KR101660547B1 - Household appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

In a household appliance such as a dishwasher, a washer, etc. having at least one operating parameter such as temperature, pH, and / or program control for control of a program sequence for operation of at least one mechanical component such as a spray arm, pump,
Wherein the program control comprises a program mode for use of a metering device that is non-permanently integrated in a consumer product, the program sequence of the program mode being operable to control the metering based on operating parameters and / At least one operating parameter and / or at least one operation of at least one machine part.

Description

Home Appliances {HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE}

The present invention relates to home appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines and the like according to the preamble of claim 1, distribution apparatuses used in home appliances, cartridges used in distribution apparatuses, and delivery apparatuses used in household appliances.

According to the general prior art, a dispensing system is generally permanently installed in household appliances, especially washing machines or dishwashers, which typically include a work space for the treatment of objects to be cleaned (e.g., washings or tableware). As the development of all types of cleaning agents, cleaning agents and dishwashing agents are underway, there is also a need for a distribution system that interacts with each cleaning material. This requirement relates to both the optimum point of timely delivery of the cleaning substance and the amount of cleaning substance to be delivered. It should also be taken into account that the cleaning operation consists of multiple program steps, such as generally pre-cleaning, main cleaning, rinsing and drying. Special dispensing systems and devices for consumer electronics are being developed to keep up with their technological development. These objects are usually introduced into appliances' workspaces through importing doors.

This type of dispensing system for cleaning materials and dishwashing materials is known from document WO 02/077353 A1. This document discloses a dispensing system including a receiving space for a cleaning material, and its delivery, a control member, and a wide range of sensors, preferably as a dispensing system for receiving in a washing space of a washer. In the case of the systems of the above-mentioned documents, the distribution is achieved based on measurement parameters such as, for example, the pH, which is ascertained through the sensor. In particular, the dispensing system of WO 02/077353 A1 represents an autonomous operating system.

Devices operating in an autonomous manner, i.e. devices operating separately from the control system of a home appliance, must determine the program state based on measurements of various process parameters, in particular the type of cleaning program or the start of a new program. Since home appliances, such as dishwashers or washers, have a wide variety of program sequences, and because the program sequence is different for different home appliance manufacturers, the reliability of this type of dispensing device A good distribution is very difficult to implement.

It is an object of the present invention to propose a household appliance according to the preamble of claim 1 which facilitates the use of a dispensing device that operates automatically based on the detection of the measuring sequence and / or the operating sequence of the appliance component. It is a further object of the present invention to propose a distribution device for use in household appliances, a cartridge for use in distribution devices, and a delivery device for use in household appliances.

This object is solved by a dispensing device for use in a household appliance according to claim 10, a cartridge for use in a dispensing device according to claim 14, and a home appliance according to claim 15, This is done by the delivery device used for the product.

Advantageous embodiments and improvements of the invention will be possible by the features mentioned in the dependent claims.

Thus, in accordance with the present invention, a consumer electronics product is configured to include a program mode for use by a program control system in a distribution device installed not permanently in a consumer electronics product, And / or at least one operating sequence is interdigitated with the ability of the sensor suite of the dispensing device to be non-permanently installed to control the dispensing based on the values measured by the sensor sensing.

Thus, appliances of this kind, particularly dishwashers of this kind, permit the use of autonomous dispensing devices that are not directly controlled by a home appliance control system. In a corresponding program mode, the information required to control the dispensing device is essentially a sequence of deviations of the operating parameters or a time profile of the values of these operating parameters and / or a time profile in use of the separate home appliance parts, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > autonomous < / RTI > The autonomic metering device can perform a corresponding dispensing operation in a sequence correlated with recognition and time of the program mode of the appliance by the sensor suite.

The program mode mutually coupled with the sensor suite of the non-permanently installed distribution device is preferably embodied in a manually operable manner. A button of a household appliance, for example, can be used for this purpose. In this relationship, for example, a so-called 3-in (-1) button existing in a dishwasher currently on the market is suitable. When these buttons are driven, this type of program sequence procedure, which can be optimally detected by means of an ideally typical program sequence best suited to the manner in which the dispensing system operates in an autonomous manner, or by a dispensing system operating in an autonomous manner, Lt; / RTI >

In a particular embodiment of the invention, the receiving device is provided such that the dispensing device, which is non-permanently installed, is received in a defined operating position. This facilitates the construction of a presence sensor, which may be embodied as, for example, a light barrier or the like. The distribution of the cleaner can be performed better due to the specified location. In particular, the sensor suite of the dispensing device can be implemented more accurately and therefore reliably by the defined operating position.

In addition, if the receptacle for the dispensing apparatus is disposed outside the container, i.e., outside the tableware rack of the dishwasher, for the object to be cleaned, the space provided for the desired amount of tableware is not adversely affected.

In an improvement of the present invention, a wireless transmission unit may be provided for delivering at least one signal to an autonomous distribution device. With this transmission device, the home appliance control system can interfere directly and indirectly with the distribution sequence of the autonomous distribution system, or at least can initiate a control signal for processing in a software program present in the autonomous distribution system.

In a simple modification of the present embodiment, it is assumed that the signal of the distribution device is capable of recognizing the start of the program on the one hand and that the specific program mode is set on the other hand, It only provides a start signal at start-up.

In an improvement of this embodiment, the receiving unit is additionally provided in the household appliance to receive at least one signal from this kind of autonomous distribution device.

Such receivers may, for example, receive an acknowledgment signal from a distribution device, thereby simultaneously implementing a human body detection signal set.

In addition, in a particular embodiment, a transmission system for transmitting information between a control unit of an autonomous distribution device and a control system of an appliance can be realized by, for example, a transmitting and / or receiving device. This enables a wider adaptation to each type of autonomous distribution device used in the program sequence of consumer electronics. For example, a modified program sequence may be executed in consumer electronics depending on the manufacturer and / or brand of such dispensing device.

In the case of this type of transmitting and / or receiving unit, if the material and / or material thickness is at least partially transmitted by the visible or infrared light used, it may be acceptable to be accommodated in the autonomous dispensing device behind the housing wall .

Particularly, if this type of transmitting and / or receiving unit is used, positioning which is suitably fitted in a particular receptacle is advantageous for this type of autonomous dispensing device, so that even at lower strengths and / Even in undesirable conditions, desired communication is possible.

The program mode for the autonomous distribution device reproduces a specific sequence of processing steps recognizable by the autonomous distribution device. For example, different values for processing parameters such as temperature, humidity, pH, etc. generally exist in the work space of the appliance in terms of different cleaning processing steps. As described above, by means of an autonomous distribution device, at least one sensor is employed to monitor these processing parameters, which distribution system comprises a control system for distribution in accordance with the sensible monitoring.

It is also appropriate to detect, for example, the detergent concentration, the humidity of the dispensing device, the turbidity or mechanical parameters of the cleaning liquid, such as the detection of vibrations, together with temperature, humidity, pH and the like. In addition, the corresponding information for the control unit of the autonomous distribution device may include a deviation of these parameters over time.

For example, the corresponding information may be coded at the switch-on interval of the spray arm or circulation pump. One plausible possibility is that, for example, in a sequence during the operation of one or more spray arms and / or circulation pumps, it can be sensed by the dispensing device, for example via a vibration sensor, a humidity sensor, For example, a binary code.

Application of this kind of control to consumer electronics components such as spray arms, pumps, etc., enables delivery of more complex, in particular digital information, to the control unit of the autonomous distribution device without additional transmission units. All known and future code using time sequences can be used for this; There is also the possibility to be coded in a bit sequence, for example, over a long and short time interval, or by using a Morse code or the like.

A further embodiment of the appliance according to the invention results from the fact that it is adapted to a distribution device with a wide range of sensors. A sensor, such as a humidity sensor, turbidity sensor or vibration sensor, is connected to the control unit of the dispensing device to reliably determine the status of the operating program. Modification of the dispensing action by the control unit in accordance with the process value sensed by the at least one sensor, i.e. the measured value of the process parameter, is also conceivable. Interaction for improvement in a manner that achieves the above-mentioned object is also conceivable in this respect. For example, when the cleaning operation is interrupted, the deviation of the work space is greatly reduced, so that the vibration sensor allows a conclusion regarding the program state.

The combination of various sensors is advantageous for an optimal determination of the time point and / or duration of the delivery of the cleaning substance; Such time points and / or durations may be specified in the appliance for the corresponding sequence or deviation of the processing parameters or operating conditions.

If applicable, there is a memory unit for storage of process values, for example, which can provide help even if there is a defect in the appliance, during maintenance or when a new cleaning material is developed.

The communication between the distribution apparatus of the household appliances and the control system can be provided similarly as described above. Such data exchange may occur via radio transmission (Bluetooth, DECT, etc.) or via a wired interface. For example, if necessary, the temperature of the rinse water introduced may be modified depending on whether the control system of the household appliance is to evaluate the operation state of the distribution apparatus or the sensor suite.

Depending on the type of application, it may be advantageous that the dispensing device is able to operate non-autonomously or only partially autonomously. For example, through the interface between the dispensing device and the appliance. These interfaces can be used for both transmission of information and measurement data and energy supply.

The development of household appliances, which are preferably used in a manner aimed at the above-mentioned advantages of the distribution apparatus according to the invention, can also be achieved, for example, by reciprocal communication between the distribution apparatus according to the invention and the control system of the appliance. It can be assumed. It can be assumed that the distribution apparatus according to the present invention can be used in various home appliances. These home appliances no longer need their own distribution devices. Thus, this type of consumer electronics can be manufactured more economically and can also provide a higher level of safety, since no sealing problems can be avoided. For example, in terms of a dispensing system mounted to a loading door, in particular in terms of a gap sealed to the membrane at a gap or a loading door for a plunger of a rinse aid valve, for example, It further reduces the concern that it may come into contact with the carrying parts. This is avoided by the device according to the invention, since it is fully accommodated in the workspace.

The cleaning, washing and delivery of the desiccant may be implemented in a predetermined total amount or in an incremental manner. The delivery device may be equipped with sensors, in particular temperature sensors, photovoltaic cells, vibration transducers, and humidity sensors, as well as members essential for transmission. These sensors, acting separately or in a network fashion, are intended to deliver detergents for cleaning or drying treatments and to draw conclusions on the respective operating conditions of the working dishwasher stored in the delivery unit.

A variety of commercially available dishwasher program sequences can be inherently reduced in the pre-wash, main wash, rinse and dry stages. There is additionally a distinction as to the ability to have a cold pre-wash, a hot pre-wash, and a cold water connection to a dishwasher, as well as a hot water connection. Cold water connections and hot water connections are particularly found in the United States recently. If we estimate for a separate sensor suite,

- The temperature sensor has the function of sensing the heating phase through the absolute value and the gradient, thus the cooling phase, the simple Newtonian cooling process,

The photocell functions to recognize the opening of the dishwasher in combination with the plausibility time,

- The vibration transducer can sense the operating frequency of the cleaning pump, the discharge pump and the spray arm,

- Humidity sensors can detect surface humidity as well as relative humidity or absolute humidity in the internal cleaning space,

The time point at which a basic decision to add the first portion of the cleaner to each preliminary cleaning operation and the time to add the second cleaning agent can be determined and subsequent processing for adding a rinse aid can be determined directly from the home appliance control system It can be recognized without receiving a signal.

Particularly preferably, the dispensing device according to the invention is constituted by a basic part of the cartridge filled with formulation and a dispensing device which can be connected to the cartridge, such as a part carrier, an actuator, a closure member, a sensor, / RTI > and / or a control unit.

Preferably, the dispensing apparatus according to the invention is operable. The expression "operable" in this application is intended to mean that the dispensing device is not permanently connected to or permanently attached to a device for transferring water, such as, for example, a dishwasher, dishwasher, Means that it can be removed from the dishwasher by the user or placed in the dishwasher, i.e., can be handled separately.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, it is also possible to assume only a dispensing device connected to a device for transferring water, such as a dishwasher, a washer, a laundry dryer or the like, in a detachable manner by a user, have.

