleaning processes. In particular, the maximum value may be multiple times the amount used, such as 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times, or 10 times. This configuration of the control ensures that the amount of treatment agent in the reservoir does not exceed a maximum value. This is particularly preferred if the user only performs a small number of cleaning processes and wants to leave the remaining treatment agent in the cartridge for later use. Therefore, the usability for the user regarding replenishment of the processing agent is not improved.

According to the invention, a system of cartridges of one or more treatment agents for a dishwasher comprises at least one first cartridge and at least one second cartridge. The first cartridge includes a first mating stop portion for engaging the first identification and stop portion, and the second cartridge includes a second mating stop portion for engaging the second identification and stop portion. Includes a stopper part. The size and/or shape of the first mating stop portion may be different from the size and/or shape of the second mating stop portion. As described above in connection with the dishwasher according to the invention, this provides for the identification of the first cartridge by engaging the first identification and stop portion with the first mating stop portion of the first cartridge; detection and identification or detection of the second cartridge by engaging a second identification and stop portion with a second mating stop portion of the second cartridge. Thus, as mentioned above, damage and deterioration of the cartridge system or dishwasher are prevented by improper or inappropriate docking or connection of the cartridge. The different size and/or shape of each mating stop portion provides a particularly efficient, easy to manufacture, and cost effective means of identifying each cartridge.

Furthermore, the material of the first fitting stopper portion may be different from the material of the second fitting stopper portion. In particular, the electrical, magnetic, or optical properties of the material of the first mating stop portion may be different from the electrical, magnetic, or optical properties of the material of the second mating stop portion. . For example, the material of the first fitting stopper portion may be magnetic and the material of the second fitting stopper portion may be non-magnetic, or the magnetic susceptibility of the first fitting stopper portion may be 2 may be different from the magnetic susceptibility of the fitting stopper portion. Furthermore, the material of the first fitting stopper portion may be electrically conductive, and the material of the second fitting stopper portion may not be electrically conductive, or the material of the first fitting stopper portion may be electrically conductive. , the electrical conductivity of the second mating stop portion may be different.

When the first identification/stop part or the second identification/stop part is engaged with the first fitting stop part of the first cartridge or the second fitting stop part of the second cartridge, each fitting stop The material of the tool part may be identified or detected by each identification/stop part. The properties of the material of the mating stop part, such as electrical conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, or optical properties such as color or transparency of the material, may be determined by the characteristics of the material of the mating stop part, such as the conductivity sensor, Hall sensor or optical sensor of the docking part. , may be detected or measured by the docking unit. Alternatively, the material of the mating stop portion may be detected by interacting with the material of the identification/stop portion, eg, by magnetic attraction or repulsion between the two materials.

The result of the detection may be converted into a signal, preferably an electrical signal, which controls, for example, the mechanical fixation of each docking part or each cartridge and the first identification/stop part or the second identification/stop part. Further engagement of the stop portion to the third mating stop portion of the first cartridge or the fourth mating stop portion of the second cartridge, and thus docking of each cartridge to the respective docking portion, is detected. This may be enabled or prevented depending on the material (the third and fourth mating stop parts will be explained in more detail below). Alternatively, an electrical signal may be output to inform the user whether each cartridge is suitable for docking in each docking portion. For example, the presence or absence of magnetic attraction or repulsion between a cartridge and a docking portion may indicate to a user whether a cartridge is suitable for docking in a particular docking portion. This allows the first cartridge or the second cartridge to be identified by the first identification/stop part or the second identification/stop part. the use of different materials for the first mating stop portion and the second mating stop portion (if applicable); and the first identification/stop portion and second identification of the first docking portion and the second docking portion; - The combination of using different materials for the stop portion is a particularly efficient, easy to manufacture and cost effective means of identifying cartridges. According to a preferred embodiment, the first cartridge further comprises a third mating stop portion for engaging the first identification and stop portion, the size, shape or The material is the same or almost the same as the size, shape, or material of the first fitting stopper part, and the third fitting stopper part and the first fitting stopper part are the same as the first fitting stopper part. They are arranged at intervals from each other in the cartridge insertion direction. Additionally, the second cartridge includes a fourth mating stop portion for engaging the second identification/stop portion, the size, shape and/or material of the fourth mating stop portion being the same as the second identification/stop portion. The size, shape, and/or material of the mating stop portion are the same or almost the same, and the fourth mating stop portion and the second mating stop portion are different from each other when the first cartridge is inserted into the dishwasher. They are spaced apart from each other in the insertion direction.

This means that when the first cartridge is inserted into the dishwasher, the first identification and stop portion initially engages the first mating stop portion of the first cartridge, thereby causing the 1 cartridge is identified or detected. Only after the first cartridge has been identified or detected, the first identification and stop portion may engage the third mating stop portion of the first cartridge, thereby e.g. The user applies another force to the first cartridge in the insertion direction such that the first identification/stop portion from the mating stop portion disengages again and then engages the third mating stop portion. The first cartridge is docked in the first docking portion by adding the first cartridge to the first docking portion. In this way, the first cartridge may be docked to the first docking portion only after being identified by the first identification and stop portion. Similarly, the second cartridge may be docked to the second docking portion only after being identified by the second identification and stop portion. This can particularly prevent the first cartridge from being docked to the second docking section or the second cartridge from docking to the first docking section. Thus, as mentioned above, damage and deterioration of the cartridge system or dishwasher are prevented by improper or inappropriate docking or connection of the cartridge.

