KR20130062271A - Metering system for use in conjunction with a water-conducting household appliance such as a washing machine, dishwasher, clothes dryer or the like - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a metering system (1) for use with water supply appliances (2), such as washing machines, dishwashers, clothes dryers, etc., wherein a plurality of metering portions of at least one flowable preparation (4a, 4b, 4c) At least one storage reservoir (3a, 3b, 3c), storage reservoir (3a, 3b, 3c) for storing the and is provided to be located outside of the processing chamber (6) of the water supply household appliances (2) Prepared from at least one metering device 5a, 5b, 5c without any connection with the water supply line of the water supply household appliance 2, at least one sensor, storage reservoir or metering device which detects the presence of at least water in the water supply household appliance When there is at least one pump or vibration atomizer for transporting or discharging water, there is a defined sensor signal indicative of the presence of water and / or the operation of the water supply appliance. To transfer from the reservoir or the metering unit by means of a pump or a vibration aeteo optimizer comprises at least one control unit for cooperation with the sensor and the pump or vibration aeteo optimizer. The metering system according to the invention comprises at least one fluid line 7, which connects the storage reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c or the metering devices 5a, 5b, 5c to the processing chamber 6 of the water supply household appliance 2. Further comprising 7a, 7b, 7c, the preparations 4a, 4b, 4c pass through the openings 8, 8a, 8b, 8c, 9, 10, 10a, 10b, 10c of the water supply household appliance 2; The metering devices 5a, 5b, 5c located outside the processing chamber 6 of the water supply household appliance 2 can be supplied into the processing chamber 6 of the water supply household appliance 2, the opening being a processing chamber ( 6) is connected.

Description

METERING SYSTEM FOR USE IN CONJUNCTION WITH A WATER-CONDUCTING HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE SUCH AS A WASHING MACHINE, DISHWASHER, CLOTHES DRYER OR THE LIKE}

The present invention relates to a dispensing system for use with water supply appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, washers / dryers, etc., which system is intended to be located outside the processing room of water supply appliances and It does not include any connections with the handset line. In particular, the present invention relates to a dispensing system having at least one fluid line connecting a dispensing system and a processing chamber of water-delivery appliances through an orifice connected to the processing chamber.

Automatic laundry and dishwashing detergents are available to consumers in many forms. These automatic laundry and dishwashing detergents are typically sold to consumers in solid form, for example as powders or tablets, but increasingly in liquid or gel form. For quite some time, attention has been focused on simplifying the operations required to perform convenient dispensing and cleaning or cleaning methods of cleaning and cleaning detergents.

In addition, one of the main goals of automatic laundry and cleaning detergent manufacturers has recently been to pay attention to cleaning and cleaning performance in improving the cleaning and cleaning performance of these detergents in low temperature cleaning and cleaning cycles or in cleaning and cleaning cycles that have reduced water consumption. This is increasing. To this end, new ingredients such as higher active surfactants, polymers, enzymes or bleaches have been added to the washing and cleaning detergents. However, new approaches are only available to a limited extent and the amount of components used per cleaning and cleaning cycle cannot be arbitrarily increased for environmental and economic reasons, so this approach of solving the problem is of course limited.

In this regard, product developers have recently been particularly interested in devices for multiple dispensing of cleaning and cleaning detergents. With respect to this appliance, on the one hand it may be distinguished into a dispensing chamber integrated into the dishwasher or washing machine and, on the other hand, a separate appliance independent of the dishwasher or washing machine. Having received the various amounts of cleaning or cleaning detergent necessary to carry out the cleaning or cleaning method, the device automatically or semi-automatically dispenses the cleaning or cleaning detergent part into the interior of the water supply appliance during a plurality of continuous cleaning or cleaning methods. For the consumer, manual dispensing for each cleaning or cleaning cycle is no longer needed. Examples of such devices are described in European patent application EP 1 759 624 A2 (Reckitt Benckiser) or in German patent application DE 53 5005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbH).

It is an object of the present invention to provide a dispensing system for water-delivery appliances that provides improved dispensing of a plurality of preparations to a processing chamber of water-delivery appliances.

The object is achieved in accordance with the invention by a dispensing system having the features of claim 1 and by a method of discharging the preparation into the interior of a water supply household appliance having the features of claim 16.

The dispensing system according to the present invention for use with water supply appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, washing machines and dryers,

적어도 하나의 유동성 조제물의 복수의 디스펜싱 부분들을 저장하기 위한 적어도 하나의 리저버 (reservoir),

At least one reservoir for storing a plurality of dispensing portions of the at least one flowable formulation,

리저버에 결합할 수 있고,

Can be coupled to the reservoir,

   Is located outside the processing room of water supply appliances,

   At least one dispenser that does not include any connection with the water line of the water supply appliance,

송수 가전 제품에서 물의 존재를 적어도 검출하는 적어도 하나의 센서,

At least one sensor for detecting at least the presence of water in the water supply household appliance,

리저버 또는 디스펜서로부터 조제물을 이송하는 적어도 하나의 펌프,

At least one pump for transferring a preparation from a reservoir or dispenser,

규정된 센서 신호가 존재한다면, 적어도 하나의 조제물이 펌프에 의해 리저버 또는 디스펜서로부터 이송되도록 센서 및 펌프와 협동 작용하는 적어도 하나의 제어 유닛, 및

At least one control unit cooperating with the sensor and the pump such that at least one preparation is transported from the reservoir or dispenser by the pump, if a defined sensor signal is present, and

리저버 또는 디스펜서를 송수 가전 제품의 처리실과 연결하여서, 조제물이 송수 가전 제품의 처리실 외부에 위치한 디스펜서로부터 처리실과 연결된 송수 가전 제품의 오리피스를 통하여 송수 가전 제품의 처리실로 공급될 수도 있는 적어도 하나의 유체 라인을 포함한다.

At least one fluid that may be supplied to the processing chamber of the water-feeding appliance by connecting the reservoir or dispenser with the processing chamber of the water-delivery appliance, through the orifice of the water-powered appliance connected to the processing chamber from a dispenser located outside the processing chamber of the water-delivery appliance. Include a line.