1 is a view schematically showing a dishwasher.
Figure 2 schematically shows a dispensing machine operating in an autonomous manner.
Figure 3 schematically shows another embodiment of a dispensing machine operating in an autonomous manner.
4 is a diagram showing an autonomous distribution device.
Figure 5 is a diagram showing an autonomous distribution device.
6 is a diagram showing a home appliance integrated distribution device.
Fig. 7 is a view showing a cartridge in a home appliance integrated distribution device. Fig.
8 is a view showing a cartridge in a home appliance integrated distribution device.
9 is a view showing a cartridge in a home appliance integrated distribution device.
Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a distribution device capable of home electric connection in a disconnected state.
11 is a diagram showing a distribution appliance capable of household electrical connection in a connected state.
12 is a view showing a combination type distribution device.
Fig. 13 is a view showing a combination type distribution device. Fig.
Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a combinational distribution device having an adapter for connection to a control device. Fig.
15 is a diagram showing the signal path from the dishwasher to the dispensing device.
Figure 16 is a diagram showing the disturbance signal path from the dishwasher to the dispensing device.
17 is a view showing the signal path from the dishwasher to the dispensing device.
18 is a view showing a signal path from the dispensing device to the dishwasher.
19 is a diagram showing signal paths between a dispensing device, a cartridge, and a dishwasher.
20 is a view showing an exploded view of a dispensing device and a cartridge.
21 is a view showing a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device and the cartridge.
22 is an exploded perspective view of the component carrier.
23 is a view showing a detailed view of a component carrier and an actuator structure.

cartridge

The term "cartridge" in the present application should be understood as a packaging means suitable for loading or holding at least one flowable, injectable or dispersible preparation together and connectable to a dispensing device for delivery of at least one preparation.

In its simplest conceivable embodiment, the cartridge comprises one, preferably, dimensionally stable reservoir chamber. In particular, the cartridges may include multiple chambers that can be filled with a composition that is distinct from each other.

Advantageously, the cartridge comprises at least one outlet opening arranged such that the discharge of the gravity generating aid from the cartridge can occur when the dispensing device is in the use position. As a result, no additional transfer means is required for the dispensing of the formulation from the cartridge, so that the structure of the dispensing device can be kept simple and the manufacturing cost can be kept low. For example, the use of a transport means such as a pump can also be eliminated, and as a result, the life of the battery or the rechargeable battery of the distribution apparatus can be increased.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one second chamber is provided for the receipt of at least one second flowable or dispersible formulation, the second chamber having a discharge of gravity generating product from the second chamber And at least one outlet opening disposed such that it can be generated when the dispensing device is in the use position. The provision of the second chamber is particularly advantageous when a shelf-stable non-stabilizing agent, such as a bleaching agent and enzyme, is stored in a chamber of a cartridge separated from each other.

More than two, in particular three to four, chambers are more likely to be provided on the cartridge or on the cartridge. In particular, one of the chambers may be configured to deliver a volatile auxiliary, such as a perfume, to the atmosphere.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge is embodied as a single part. This allows the cartridges to be economically constructed in one manufacturing step, in particular using a suitable blow molding method. In this regard, the chambers of the cartridge can be separated from one another by, for example, webs or material bridges that are molded during or after the blowing process.

In addition, the cartridge can be made by injection molding and subsequently composed of multiple parts by means of parts joined together.

Further, the cartridge may be embodied asymmetrically. In particular, it is particularly preferred that the cartridge be configured as an asymmetric cartridge so as to prevent any inaccurate operation by the user, which may be connected to the dispensing device only at one predefined location thereby enabling otherwise.

According to a further advantageous refinement of the invention, the one or more chamber (s) preferably comprise a separate, preferably upper, second chamber opening which, in addition to the bottom side outlet opening, can be closed in a liquid-tight manner . This chamber opening permits, for example, replenishing the formulation stored in the chamber.

Venting properties may be provided in the upper region of the cartridge for venting the cartridge chamber, particularly to ensure pressure equalization between the cartridge chamber and the atmosphere as the charge level of the chamber falls. Such aeration characteristics can be embodied as, for example, valves, in particular silicon valves, chamber walls, or fine openings in the cartridge walls.

The cartridge can assume any desired three-dimensional shape. For example, it may be embodied as cubic, spherical or saucer type.

To use the dispensing device in a dishwasher, it is particularly advantageous to have a device configuration similar to a tableware to be cleaned in a dishwasher. Thus, the device can be, for example, in the form of a dish having the dimensions of a dinner plate. As a result, the dispensing device can be placed, for example, in a space-saving manner in the lower rack of the dishwasher. In addition, the precise location of the dispensing unit is immediately and intuitively evident to the user as a result of the dish structure.

The dispensing device and the cartridge preferably have a height: width: depth ratio of 5: 5: 1 to 50: 50: 1, particularly preferably 10: 10: 1 when connected to each other. The "slim" structure of the dispensing device and the cartridge allows the device to be placed in the bottom loading rack of the dishwasher, especially in the receptacle provided for the dish. This has the advantage that the dosage delivered from the dispensing device can move directly into the wash tub and prevent it from sticking to other items being cleaned.

Commercially-available household appliance dishwashers are designed to be arranged so that large items to be cleaned, such as, for example, a large pot or a large dish, are placed in the bottom rack of the dishwasher. In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, in order to prevent the user from positioning the dispensing system consisting of a cartridge and dispensing device connected to the dispensing device not selectively in the upper rack, So as to enable the positioning of the substrate. To this end, the width and height of the dispensing system can be chosen in particular from 150 to 300 mm, particularly preferably from 175 to 250 mm.

It is also contemplated, however, to embody the dispensing unit in the form of a cup or pan having a substantially circular or square base surface.

The exit opening of the cartridge is preferably arranged in one line, thereby enabling a slim, dish-like structure of the dispensing device.

However, in the case of a pot or cup-shaped embodiment of the cartridge, or in the case of its pot or cup-shaped group, it may be advantageous to arrange the delivery opening of the cartridge, for example in the form of an arc.

It is advantageous to have a cartridge shape at least locally from the transparent material in order to enable a monitoring capability of the charge level that is directly visible.

It is advantageous to manufacture the cartridge with a material having a low thermal conductivity to protect it from the heating effect of the thermally sensitive contents of the formulation present in the cartridge.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge comprises at least information about the contents of the cartridge and in particular an RFID label which can be read by a sensor unit which may be provided in a distribution appliance or dishwasher.

This information can be used, for example, to select a distribution program stored in the control unit of the distribution device. In this way, it is possible to ensure a dispensing program suitable for a particular formulation that is always used. If the RFID label is not present, or if it is an RFID label with an incorrect or defective identifier, the distribution will not be performed by the distribution device, but instead the optical or voice signal will be sent to the equipment .

In order to preclude improper use of the cartridges, the cartridges may also interact with corresponding members of the dispensing device in accordance with, for example, a lock-and-key principle so that only certain types of cartridges can be coupled to the dispensing device And the like. This embodiment can allow information about the cartridge connected to the dispensing device to be communicated to the control unit of the dispensing device and, as a result, can be controlled in such a way that the dispensing device is interdigitated with the contents of the corresponding container.

The cartridge is particularly adapted to accommodate a flowable cleaning or cleaning agent. In particular, preferably, this type of cartridge includes a plurality of chambers for each physically separate containment of different dispensing agents of flowable cleaning or cleaning agents. By way of illustration, and not by way of limitation, some possible combinations for filling chambers with different formulations are described below.

Particularly preferably, all auxiliaries can be injected, since rapid dissolution of the auxiliaries is ensured in the washing tub of the dishwasher, so that these auxiliaries are particularly suitable for the cleaning of the washing space and / or the walls of the dispensing device So that a direct cleaning or rinsing effect can be rapidly achieved.

The cartridge generally has a total volume of &lt; 5000 ml, especially <1000 ml, preferably <500 ml, particularly preferably <250 ml, more particularly preferably <50 ml.

The chambers of the cartridges may have the same or different volumes. In the case of a structure with two chambers, the volume ratio of the chambers is preferably 5: 1, preferably 4: 1: 1 for structures having three chambers, and these structures are particularly useful in dishwashers Lt; / RTI &gt;

As mentioned earlier, the cartridge preferably comprises three chambers. To use this type of cartridge in a dishwasher, it is particularly preferred that one chamber comprises an alkaline cleaning aid, the further chamber comprises an enzymatic preparation, and the third chamber comprises a rinse aid, and the volume ratio of the chamber is approximately 4: 1: 1.

The chamber comprising the alkaline cleaning aid preferably has the largest volume of the existing chambers. The chamber for storing the enzymatic auxiliary and the rinsing auxiliary, respectively, preferably has approximately the same volume.

In the case of two and / or three chamber embodiments of the cartridge, in particular the additional chambers detachably disposed on the cartridge or dispensing device, may in particular be used to store a perfume preparation, sterilizing preparation, and / have.

The cartridge includes a cartridge base that is directed downwardly in the direction of gravity at the use position and is preferably provided for each chamber in at least one exit opening disposed in the gravity direction at the bottom. The outlet openings arranged at the bottom are in particular connected so that at least one outlet opening, preferably all outlet openings, are communicatively connected with the inlet opening of the dispensing device, that is, the preparation is introduced into the dispensing device through the outlet opening out of the cartridge, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 &gt; under the influence of gravity.

One or more chambers having exit openings that are not arranged in the gravity direction at the bottom may also be envisaged. This is particularly advantageous, for example, when the perfume is delivered into the atmosphere of the cartridge.

The cartridge is preferably composed of at least two members connected between the materials so that the connecting edge of the member on the cartridge base extends out of the outlet opening, i.e. the connecting edge does not intersect the outlet opening. This is particularly advantageous because sealing problems in terms of engagement with the dispensing device in the region of the exit opening, which arise in the presence of a large alternating temperature stress that normally occurs in a dishwasher, can thereby be avoided .

The inter-material connection can be produced by, for example, adhesive bonding, welding, brazing, pressing, or vulcanizing.

This is particularly preferable when the cartridge members are connected to each other by mirror welding. During mirror welding, the metal heating mirror, including the contours of the interface to which it is connected, heats the interface so that these interfaces are simply used to be in a plastic state so that after the heating mirror is removed and the components are joined together, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 &gt; solidified &lt; / RTI &gt;

In addition to the known mirror welding methods known from the prior art, the respective injection molded parts can be connected to each other, for example by laser welding. In laser welding, one of the two materials dissolved at the interface must have an absorbent to accept the energy amount of the laser beam and then convert it into heat that melts the corresponding material area. This is usually done using a color pigment which is introduced into thermal interaction with the laser beam, which is guided especially into the material. Such an interface in which the material is bonded may be included if the material present in front of the interface in the laser beam irradiation direction does not transmit the laser beam and does not have an absorption characteristic.

In addition, separate cartridge members can be connected by electrodes using ultrasonic welding or IR welding.

It is advantageous for the connecting edges to extend along the top, bottom, and sides of the cartridge. As a result, two cartridge members can be manufactured, in particular, using an injection molding method, so that both of the two members are embodied in a trough shape, or one member is in a bony shape, similar.

In order to construct two or multiple chamber cartridges, at least one of the two cartridge members may include at least one separating web which is separated from the two adjacent chambers of the cartridge when the members are connected together.

According to a preferred embodiment, the outlet opening of the cartridge is closed by the closing means at least when the cartridge is in the unfiltered state filled with the cartridge. The closure means can be embodied such that the exit opening is opened at one time by breaking the closure means. This type of closure means is, for example, a sealing film or a closed cap.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the outlet opening is provided with a stopper, respectively, which allows dispensing of the dispenser out of the respective chambers in a state of being coupled to the dispensing device, and when the cartridge is in the disconnected state, To prevent the outflow of the preparation. This type of plug is particularly constructed as a silicon slit valve.

It is further preferred that the vent opening of the cartridge is closed by the closure member prior to the first coupling with the dispensing device. The closure member may be, for example, a fully punched plug or cap, as a result of the coupling process, in particular following the first coupling with the dispensing device.