According to the invention, a dishwashing system comprises a dishwasher and a system of one or more cartridges, preferably a plurality of cartridges as described above. The dishwashing system improves ease of use with respect to replenishment of treatment agents.

According to another preferred embodiment of the dishwashing system, the plurality of cartridges have the same or substantially the same shape, size and/or maximum amount holding capacity for each treatment agent.

This simplifies the manufacture, transportation and storage of multiple cartridges and reduces costs. Additionally, it is realized that multiple cartridges can be emptied simultaneously, such as when co-processing agents from each cartridge are used for one or more cleaning processes. This allows the user to always replace multiple cartridges at the same time, thereby reducing the frequency of cartridge replacement. This improves user convenience and safety regarding replenishment of processing agents.

According to another preferred embodiment of the dishwashing system, at least one of the one or more cartridges has an outlet and a corresponding connection to one or more dispensing devices, When connected to a cleaning tank or boiler, the processing agent can be discharged from the cartridge along one or more drainage surfaces in the direction of the outlet and flow into one or more dispensing devices. or a drain surface designed to allow the cartridge to be used up through the outlet to enter a cleaning tank, boiler or reservoir, the at least one or each drain surface being configured to drain the cartridge from the cartridge. It is inclined at an angle greater than 0° and smaller than 90°, preferably at an angle of 45°, 50°, 60°, 70° or 80° with respect to the direction of discharge of the treatment agent.

This allows the treatment agent to flow along one or more inclined drainage surfaces towards the outlet and through the outlet to use up the cartridge. This allows the cartridge to be completely emptied, or to be as empty as possible, resulting in cost savings for the user and improved cartridge disposal.

According to the invention, furthermore, the dishwasher treatment agent cartridge described above has a maximum quantity holding capacity level of treatment agent that is preferably within the "limited quantity" regulations for hazardous materials transport. In particular, the maximum amount holding capacity may be a maximum amount holding volume for a treatment agent that is 0.5 liters or less, 1 liter or less, 2 liters or less, 5 liters or less, 10 liters or less, or 20 liters or less. Alternatively, the maximum amount holding capacity may be a maximum weight for the treatment agent that is less than 0.5 kilograms, less than 1 kilogram, less than 2 kilograms, less than 5 kilograms, less than 10 kilograms, or less than 20 kilograms. Alternatively, the total weight of the cartridge itself and the maximum weight of the processing agent may be 0.5 kg or less, 1 kg or less, 2 kg or less, 5 kg or less, 10 kg or less, or 20 kg or less.

By packaging the processing agent in individual cartridges, the risk is minimized to the extent that transporting the cartridges falls under "limited quantity" regulations. For example, the transport of dangerous goods in inner packaging is permitted up to a total weight of 30 kg in complete packaging. In this case, the total amount of treatment agent is divided into individual small units, so it is classified as low risk. It is more likely that all individual units will not be released, and the extent of damage caused by individual units that are released will be reduced. This makes it possible to reduce the risk of the processing agent leaking during transport of the cartridge, thereby reducing the labor and cost for transporting the processing agent.

In a preferred embodiment, the cartridge according to the invention has an integrated transport mechanism for the treatment agent and/or integrated intelligence (e.g. barcode, pin encoding, RFID, QR code, chip, etc.). Further complex modules may be included, such as Near Field Communication (NFC). Connecting the cartridge to the dishwasher's control system allows, for example, automatic detection of the cartridge or treatment agent within the cartridge, automatic dosing of treatment agent based on detection, and ensuring that treatment agent remaining in the cartridge is sufficient for cleaning operations. Allows timely display or calculation of remaining rinse cycles to facilitate estimation of whether the That is, the control of the dosing pump of the dishwasher can dispense different amounts depending on the treatment agent, and the dishwasher receives information about the corresponding treatment agent through integrated intelligence.