The dispensing system according to the present invention may be used with an existing water supply household appliance without the need to restructure the existing water supply household appliance. In addition, the dispensing system can be integrated into a water supply appliance so that the fluid line extends inside the water supply appliance invisible to the user. In addition, the dispensing system, in particular the reservoir containing the preparation, is located outside the process chamber, so that it is not exposed to any mechanical, hydraulic or thermal influences (rotary washing drums, hot water, steam, etc.) conventionally found in the process chamber.

The dispensing system particularly allows for precise dispensing, which is suitable for the situation, of unstable preparations, especially when stored together. The present invention is capable of feeding liquid washing detergent formulations to the washing process with an optimal time delay, in particular minimizing the use of raw materials for enzymatically degradable and bleachable contamination, giving the laundry a very good attractive perfuming. In addition, good cleaning performance may be achieved.

dispenser

The dispensing system according to the invention preferably comprises a plurality of chambers, particularly preferably three to four chambers, and at least one reservoir capable of combining with the dispenser and the dispenser and containing at least one flowable preparation.

The dispenser is configured to be capable of dispensing a plurality of preparations from the chamber of the reservoir and / or from the plurality of reservoirs into the interior of the washing machine. For this purpose, at least one actuator and / or at least one closing element and / or at least one control unit and / or at least one sensor and / or at least one energy source may be provided in the dispenser.

The dispenser may be an installation part of a water supply household appliance.

In a preferred refinement of the invention, the dispenser is not an installation part of the water supply appliance, but instead may be positioned by the user so as to be able to move freely in or up the water supply appliance.

The dispenser includes at least one first interface that interacts with a corresponding interface provided in or on the water supply appliance such that electrical energy and / or signals are transmitted from the water supply appliance to the dispenser and / or from the dispenser to the water supply appliance. Is particularly preferred.

In one refinement of the invention, the interface takes the form of plug-in connectors. In a further refinement, the interface may be configured such that electrical energy and / or electrical and / or optical signals are transmitted wirelessly.

Here, it is particularly preferred that the interfaces provided for delivering electrical energy are inductive electromagnetic transmitters and receivers. Therefore, the interface of the water-transmitting appliance may in particular be configured as an AC-operated transmitter coil having an iron core and the dispenser interface may be configured as a receiver coil having an iron core.

In alternative embodiments, the transfer of electrical energy may also be provided by an interface that includes an electrically operated light source on the home appliance side and an optical sensor, eg a photodiode or solar cell, on the dispenser side. Light emitted by the light source is converted into electricity in the light sensor, which in turn is then stored, for example, by a battery on the dispenser side.

In an advantageous further refinement of the invention, the interface is adapted to transmit (ie transmit and receive) electromagnetic and / or optical signals in particular indicative of the operating state, measurement and / or control information of the dispenser and / or water supply appliance. It is provided in water supply appliances.

Of course, it can only provide an interface for carrying a signal or an interface for carrying electrical energy or in each case can provide an interface for carrying a signal and an interface for delivering electrical energy or both electrical energy and a signal. It can provide a suitable interface for passing.

Such an interface may in particular be configured such that electrical energy and / or electromagnetic and / or optical signals are transmitted wirelessly.

It is particularly desirable for the interface to be configured to emit and / or receive optical signals. Very particular preference is given to the interface being configured to emit or receive light in the visible range. It has proved to be particularly advantageous to use wavelengths of 600 to 800 nm in the visible spectrum.

Alternatively or in addition, it is advantageous for the interface to be configured to emit or receive infrared signals. It is particularly advantageous for the interface to be configured to emit or receive infrared signals in the near infrared range (780 nm to 3,000 nm).

In particular, the interface includes at least one LED. Particularly preferably, the interface comprises at least two LEDs. According to a further preferred refinement of the invention it is also possible to provide at least two LEDs which emit light at different wavelengths. This allows, for example, to define different signal bands in which information may be transmitted or received respectively.

In addition, in a further refinement of the invention, it is advantageous that at least one LED is an RGB LED, the wavelength of which is adjustable. Thus, for example, different signal bands emitting signals at different wavelengths may be defined as one LED.

It is particularly preferred that the optical signal is configured as a signal pulse having a pulse duration of 1 ms to 10 seconds, preferably 5 ms to 100 ms.

The signal emitted and / or received by the interface has in particular information, which is in particular a control signal or a signal indicative of the operating state of the dispenser and / or the water supply appliance.

In an advantageous further refinement of the invention, the dispenser may comprise at least one light receiving unit. This may, for example, allow the dispenser to receive a signal from an optical transmission unit disposed in the water-delivery appliance. This may be accomplished by any suitable light receiving unit such as, for example, photovoltaic cells, photomultipliers, semiconductor detectors, photodiodes, photoresistors, solar cells, phototransistors, CCDs and / or CMOS image sensors.

It is particularly preferred that the light receiving unit is suitable for receiving light in the 600-800 nm wavelength range.

In particular, the light receiving unit in the dispenser may also be configured such that a signal is separated from the cartridge and detectable by the light receiving unit of the dispenser from the transmitting unit engageable with the cartridge associated with the dispenser.

The signal emitted by the transmitting unit to the surrounding environment of the dispenser may preferably indicate information about an operating state or a control command.

In a preferred refinement, the dispenser is disposed outside the washing machine. The dispenser may be configured such that it is combinable with the reservoir and located outside the processing chamber of the water supply appliance, which does not include any connection with the water supply line of the appliance. Such a dispenser may include at least one sensor, reservoir or at least one pump delivering a formulation from a dispenser, a defined sensor signal if at least one sensor, reservoir or dispenser detects the presence of water in and / or the operation of the appliance. With at least one fluid line connecting the dispenser with the processing chamber of the water supply appliance, at least one preparation is conveyed from the reservoir or dispenser by a pump and connected with the processing chamber from a dispenser located outside the processing room of the water supply appliance. It also includes at least one control unit cooperating with the sensor and the pump so that the preparation can be supplied through the orifice of the product to the processing chamber of the water-delivery appliance.

sensor

For the present application, a sensor is a measurement variable pickup or detection element that may qualitatively or quantitatively detect specific physical or chemical and / or material properties of its surrounding environment as measurement variables.