Before the first coupling of the dispensing device and the cartridge, it is particularly highly desirable that all outlet openings of the cartridge are closed by a silicon slit valve and that all vent openings are closed by a cap.

The cartridge member forming the cartridge is preferably made of plastic and may have a shape in a conventional injection molding process; It may be advantageous in constituting a connecting web which acts as a hinge between the two members so that after the forming the two members collide with each other in a folding manner and are connected between the materials along the connecting edges.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge is provided with at least one flowable or infusible &lt; RTI ID = 0.0 &gt; Wherein the cartridge is protected against entry of wash water into the chamber (s) while the cartridge is connected to the dispensing device, the cartridge being protected against entry of cleaning water and / or detergent formulation into at least one chamber At least one vent opening in the bottom in the gravitational direction and at least one vent opening in the bottom in the gravitational direction for venting of the at least one chamber for delivery of gravity And the vent opening is communicatively connected to at least one chamber of the cartridge.

It is particularly preferred that the cartridge comprises at least two chambers, more particularly at least three chambers. In view of this, it is advantageous that each of the vent opening and the delivery opening is provided for each chamber.

It is further preferred that the bottom side vent opening communicatively connected to the ventilation duct whose end is distant from the vent opening is above the maximum filling level of the cartridge when the cartridge connected to the dispensing device is in the dispense position.

It is advantageous for the vent duct to be molded in whole or in part on the wall and / or the web of the cartridge or on the wall and / or the web. In particular, the vent duct can be integrally molded in the wall and / or the web of the cartridge or on the wall and / or the web.

Advantageously, the vent duct can be molded for this purpose by engaging a cartridge formed of at least two members. For example, the vent duct may be formed by connecting separate webs formed of a shell-shaped member of the cartridge and two webs disposed on the cartridge member and surrounding separate webs.

In this respect, it is advantageous if the vent ducts are formed by separate webs formed of a shell-like member of the cartridge and two webs arranged on the cartridge member and surrounding the separate webs, in particular by welding between the materials.

As an alternative to this, the vent duct may be embodied as a so-called dip tube, for example.

By means of a cartridge which is in an unopened, uncharged state and at an inclined angle of 45 [deg.], The charge level F of the cartridge, for example, if the dispensing device is located in the plate receptacle, It is advantageous not to be present in the inclined duct orifice.

In view of this, it is more advantageous to arrange the vent duct orifices on the chamber walls above the cartridge or about the center of the chamber walls.

For example, to ensure functionality even after the cartridge is in the horizontal position, the viscosity of the flowable formulation and the vent duct should be such that if the formulation is present in the vent duct orifice, the formulation is configured not to fall into the vent duct by capillary forces Do.

The connection of the cartridge with the dispensing device is advantageously configured to place a spike in communication with the dispensing device in a communicatively connected manner to the inlet opening of the dispensing device, The spikes displace the volume [Delta] v in the ventilation duct and thereby a pressure [Delta] p suitable for transferring the flowable formulation present in the ventilation duct into the chamber connected to the ventilation duct and storing the formulation, To a connectable cartridge or cartridge chamber.

The vent opening of the chamber is preferably communicatively connected using a spike in the dispensing device, for example by a communicable connection to the inlet opening of the dispensing device, before the closed exit opening of the corresponding chamber is opened.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the ventilation chamber is arranged between the ventilation opening and the ventilation duct.

The cartridges may be embodied such that they can be removably or stationarily disposed on or in a dispensing device and / or in a dishwasher or dishwasher and / or a laundry dryer.

Cartridge light guide

A cartridge in connection with a dispensing device for delivery of at least one cleaning and / or detergent formulation from the cartridge into the interior of the appliance can be used in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, Or a light guide disposed on the cartridge. In particular, it is desirable to connect the optical signal emitted from the dispensing device within the cartridge.

In particular, the light guide may be formed entirely or partially in the walls and / or web of the cartridge.

It is also advantageous to incorporate a light guide integrally into or onto the walls and / or web of the cartridge.

The light guide is preferably made of a transparent plastic material, but the entire cartridge can be made of a transparent material.

The light guide is preferably suitable for guiding light in the visible region (10 to 780 nm). In particular, it is preferable that the light guide is suitable for guiding light in the near infrared region (780 to 3000 nm). In particular, it is preferable that the light guide is suitable for guiding light in the mid-infrared region (3.0 to 50 mu m).

The light guide is made of a transparent plastic having a particularly high refractive index.

Advantageously, the light guide is at least locally enclosed, wholly or in part, by a material having a low optical index of refraction. In particular, a material having a low optical index of refraction may be a preparation stored in a chamber of the cartridge.

The ratio of the refractive index of the light guide to the preparation of 1: 1.10 to 1: 5, preferably 1: 1.15 to 1: 1.35, particularly preferably 1: 1.15 to 1: 1.20 is particularly preferred, The wavelength was determined to be 589 nm. The refractive index of the light guide can be determined, for example, according to DIN EN ISO 489. The refractive index of the preparation can be confirmed by the Abbe refractometer for DIN 53491.

Particularly advantageous is a formulation which wholly or partially surrounds the light guide with a transmittance of 45 to 95%, particularly preferably 60 to 90%, particularly preferably 75 to 85%. The light guide preferably has a transmittance of &gt; 75%, particularly preferably &gt; 85%. The transmittance can be determined for DIN 5036.

It is preferred that the wavelength of light transmitted through the light guide generally corresponds at least to the wavelength of at least one excipient that locally surrounds the light guide and is not absorbed from the visible spectrum of the excipient. In particular, preferably, from this viewpoint, the wavelength of the light transmitted through the light guide and the wavelength not absorbed by the preparation is 600 to 800 nm.

The optical signal which can be connected to the light guide is a carrier of information in particular, in particular according to the operating state of the distribution device and / or the charge level of the cartridge.

In a preferred refinement of the invention, the light guide is embodied such that the optical signal that can be coupled into the light guide can be reconnected out of the light guide.

Incoupling and outcoupling of the optical signal can be materialized, in particular, at the prismically configured edges of the cartridge.

In particular, it is desirable to embody the in-coupling and out-coupling points of the optical signal in a corresponding injection mold by a polished or rigid chrome-plated mold surface, so that the reflection characteristics of the in- , Coupling that is the desired signal is possible.

When the cartridge and the dispensing device are in a connected state, the space between the light source connected to the dispensing device, in particular the point of coupling of light to the LED and the cartridge, should be kept as small as possible.

It is also advantageous that the optical signal and the light guide are configured such that an optical signal visible to the user can be generated in the cartridge and / or in the cartridge.

According to a further embodiment, the light guide can be cut at least one point in the cartridge so that the preparation can fill the cut point. This permits a simple implementation of a fill level and / or a tilt sensor, so that an optical signal passing through a cut point without preparation is distinguished from an optical signal passing through a cut point that is fully or partially filled by the preparation.

Distribution device

At least one actuator as well as a control unit necessary for operation are integrated into the dispensing apparatus. Preferably, the sensor unit and / or the energy source are similarly arranged on or in the distribution device.

The dispensing device is preferably comprised of a water-spray protected housing, which, for example, is used in a dishwasher, so that at least the control unit, the sensor unit and / or the actuator can be arranged in the housing, The penetration into the inside of the distribution apparatus can be prevented.

It is more advantageous to arrange the parts or assemblies in the dispensing device on the part carrier, in the carrier and / or in the carrier, and this is further elucidated elsewhere.

Particularly preferably, the dispensing device comprises at least one first interface for interacting with a corresponding interface embodied on or in a household appliance, in particular a water-conveying appliance, preferably a dishwasher or dishwasher, Transfer of electrical energy and / or signals to and / or from the dispensing device to the appliance is effected.

In an embodiment of the invention, the interface is embodied by a plug connector. In a further embodiment, the interface may be embodied such that wireless transmission of electrical energy and / or electrical and / or optical signals occurs.

Particularly preferably, in this respect, the interface provided for the transmission of electrical energy is an inductive transmitter or receiver of electromagnetic waves. In particular, the interface of a water conveyance device, such as, for example, a dishwasher, can be embodied as a transmitter coil having an interface of the distribution device as a receiver coil having an iron core, which is driven by an alternating current and has an iron core.

In an alternative embodiment, the transfer of electrical energy may be provided by an interface comprising an electrically operated light source on the household electrical side and a light source such as a photodiode or solar cell on the distributor side. The light emitted from the light source is converted into electrical energy by the optical sensor, and the electrical energy is then supplied to the rechargeable battery, for example, at the distributor side.

In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the transfer (i. E., Transmission and reception) of electromagnetic and / or optical signals indicative of the operating state, measurement and / or control data of a water transfer device, in particular a dispensing device and / or a dishwasher, An interface is constructed in the water transfer device, for example in the dishwasher and in the dispensing device.

Of course, it is of course possible to provide only an interface for the transmission of signals or an interface for the transmission of electrical energy, or an interface for the transmission of signals and an interface for the transmission of electrical energy, respectively, It is possible to provide an interface suitable for enabling.

This type of interface can be embodied in particular for the generation of radio signals and / or electromagnetic signals and / or optical signals of electrical energy.

Particularly preferably, the interface is configured for the emission and / or reception of an optical signal. Particularly preferably, the interface is configured for the emission and / or reception of optical signals in the visible region. Since the interior of the washing space is usually dark during operation of the dishwasher, signals in the visible light region, for example in the form of signal pulses or optical flashes, can be emitted and / or detected by the dispensing device. From this point of view, it has proven particularly advantageous to use a wavelength of 600 to 800 nm in the visible region.

Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the interface is configured for the emission or reception of infrared signals. In particular, advantageously, the interface is advantageously configured for the emission or reception of infrared signals in the near-infrared region (780 to 3000 nm).

The interface comprises in particular at least one LED. Particularly preferably, the interface comprises at least two LEDs. Further, according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least two LEDs emitting at different wavelengths may be provided. For example, a different signal band may be defined in which data may be transmitted and received.

In an improvement of the present invention, it is more advantageous to have at least one LED as an RGB LED whose wavelength can be adjusted. Thus, for example, various signal bands emitting signals at different wavelengths can be defined as one LED. Thus, for example, during the drying operation, it can be assumed that while there is a lot of water (mist) in the washing space, for example, the light is emitted at a wavelength different from the washing step.

The interface of the dispensing device may be such that the LED is provided for both the emission of a signal into the interior of the dishwasher and, in particular, when the dishwasher door is opened, for optical display of the operating state of the dispensing device, Lt; / RTI &gt;

Particularly preferably, the optical signal is embodied as a signal pulse having a pulse duration of 1 ms to 10 seconds, preferably 5 ms to 100 ms.

When the dishwasher is closed and unloaded, the dispensing is performed so as to emit an optical signal, measured at the wall defining the range of the washing space, producing an average roughness (E) of 0.01 to 100 lux, preferably 0.1 to 50 lux It is more advantageous that the interface of the device is configured. This roughness is then sufficient to generate multiple reflections either by other cleaning space walls or at the spatial walls, thereby reducing or preventing signal shadow in the laundry space, especially when the washer is in the loading state do.

The signals emitted and / or received by the interface are in particular signals indicative of the carrier of the information, in particular the operating state of the control signal or distribution device and / or dishwasher.

In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the dispensing device for delivery of at least one cleaning and / or detergent formulation from the cartridge to the interior of the appliance comprises a light source, whereby the optical signal can be coupled to the optical guide of the cartridge. In particular, the light source may be an LED. For example, an optical signal indicative of the operating state of the dispensing device can be connected from the dispensing device to the cartridge, so that the optical signal can be visually recognized by the user in the cartridge. This is particularly advantageous because the dispensing device may be exposed visually between other items to be cleaned in the dishwasher at the location of use of the dish receptacle of the tableware rack. As a result of the in-coupling of light from the dispensing device to the cartridge, the corresponding optical signal can be transferred into the upper area of the cartridge, for example, and even though the dispensing device is located in the dish receptacle between other items to be cleaned, Can be visually recognized by the user because when the tableware rack is loaded correctly, the item to be cleaned and the upper area of the cartridge are usually kept unexposed.