These and other features and advantages of the invention are illustrated by the accompanying schematic drawings showing particularly preferred embodiments.
FIG. 1 is a functional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a dishwasher according to the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dishwasher according to the invention with two cartridges according to the invention; FIG. The perspective view of the docking part of a dishwasher provided with a 1st docking part, a 2nd docking part, and a 1st cartridge and a 2nd cartridge which can be docked to a 1st docking part and a 2nd docking part, respectively. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a dishwasher according to the invention with a flap part such that the flap part is in the open position and the docking part is in the docking position so that a cartridge is docked in the docking part; FIG. FIG. 4a is the schematic view shown in FIG. 4a in which the cartridge is already docked in the docking part and the flap part is moved from the open position to the closed position in order to move the docking part from the docking position to the operational position; FIG. 4b such that the flap part is in the closed position and the docking part is in the operating position and the docked cartridge is connected by the connection to one or more dispensing devices, washing tanks or boilers; Schematic diagram shown in . 1 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a dishwasher according to the invention with a cartridge such that the dishwasher is provided with a reservoir for holding treatment agent from the cartridge; FIG. FIG. 3 is a side view of a first cartridge and a first docking section to which the first cartridge is docked. FIG. 7 is a side view of a second cartridge and a second docking section to which the second cartridge is docked. A top view of the first cartridge and the first docking part along the cross-sectional area AA from FIG. 6a and a first cartridge and the first docking part along the cross-sectional area CC corresponding to a side view from FIG. 6a. top view. A top view of the second cartridge and the second docking part along the cross-sectional area BB from FIG. 6b and a second cartridge and the second docking part along the cross-sectional area CC corresponding to the side view from FIG. 6b. top view.

FIG. 1 schematically shows a functional diagram of an embodiment of a dishwasher according to the invention 1, which comprises a storage part 140 and a washing compartment 110. The dishwasher 1 includes a plurality of dispensing devices for discharging processing agents to the objects to be washed 111a to 111d, in particular a first dispensing device 111a and a third dispensing device for discharging processing agents such as cleaning liquid into the washing compartment 110. A device 111c and a second dispensing device 111b and a fourth dispensing device 111d are provided for discharging another treatment agent such as a rinse agent, in particular a rinse agent liquid, into the cleaning compartment 110. In this embodiment, the dispensing devices 111a-d are designed as wash arms and are rotatably arranged in the wash compartment 110 of the dishwasher 1. Within the washing compartment 110 there is also a washing basket 112, inter alia, for the organization of tableware.

The dishwasher 1 also includes a first docking section 120a and a second docking section 120b. The first cartridge 2a is docked to the first docking part 120a, and the second cartridge 2b is docked to the second docking part 120b. The first cartridge 2a may contain a cleaning liquid and the second cartridge 2b may be filled with a rinse agent concentrate. The first cartridge 2a docked in the first docking part 2a is connected to the cleaning tank 180 by the first connection part 130a, so the cleaning liquid from the first cartridge 2a is supplied to the cleaning tank 180 via the first supply line 183. Sent. In the first supply line 183 there is a first conveying device, in which a first dosing pump 183a is provided which, in the switched on state, transports the delivery or transfer from the first cartridge 2a to the cleaning tank 180. When the first dosing pump 183a is switched off, no cleaning liquid is delivered to the cleaning tank 180.

The cleaning tank 180 includes a screen system 182 and a heating device 181 for heating the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 180. Additionally, the cleaning tank 180 is connected to a first dispensing line 185 through which cleaning liquid is delivered to the first dispensing device 111a and the third dispensing device 111c in the cleaning compartment 110. The conveying device in the first dispensing line 185 is here provided with a cleaning pump 185a, which, in the switched on state, allows the delivery or delivery of cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 180 to the dispensing devices 111a and 111c; When the wash pump 185a is switched off, no wash liquid is delivered to the dispensing device.

The cleaning liquid discharged via the dispensing devices 111a and 111c is discharged into the cleaning compartment 110 and then collected in the cleaning tank 180 again, thus forming a cleaning circuit. Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 includes a drain pipe 310 with a drain pump 310a, so that the dirty cleaning liquid can be drained from the cleaning tank 180 and disposed of.

The second cartridge 2b docked to the second docking part 2a is connected to the boiler 190 by a second connection part 130b (not shown). In this process, the rinse agent from the second cartridge 2b hits the second supply line 193 and is mixed with the clean water from the water pipe 330, so that the diluted rinse agent enters the boiler 190. The second conveying device in the second supply line 193 is here provided with a second dosing pump 193a, which in the switched on state transfers the rinsing agent concentration from the second cartridge 2b to the boiler 190. With the dosing pump 193 a switched off, no rinse agent concentrate is delivered to the boiler 190 . In particular, the dosing pump 193a can accurately control the concentration of the rinse agent liquid, ie, the ratio of rinse agent concentrate to clean water. Water pipe 330 further includes a valve device, in this embodiment a solenoid valve 340. The valve device allows the supply of clean water to the boiler 190 when in the open position and prevents the supply of clean water to the boiler 190 when in the closed position. There is also a water supply safety device 350 within the water pipe 330.

The boiler 190 includes a heating device 191 for heating the rinse agent liquid. Furthermore, the boiler 190 is connected to a second dispensing line 195 through which rinse agent liquid is delivered to the second dispensing device 111b and the fourth dispensing device 111d in the cleaning compartment 110. The conveying device in the second dispensing line 195 is here provided with a rinsing pump 195a, which, when switched on, allows the rinsing agent to be discharged or delivered from the boiler 200 to the dispensing devices 111b and 111d. , when the rinse pump 195a is switched off, no rinse liquid is discharged into the dispensing device.