The dispensing system preferably includes at least one sensor suitable for detecting temperature. The temperature sensor is designed to specifically detect the water temperature.

In addition, the dispensing system comprises a sensor for detecting conductivity, in particular the presence, ingress and / or spraying of water in the water supply appliances is preferably detected.

In order to avoid polarization at the contact of the conductive sensor when a direct current source is used, which degrades the sensor accuracy, two consecutive resistors in the conductive sensor with different polarities, i.e. the inversion of the positive and negative poles in each case By taking measurements, it is advantageous that no charge excess can be formed at the contacts.

In particular, the sensors include timers, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, motion sensors, deformation sensors, rotational speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, instantaneous Sound pressure sensor, "lab-on-a-chip" sensor, force sensor, acceleration sensor, tilt sensor, pH sensor, humidity sensor, magnetic field sensor, RFID sensor, hall sensor, biochip, odor ( odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors, position sensors, gyro sensors, optical, electrical and / or mechanical displacement sensors, and / or MEMS sensors.

It is particularly preferred that at least two sensor units be provided in or on the dispensing system for measuring different parameters, one sensor unit very particularly preferably a conductive sensor and the further sensor unit very particularly preferably a temperature sensor.

The sensor is specifically adjusted to detect the start, progress and end of the treatment program of the water supply appliance, for example, a washing or rinsing program. As a non-inclusive example, the sensor combinations listed in the table below may be used for this purpose:

Using a conductive sensor, for example, it can be detected whether the conductive sensor has been submerged in water, for example, to determine whether the water is inside or entering the washing machine.

Treatment programs for water supply appliances, such as, for example, wash and rinse programs, generally have a characteristic temperature profile determined by heating of the wash or rinse water, which may be detected by a temperature sensor.

When the dishwasher door is opened, a light intensity sensor may be used, for example, to detect light incident into the interior of the dishwasher, from which it may conclude that the cleaning program has ended, for example.

The vibration sensor can be used to detect, for example, the natural frequency or resonance of a household appliance with a rotating processing chamber when the washing drum is accelerated at a rotational speed suitable for the washing spin. Thus, the start or end of the spin cycle by the vibration sensor can be detected.

A turbidity sensor may also be provided to determine the degree of contamination of the cleaning article in a washing machine or dishwasher. This also allows, for example, the selection of a dispensing program of the dispensing system suitable for the identified contamination condition.

With the aid of at least one acoustic sensor, it is also possible to detect the progress of the water supply household appliance processing program, for example, when the water is pumped in and out and the specific sound and / or vibration emission is detected.

It goes without saying that one of ordinary skill in the art can use any desired, suitable combination of multiple sensors to achieve monitoring of the water supply home appliance processing program.

The data line between the sensor and the control unit may have the form of an electrically conductive cable or may take the form of a cable free. In principle, at least one sensor can also be located or located outside of the dispensing system, for example inside a water supply appliance, such as in a processing room, and data lines, in particular cableless data lines, are measured from the sensor to the dispensing system. It may be provided to transmit data. Cableless data lines are particularly achieved by electromagnetic or light transmission. It is preferable that the cableless data line be configured with standards such as, for example, Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS, and the like.

At least one sensor is preferably disposed at the distal end protruding into the processing chamber of the fluid line. The sensor is particularly adapted to detect the operation of the water supply appliance and / or to detect the ingress of water into the water supply appliance. At the distal end protruding into the processing chamber of the fluid line, the sensor is in particular a conductive sensor and / or a temperature sensor and / or an acoustic or vibration sensor.

Pump

Preferably the dispensing system according to the invention comprises at least one pump and / or at least one atomizer or nebulizer for transferring or dispensing the preparation from the dispensing system to the processing chamber of the water supply appliance. Include.

For the present application, a pump is a fluid power machine for moving or conveying a fluid by converting a mechanical drive force into a flow force. Fluids are understood below as liquids, gases and solids and mixtures thereof.

The pumps are volumetric pumps, reciprocating pumps, diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, rotary pumps, dynamic pumps, centrifugal pumps, electrohydrodynamic pumps, electroosmotic pumps, magnetohydrodynamic pumps, surface acoustic wave pumps, capillary pumps, electrowetting Pumps, thermocapillary pumps.

Especially in the case of preparations which tend to form deposits in the extended reservoir, it may be advantageous to arrange the reservoir containing the preparation on the pressure side of the pump so that such preparation does not damage the pump. In this configuration, a fluid such as, for example, air that does not contain deposit forming material is conveyed by a pump under pressure to a reservoir containing the preparation. The container may include, for example, a pressure equalizing valve that allows the product to flow out of the reservoir or dispensing system when the defined pressure in the reservoir is exceeded. In this way, it is possible to use in particular dispensing systems for the widest variety of formulations without impairing the function of the pump by possible deposition or reaction between the two formulations.

vibration Atomizer

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the dispensing system comprises at least one vibratory atomizer, by which the preparation can be converted into or maintained in the gas phase. Thus, for example, a vibrating atomizer can be used to vaporize, nebulize and / or atomize the preparation, such that the preparation is converted to a gas phase or forms an aerosol in the gas phase, and the gas phase is generally air to be.

This embodiment is particularly advantageous when using a washing machine in which a corresponding discharge of the preparation takes place in the gas phase in a closed wash chamber. The preparations introduced in the gas phase may be evenly distributed around the washing chamber or may be deposited in the article to be cleaned placed in the washing machine.

The formulation discharged by the vibration atomizer may be selected from the group containing surfactant-containing formulations, enzyme-containing formulations, odor neutralizing formulations, sterile formulations and antibacterial formulations.

In this way, a number of advantageous effects may be achieved before starting the water discharge washing program in the washing machine. On the one hand, a suitable preparation may also inhibit odor formation due to the biodegradation process. On the other hand, a suitable cleaning formulation may “weak” any contamination that may adhere to the article being cleaned, which may be easily and completely separated during the washing machine cleaning program, especially in the case of low temperature programs.

Additionally, the formulation may be applied on the article to be cleaned by the vibrating atomizer after completion of the cleaning program. In this case, the preparation may be, for example, a preparation having an antimicrobial action or a preparation for modifying the fabric surface.