Also, the optical signal coupled to the light guide of the cartridge and passing through the light guide may be sensed by a sensor present in the dispensing device. This is described in more detail below.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the dispensing device for delivery of at least one cleaning and / or detergent preparation into the interior of the household appliance comprises at least one optical transmission unit, the optical transmission unit comprising: Can be coupled to a cartridge that can be connected to the dispensing device and the signal from the transmitting unit can be radiated into the atmosphere of the dispensing device. Thereby, both of the signal transmission between the distribution apparatus and the household appliance such as, for example, the dishwasher and the signal input to the cartridge can be realized by one optical transmission unit.

The optical transmission unit may be an LED that preferably emits light, particularly in the visible and / or IR regions. It is also conceivable to use, for example, another suitable optical transmission unit such as a laser diode. In particular, it is preferable to use an optical transmitting unit which emits light in a wavelength range of 600 to 800 nm.

In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the dispensing device may comprise at least one light receiving unit. This enables, for example, a signal from the optical transmission unit disposed in the household appliance to be received by the distribution apparatus. This may be implemented by any suitable light receiving unit such as, for example, a photovoltaic cell, a photomultiplier, a semiconductor detector, a photodiode, an optical isolator, a solar cell, a phototransistor, a CCD and / or a CMOS image sensor. Particularly, a light receiving unit suitable for receiving light in a wavelength range of 600 to 800 nm is preferable.

In particular, the light receiving unit of the dispensing device can be connected to a cartridge, which can be connected into a cartridge connectable to the dispensing device, from the transmitting unit, and can be embodied so that it can be detected by the light receiving unit of the dispensing device.

The signal emitted by the transmission unit in the atmosphere of the distribution apparatus can preferably represent the data by an operating state or a control command.

Part carrier

The dispensing device includes an energy source and / or a control carrier and / or a sensor carrier and / or a dispensing chamber, as well as a component carrier in which at least an actuator and a closing member are disposed.

The component carrier includes the above-described component, and / or a receptacle for the component to be molded into one piece with the component carrier.

A receptacle for the component in the component carrier may be provided for the friction connection, positive and / or inter-material connection between the respective component and the corresponding receptacle.

It is further contemplated that for ease of removal of the component from the component carrier, the distribution chamber, the actuator, the closure member, the energy source, the control unit and / or the sensor unit are each releasably disposed on the component carrier.

Advantageously, the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are arranged in such a way that they are grouped into one assembly on the component carrier or on the carrier.

In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are grouped together into one assembly. This can be embodied for example by the fact that the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are arranged on a common electric circuit board.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the part carrier is embodied in a bony shape and is produced as an injection molded part. Particularly preferably, the dispensing chamber is embodied as a single part by a part carrier.

The component carrier, for the most part, allows for a simple automation population with the essential components of the dispensing device. The component carrier may be preassembled throughout, preferably automatically, and connected to the dispensing device.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the bony part carrier may be closed after collection, for example by a cover-type closure member, in a liquid-tight manner. The closure member may be embodied as a film, for example, which is connected to the component carrier material-wise and in a liquid-tight manner, and which forms one or more liquid-tight chambers together with the bony part carrier.

Also, the closure member may be a console from which the component carrier can be guided, wherein the console and the component carrier constitute a dispensing device in an assembled state. In the assembled state, the component carrier and the console interact such that the wash water is not allowed to enter the interior of the dispensing device or the component carrier, but a liquid-tight connection is made between the component carrier and the console.

When the dispensing device is in the use position, it is further preferred that the receptacle for the actuator is disposed above the dispensing chamber in the direction of gravity, thereby providing a compact structure of the dispensing device. By virtue of the fact that when the dispensing device is in the use position, the dispensing chamber entrance on the part carrier is disposed above the actuator receptacle, the compact design can be further optimized. In particular, it is preferred that the components are arranged substantially in line with each other along the longitudinal axis of the component carrier in the component carrier.

In an improvement of the invention, the receptacle for the actuator includes an opening that is in line with the dispensing chamber outlet such that the closure member can be moved back and forth by the actuator through the opening and the dispensing chamber outlet.

It is particularly preferred that the component carrier is formed of a transparent material.

Advantageously, the component carrier comprises at least one light guide which can be guided to the light transmitting and / or receiving unit from the atmosphere of the dispensing device into and / or out of the dispensing device or component carrier, The light guide is molded into one piece, in particular with a transparent component carrier.

It is furthermore desirable to provide at least one opening in the dispensing device to which light can be connected into and / or out of the light guide and / or out of the light guide into the atmosphere of the dispensing device.

Actuator

&Quot; Actuator "of the present invention is a device that converts an input variable into an output variable of a different characteristic and in which the object is moved or its movement is generated, and the actuator is configured such that the release of the formulation from the at least one cartridge chamber occurs indirectly or directly And is connected to at least one closure member so as to be caused.

The actuator may be a gravity drive, an ion drive, an electric drive, a motor drive, a hydraulic drive, a pneumatic drive, a gear drive, a threaded spindle drive, a ball screw drive, a linear drive, A worm drive, a piezoelectric drive, a chain drive, and / or a reaction drive.

The actuator may comprise an electric motor, in particular connected to a linkage which converts the rotational movement of the motor into a linear movement of the carriage connected to the linkage. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a slim dish-shaped embodiment of the dispensing unit.

At least one magnet member may be arranged on the actuator, which, as soon as the two magnetic flux members are positioned opposite to each other, causes product transfer from the container by the magnet member of the same polarity in the distributor, A magnetic repulsion of the polarized magnet member is caused, and a non-contact type release mechanism is realized.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the actuator is a bistable solenoid which forms a pulse-controlled bi-stable valve with a closure member coupled to a bistable solenoid and embodied as a plunger core. Since the bistable solenoid is an electromagnet having a linear movement direction, the plunger core is locked non-excited at each end position.

Bistable solenoids and bistable valves are known in the art. The bistability valve requires one pulse to change at the valve position (open / closed), and then maintains its position until the relative pulse is transmitted to the valve. Therefore, it is referred to as a pulse-controlled valve. The essential advantage of these pulse-controlled valves is that they only require energy pulses to change the valve position without consuming energy in order to maintain them at the valve end position (closed position and delivery position); Whereby the valve end position may be regarded as stable. The bistability valve holds the most recently received control signal in the switched position.

The closing member (plunger core) is switched to an end position by a current pulse. The current is interrupted, and the closing member maintains its position. The closure member is switched to the other end position by a current pulse. The current is interrupted, and the closing member maintains its position.

The bistability characteristics can be implemented in the solenoid in a variety of ways. On the other hand, the division of the coils is known. The coils are more or less intensively divided to form a gap. A permanent magnet is inserted into this gap. The plunger coil itself is machined on both the front and rear sides so as to have a surface tangentially in contact with the magnet frame at each end position. The magnetic field of the permanent magnet flows over its surface, and the plunger core is attached thereto. Another alternative possibility is to use two separate coils. This principle is similar to the case of bistable solenoids with divided coils. The difference is electrical, and in fact two different coils exist. Depending on the direction in which the plunger core moves, these coils are controlled independently of each other.

Thereby, it is particularly preferable that the closing member is connected to the actuator so that the closing member can be displaced by the actuator into the closing position and the penetrating position (transmitting position), and the closing member is embodied as the on / off valve member; The actuator is embodied as being in a manner capable of selectively determining one of the two end positions under appropriate pulse control and maintaining the end position reached in a stable manner without application of the control; The combination thereby constitutes a pulse-controlled bistable on / off valve.

To this end, the actuator may be embodied as a bistable solenoid, in particular having a space for receiving an armature and an outer containment space surrounding the space. The armature of the bistable solenoid may be embodied to form or be connected to a closing member.

In order to cause a separation between the humid space and the dry space in the dispensing device, the space of the actuator receiving the armature may be separated from the external containment space of the actuator in a liquid-tight manner, and preferably in a hermetic manner.

In particular, it is more advantageous to construct at least the outer surface of the armature with a material that may not be corroded by cleaning or cleaning agents dispensed from the plastic material.

Preferably, the armature comprises a core made of a magnetic, in particular a ferromagnetic material, and a permanent magnet located in an outer receiving space, wherein a separate coil is arranged at the two axial ends of the permanent magnet.

It is also preferred that the permanent magnets are arranged in the axial direction of the armature in opposite polarity to the armature and the ferromagnetic material, in particular the iron yoke ring, is arranged in the outer receiving space at both axial ends and the coil winding is arranged between the rings desirable.

In this respect, it is advantageous that the axial space of the yoke ring is larger than the axial space of the permanent magnet.

In addition, the yoke ring is disposed in the armature at its axial end, and the permanent magnets are disposed at opposite axial ends in the opposite axial direction to the outer receiving space, and the coil windings can be disposed therebetween. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the axial space of the permanent magnet is larger than the axial space of the yoke ring.

A combination of actuators / closing members is provided, in particular, in a dispensing device of a dispensing system, which comprises a flowable cleaning or cleaning agent having a plurality of chambers for physically separate containment of different preparations of cleaning or cleaning agents A cartridge and a dispensing device connectable to the cartridge, the dispensing device comprising an energy source, an actuator coupled to the energy source and the control unit such that the control signals of the control unit, the sensor unit, and the control unit cause driving of the actuator, A closing member connected to the actuator such that it can be displaced to a closed position and a penetrating position (delivery position) by the dispensing device, and when the dispensing device is assembled with the cartridge, communicably connected to at least one of the cartridge chambers, Or the inlet for the introduction of the cleaning agent and the outside of the dispensing chamber At least one dispensing chamber including an outlet for flushing or flushing the detergent into the atmosphere, and at least one outlet of the dispensing chamber that can be closed or exposed by the closure member.

In particular, the actuator is disposed in the component carrier such that, when the dispensing device is in the use position, the receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier is positioned above the dispensing chamber in the direction of gravity. In this respect, it is particularly advantageous when the dispensing device is in the use position, the entrance of the dispensing chamber on the part carrier being disposed above the receptacle of the actuator.

It can be assumed for the dispensing apparatus that when the dispensing device is in the use position, the receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier includes a component carrier laterally disposed after the dispensing chamber.

The receptacle for the actuator includes an opening that is aligned with the outlet of the dispensing chamber, and the closure member is movable outwardly and rearwardly by the actuator through the opening.

Closing member

To this end, the term "closure member" in this application is a component that causes the actuator to act and, as a result of its action, cause opening or closing of the outlet opening.

The closure member may, for example, comprise a valve that can be caused by the actuator to the product delivery or closed position.

Embodiments of the closure member and the actuator in the form of solenoid valves, in which the distributor is embodied by a valve and the actuator is embodied by a solenoid valve electromagnetic or piezo drive system, is particularly preferred. In particular, the use of a solenoid valve, when a plurality of containers, thus dispensers to be dispensed, is used, allows the amount dispensed and the time dispensed to be adjusted very precisely.

It is therefore advantageous to use a solenoid valve to control delivery of the formulation out of each outlet opening of the chamber by the fact that the solenoid valve directly or indirectly determines the release of the formulation out of the product delivery opening.

sensor

To this end, the term "sensor" in the present application is a measured deviation transducer or sensing element capable of qualitatively or quantitatively sensing certain physical or chemical characteristics and / or material properties of its atmosphere as measured deviations.

The dispensing unit preferably comprises at least one sensor suitable for sensing temperature. In particular, a temperature sensor is specified to sense the water temperature.

In particular, it is desirable to include a sensor that detects the presence of water in the dishwasher or the conductivity at which the spraying of water is sensed.

In an improvement of the invention, the dispensing unit comprises a sensor capable of determining physical, chemical and / or mechanical parameters from the atmosphere of the dispensing unit. The sensor unit may comprise one or more active and / or passive sensors for qualitative and / or quantitative sensing of mechanical, electrical, physical, and / or chemical variations that transfer control signals to the control unit.