FIG. 2 shows a part of an embodiment of a dishwasher according to the present invention 1, in which two cartridges 2 according to the present invention, namely a first cartridge 2a and a second cartridge 2b, each cartridge being a part of a dishwasher. It may be filled with treatment agents for one or more cleaning steps. The dishwasher 1 includes a docking section 120 for docking the two cartridges 2a and 2b. The docking section 120 includes a first docking section 120a for docking the first cartridge 2a and a docking section 120b for docking the second cartridge 2b, and only the second docking section 120b is shown in FIG. Ru. The dishwasher 1 further includes the first cartridge 2a docked in the docking part 120 in one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, in the wash tank 180 of the dishwasher 1 or in the wash compartment 110 of the dishwasher. The first connection part 130a for connecting directly or indirectly to the boiler 190 and the second cartridge 2b docked in the docking part 120 can be connected to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, the washing tank 180 or the boiler. 190, and only the second connection part 130b is illustrated in FIG. A first connection 130a and a second connection 130b are used to connect the membrane of each cartridge 2a and 2b to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, a cleaning tank 180 or a boiler 190. or as a pin that operates the check valve of each cartridge 2a and 2b.

The dishwasher 1 further includes a storage section 140 having a flap section 142, which is shown in the open position in FIG. 2 and will be described in detail later. The first cartridge 2a shown in FIG. 2 has already been docked with the first docking part 130a of the docking part 130, and the second cartridge 2b has not yet been docked with the second docking part 130b. However, the arrows in FIG. 2 illustrate that the user inserts the second cartridge 2b into the dishwasher 1 by docking the second cartridge 2b into the second docking part 130b of the docking part 130. In this embodiment, the first cartridge 2a and the second cartridge 2b have substantially the same shape, size and holding capacity for each treatment agent.

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the dishwasher 1, in particular a docking part 120 comprising two docking parts 120a and 120b and two cartridges 2a and 2b. The housing part 140 of the dishwasher 1 has been omitted from this figure in order to better represent the docking part 120 and the two cartridges 2a and 2b. In FIG. 3, the first cartridge 2a has already been docked with the second docking part 120b of the docking part 120, and the second cartridge 2b has not yet been docked with the second docking part 130b of the docking part 130. The vertical arrows point out the direction 3 of each of the two cartridges 2a and 2b relative to the dishwasher 1 and the direction 4 of the treatment agent from the two cartridges 2a and 2b relative to the dishwasher 1. In this embodiment, the insertion direction 3 is parallel to the drainage direction 4, but this is not necessarily the case. The insertion direction 3 may be at an angle with respect to the liquid drainage direction 4, and is more preferably 0° or more and 90° or less.

4a to 4c each show a schematic representation of an embodiment of a dishwasher 1 according to the invention with a cartridge 2 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the docking part 120 is designed as a holding part 120 for holding the cartridge 2. Since the cartridge 2 is inserted into the holding part 120, the holding part 120 surrounds the inserted cartridge 2 from a plurality of sides through each wall part of the holding part 120. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the docking part 120 includes a docking position for docking the cartridge 2 and connecting the docked cartridge 2 to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, a washing tank 180 or a boiler 190 by means of a connection part 130. It is arranged to be movable back and forth with respect to the cleaning compartment 110 between an operating position for cleaning, and the operating position is different from the docking position. Furthermore, FIGS. 4 a to 4 c show a receptacle 140 of the dishwasher 1 , which comprises an opening 141 for inserting the cartridge 2 into the dishwasher 1 and a flap part 142 . The flap portion 142 is arranged to be movable back and forth between an open position for opening the opening 141 and a closed position for closing the opening 141. The flap portion 142 is connected to the docking portion 120 such that when the flap portion 142 is in the open position, the docking portion 120 is in the docking position, and when the flap portion 142 is in the closed position, the docking portion 120 is in the operating position. be done. Furthermore, FIGS. 4a to 4c show a connection 130 for connecting the cartridge 2 docked in the docking part 120 to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, a washing tank 180 or a boiler 190. . The connection 130 operates a pin that penetrates the membrane of the cartridge 2 or a check valve of the cartridge 2 to connect the cartridge 2 to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, a wash tank 180 or a boiler 190. Designed as a pin.

In particular, Figure 4a shows the dishwasher in a state where the flap portion 142 is in the open position and the docking portion 120 is in the docked position. In the docked position, the docking portion 120 is at least partially outside the opening 141, thereby facilitating easy access for the user. The arrow in FIG. 4a indicates that the user inserts the cartridge 2 into the dishwasher by docking and/or engaging or securing the cartridge 2 to the docking portion 120 in the docking position.

Figure 4b shows the flap portion 142 still in the open position and the docking portion in the operative position. However, in FIG. 4b, the cartridge 2 is already docked in the docking part 120. The arrow in FIG. 4b indicates that as the flap part 142 moves from the open position to the closed position, the docking part 120 is moved from the docking position to the operating position, and the docked cartridge 2 passes through the receiving part 141 and into the dishwasher 1. Sent internally.