In addition, the vibration atomizer may take the form of a piezoelectric element.

Very particular preference is given to configuring and operating the piezoelectric element as both an acoustic or vibration sensor and an atomizer or nebulizer in a single part. For this purpose, the dispenser may be configured such that the control unit is connected to an energy source, a sensor unit, an exhaust element and an acoustic transducer, wherein

The sensor unit picks up the structure noise from the oscillation, in particular the sound waves in the frequency range 1 kHz to 300 kHz, preferably 20 to 25 kHz and / or the environment of the dispenser, and in particular in the control unit as a control signal for the exhaust element. Piezoelectric element suitable for conversion into the sensor signal to be converted,

The discharge element is a piezoelectric element that receives an electrical signal from the control unit and injects at least one first preparation from at least one cartridge chamber connected in communication with the discharge element,

The sensor unit and exhaust element consist of a single part.

It is very particularly preferred that the electrical signal causing the injection of the preparation has a frequency of 70 to 400 kHz, preferably 80 to 90 kHz.

It is extremely desirable to configure and operate the piezoelectric element as both an acoustic or vibration sensor, an atomizer or nebulizer and an acoustic transducer in a single part. For this purpose, the dispenser may be configured such that the control unit is connected to an energy source, a sensor unit, an exhaust element and an acoustic transducer, wherein

The sensor unit picks up the structure noise from the oscillation, in particular the sound waves in the frequency range 1 kHz to 300 kHz, preferably 20 to 25 kHz and / or the environment of the dispenser, and in particular in the control unit as a control signal for the exhaust element. Piezoelectric element suitable for conversion into the sensor signal to be converted,

The discharge element is a piezoelectric element that receives an electrical signal from the control unit and injects at least one first preparation from at least one cartridge chamber connected in communication with the discharge element,

The acoustic transducer is a piezoelectric element that receives an electrical signal from the control unit, which is an audible acoustic signal in the frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, preferably 5 to 15 kHz, particularly preferably 7 to 10 kHz. Is converted by

The sensor unit, exhaust element and acoustic transducer consist of a single part.

The electrical signal that causes the injection of the preparation has a frequency of 70 to 400 kHz, preferably 80 to 90 kHz, and the electrical signal that causes the generation of an audible acoustic signal is 20 Hz to 20 kHz, preferably 5 to 15 kHz and especially It is very particularly preferred to have a frequency of 7 to 10 kHz.

The electrical signal causing the injection of the formulation and the generation of an audible acoustic signal may be supplied to the piezoelectric element by the control unit simultaneously and / or with a time delay.

Thus, the aforementioned piezoelectric element results in a method of operating the dispensing system, which method,

a. The sensor unit, which is a piezoelectric element, picks up the structure noise from the oscillation, in particular the ambient environment of the sound wave and / or the exhaust device in the frequency range of 1 kHz to 300 kHz, preferably 20 to 25 kHz, and converts it into a sensor signal,

b. The piezoelectric element, the discharge element, in particular receives the electrical signal from the control unit in the presence of water and / or in the presence of a defined sensor signal indicative of the operation of the washing machine, in particular from the at least one cartridge chamber in communication with the discharge element, in particular in the interior of the washing machine, Preferably at least one first preparation is sprayed and / or nebulized into the processing chamber of the washing machine,

c. An acoustic transducer, a piezoelectric element, receives an electrical signal from the control unit before and / or during and / or after the injection of the preparation, which electrical signal is 20 Hz to 20 kHz, preferably 5 to 15 kHz, particularly preferably 7 to 10 converting by a piezoelectric element into an audible acoustic signal in the frequency range of kHz.

The piezoelectric element is particularly preferably configured to detect the natural frequency or multiples of the natural frequency of the washing machine, especially during spin operation.

The preparations discharged by the piezoelectric atomizers may in particular be selected from the group containing surfactant-containing preparations, enzyme-containing preparations, odor neutralizing preparations, sterile preparations and antibacterial preparations.

All preparations are preferably dispensed by one vibrating atomizer. However, each formulation can also be dispensed in each case by a vibrating atomizer imparted to the corresponding formulation.

Of course, one preparation may be dispensed by a vibrating atomizer and another preparation may be dispensed into the interior of the water supply appliance by a pump, valve or by gravity action. Those skilled in the art will here select the appropriate combination of listed discharge elements for the corresponding preparation.

Reservoir

For the present application, a reservoir is understood to be a packaging means suitable for enclosing or containing at least one flowable formulation together and capable of coupling to a dispenser for discharging at least one formulation.

The reservoir is adapted to store a plurality of dispensing portions of the at least one flowable formulation. Preferably, the reservoir is configured to store 10 to 50, particularly preferably 15 to 30, very particularly preferably 20 to 25 dispensing portions.

Preferably the reservoir comprises at least three, preferably dimensionally stable, chambers for storing other formulations. Here, each chamber is preferably configured to store 10 to 50, particularly preferably 15 to 30, very particularly preferably 20 to 25 dispensing parts.

In the simplest possible embodiment, the reservoir comprises a single, preferably dimensionally stable, chamber for storing the formulation. In particular, the reservoir may also include a plurality of chambers, which may be filled with other preparations.

It is advantageous for the reservoir to include at least one discharge orifice arranged such that gravity-ejection of the preparation from the reservoir can occur at the service location of the dispenser. In this way, no additional transport means is required for ejection of the preparation from the cartridge, so that the structure of the dispenser can be kept simple and the manufacturing cost can be kept low. In addition, the use of a conveying means, for example a pump, can be omitted.

In a preferred refinement of the invention, at least one second chamber is provided for receiving at least one second preparation, the second chamber comprising at least one discharge orifice, the orifice being gravity acting from the second chamber. The discharge of the receiving product may be arranged at the dispenser's service location. The placement of the second chamber is particularly advantageous when a formulation which is conventionally unstable when stored together, such as for example bleach and enzyme, is stored in a separate chamber of the cartridge.

It is also possible to have more than two, in particular three to four chambers in or on the reservoir. In particular, one of the chambers may also be configured to discharge volatile preparations, such as fragrances, into the surrounding environment.