The sensor of the sensor unit may be a sensor such as a timer, a temperature sensor, an infrared sensor, a brightness sensor, a temperature sensor, a motion sensor, an elongation sensor, a rotation speed sensor, a proximity sensor, a flow sensor, Pressure sensor, conductivity sensor, turbidity sensor, acoustic pressure sensor, "lab on a chip" sensor, force sensor, acceleration sensor, inclination sensor, pH sensor, humidity sensor, magnetic field sensor, An RFID sensor, a Hall sensor, a biochip, an odor sensor, a hydrogen sulfide sensor, and / or a MEMS sensor.

In particular, it is advantageous in terms of monitoring the volume or mass of the dispensed dispenser to provide a flow sensor in the dispensing device, where its viscosity is largely oscillating as a function of temperature. Suitable flow sensors include, but are not limited to, diaphragm flow sensors, magnetic induction flow sensors, Coriolis flowmeters, swirl flowmeter flowmeters, mass flowmeters using ultrasonic flowmeters, floating solid particle flowmeters, thermal mass flowmeters, May be selected from the group of differential pressure flow measurements.

In particular, it is preferable that at least two sensor units are provided to measure different parameters, more preferably, one sensor unit is a conductivity sensor and the other sensor unit is a temperature sensor. Also preferably, the at least one sensor unit is a photosensor.

In particular, the sensors interact to detect the beginning, middle and completion of the cleaning program. Combinations of sensors described in the following table may be used for this purpose.

The conductivity sensor can detect, for example, whether the conductivity sensor is wet with water, thereby determining whether a determination, e.g., whether water is present in the dishwasher.

The cleaning program generally exhibits a characteristic temperature profile, which can be determined by the heating of the wash water and the drying of the item to be cleaned and can be sensed through the temperature sensor.

The light intensity sensor can detect the entry of light into the interior of the dishwasher upon opening of the dishwasher door, from which, for example, the termination of the washing program can be deduced.

In addition, the turbidity sensor may be provided to check the degree of contamination of the item being cleaned in the dishwasher. This also allows, for example, a distribution program to be selected at the dispensing device associated with the identified contamination condition.

It may also be assumed to determine the progress of the cleaning program by the assistance of at least one acoustic sensor by detecting certain acoustic and / or vibration emissions from the viewpoint of pumping or draining water.

Of course, those skilled in the art can use any suitable combination of multiple sensors to achieve monitoring of the cleaning program.

According to an improvement of the invention, it is possible to envisage a temperature-dependent viscosity curve of at least one preparation stored in the control unit, the distribution action being adapted by the control unit according to the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for directly determining the viscosity of a preparation.

An alternative has been described above for determining the dispensed amount and viscosity of the dispenser that performs the generation of the control signal processed by the control unit to control the dispenser, resulting in a substantially constant dispensing of the dispenser.

The data line between the sensor and the control unit can be implemented by an electrically conductive cable or wirelessly. Also, in principle, this means that it is possible, in principle, for at least one sensor to be able to position or position the dispensing device on the outside, in the interior of the dishwasher, and to transmit the measured data from the sensor to the dispensing device, May be assumed for the data line.

The wirelessly embodied data lines are embodied in particular by the transmission of electromagnetic waves or light. For example, it is desirable to embody wireless data lines according to accepted standards such as Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS, and the like.

In order to enable effective production and assembly of the dispensing device, however, at least one sensor may be arranged on the control unit or in the control unit. For example, it is possible to provide a temperature sensor directly to a distribution device or to a circuit board having a control unit such that the temperature sensor does not directly contact the atmosphere.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention the sensor is arranged at the base of the dispensing device and the base of the dispensing device is oriented downwards in the gravity direction at the use position. In this respect, it is particularly preferred that the sensor unit comprises a temperature sensor and / or a conductivity sensor. This type of structure ensures that it is carried on the underside of the dispensing device by the spray arms of the dishwasher and thus contacts the sensor. Since the space between the spray arm and the sensor is as small as possible as a result of being disposed on the underside of the sensor, water can be cooled slightly between the escape from the spray arm and contact with the sensor, and the most accurate temperature measurement can be performed.

In order to extend the energy consumption of the distribution device and the life cycle of the energy source, in particular the battery, the energy load of the distribution device, in particular the control unit, is connected to an energy source comprising an on / off switch, Quot; ON "state, so that the sensor unit constitutes an ON / OFF switch or is connected to the switch and switches the switch.

Particularly preferably, the sensor below at the base of the dispensing device comprises two contacts which are in contact with the atmosphere, which is specially shaped as a contact pin projecting downwardly from the base, one contact being connected to the energy source as the anode contact , The other contacts are connected as cathode contacts, and if there is no electrically conductive connection between the contacts, the on / off switch in the "off" state remains "off " and the electrically conductive connection , The ON / OFF switch in the "OFF" state is switched to the "ON" state.

The on / off switch includes a self-locking circuit that ensures or causes self-locking of the energy supply to the energy load until it reaches the "on" state of the on / off switch and receives a switch-off signal of the control signal It is more preferable to be installed or coupled.

The on / off switch can be embodied as a transistor circuit in particular. In this respect, the transistor of the on / off switch is embodied as a pnp-type transistor and is selectively connected to the voltage supply in the emitter, via a control application circuit; Optionally through a control application circuit, to a ground and a cathode contact at a collector; On the one hand, to the anode contact, on the one hand, via a control application circuit, on the other hand, and, on the other hand, via a control application circuit.

The control application circuit comprises in particular at least one control register embodied as a resistor type voltage divider.

In addition to the on / off sensor unit, a sensor unit embodied as a conductivity sensor is provided, the sensor unit comprising two contacts in contact with the atmosphere below the base of the dispensing device; At the same time, the anode contact of the on / off sensor unit is the anode contact of the sensor unit constituting the conductivity sensor. As a result, an ON / OFF switch and a conductivity sensor can be implemented as one component (transistor).

Further, the sensor unit constituting the temperature sensor may be integrated with the contact of the sensor unit constituting the conductivity sensor, in particular, with the cathode contact.

In the sensor unit constituting the conductivity sensor, the contact receiving the temperature sensor may be embodied as a hollow contact pin in which the temperature sensor of the sensor unit constituting the temperature sensor is disposed.

In order to achieve a compact overall size, the energy source, the control unit, and the sensor unit are arranged and grouped in one assembly, in a component carrier or on a carrier.

It is particularly preferable that the contact of the conductivity sensor disposed on the bottom side is surrounded by the electrically conductive silicon. In this regard, the conductivity sensors may be embodied in the form of resistance measurements between two contacts that are spaced apart from one another and that are in contact with the atmosphere of the dispensing device. From this viewpoint, it is particularly preferred that silicon is injected and buried at the base of the dispensing device. Advantageously, the silicon has a roughly circular base surface. Silicone exhibits good hygroscopicity to water and thus provides good measurement results in terms of detection of water in a dishwasher.

When the DC power source is used, at the contacts of the conductivity sensor, in order to avoid polarization, which may adversely affect the sensor accuracy, it is necessary to use a different polarity in each case, for example a transposed anode and cathode, It is advantageous to perform two consecutive resistance measurements in the sensor, so that overcharge may not be formed at the contacts.

The control unit

To this end, the term "control unit" in this application is a device suitable for influencing the delivery of materials, energy, and / or information. To this end, the control unit influences the actuator by the data, in particular the measurement signal of the sensor unit, which is processed as specified by the control object.

The control unit may in particular be a programmable microprocessor. Particularly in a preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dispensing programs, which can be selected in a particularly preferred embodiment and which can be executed in a manner corresponding to the container connected to the dispensing device, are stored in the microprocessor.

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit does not have a connection to a home appliance control system that may be present. Thus, data, in particular electrical, optical or electromagnetic signals, are not exchanged directly between the control unit and the appliance control system.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the control unit is connected to an existing appliance control unit. This connection is preferably implemented wirelessly. For example, it is possible to position the transmitter on a dishwasher or in a dishwasher, preferably on a dispensing chamber accommodated in the door of a dishwasher, or in the dispensing chamber or in the dispensing chamber, And transmits a signal to the distribution unit wirelessly when causing distribution.

A number of programs for the discharge of different dosages, or for the discharge of products of different applications, may be stored in the control unit.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the invocation of the program may be triggered by corresponding RFID labels or geographical information carriers shaped on the market. For example, it is possible to use the same control unit for a plurality of fields, such as dispensing the cleanser in dishwashers, delivering perfumes in connection with perfuming the room, applying a cleaning substance to the toilet bowl And so on.

Especially for the dispensing of the gelled formulation, the control unit is made on the one hand in a time short enough to ensure a good cleaning result and on the other hand in a way that the formulation is dispensed too rapidly, . This can be achieved, for example, by an interval-type launch, with each dispense period difference being adjusted so that the correspondingly distributed amount during one wash cycle is perfect.

It is particularly preferred that the dispensing interval for delivery of the preparation is 30 to 90 seconds, particularly preferably 45 to 75 seconds.

Delivery of the preparation from the dispensing device can be done sequentially or simultaneously.

It is particularly preferable to sequentially distribute a plurality of preparations in one cleaning program. The following dispensing sequences are particularly preferred:

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dishwasher and the dispensing device interact in a manner such that from 1 mg to 1 g of surfactant is emitted per square meter of washing space wall area in a dishwasher rinse program. This ensures that the walls of the cleaning space maintain their gloss even after a plurality of cleaning cycles and that the distribution system maintains its optical transmission capability.

It is also preferred that the dishwasher and the dispensing device interact in such a way that at least one enzyme containing preparation and / or alkaline preparation is released in a prewash program and / or a main wash program of the dishwasher , It is preferable that the release of the enzyme-containing auxiliary is carried out earlier than the release of the alkaline auxiliary.

In addition, in an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dishwasher and the dispensing apparatus are provided in a pre-wash program and / or a main wash program of the dishwasher in such a way that from 0.1 mg to 250 mg of enzyme protein is released per square meter of wash space wall area So that the gloss of the cleaning space walls is further improved or maintained after the plurality of cleaning cycles.

In a preferred refinement of the invention, data, such as control programs and / or distribution programs, or operating parameters or protocols stored by the control unit are read from or loaded into the control unit. This can be achieved, for example, by an optical interface, and the optical interface is correspondingly connected to the control unit. The data to be transmitted next is coded and particularly emitted or received as an optical signal in the visible region, and the wavelength region is preferably 600 to 800 nm. However, it is also possible to use sensors present in the distribution device to transmit data from the control unit and / or to the control unit. For example, a contact of a conductive sensor connected to the control unit and making the conductive crystal available by resistance measurement at the contact of the conductive sensor may be used for data transmission.

Methods in the control unit

In particular, the control unit allows the configuration of a method for operating a dispensing device that is not permanently connected to the appliance, for delivery of at least one detergent or detergent formulation into the appliance, wherein at least one dispensing program is controlled Wherein the control unit interacts with at least one actuator located in the dispensing system in such a way that the detergent and / or detergent formulation can be released from the dispensing device into the interior of the appliance; The dispensing device comprises at least one receiving unit for signals emitted from at least one transmitting unit arranged in the appliance; At least a part of the signal is converted into a control command for the actuator of the dispensing machine in the dispensing machine side control unit and the reception of the signals is monitored on the dispensing machine side by the control unit, Is activated when no signals are received at the distribution device.

This makes it possible to guarantee the dispensing of the dispenser in the event of a signal interruption between the appliance-side transmitting unit and the dispensing device, since the dispensing device transfers the control right from the appliance to the control system in the dispensing device.

It is particularly preferred that the signal on the appliance side is emitted at predefined periodic time intervals from the transmitting unit on the appliance side to inside the appliance. This enables signals to be stored in the control unit and appliances of the distribution device to be delivered from the appliance-side transmission unit during prescribed periodic time intervals. If the contact between the transmitting unit of the household appliances is interrupted after receiving the signal at the distributing device, this interception is determined by comparing the elapsed time since the most recently received signal to the time at which the sequential signal is expected to be received after the prescribed periodic time interval Can be determined at the distribution device-end.