Finally, Figure 4c shows the flap portion 142 in the closed position and the docking portion in the operative position. The docking part 120, the connection part 130 and the cartridge 2 are now completely inside the dishwasher and are protected on the outside by the receiving part 140 and the flap part 142 in the closed position. In this embodiment, when the docking part 120 is in the operating position, the cartridge 2 is automatically connected by the connection part 130 to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, the wash tank 180 or the boiler 190. Therefore, in FIG. 4c, the cartridge 2 is already connected by means of a connection 120 to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, a wash tank 180 or a boiler 190. In this state, the treatment agent is dispensed from the cartridge 2 to one or more dispensing devices 111a-1 for receiving treatment agent for use in one or more cleaning processes of the dishwasher 1, as described below. d, or may enter the cleaning tank 180, boiler 190 or reservoir 150.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a dishwasher 1 according to the invention, comprising a cartridge 2 according to the invention, the dishwasher 1 comprising: A reservoir 150 is provided for dispensing treatment agent to one or more dispensing devices 111a-d, cleaning tank 180 or boiler 190. Reservoir 150 includes a sensor 151 for determining the amount of processing agent within reservoir 150 . Dishwasher 1 may issue a warning signal if the amount of processing agent in reservoir 150 as determined by sensor 151 is below a first lower limit. The dishwasher 1 also includes a valve 160 and a control section. Valve 160 allows i) processing agent from cartridge 2 to enter reservoir 150 when valve 160 is open, and ii) processing agent from cartridge 2 to enter reservoir 150 when valve 160 is closed. It is designed so that it cannot be used. Further, the control unit 170 is configured to open and close the valve 160 based on the amount of processing agent in the reservoir 150 determined by the sensor 151. In particular, the control unit 170 may be configured to open the valve 160 when the amount of processing agent in the reservoir 150 determined by the sensor 151 is below a second lower limit, and the second lower limit is equal to or less than the first lower limit. It may be larger than the lower limit. Further, the control unit 170 may be configured to close the valve 160 when the amount of processing agent in the reservoir 150 determined by the sensor 151 exceeds a maximum value, and the maximum value is greater than the first lower limit value. It may be large and/or larger than the second lower limit.

6a to 7b show a dishwasher 1 comprising a first docking part 120a of a docking part 120 to which a first cartridge 2a is docked, and a second docking part 120b of a docking part 120 to which a second cartridge 2b is docked. FIG. More precisely, FIG. 6a shows a side view of the first docking part 10a to which the first cartridge 2a is docked, and FIG. 6b shows a side view of the second docking part 120b to which the second cartridge 2b is docked. , FIG. 7a shows a top view of the first cartridge 2a and the first docking part 120a along the cross-sectional area AA from FIG. 6a, and FIG. 7b shows a top view along the cross-sectional area BB from FIG. 6b. A top view of the second cartridge 2b and the second docking section 120b is shown. Conversely, FIG. 6a corresponds to a side view of the first docking part 120a along the cross-sectional area CC from FIG. 7a, and FIG. 6b corresponds to a side view of the first docking part 120a along the cross-sectional area DD from FIG. 7b. 2 corresponds to a side view of the docking section 120b.

In this embodiment, as described below, the first cartridge 2a is not dockable to the second docking part 120b, and the second cartridge 2b is not dockable to the first docking part 120a.

The first docking portion 120a includes a first identification/stop portion 121a, and the first cartridge 2a includes a first fitting stop portion 211a and a third fitting stop portion 211c. These parts are designed such that the first identification/stop portion 121a can engage with the first mating stop portion 211a and the third mating stop portion 211c, respectively. The first identification/stop part 121a is especially designed as a first protrusion 121a of the first docking part 120a, and the first fitting stop part 211a and the third fitting stop part 211c are respectively The first recess 211a and the third recess 211c of the first cartridge-side closing portion 210a of the first cartridge 2a are designed as the first recess 211a and the third recess 211c. The first identification and stop portion 121a forms a first machine-side closure, which, as mentioned above, includes a first closure comprising a first cartridge-side closure 210a, in particular a first machine-side closure. 1 form a stop closure.

The size and shape of the first recess 211a are the same or almost the same as the size and shape of the third recess 211c, and the size and shape of the protrusion 121a correspond to the sizes and shapes of the two recesses 211a and 211c. Therefore, the convex portion 121a can engage with either of the two concave portions 211a and 211c. The first recess 211a and the third recess 211c are further spaced apart from each other in the insertion direction 3 of the first cartridge 2a into the dishwasher 1. Therefore, when a user inserts the first cartridge 2a into the dishwasher 1, the protrusion 121a first engages the first recess 211a to identify or detect the first cartridge 2a. Thereafter, when the user applies force to the cartridge in the insertion direction, the first convex portion 121a engages with the first recess 211a to the third recess 211c, so that the identified first cartridge 2a is transferred to the first docking portion 120a. will be docked.