In a further refinement of the invention, the reservoir has a single-part configuration. In this way, the reservoir may be manufactured at low cost in a single manufacturing step by a particularly suitable blow molding method. In this case the chambers of the reservoir may be separated from one another by, for example, a web or material bridge formed during or after blow molding.

The reservoir may also have a multipart configuration made of parts that are manufactured by injection molding and then assembled.

In addition, the reservoir may have a multi-component configuration such that at least one chamber, preferably all chambers, may be individually removed or inserted from the dispenser. This makes it possible to replace an already empty chamber while the chamber, which may still be filled with the preparation, remains in the dispenser, especially if the preparation is heavily used from one chamber. In this way, individual chambers or formulations thereof may be replenished in a targeted manner suitable for the situation. Additionally, individual chambers can be configured such that the chambers may only be coupled with the dispenser at a particular location or location, thereby preventing the user from connecting the chamber and the dispenser at a location not intended for the chamber. For this purpose, in particular, the chamber wall may be formed such that it may be connected together in an interlocking manner. In the case of a reservoir formed of at least three chambers, it is particularly advantageous to form the reservoirs so that the chambers may only be linked together in a defined position relative to each other.

The chambers of the reservoir may be fixed to each other by a suitable connection method, so that the container unit is manufactured. The chambers may be secured to each other detachably or non-removably by suitable interlocking, frictional or bonding connections. In particular, the fixation is achieved by one or more connection types in the group of snap-in connection, hook-loop connection, press connection, melt connection, adhesive connection, weld connection, solder connection, screw connection, key connection, clamp connection or rebound connection. It may be. In particular, a fixation may also be provided by a heat shrink sleeve that causes a heated state for all or a portion of the reservoir and firmly surrounds the chamber or reservoir in the cooled state.

In particular, the reservoir may also have an asymmetrical configuration. It is particularly desirable to create an asymmetry of the reservoir so that the reservoir can only engage the dispenser at a predefined position, thereby preventing incorrect operation by the user which may otherwise be possible.

The dispensing chamber may be configured in or above the chamber upstream of the discharge orifice of the chamber in the direction of gravity action of the formulation. The dispensing chamber determines the amount of formulation to be discharged to the environment upon discharge of the formulation from the chamber. This is particularly advantageous if the closing element of the dispenser discharging the preparation from the chamber to the surrounding environment can only be in the discharged and closed state without measuring or monitoring the amount of discharged. The dispensing chamber then ensures that no direct feedback of the outflow amount of the formulation is now discharged but a predefined amount of the formulation is discharged.

In a first preferred embodiment, the reservoir preferably comprises a plurality of chambers containing different preparations.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, in each case a plurality of reservoirs storing different preparations is combined with the dispenser.

In addition, a plurality of dispensers may be combined with at least one reservoir in each case, with different preparations dispensed from each dispenser.

Fluid line

The dispensing system according to the invention comprises at least one fluid line which connects the reservoir or dispenser with the processing chamber of the water supply appliance, so that the preparation is connected to the processing chamber from a dispenser located outside the processing chamber of the water supply appliance. It may be supplied to the processing chamber of the water-delivery home appliance through the orifice of the home appliance.

It is particularly preferred that a fluid line is provided in each case for each preparation.

The fluid line may take the form of a flexible tube, for example. However, it is also possible to provide fluid lines as dimensionally stable ducts.

In a first preferred embodiment of the dispensing system according to the invention, the orifice of the water household appliance connected with the processing chamber is a dispensing drawer of a washing machine.

It is particularly advantageous here to provide an adapter, by means of which the fluid line can engage the dispensing drawer of the washing machine.

In a further refinement of the invention, the orifice of the water household appliance connected with the treatment chamber is a washing machine or dishwasher door.

Finally, the orifice in connection with the process chamber can also take the form of an interface between the water supply appliance and the dispensing system.

Control unit

The control unit for the present application is a device suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and / or information. For this purpose, the control unit acts on at least one actuator in support of the information, in particular the sensor unit measurement signal, which processes for control purposes. In particular, it is particularly preferred that at least one sensor is connected to the control unit and the sensor supplies a signal to the control unit, for example indicating the presence of water in the washing machine and / or the operation of the washing machine.

The control unit may in particular comprise a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dispensing programs are stored in a microprocessor which may be selected and executed in accordance with a container coupled to the dispenser in a particularly preferred configuration.

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit is not connected to any controller that may be present in the household appliance. Thus, no information, in particular electrical, optical or electromagnetic signals, is exchanged directly between the control unit and the controller of the household appliance.

In an alternative refinement of the invention, the control unit is coupled to a controller of an existing household appliance. This coupling is preferably cableless. For example, if the controller of a household appliance triggers the dispensing of a cleaning detergent or rinse aid, for example from a dispensing chamber, a transmitter for wirelessly transmitting a signal to the dispensing unit is placed on or inside the dishwasher, preferably the door of the dishwasher. It may be placed in or on a dispensing chamber installed inward.

Discharge of the preparation from the dispenser may proceed sequentially or simultaneously and may be controlled by the control unit.

Particular preference is given to dispensing a plurality of preparations sequentially in a rinsing program. Dispensing sequences described in more detail below will be particularly preferred.

Dispensing sequence

Preferably, the sensor provides a signal indicative of the presence of water and / or the operation of a water supply household appliance such as a washing machine, which signal triggers the dispensing of at least one first preparation, for example, into the processing chamber of the washing machine. .

The sensor signal may in particular be provided by a conductive sensor, a temperature sensor, an acoustic sensor, a vibration sensor, a motion sensor and / or a turbidity sensor and by any desired combination of the aforementioned sensors.

One particularly preferred method for controlling the dispenser for use in the dispensing system according to the invention is a dispenser having at least one temperature sensor and / or a conductive sensor and a discharge means for discharging the preparation from the dispenser into the interior of the dishwasher. Wherein a temperature sensor and / or a conductive sensor can be disposed in and / or on and / or outside the dispenser, the method comprising a measurement of the first resistance R, wherein the condition R <R _Ref When predominantly, R _Ref is a predefined reference resistance indicative of the presence of water in the conductive sensor, at least one volume V1 of the first preparation being discharged from the dispenser into the interior of the water supply household appliance.