The periodic signal spaces are preferably selected from 1 second to 10 minutes, preferably 5 seconds to 7 minutes, more preferably 10 seconds to 5 minutes. More preferably, the periodic signal spaces are selected from 3 minutes to 5 minutes.

Thus, it is particularly preferred that the reception of the signal transmitted from the appliance is logged to the control unit of the distribution device with time data t ₁ .

More preferably, after elapse of a predetermined time interval t ₁ - t ₂ starting at t ₁ when no further signal from the appliance is received by the distribution device, the control unit of the distribution device is distributed from the control unit of the distribution device It is desirable to activate the program.

According to a preferred refinement of the invention, the control unit evaluates the number and / or time sequence of signals received by the distribution apparatus in such a way that the distribution program is activated in the control unit according to the evaluation result. This makes it possible, for example, to determine the duration of the washing program of the dishwasher since the beginning, by comparing the point at the time of the first signal reception until the time at which the signal interruption is confirmed so that as the washing program proceeds, May be activated in the control unit of the distribution apparatus.

Also, based on the evaluation of the number of signals and / or the time sequence received by the above-mentioned distribution apparatus, the distribution program stored in the control unit of the distribution apparatus starting from the prescribed program step corresponding to the progress of the cleaning program, It is considered to be activated in the unit. Thus, in the case of signal interruption in the main cleaning step of the cleaning program, it is possible for the distribution program of the distribution device to be activated for the main cleaning step and the sequential cleaning program segments.

The signals emitted from the transmitting unit on the household appliance side particularly include at least one control signal.

In a preferred refinement of the invention, the signals emitted from the transmission unit on the appliance side include at least one monitoring signal.

Additionally, the at least one distribution program stored in the control unit preferably comprises a distribution program of the appliance. This allows the dispensing device to continue the dispensing program initiated by the appliance, in the event of a signal interruption between the appliance and the dispensing device.

Accordingly, it is particularly preferred that the dispensing program stored in the control unit of the dispensing device comprises dispensing programs of the appliance.

If a signal fails to be generated at the distribution device, in a preferred form, an acoustic and / or optical signal can be generated which can be perceived by the user and indicate a signal interruption.

It may also be desirable that the emission of the monitoring signal and / or the control signal to the appliance be made manually by the user. This allows the user to check whether there is signal reception between the sending unit of the appliance and the distribution device, for example, for positioning of the distribution device in the household appliance selected by him or her. This can be implemented, for example, by a button or switch incorporated in an operating member, such as a consumer electronics product, and emits monitoring and / or control signals in operation.

Energy source

To this end, in the present application, an "energy source" is understood as a component of a dispensing system useful for making available energy suitable for operation of a dispensing system or dispensing device. The energy source is preferably constructed in such a way that the distribution system is automated.

Preferably the energy source makes available electrical energy. The energy source may be, for example, a battery, a rechargeable battery, a power supply, a solar cell, or the like.

In particular, it is desirable to implement the energy source interchangeably, for example in the form of a rechargeable battery.

The battery can be, for example, an alkaline manganese battery, a zinc-carbon battery, a nickel-oxyhydroxide battery, a lithium battery, a lithium-iron battery, a zinc-air battery, a zinc chloride battery, A zinc oxide battery, a mercury oxide-zinc battery, and / or a silver oxide zinc battery.

Examples of rechargeable batteries include lead batteries (lead dioxide / lead), nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium ion batteries, nickel polymer batteries, alkaline manganese rechargeable batteries, silver- Hydrogen batteries, and / or nickel-iron batteries.

The rechargeable battery can be specifically configured to be recharged by induction.

However, it is also conceivable to implement a mechanical energy source consisting of one or more helical springs, a torsion or torsion-bar spring, a bending spring, an air spring or a gas-pressure spring, and / or an elastomeric spring.

The energy source is dimensioned in such a way that the dispensing device can perform approximately 300 dispense cycles before the energy source is depleted. In particular, it is preferred that the energy source be capable of performing a 1 to 300 dispense cycle, more preferably a 10 to 300 dispense cycle, even more preferably a 100 to 300 dispense cycle, before the energy source is depleted.

In addition, the means for energy conversion may be provided within the distribution unit or on the distribution unit, which generates a voltage at which the rechargeable battery is charged. Such means may be implemented, for example, as a dynamo driven by the flow of water during the washing cycle in the dishwasher and delivering the generated voltage to the rechargeable battery.

Distribution device light guide

The optical transmission and / or reception unit is preferably arranged in the distribution device, in particular on the component carrier or on the component carrier, in order to protect the electrical and / or optical components of the transmission and / or reception unit from the effects of water spray and wash water.

A light guide having a light transmittance of at least 75% is arranged between the optical transmitting and / or receiving unit and the environment of the dispensing device for transferring light from the atmosphere of the dispensing device to the optical transmitting and / or receiving unit. The light guide is made of transparent plastic having a light transmittance of at least 75%. The transmittance of the light guide is defined as the transmittance between the surface of the light guide to which the light is coupled from the environment of the dispensing device to the light guide and the surface from which the light is coupled to the optical transmission and / or reception unit. The transmittance can be determined for DIN 5036.

The light guide includes at least one incoupling and / or outcoupling point from which the light is in-coupled or out-coupled from the optical transmitting and / or receiving unit and / or from the atmosphere of the dispensing device.

In particular, the light guide is preferably implemented as a component with the component carrier. Advantageously, the component carrier is shaped as a transparent material.

An aperture is provided in the dispensing device to calculate the in-coupling and / or out-coupling point of the light guide and the optical connection between the light guide and the environment. The in-coupling and / or out-coupling points may be arranged on the sealing surface at the base or top of the dispensing device. It may be advantageous for the incoupling and / or outcoupling of the light guide to be implemented in a lenticular or prismatic form, in order to configure the good transmission and / or reception characteristics available for the optical signals. have.

Further, the light guides may be of the same material or of different materials, in the form of multi-layers and / or multiple parts. It is also possible that an air gap is provided between the multi-layered and / or light guides shaped in the form of multiple parts. For multi-layer and / or multi-component configurations, the transmittance of the light guide is between the surface of the light guide to which the light is coupled from the atmosphere of the dispensing device and the surface from which the light is coupled from the light guide to the optical transmission and / As shown in Fig.

Also preferably, at least two incoupling or outcoupling points are provided between the light guide and the atmosphere. In particular, it is advantageous for the in-coupling and out-coupling points to be located substantially facing each other on the dispensing device.

Dishwasher dispensing device

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device is capable of receiving a signal from a dispensing device coupled to the dishwasher.

The delivery device for delivering at least one preparation to the interior of the dishwasher may in particular be a delivery device for a detergent dispenser, a rinse aid or salt, or a combination dispensing device.

Advantageously, the delivery device comprises at least one transmitting unit and / or at least one receiving unit for wireless transmission of signals to the interior of the dishwasher and for wireless reception of signals from the interior of the dishwasher.

In particular, the transmitting and / or receiving unit is preferably configured for the emission or reception of an optical signal. In particular, it is more preferable that the transmitting unit and / or the receiving unit are configured for the emission or reception of light in the visible region. Typically, since there is a darkening effect inside the washing space while the dishwasher is operating, signals in the optical visible region, for example in the form of signal pulses or optical flashes, can be emitted and / or detected.

Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the transmitting and / or receiving unit is configured for the emission or reception of an infrared signal. In particular, it is advantageous for the transmitting and / or receiving unit to be configured for the emission or reception of infrared signals in the near infrared region (780 nm to 3000 nm).

In particular, the transmitting unit includes at least one LED. Particularly preferably, the transmitting unit includes at least two LEDs. In particular, in the present invention, it is advantageous that at least two LEDs are arranged at a 90 DEG emission offset angle with respect to one another. This can reduce the risk of signal shadows in which a receiver of arbitrarily locatable signals, in particular a distribution device, can be located, by means of a plurality of reflections occurring in the food-based machine.

Further, according to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide at least two LEDs emitting light at mutually different wavelengths. This allows, for example, to define different signal bands where data can be transmitted and received.

Further, in an improvement of the present invention, it is advantageous that at least one LED is an RGB LED whose wavelength is adjustable. Thus, for example, it is possible to define one LED of various signal bands emitting light at different wavelengths. Also, for example, during the drying operation, it can be considered that light is emitted at a different wavelength while the high humidity (mist) is present in the washing space, for example during the washing step.

The transmission unit of the delivery device is particularly suitable for the emission of signals into the interior of the dishwasher, especially when the dishwasher door is closed, and in particular when the dishwasher door is open, such as in the operating state of the salt or rinse aid storage vessel of the dishwasher An LED may be provided to provide an optical indication of the charge level.

In particular, the optical signal is preferably implemented as a sequence of signal pulses or signal pulses having a pulse duration of 1 ms to 10 seconds, preferably 5 ms to 100 ms.

In addition, the transmitting unit emits an optical signal which, when the dishwasher door is closed, yields an average illuminance (E) of 0.01 to 100 lux, preferably 0.1 to 50 lux measured at the wall defining the range of the washing space It is advantageous to be configured in such a manner that This roughness is sufficient to produce a large number of reflections from other wash-space walls or from other wash-space walls, and signal shading that may be present in the wash space, especially when the washer is in a loaded state, is reduced or prevented .

The receiving unit of the delivery device may in particular comprise a photodiode.

In an improvement of the invention, the delivery device can additionally or alternatively be configured for the emission or reception of a radio signal.

The signal emitted by the transmitting unit and / or the signal received by the receiving unit is in particular a carrier of information, in particular a control signal.

Preferably, the delivery device is arranged at the door of the dishwasher.

A receptacle for releasable securing of the dispensing device on the delivery device may further be provided in the delivery device. This makes it possible, for example, to place the dispensing device on top of the delivery device of the dishwasher, in particular in the combination dispensing device, as well as in the tableware rack of the dishwasher. On the other hand, this means that the loading space of the tableware rack is not occupied by the dispensing device; On the other hand means that the prescribed positioning of the dispensing device around the delivery device is achieved.

Delivery devices, such as a combination dispensing device, often include a pivotable flap that opens in the cleaning program to deliver the cleaning preparation present in the dispensing chamber of the combination device into the interior of the dishwasher. The receptacle for the dispensing device can be implemented on the delivery device in such a way that the opening of the flap is prevented when the dispensing device is secured to the receptacle. This prevents the risk of double distribution from the dispensing device and the delivery device.

It is also advantageous if the transmitter fixation system and the transmitter and / or receiver unit are configured in such a manner that at least the transmitter unit emits directly onto the receiver of the distribution device arranged in the fixed system.

Advantageously, the dispensing device is not permanently connected to the dishwasher, for use in a dispensing system including a delivery device, for wireless transmission of signals from the interior of the dishwasher to the delivery device, And at least one receiving unit and / or at least one transmitting unit for receiving.

adapter

The simple connection of the water delivery appliances and the distribution system can be achieved by adapters. The adapter is used for the mechanical and / or electrical connection of the water transfer appliances and distribution systems.

The adapter is preferably rigidly connected to the water transfer line of the appliance. However, it is also contemplated to provide the adapter within the appliance or at a location on the appliance, the location of the adapter being contacted by the flow of water and / or the spray stream of the appliance.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the adapter is configured such that the release of the preparation from the dispensing device in the state of being coupled with the adapter is not made directly with the washing tub, but consists of water transferred to the adapter through the water transfer line, Filled water is delivered from the adapter to the interior of the dishwasher.

Preferably, the adapter is configured in such a way that in the state of being up-coupled from the dispensing device, the discharge of water from the adapter is prevented. This can be prevented, for example, by the fact that the adapter does not transfer water into the adapter into the adapter or into the adapter, or else the fact that the water in the water transfer line flows through the adapter, For example, a silicone silt member that blocks the adapter in a substantially liquid-tight manner upon removal of the dispensing device from the adapter.