The same applies to the second docking part 120b and the second cartridge 2b, that is, the second docking part 120b has a second identification/stop part 121b, and the second cartridge 2b has a second fitting stop part. 211b and a fourth fitting stopper portion 211d. These parts are designed such that the second identification/stop portion 121b can engage the second mating stop portion 211b and the fourth mating stop portion 211d. The second identification/stop part 121b is especially designed as the second protrusion 121b of the second docking part 120b, and the second mating stop part 211b and the fourth mating stop part 211d are respectively The second recess 211b and the fourth recess 211d of the first cartridge side closing part 210b of the second cartridge 2b are designed. The second identification and stop portion 121b forms a second machine-side closure, and as mentioned above, the second machine-side closure comprises a second cartridge-side closure 210b, in particular a second machine-side closure. 2 forming a stop closure.

The size and shape of the second recess 211b are the same or almost the same as the size and shape of the fourth recess 211d, and the size and shape of the protrusion 121b correspond to the sizes and shapes of the two recesses 211b and 211d. Therefore, the convex portion 121b can engage with either of the two concave portions 211b and 211d. The second recess 211b and the fourth recess 211d are further spaced apart from each other in the insertion direction 3 of the second cartridge 2b into the dishwasher 1. Therefore, when the user inserts the second cartridge 2b into the dishwasher 1, the protrusion 121b first engages the second recess 211b to identify or detect the second cartridge 2b. Thereafter, when the user applies force to the cartridge in the insertion direction, the second convex portion 121b engages from the second concave portion 211b to the fourth concave portion 211d, so that the identified second cartridge 2b is transferred to the second docking portion 120b. will be docked.

However, the size and/or shape of the first protrusion 121a is different from the size and shape of the second protrusion 121b. Similarly, the size and/or shape of the first recess 211a is different from the size and/or shape of the second recess 211b, and the size and/or shape of the third recess 211c is different from the fourth recess 211c. This is because the first convex portion 121a cannot engage with either the second concave portion 211b or the fourth concave portion 211d, and the second convex portion 121b cannot engage with either the first concave portion 211a or the third concave portion 211c. We guarantee that you will not be able to. Therefore, when the user attempts to dock the first cartridge 2a to the second docking part 120b, the second protrusion 121b cannot engage with the first recess 211a of the first cartridge 2a, and therefore the first cartridge This is not successful because 2a is not identified by the second docking unit 120b. Therefore, the second convex portion 121b cannot engage with the third recess 211a of the first cartridge 2a, and the first cartridge 2a is not docked to the second docking portion 120b. For the same reason, the second cartridge 2b is not docked to the first docking section 120a.

Various protrusion and depression shapes and sizes are shown by way of example in Figures 6a and 6b. In particular, from FIG. 6a the first recess 211a and the third recess 211c have the same or substantially the same height, i.e. the same or substantially the same dimensions along the insertion direction 3 of the first cartridge 2a. and the height of the first convex portion 121a corresponds to the height of the first concave portion 211a and the third concave portion 211c (or is slightly smaller as shown in FIG. 6). It is clear that the portion 121a can engage with the first recess 211a and the third recess 211c, respectively. In FIG. 6a, the first protrusion 121a has already engaged with the third recess 211c, so the first cartridge 2a is docked to the first docking part 120a. Furthermore, from FIG. 7a, the dimension of the first protrusion 121a perpendicular to the insertion direction 3 of the first cartridge 2a, more precisely, the angular dimension of the first protrusion 121a in the cross-sectional area AA from FIG. It corresponds to the angular dimension of the third recess 211c (or is slightly smaller, as in FIG. 7a), thus indicating that the first protrusion 121a can engage the third recess 211c. Similarly, since the angular dimension of the first protrusion 121a in the cross-sectional area AA corresponds to the angular dimension of the first recess 211a (but not shown in FIG. 7a), the first protrusion 121a 1 recess 211a.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 6b, the second recess 211b and the fourth recess 211d have the same or substantially the same height, that is, the same or substantially the same height along the insertion direction 3 of the second cartridge 2. have substantially the same dimensions, and the height of the second protrusion 121b corresponds to the height of the second recess 211b and the fourth recess 211d (or is slightly smaller as shown in FIG. 6b) Therefore, it can be seen that the second convex portion 121b can be engaged with the second concave portion 211b and the fourth concave portion, respectively. In FIG. 6b, the second protrusion 121b has already engaged with the fourth recess 211d, so the second cartridge 2b is docked to the second docking part 120b. Furthermore, the dimension of the second protrusion 121b perpendicular to the insertion direction 3 of the second cartridge 2b from FIG. 7b, more precisely, the angular dimension of the second protrusion 121b in the cross-sectional area BB from FIG. Since it corresponds to the angular dimension of the recess 211d (or is slightly smaller as in FIG. 7b), the second protrusion 121b can engage with the fourth recess 211d. Similarly, since the angular dimension of the second convex portion 121b in the cross-sectional area BB corresponds to the angular dimension of the second concave portion 211b (but not shown in FIG. 7b), the second convex portion 121b The two recesses 211b can be engaged with each other.

However, it is clear from FIGS. 6a and 5b that the height of the second protrusion 121b is higher than the height of the first protrusion 121a, and in particular, the height of the first recess 211a and the third recess 211c. Therefore, the second convex portion 121b cannot engage with either the first concave portion 211a or the third concave portion 211c. As a result, the second cartridge 2b cannot be docked with the first docking section 120a.