According to one highly preferred refinement of the method for controlling the dispenser, in the measurement of the first temperature T ₁ in the interior of the water supply appliance by the temperature sensor and the measurement of the resistance R in the conductive sensor, T _Ref1 is at least Condition R ₁ > T when _Ref1 is the pre-defined first reference temperature which is at least 21 ° C., preferably at least 30 ° C., and R _Ref is the predefined reference resistance indicating the presence of water in the conductive sensor R <R _Ref When is predominant, the discharge of at least one volume V1 of the first preparation from the dispenser into the interior of the water supply household appliance is achieved.

Among others, the use of temperature and conductivity information prevents the dispenser from initiating unwanted dispensing operations in a high temperature ambient environment, which may occur when only temperature information is used to control the dispenser, for example.

The temperature T ₁ and the resistance R in the conductive sensor may be measured one after the other or simultaneously. It is preferable that the temperature T ₁ is _first measured and then the resistance R is measured. However, it is also possible to measure the resistance T _first and then the temperature T ₁ .

In addition, when the above conditions prevail, more than one volume V1 of preparation can be dispensed from the dispenser into the interior of the water-transmitting household appliance. For example, it is also possible to dispense substantially simultaneously the first preparation of the first volume V1 and the second preparation of the second volume V2, with the preparations being particularly different.

When the conditions T ₁ > T _Ref1 and R <R _Ref prevail, after a predefined time interval t _dif , in particular after 10 to 600 seconds, preferably after 30 to 240 seconds, particularly preferably after 45 to 100 seconds 2 If the temperature measurement of temperature T ₂ is carried out by a temperature sensor and the condition T ₂ > T ₁ + ΔT is applied, ΔT is a function range (0.5 [° _C./min ] * t _dif [min]) to (5 It is particularly preferable to configure the method so that it is within the limit of [° _C./min ] * t _dif [min]) so that at least one volume (V1) of the first preparation is discharged from the dispenser into the interior of the water-delivery appliance. In this way the temperature rise that occurs during the heating stage of the water supply household appliance is detected, in particular in the pre-rinse / pre-clean or main rinse / main wash sections of the rinse or wash program.

In a further advantageous refinement of the method, when the condition T ₁ ≤ T _Ref1 predominates, the first temperature T ₁ is after a predefined time t _dif , in particular after 2 to 10 minutes, preferably 3 to 7 Minutes, particularly preferably after 4-6 minutes. To minimize the energy consumption for temperature monitoring, the temperature is preferably measured at predefined intervals rather than continuously.

However, in water supply appliances, especially when starting the cleaning program, the temperature measured in the water supply appliance after a time interval t _dif at which the second reference temperature T _Ref2 higher than the first reference temperature T _Ref1 is exceeded ( The temperature rise of T ₁ ) may be too large. These fast significant temperature for rising, T, resistance (R) when _Ref2 is to have at least 35 ℃, preferably at least 40 ℃ the second reference temperature, the condition T _1> T _Ref2 lead is measured in a conductivity sensor, R _Ref Is a pre-defined reference resistance indicative of the presence of water in the conductive sensor, when the condition R <R _Ref prevails, the immediate discharge of at least one volume (V1) of the first preparation from the dispenser into the interior of the water supply household appliance is carried out. More advantageously.

In the present invention an advantageous further improvement of the method example according to, R _Ref is when the presence of water to a pre-reference resistance condition R ≥ R _Ref dominance rules indicated by the conductivity sensor, after the time (t _dif) defined in advance, in particular 10 After ˜600 seconds, preferably the first temperature T ₁ is remeasured after 30 to 240 seconds, particularly preferably 45 to 100 seconds. Preferably, this time interval is less than or equal to the time interval before the measurement of the first temperature T ₁ when the condition T ₁ ≦ T _Ref1 prevails. Thus, if the temperature exceeding the first reference temperature T _Ref1 is measured inside the water supply household appliance but there is no water in the conductive sensor, the dispenser monitors the reinforcement by a shortened monitoring interval in the measurement of the first temperature T ₁ . By switching to the mode, water can be detected in a timely manner in water supply appliances due to the shortened monitoring interval.

It is also advantageous to provide a time delay for the dispensing of the other two preparations. This is especially the case when dispensing two unstable preparations when stored together. Thus, a further refinement of the method according to the invention is that after dispensing the first volume V1, a second preparation of the second volume V2 is dispensed from the dispenser into the interior of the water-delivery appliance, and the first The preparation is different from the second preparation and is preferably between 30-300 seconds, particularly preferably 60-240 seconds, very particularly preferably 60-150 seconds between the dispensing of the volume V1 and the volume V2. Provide so that there is a time interval (t _dif ).

It is particularly preferred that the first preparation is an enzyme containing preparation and the second preparation is an alkali and / or bleach containing preparation.

It is also preferable that the first preparation is a first enzyme-containing preparation, the second preparation is a second enzyme-containing preparation, and the first and second enzyme-containing preparations are different from each other.

Of course, once the first volume V1 and the second volume V2 have been dispensed, the third preparation of the third volume V3 is dispensed from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine, and the third preparation The process according to the invention can also be improved to differ from the first and second preparations.

Here, it is especially preferable that a 3rd preparation is a fragrance containing preparation, for example.

In addition, it is preferred that the third volume V3 is dispensed after the start of the rinsing section in the cleaning program. In particular, the start of the rinse section is characterized in that after the completion of the main wash cycle and before the start of the rinse section, the water of the washing machine is changed, during which the heated water is pumped out as usual and the cold rinse water is supplied to the washing process. . This may be detected by means of conductivity, in conjunction with sensor means, for example temperature measurements. Of course, other mechanical detection parameters indicative of such water changes may also be used.

It is particularly preferred that the third volume V3 is dispensed with a time delay after 0.5-30 minutes, preferably 1-20 minutes, particularly preferably 5-15 minutes after the start of the rinsing section in the cleaning program.

The discharged amount of the first volume V1, the second volume V2 and the third volume V3 is preferably in a ratio of 1: 4: 1, the first volume V1 is an enzyme-containing preparation, It is especially preferable that 2 volume (V2) is alkaline washing detergent preparation, and a 3rd volume is fragrance containing preparation.