The adapter makes it possible to configure the distribution system in both autonomous and built-in versions by connecting a unique autonomous distribution device with the adapter. It is also possible, for example, to implement the adapter as a type of loading station for a dispensing system in which the energy source of the dispensing system is charged or the data is exchanged between the dispensing device and the adapter or dishwasher.

The adapter may be arranged on one of the inner walls of the cleaning chamber, especially in the dishwasher on the inner side of the dishwasher door. However, for adapters which are located in the water-conveying consumer electronics in such a way that the user can not enter, for example during the assembly with household appliances, the distributing appliance is inserted into the adapter such that the adapters, It can be considered to be implemented in such a way that it can be connected to the device.

Exemplary embodiments

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown in the figures that follow and are described in greater detail below with reference to it.

The dishwasher 1 according to Fig. 1 comprises a loading door 2, a rotor or spray arm 3 for wetting the object 4 to be cleaned, and a rack (not shown) for holding these objects, (5). It is also possible to see a dispensing device 6 according to the invention, which is introduced in one of the racks in an embodiment.

 The autonomously-operating dispensing device 6 according to Fig. 2 accurately conveys one cleaning pell 7. However, it may be embodied for dispensing more than one liquid detergent. It is also contemplated to store a detergent for more than one wash cycle. In this exemplary embodiment, the dispensing device 6 is equipped with photodiodes 8 and further sensors, such as, for example, a humidity sensor 9, both of which are connected to the control unit 12. The energy supply is ensured by the photocell 10 charging the rechargeable battery 11 that supplies energy to the control unit 12 when the dishwasher is opened or when the dispensing apparatus is removed. The measured value can be stored or buffered in the memory 13 by the control unit. For the storage of the cleaning pills 7, the dispensing apparatus shown here is arranged to open via the mechanical part 15 by the control unit as soon as a particular state, e. G. In the appliance, is detected by the sensors 8,9. (14). &Lt; / RTI &gt;

3 schematically shows a dispensing device 16 which can be introduced into the dishwasher 17, for example into a dishwasher door. In this embodiment, the receptacle 18 is provided with a dispensing device to be introduced at the prescribed position.

This can be assumed, for example, by wireless communication between the dispensing device and the consumer control system 19, for example, by infrared or light based sensor suites.

Figure 3 additionally illustrates an operation button 20 for performing a manual setting of a program sequence that can be detected, for example, by an autonomous distribution device in accordance with the above described exemplary embodiment, It is possible to control better.

In the variant embodiment shown, the dispensing device has described the dispensing of cleaning pellets.

However, according to the present invention, this type of household appliances can be used for autonomous dispensing devices that dispense liquid detergents, particularly including multi-component liquid detergent systems.

Figure 4 shows an autonomous dispensing device 20 with two chamber cartridges 21 in a separate and assembled state.

The dispensing device 20 includes two dispensing chamber inlets 221a and 221b for repeated removable receipt of corresponding outlet openings 25a and 25b of the chambers 23a and 23b of the cartridge 21. [ The instruction and control member 37 indicating the open state of the dispensing device 20 and operating it is located on the front side.

The dispensing chamber inlets 221a and 221b cause the outlet openings 25a and 25b of the chambers 23a and 23b to open when the cartridge 21 is placed over the dispensing device 20, Further comprising means in which the interior of the chamber (23a, 23b) is communicatively connected to the dispensing chamber inlets (221a, 221b) when the cartridge (21) is in the connected state.

The cartridge 21 may be composed of one or more chambers 23a, 23b. The cartridge 21 may be embodied as a single part or as multiple parts by multiple chambers 23a and 23b and the separate chambers 23a and 23b may be intermaterial, To the cartridge (21).

The fastening can be done by one or more connection types from the group of, in particular, a snap-in connection, a press connection, a fused connection, an adhesive connection, a weld connection, a solder connection, a screw connection, a wedge connection, a clamped connection or a flip connection have. The fastening can also be achieved by a shrink sleeve which is at least locally pulled over the cartridge, in particular in the heated state, and which, in the cooled state, fixedly surrounds the cartridge.

The chambers 23a, 23b of the cartridge 21 may be filled with the same or different volumes. In the case of a structure having two chambers 23a and 23b, the ratio of chamber volume is preferably 5: 1, and in the case of a structure having three chambers, preferably 4: 1: 1, Are particularly suitable for use in dishwashers.

The chambers 23a and 23b include preparations 40a and 40b, respectively. The formulations 40a and 40b may have the same or different composition.

Advantageously, the chambers 23a, 23b are made of a transparent material so that the degree of filling of the preparations 40a, 40b can be seen from the outside by the user. However, it may be desirable that at least one of the chambers be made of an opaque material, particularly if the formulation present in the chamber comprises light sensitive material.

The exit openings 25a and 25b are configured such that these openings constitute positive and / or frictionally coupled, in particular light blocking, connections with the corresponding distribution chamber inlets 221a and 221b.

Each of the exit openings 25a and 25b is implemented to fit only one of the dispense chamber inlets 221a and 221b so as to prevent the chamber from being inadvertently placed inadvertently into the dispense chamber inlet. This can be done, for example, by exit openings 25a, 25b and / or dispense chamber inlets 221a, 221b which are different in size or that are deformed from the perspective of the basic shape.

Figure 5 shows the autonomous dispensing device 20 having two chamber cartridges 21 in the tableware rack 5 and the dishwasher door 2 of the dishwasher 1 being opened. The dispensing device 20 with the cartridges 21 can in principle be located at any point in the tableware rack 5 so that the dish or cup shaped dispensing system 20, ) With a corresponding dish or cup receptacle of the cup. A dispensing chamber 53 is located in the dishwasher door 2 where the dishwashing detergent can be placed, for example, in the form of a pill. If the dispensing systems 20 and 21 are present in the dishwasher 1 in an operational ready state, the detergent delivery for a plurality of cleaning operations, as described in more detail below, may be implemented via the dispensing systems 20 and 21 It is not necessary to add the cleaning agent during each washing cycle through the dispensing chamber 53. [ An advantage of this embodiment of the present invention is that the delivery of formulations 40a and 40b out of the cartridge 21 can be facilitated if the autonomous dispensing systems 20 and 21 are located in the lower rack 5 of the tableware, Directly through the outlet openings arranged at the bottom of the washing tub, thus ensuring rapid dissolution and uniform distribution of the cleaning bath in the washing program.

Figure 6 shows two chamber cartridges 21 separated by an autonomous dispensing machine 20 and an internal electronics integrated dispensing machine. The cartridge 21 can be used for both the autonomous dispensing device 20 and the home appliance integrated dispensing device (not shown, for example, located at the dishwasher door 2), as indicated by the arrows shown in Fig. 6 And the like.

Inside the side surface of the dishwasher door 2 which is directed to the inside of the dishwasher 1, a depression 43 into which the cartridge 21 can be inserted is formed; As a result of the insertion, the outlet openings 25a, 25b of the cartridge 21 are communicatively connected to the adapter components 42a, 42b. Accordingly, the adapter components 42a and 42b are connected to the home appliance integrated distribution device.

Retention members 44a and 44b for ensuring frictional engagement and / or positive engagement of the cartridge at the depression 43 are provided on the depression 43 for fastening the cartridge 21 at the depression 43 . Of course, it is also conceivable that a corresponding holding member is provided on the cartridge 1. The retaining members 44a, 44b can be preferably selected in the snap connection, latch connection, snap / latch connection, clamped connection, or plug connection group.

During operation of the dishwasher 1, the preparations 40a and 40b are transported out of the cartridge 21 to the corresponding cleaning cycle by means of a consumer-integrated dispensing device and through the adapter members 42a and 42b.

Fig. 7 shows a known cartridge 21 from Fig. 6 in a state in which it is installed in the door 2 of the dishwasher 1. Fig. As a result of the integration of the dispensing unit 20 and the cartridge 21 into the door 2 of the dishwasher 1 there is no loss of space for the item to be cleaned in the tableware rack 5, Showing substantial advantages of the embodiment.

A further embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig. Figure 8 shows a cartridge 21 known in Figure 6 having a chamber 45 disposed on top of the cartridge 21 and containing a plurality of openings 46 in its sealing surface. The chamber 45 is filled with an air cleaning aid which is preferably passed through the opening 46 to the atmosphere. The air cleaners may in particular comprise a substance which neutralizes at least one aroma and / or one odor.

As compared to the arrangement of the inner cartridges 21 of the dishwasher 1 as is known from Figs. 6 and 7, an adapter member 42a (not shown) for connection to the cartridge 21 on the outer surface of the dishwasher 1, , 42b) can be provided. This is illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 by way of example. Such a structure may be particularly advantageous for the thermosensitive preparations 40a, 40b, since this preparation is not directly exposed to temperature variations that normally occur in the cleaning program.

Of course, the cartridge shown in Figs. 8 and 9 can be disposed with the chamber 45 containing the air purifying material in the correspondingly shaped receptacle inside the dishwasher 1.

A further embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figs. 10 and 11. Fig. The distribution device 20 can be connected to the cartridge 21, as indicated by the first arrow on the left side of the figure. Thereafter, the cartridge 21 and the dispensing device 20 are coupled as an assembly through interfaces 47 and 48, as indicated by the right arrow. The distribution device 20 includes an interface 47 through which data and / or energy is transferred to and / or from the distribution device 20. A depression 43 for receiving the dispensing device 20 is provided in the door 2 of the dishwasher 1. A second interface (48) is provided in the depression (43) for transferring data and / or energy to and / or from the dispensing device (20).

The data and / or energy is preferably exchanged wirelessly between the first interface 47 on the dispensing device 20 and the second interface 48 on the dishwasher 1. Particularly preferably, the energy is transmitted wirelessly from the interface 48 of the dishwasher 1 to the distribution device 20 via the interface 47. This can occur, for example, inductively and / or capacitively.

It is a further advantage to configure an interface for wireless transmission of data. This may be accomplished using methods known in the art for radio transmission of data, for example, by radio transmission or IR transmission. Particularly preferably, the wireless transmission of data and signals is embodied by optical transmission technology of the visible region.

Alternatively, the interfaces 47 and 48 may be embodied by integral plug connectors. Advantageously, the plug connector is embodied such that the plug connector is protected from penetration of water or moisture.

12 shows the distribution chamber 53 in which the transmission unit 87 and the reception unit 91 are integrated. This type of dispensing chamber 53 is also referred to as a combination dispensing device. The dispensing chamber 53 includes a receptacle closable through an articulated closing cover for the dishwashing detergent. Figure 13 shows a closed cover in an open position. In addition, the dispensing chamber 53 may also include a receptacle for the rinse aid represented by an annular closure at the right hand side of the closed cover in Figs. 12 and 13.

The transmitting unit 87 includes light emitting means disposed in the transmitting unit 87 such that the light emitting means emits the inside of the dishwasher. In particular, the light emitting means may be an LED or a laser diode. The LEDs are projected in the plane of the transmitting unit 87 and the LEDs are arranged such that the LEDs produce the largest possible emission angle.

The transmitting unit 87 is used for emitting a signal to the interior of the dishwasher 1, particularly when the dishwasher door 2 is closed, and particularly when the dishwasher door 2 is opened, , For example the filling level of the storage container for a salt or rinse aid in a dishwasher.

The receiving unit 91 is preferably made of a photodiode suitable for detecting an optical signal from the interior of the dishwasher. Like the transmitting unit 87, the photodiode of the receiving unit 91 can protrude from the plane of the receiving unit to achieve the most optimal radiation characteristics on the photodiode.

The distribution chamber 53 can include the receptacle 107 by releasably or fixedly connecting the dispensing system of the dispensing device 20 and the movement made of the cartridge 21 to the dispensing chamber 53. [ This is schematically shown in Fig.

In this variant embodiment, the dispensing chamber 53 is fixedly integrated into the dishwasher door 2. The dispensing device 20 comprises a receiving unit 91 adapted to receive a signal from a transmitting unit 87 of the dispensing chamber 53. [ 14 (B), when the dispensing system and the dispensing chamber 53 are in a connected state, the receiving unit 91 on the dispensing machine and the dispensing chamber 87 on the dispensing chamber are opposed to each other directly The shortest possible distance between the transmitting unit 87 and the receiving unit 91 is obtained.