Furthermore, it is clear from FIGS. 7a and 6b that the angular dimension of the first protrusion 121a is larger than the angular dimension of the second protrusion 121b, and especially larger than the angular dimension of the fourth recess 211d. Similarly, the angular dimension of the first convex portion 121a is larger than the angular dimension of the second concave portion 211b (although the second concave portion 211b is not shown in FIG. 7b). Therefore, the first convex portion 121a cannot engage with either the second concave portion 211b or the fourth concave portion 211d. As a result, the first cartridge 2a cannot be docked to the second docking section 120b.

Finally, Figure 6b also shows the drainage surface 230 of the second cartridge 2b. The drainage surface 230 of the second cartridge 2b is inclined at an angle α with respect to the direction 4 of drainage of the processing agent from the second cartridge 2b, and α is greater than 0° and smaller than 90°. As shown in FIG. 6b, α in this embodiment is approximately or exactly such that the drainage surface 230 is inclined at an angle β=90°−α with respect to the horizontal lower boundary surface of the second cartridge 2b. 80° and β is approximately or exactly 10°. The same applies to the drainage surface 230 of the first cartridge 2a shown in Figure 6a.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, figures and claims are important for the implementation of the invention in various embodiments and can be implemented individually or in any combination.

1 Dishwasher 2 Cartridge 2a First cartridge 2b Second cartridge 3 Cartridge insertion direction 4 Processing liquid drainage direction 110 Washing section 111a First dispensing device 111b Second dispensing device 111c Third dispensing device 111d Fourth dispensing device 112 Washing basket 120 Docking part 120a First docking part 120b Second docking part 121a First identification/stop part, first protrusion 121b Second identification/stop part, second protrusion 130a First connection part 130b Second connection Part 140 Storage part 141 Opening part 142 Opening/closing part 150 Reservoir 151 Sensor 160 Valve 170 Control part 180 Washing tank 181 Heating device 182 Screen method 183 First supply line 183a First dosing pump 185 First dispensing line 185a Washing pump 190 Boiler 191 Heating Device 193 Second supply line 193a Second dosing pump 195 Second dispensing line 195a Rinse pump 210a First cartridge side closing part 210b Second cartridge side closing part 211a First fitting stopper part, first recess 211b Second fitting Stopper part, second recess 211c Third fitting stopper part, third recess 211d Fourth fitting stopper part, fourth recess 220 Discharge port 230 Discharge surface 310 Drain pipe 310a Drain pump 330 Water pipe 340 Solenoid valve 350 water supply safety device

Claims (18)