Energy source

For the purposes of this application, an energy source is understood to mean a part of a dispensing device capable of providing energy suitable for operation of a dispensing system or dispenser. Preferably, the energy source is configured such that the dispensing system is independent.

The energy source preferably provides electrical energy. Energy sources may include, for example, batteries, accumulators, mains energy supplies, solar cells, and the like.

It is particularly advantageous to make energy sources in the form of exchangeable, for example replaceable batteries.

The batteries are, for example, alkali-manganese batteries, zinc-carbon batteries, nickel-oxyhydrooxide batteries, lithium batteries, lithium-iron sulfide batteries, zinc-air batteries, zinc chloride batteries, mercury oxide-zinc batteries and / or silver oxide- It may also be selected from the group of zinc batteries.

Examples of suitable accumulators are lead accumulators (lead dioxide / lead), nickel-cadmium accumulators, nickel-metal hydride accumulators, lithium-ion accumulators, lithium-polymer accumulators, alkali-manganese accumulators, silver-zinc accumulators, nickel-hydrogen accumulators , Zinc-bromine batteries, sodium-nickel chloride batteries and / or nickel-iron batteries.

In particular, the battery may be configured to be rechargeable by induction.

However, it is also possible to provide a mechanical energy source consisting of one or more spiral springs, torsion springs or torsion bars, bending springs, air / gas springs and / or elastomeric springs.

The energy source is dimensioned such that the dispenser may run through approximately 1,000 dispensing cycles before the energy source is exhausted. Before the energy source is exhausted, it is particularly preferred that the energy source is operated via 1 to 1,000, very particularly preferably 10 to 500, more preferably 100 to 300 dispensing cycles.

Preparation

According to a preferred embodiment, the reservoir or preparation stored in the chamber of the reservoir is fluid and preferably has a viscosity of 10 to 10,000 mPa · s (Brookfield RVD-Viscometer, Spindle 3 at 20 rpm and 20 ° C.).

According to the invention, the preparations in the chamber or reservoir are different from one another. Possible formulation ingredients are described in more detail below.

enzyme

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one preparation stored in the cartridge chamber is in particular a protease, amylase, catalase, peroxydiase, cellulase, mannanase, polyesterase, xylanase, Carrageenase, perhydrolase, pectinase, pectate lyase, oxidase, for example at least one enzyme such as glycos oxidase and / or lipase group, and / or enzyme stabilizers, preferably for the whole detergent, respectively In the case of 0 to 50% by weight, preferably 5 to 30% by weight, particularly preferably 10 to 25% by weight.

Enzymes that may be considered in particular are of the class of hydrolytic enzymes such as proteases, esterases, lipases or lipolytically active enzymes, amylases, cellulases or other glycosylhydroases and the described enzyme mixtures. In laundry, all these hydrolase may contribute to the removal of stains and graying, such as those containing protein, fat or starch. By removing the pilling and microfibers, cellulase and other glycosylhydrolases also contribute to color retention and increased fabric softening. Oxyreductases may also be used for bleaching or to prevent color transfer.

Enzyme-activated substances isolated from strains of bacteria or fungi such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Streptomyces griseus and Humicola insolens Especially suitable. Proteases of the subtilisin type and proteases isolated in particular from Bacillus lentus are preferably used. For example of proteases and amylases or proteases and lipases or lipases or proteases and cellulases, or of cellulases and lipases or lipases, or proteases, amylases and lipases or lipases or proteases, lipases or lipases Enzyme mixtures of active enzymes and cellulases, but especially mixtures containing proteases and / or lipases or mixtures with lipolytic active enzymes, are particularly relevant for this use. Examples of such lipolytic activating enzymes are known cutinases. Peroxydiases or oxidases have also been found to be suitable in some cases. Suitable amylases are in particular α-amylase, isoamylase, pullulanase and pectinase. Cellobiohydroases, also known as cellobiases, endoglucanase and β-glucosidase, or mixtures thereof, are preferably used as cellulase. Since other types of cellulases may differ in their CMCase and avicelase activities, the desired activity may be established by target mixing of the cellulase.

bleach

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one preparation stored in the chamber or reservoir contains at least one bleach.

Oxidizers or bleaches which may be used are any possible oxidizing agents, for example perborate, percarbonate, hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, dichromate, adithionate, permanganate, chlorine, concentrated sulfuric acid, organic peracids, hypo Chlorate, chlorine dioxide, peroxide and the like.

According to another preferred embodiment, the oxidant is preferably an oxygen based oxidative bleach, with peroxycarboxylic acids being particularly preferred.

Surfactants

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one preparation stored in the chamber or reservoir contains at least one surfactant.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one preparation contains at least 0.1% by weight surfactant. The surfactant content of all the detergents is preferably 0.1 to 60% by weight.

Glass corrosion inhibitor

Glass corrosion inhibitors, especially when used in washing machine doors, prevent the occurrence of iridescent discoloration as well as turbidity, streaks and scratches on the glass surface of the glass. Preferred glass corrosion inhibitors occur in the group of magnesium and zinc salts and magnesium and zinc complexes.

At least one zinc salt of organic carboxylic acid is used particularly preferentially as a free corrosion inhibitor.

For the present invention, the zinc salt content in the cleaning or cleaning detergent is preferably 0.1 to 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the cleaning or cleaning detergent containing the free corrosion inhibitor.

In addition to the components described above, the formulation may contain additional components that further improve the application and / or aesthetic properties of the formulation. For the present invention, the preparations include builders, bleach catalysts, bleach activators, enzyme stabilizers, electrolytes, solvents, pH regulators, parfum carriers, fluorescent agents, dyes, hydrotropes, suppressors, silicone oils, ashes. Deposition inhibitors, discoloration inhibitors, shrink agents, anti-wrinkle agents, anti-inflammation inhibitors, antimicrobial actives, fungicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors (especially glass corrosion inhibitors), antistatic agents, bitter agents, ironing aids one or more in the group of ironing aids, waterproofing and impregnating agents, anti-swelling and non-sliping agents, fabric softening ingredients, complexing agents, scents, optical brighteners, suppressors, UV absorbers, and other conditioning agents It may additionally contain substances.