The receptacle 107 may be formed, for example, by a dispensing system to form a detachable or fixed connection, e.g., a snap / latch connection, which is positively and / or frictionally connected.

The manner in which the transmitting unit 87 interacts with the interior of the dishwasher 1, and in particular with the dispensing apparatus 20 disposed in the tableware rack will be described below with reference to Figures 15-19.

First, Fig. 15 will be discussed. The dishwasher 1 is shown in a schematic cross-sectional view. Two tableware racks 5a, 5b, which accommodate items to be cleaned, such as dishes, cups, etc., are located inside the dishwasher 1 and are arranged above and below. The dishwasher 1 has a swivelable door 2 shown in a closed state in Fig. The transmitting unit 87 connected to the control system of the dishwasher 1 is integrated into the dishwasher door 2. [ The transmission unit 87 is preferably integrated into the combination distribution device 53 according to Figs.

The transmitting unit 87 includes an LED which emits an optical signal 88 which is a carrier of control data into the dishwasher 1. This signal and the direction of this signal are indicated by arrows in Fig. The dotted arrow indicates that the optical signal 88 emitted from the transmission unit 87 is an optical flash or optical pulse.

The dispensing apparatus 20 having the cartridge 21 is placed in the lower rack 5b of the tableware. Of course, the dispensing device 20 with the cartridges 21 in any suitable position in the rack 5 of the upper or lower tableware can be arranged; The dish receptacle provided on the table-top table rack (5) or on the tableware rack is preferred for the arrangement of the dispensing apparatus (20).

The distribution device 20 has a receiving unit 91 not shown in Fig. The optical signal 88 emitted from the transmission unit 87 is received by the receiving unit 91 of the distribution device 20 and is evaluated or converted by the control unit of the distribution device 20. [

In particular, at the start of the cleaning program, an optical signal 88 may be transmitted from the transmitting unit 87, which signal after being received by the distributing device 20 is controlled by the control of the distributing device 20, ) To control the distribution time and amount of control delivered to the control system. This is particularly advantageous if the control system of the dispensing device 20 has its own dispensing program for the separate operation of the dishwasher 1 but can be executed in accordance with the direction of the corresponding signal 88 of the existing transmitting unit 87 It does not.

16 shows a state in which the dispensing device 20 of the tableware rack 5b is surrounded by an item (object) to be cleaned, for example, to prevent reception of the signal 88 from the transmitting unit 87 and to the transmitting unit. Therefore, this indicates that the distribution apparatus 20 can not receive a signal from the transmission unit 87. [ This may occur, for example, because the item is cleaned at the tip during the course of the dishwashing program.

The dispensing program from the control unit of the dispensing device 20 can be used to control the dispensing device 20 so that the dispensing device 20 can be cleaned without regard to the control system of the dishwasher 1. [ So that at least one preparation 40 of the program can be dispensed. This prevents a situation in which the preparation 40 can not be delivered to the interior of the dishwasher 1 during the cleaning program due to signal interruption, thereby causing the cleaning performance to be weakened. This applies both to the initiation of the wash program and to both situations in the wash program.

In order to detect a signal interruption between the distribution device 20 and the transmission unit 87, an additional monitoring signal 90 is provided, which is emitted by the transmission unit 87 for a predefined fixed time interval , The control signal 88 is immediately emitted for a fixed time interval or just as soon as the control signal is transmitted. This is illustrated by way of example in FIG. Since the transmission unit 87 is normally operated through the power supply line of the dishwasher 1, the emission of the periodic monitoring signal 90 does not represent an unacceptable burden on the energy source of the distribution device 20 Since the monitoring signal 90 simply needs to be received and evaluated in the cleaning program.

18, this indicates that the energy source of the distribution device 20 is connected to the monitoring signal 90, which is transmitted from the distribution device 2 to the corresponding receiving unit 91 of the dishwasher 1, 88), it can of course be assumed.

In principle, the transmission and reception modes of the control and monitoring signals 88, 90 according to FIGS. 18 and 19, which are superimposed and / or processed in parallel, are possible. In other words, the monitoring signal 90 is emitted by the transmitting unit 87, received by the distribution unit 20, and the control signal 88 is transmitted to the receiving unit 91 by the distribution unit.

A further embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. 20, which shows a distribution apparatus 20 having an optical transmission and reception unit 211. Fig. The control signal 88b can be transmitted to the dishwasher-side receiving unit 91 by the optical transmitting and receiving unit 211 and the control signal 88c can be received from the dishwasher-side transmitting unit 87 . The dishwasher-side receiving unit 91 and the dishwasher-side transmitting unit 87 are preferably disposed in a combination dispensing apparatus as shown in Figs. 12 to 14. The optical signal 88a from the optical transmitting and receiving unit 211 can be connected to the cartridge 21 and in particular to the strut 29 embodied as a light guide and / And can be received by the transmitting and receiving unit 211. [

Figure 21 is an exploded view showing the essential components of a dispensing system consisting of a cartridge 21 and a dispensing device 20.

As may be gathered in Fig. 21, the cartridge 21 is assembled with two cartridge members 26, 27. Fig. The dispensing device 20 is substantially constructed of a component carrier 223 and a console 254 into which the component carrier 223 can be inserted. In the assembled state, the console 254 preferably surrounds the component carrier 223 to prevent penetration of water into the component carrier 223.

22 is a side view of an embodiment of a component carrier 223 of dispensing device 20, which is described in greater detail below.

An energy source 215, a control unit 216 and a sensor unit 217 as well as a distribution chamber 220, an actuator 218 and a closing member 219 are disposed on the component carrier 223. The dispensing chamber 220, the pre-dispensing chamber 226, the dispensing chamber inlet 221 and the receptacle 229 are embodied as one part by the part carrier 223.

As may be gathered in Fig. 22, the energy source 215, the control unit 216 and the sensors 217 are grouped together into one assembly by being disposed on a corresponding circuit board.

As shown in FIG. 23, the pre-distribution chamber 226 and the actuator 218 are disposed substantially adjacent to each other on the component carrier 223. The pre-distribution chamber 226 has a basic shape of L-shape with a shoulder in the lower region where the receptacle 229 for the actuator 218 is grooved therein. An outlet chamber 227 is disposed under the pre-dispense chamber 226 and the actuator 218. The pre-dispense chamber 226 and the outlet chamber 227 together constitute a dispensing chamber 220.

The pre-distribution chamber 226 and the outlet chamber 227 are connected to each other through an opening 234. Since the receptacle 229, the opening 234 and the dispensing chamber outlet 222 are located on an arrangement that traverses the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 223, the bar closure member 219 is positioned in the openings 222, 229 , &Lt; / RTI &gt; 234).

23, the outlet chamber 227 and the rear wall of the pre-distribution chamber 226 have an integral shape with the component carrier. Thereafter, the front wall may be connected to the dispensing chamber 220 between materials, e.g., a cover member or film (not shown).

The configuration of the dispensing chamber 220 will be described in more detail with reference to the detailed view of FIG. This shows an outlet chamber 227 with a base 262. The base 262 is funnelly inclined towards the dispensing chamber outlet 222 centrally located in the outlet chamber 227. The dispensing chamber outlet 222 is located in a channel 263 that extends in the exit chamber 227 at a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 223. The channel 263 and the dispensing chamber outlet 222 disposed therein are located within the funnel-shaped base 262 as well as the dispensing chamber 220 when the position of the dispensing device is out of the horizontal, . In addition, the dispenser flows quickly out of the dispensing chamber, especially in high viscosity preparations due to the corresponding funnel-shaped base structure, so that dispense intervals during dispensing can be kept short.

23, only the intermediate distribution chamber 220 is provided with a funnel-shaped base structure of the type just described. It is understood that, apart from this description, different or additional or all dispensing chambers may also have this structure. It also applies the pre-distribution chamber 226 and outlet chamber 227 to the extent they are provided.

Claims (15)

A consumer product having a program control system for controlling program sequences for at least one operating parameter and / or an operating sequence of at least one consumer electronics component,
The program control system comprising a program mode for use of a dispensing device that is non-permanently installed in the appliance, wherein the program control system comprises at least one operating parameter and / or a program for at least one operating sequence of the at least one household component The program sequence of the mode controls dispensing based on the operating parameters and / or operating sequence sensed in the sen- ious format, in cooperation with the capabilities of the sensor suite of the dispensing device being non-permanently installed,
Characterized in that the household appliance is configured to transmit a signal to the non-permanently installed distribution device, the signal comprising a control signal for controlling the distribution and a monitoring signal for detecting a signal interruption in the distribution device Household appliances. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein said program mode cooperating with said sensor suite of dispensers installed non-permanently is manually operable. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein a control button is provided for manual operation of said program mode. The method according to claim 1,
Characterized in that means are provided for automatic recognition of a dispensing device that is non-permanently installed in the appliance. The method according to claim 1,
Characterized in that a receiving device is provided for receiving a dispensing device which is non-permanently installed in a defined operating position. 6. The method of claim 5,
Characterized in that the receiving device is provided at a door of the household appliance. The method according to claim 1,
Characterized in that a transmission system is provided for transmitting information between a monitoring unit of said appliance and a dispensing apparatus which is non-permanently installed in said appliance. The method according to claim 1,
Characterized in that a wireless transmitter unit is provided for transmitting at least one signal to said distribution device, said wireless transmitter unit being configured to transmit an optical signal. The method according to claim 1,
A wireless receiver is provided for receiving at least one signal from the distribution device, the wireless receiver being configured to receive an optical signal. A dispensing device for use in a household appliance according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing device comprises:
At least one cartridge for a detergent or detergent having a plurality of chambers for each physically separate containment of different preparations of flowable detergent or detergent, and
A dispensing device connectable to said cartridge, said dispensing device comprising:
- at least one energy source,
- control unit,
- Sensor unit,
At least one actuator connected to the energy source and the control unit such that a control signal of the control unit causes operation of the actuator,
A closing member connected to the actuator for actuating the actuator to switch the closing member to the closed or transmitting position,
- at least one distribution chamber communicatively connected to at least one of the cartridge chambers when the cartridge and the dispensing device are in an assembled state,
The dispensing chamber comprises an inlet for the introduction of detergent or detergent from the cartridge chamber and an outlet for discharge of the detergent or detergent from the dispensing chamber into the atmosphere,
- at least the outlet of said distribution chamber can be blocked or exposed by a closing member,
Wherein the distribution device is adapted to provide at least one first and / or at least one first and / or second electrical energy interacting with a corresponding interface embodied in the appliance or on the appliance, such that transmission of signals and / or electrical energy from the appliance to the distribution appliance occurs, Interface,
Characterized in that the distribution device is arranged to receive a signal from the household appliance, the signal comprising a control signal for controlling the distribution and a monitoring signal for detecting a signal interruption in the distribution device Use distribution device. 11. The method of claim 10,
Wherein the interfaces are configured to emit and / or receive optical signals. 12. The method of claim 11,
Wherein the optical signal is embodied as a sequence of signal pulses or signal pulses having a pulse duration of 1 ms to 10 seconds. 12. The method of claim 11,
Wherein at least one interface is embodied as a light transmitting unit having light emitting means for irradiating light in a visible region and / or an IR region. delete A delivery device for use in the appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 9, adapted to control the dispensing device according to claim 10 for delivery of at least one preparation into the appliance As a result,
Wherein the transmission device is detachably connected to the household appliance,
Wherein the transmitting device comprises at least one transmitting unit for wirelessly transmitting signals into the appliance and / or at least one receiving unit for wirelessly receiving signals from the inside of the appliance, the transmitting unit and / And / or the receiving unit is separately configured for the emission and reception of an optical signal, and the transmitting unit and / or the receiving unit are separately configured for the emission and reception of light in the visible region,
Wherein the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit a signal to the distribution device, the signal comprising a control signal for controlling the distribution and a monitoring signal for detecting a signal interruption at the distribution device .

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