a wash compartment (110) having one or more dispensing devices (111a-d);
a docking portion (120) for docking to one or more cartridges (2) for one or more processing agents;
a corresponding cartridge (2) each docked in said docking part (120) for using said one or more treatment agents for one or more cleaning processes of a dishwasher (1); one or more for connecting directly or indirectly to said one or more dispensing devices (111a-d) or to the wash tank (180) or boiler (190) of said dishwasher (1). a connecting portion (130);
Dishwasher (1). The docking section (120) includes a first docking section (120a) for docking with the first cartridge (2a) and a second docking section (120b) for docking with the second cartridge (2b). ,
the first cartridge (2a) is not dockable with the second docking part (120b), and/or the second cartridge (2b) is not dockable with the first docking part (120a);
Dishwasher (1) according to claim 1. The first docking portion (120a) i) engages a first mating stop portion (211a) of the first cartridge (2a) to identify the first cartridge (2a); and ii) a first identification button that engages a third mating stop portion (211c) of the first cartridge (2a) to dock the identified first cartridge (2a) to the first docking portion (120a); comprising a stopper part (121a),
The second docking portion (120b) i) engages a second mating stop portion (211b) of the second cartridge (2b) to identify the second cartridge (2b), and ii) a second identification device that engages a fourth mating stop portion (211d) of the second cartridge (2b) to dock the identified second cartridge (2b) to the second docking portion (120b); comprising a stopper part (121b),
The size, shape, and/or material of the first identification/stop portion (121a) are different from the size, shape, and/or material of the second identification/stop portion (121b);
A dishwasher (1) according to claim 1 or 2. the docking part (120) is designed to dock a plurality of identical cartridges (2);
Dishwasher (1) according to claim 1. The docking part (120) provides a docking position for docking the one or more cartridges (2), and the one or more connections (130) provides a docking position for docking the one or more cartridges (2). (2) to said cleaning compartment (110) between an operating position for connecting said one or more dispensing devices (111a-d), said cleaning tank (180) or said boiler (190); The operating position is different from the docking position, and the operating position is different from the docking position.
Dishwasher (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4. When the docking part (120) is in the operating position, at least one docking part (130) corresponding to the connecting part (120) is arranged between the first position and the second position in the following manner. When the connecting part (130) is in the first position, the corresponding cartridge (2) is arranged to be movable back and forth in the one or more dispensing devices (111a-d), the washing tank ( 180) or when not connected to the boiler (190) and the connection (130) is in the second position, the corresponding cartridge (2) is connected to the one or more dispensing devices (111a-d) , connected to the cleaning tank (180) or the boiler (190),
Dishwasher (1) according to claim 5. further comprising a housing part (140) having an opening (141) for inserting the one or more cartridges (2) into the dishwasher (1), and an opening/closing part (142);
The opening/closing part (142) is arranged to be movable back and forth between an open position for opening the opening (141) and a closed position for closing the opening (141),
When the opening/closing part (142) is in the open position, the docking part (120) is in the docking position, and when the opening/closing part (142) is in the closed position, the docking part (120) is in the operating position. The opening/closing part (142) is connected to the docking part (120),
A dishwasher (1) according to claim 5 or 6. at least one cartridge (2) for holding said treatment agent and dispensing treatment liquid into said one or more dispensing devices (111a-d), said cleaning tank (180) or said boiler (190); at least one reservoir (150) for
The reservoir (150) includes a sensor (151) for determining the amount of the treatment agent in the reservoir (150).
Dishwasher (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. configured to issue a warning signal when the amount of the processing agent in the reservoir (150) as determined by the sensor (151) is below a first lower limit;
Dishwasher (1) according to claim 8. Furthermore, it includes a valve (160) and a control section (170),
The valve (160) is configured such that: i) when the valve (160) is open, the treatment agent from the cartridge (2) can enter the reservoir (150); and ii) the valve (160) is designed such that the processing agent from the cartridge (2) cannot enter the reservoir (150) when the cartridge (2) is closed;
The control unit (170) is set to open and close the valve (160) based on the amount of the processing liquid in the reservoir (150) determined by the sensor (151).
A dishwasher (1) according to claim 8 or 9. When the amount of the processing agent in the reservoir (150) as determined by the sensor (151) is below a second lower limit, the control unit (170) is configured to open the valve (160); Preferably, the second lower limit is larger than the first lower limit,
Dishwasher (1) according to claim 10. When the amount of treatment agent in the reservoir (150), as determined by the sensor (151), exceeds a maximum value, the control (170) is configured to close the valve (160), preferably , the maximum value is larger than the first lower limit and/or larger than the second lower limit,
Dishwasher (1) according to claim 10 or 11. The plurality of cartridges (2) include at least a first cartridge (2a) and a second cartridge (2b),
The first cartridge (2a) comprises a first mating stop portion (211a) for engaging a first identification/stop portion (121a);
The second cartridge (2b) comprises a second mating stop portion (211b) for engaging a second identification/stop portion (121a);
The size, shape, and/or material of the first identification/stop portion (121a) are different from the size, shape, and/or material of the second identification/stop portion (121b);
System consisting of a plurality of cartridges (2) of one or more treatment agents for a dishwasher (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12. The first cartridge (2a) further comprises a third fitting stop part (211c) for engaging the first identification/stop part (121a), and the third fitting stop part (211c) 211c) is the same size, shape and/or material as the first fitting stopper part (211a), and the third fitting stopper part (211a) and the first fitting stopper portion (211c) are arranged at intervals from each other in the insertion direction (3) of the first cartridge (2a) into the dishwasher (1),
The second cartridge (2b) further comprises a fourth fitting stop part (211d) for engaging the second identification/stop part (121b), and the fourth fitting stop part (211d) The size, shape and/or material of 211d) are the same as the size, shape and/or material of the second fitting stopper part (211b), and the size, shape and/or material of the fourth fitting stopper part (211b) and the second fitting stopper portion (211d) are spaced apart from each other in the insertion direction (3) of the first cartridge (2b) into the dishwasher (1),
14. A system of multiple cartridges according to claim 13. A dishwasher (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12;
said system consisting of said one or more cartridges (2), preferably a plurality of cartridges (2) according to claim 13 or 14.
Dishwashing system. The plurality of cartridges (2) have the same shape, size and/or maximum holding capacity for each of the processing agents,
A dishwashing system according to claim 15. At least one cartridge (2) of said one or more cartridges (2) is connected to one or more of said one or more cartridges (2) by an outlet (220) and a corresponding connection (130). When connected to a plurality of dispensing devices (111a-d), the cleaning tank (180) or the boiler (190), the processing agent from the cartridge (2) is directed towards the outlet (220), one or can be discharged along a plurality of drainage surfaces (230) and flowing into said one or more dispensing devices (111a-d), or said washing tank (180), said boiler (190) or said a drainage surface (230) designed to allow the cartridge (2) to be used up through the outlet (220) so as to enter the reservoir (150); ) or each ejection surface (230) is inclined at a respective angle greater than 0° and less than 90° with respect to the ejection direction (4) of the processing agent from the cartridge (2);
A dishwashing system according to claim 15 or 16. Said cartridge (2) has a maximum holding capacity for said treatment agent which is less than or equal to 0.5 liters, less than 1 liter, less than 2 liters, less than 5 liters, less than 10 liters or less than 20 liters, preferably containing no harmful substances. is within the "limited quantity" rules for the carriage of
A processing agent cartridge (2) for a dishwasher (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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