Example Embodiments: Reservoir

Examples of possible flowable compositions for a plurality of reservoirs, in particular three reservoirs and / or a plurality of chambers, in particular three chambers, of the dispensing system according to the invention are listed below.

Example  One

Example 1 shows the first assignment of the product to three reservoirs and / or chambers of reservoirs in the table below. Here, the first chamber is configured as an enzyme chamber, the second chamber is configured as a bleach chamber and the third chamber is configured as a fragrance chamber. Additional components of each chamber are described in the table below.

Chamber 1 has a substantially neutral pH value between 6 and 8, chamber 2 has a substantially alkaline pH value of 8 to 12, preferably 8 to 11, particularly preferably 8 to 10, and chamber 3 has 6 to 8 Have a substantially neutral pH value between.

Chamber 1 is dispensed at time intervals from the start immediately after the start of the cleaning program to 15 minutes. The second chamber is dispensed between 10 and 30 minutes after the start of the cleaning program and it is preferred that the discharge from the first chamber and the second chamber does not proceed simultaneously.

It is also preferred that there is a time interval of 0.5 to 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 15 minutes, particularly preferably 5 to 15 minutes between the dispensing from the first chamber and the second chamber.

The third chamber is dispensed after the start of the rinse section. The third chamber is preferably dispensed 0.5 to 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 15 minutes, particularly preferably 5 to 15 minutes after the start of the rinse section.

Example  2

Example 2 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains a component for improving the soft feel in the form of at least one surfactant, preferably a cationic surfactant. Alternatively or additionally suitable polymers may be used as the fabric softening compound.

Example  3

Example 3 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an antimicrobial compound, for example a sterilant. In this regard, the acidic pH values of chambers 1 to 3 are set in chamber 3.

Example  4

Example 4 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an optical brightener.

Example  5

Example 5 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an antimicrobial compound, such as a sterilant and an optical brightener.

Example  6

Example 6 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 2 additionally contains a bleach catalyst.

Example  7

Example 7 differs from Example 1 in that Chamber 1 and Chamber 2 additionally contain an inhibitor.

Example  8

Example 8 differs from Example 1 in that Chamber 1 and Chamber 2 additionally receive otitis inhibitors.

Example  9

Example 9 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally receives the ironing aid.

Example  10

Example 10 differs from Example 1 in that the formulation stored in chamber 1 exhibits a substantially acidic pH value of 3-7, preferably 3-6. Dispensing an acidic preparation for the first time may prevent the formation and deposition of a sparingly soluble deodorizing component (aluminum salt) by high pH values, so that this contamination is readily facilitated by surfactants and enzymes present in an acidic environment. It may be removed.

Example  11

Example 11 differs from Example 1 in that the bleach containing formulation stored in chamber 2 is dispensed into the cleaning process at two different times. Preferably the bleach containing preparation is dispensed at a first time between 10 and 30 minutes after the start of the wash program and a second time after the start of the rinse section, preferably 0.5 to 30 minutes after the start of the rinse section, preferably 1 to 15 minutes, particularly preferably 5 to 15 minutes. Very particular preference is given to not dispensing bleach containing preparations from the second chamber at the same time, but instead to having a time delay for the fragrance containing preparations from the third chamber after the start of the rinse section.

Example  12

Example 12 shows the first allocation of the product to three reservoirs and / or chambers of reservoirs in the table below. Here, the first chamber is configured as the first enzyme chamber, the second chamber is configured as the second enzyme chamber, the enzyme preparations of the first and second chambers are different from each other, and the third chamber is the fragrance chamber. It is composed. The first chamber stores at least one enzyme, at least one surfactant and / or a complexing agent selected from the group of amylase, mannanase, cellulase, lipase and / or pectate lyase at a pH value of 6-8 and a second chamber Very particular preference is given to storing at least one protease and at least one surfactant and / or complexing agent at a pH value of 6-8.

Additional components of each chamber are described in the table below.

Chamber 1 has a substantially neutral pH value of 6-8, Chamber 2 preferably has a substantially neutral pH value of 6-8 and Chamber 3 has a substantially neutral pH value of 6-8.

Chamber 1 is dispensed at time intervals from the start immediately after the start of the cleaning program to 15 minutes. The second chamber is dispensed between 10 and 30 minutes after the start of the cleaning program and it is preferred that the discharge from the first chamber and the second chamber does not proceed simultaneously.

It is also preferred that there is a time interval of 0.5 to 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 15 minutes, particularly preferably 5 to 15 minutes between the dispensing from the first chamber and the second chamber.

The third chamber is dispensed after the start of the rinse section. The third chamber is preferably dispensed 0.5 to 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 15 minutes, particularly preferably 5 to 15 minutes after the start of the rinse section.

Example  13

Example 13 differs from Example 12 in that chamber 3 additionally contains a component for improving the soft feel in the form of at least one surfactant, preferably a cationic surfactant. Suitable polymers may alternatively or additionally be used to improve the soft feel.

Example  14

Example 14 differs from Example 12 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an antimicrobial compound, such as a sterilant.

Example  15

Example 15 differs from Example 12 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an optical brightener.

Example  16

Example 16 differs from Example 12 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an antimicrobial compound, such as a sterilant and an optical brightener.

Example  17

Example 17 differs from Example 12 in that Chamber 1 and Chamber 2 additionally contain an inhibitor.

Example  18

Example 18 differs from Example 12 in that Chamber 1 and Chamber 2 additionally receive a otitis inhibitor.

Example  19

Example 19 differs from Example 12 in that chamber 3 additionally receives the ironing aid.

Example  20

Example 20 differs from Example 12 in that the formulation stored in chamber 1 exhibits a substantially acidic pH value of 3-7, preferably 3-6. Dispensing the acidic preparation for the first time may prevent the formation and deposition of insoluble deodorant components (aluminum salts) by high pH values, so that contamination may be easily removed by surfactants and enzymes present in an acidic environment. .

Example  21

Example 21 differs from Example 12 in that the formulation of the first chamber has a substantially neutral pH value, while the formulation of the second chamber is alkaline with a pH value of 8-12.

Example  22

Example 22 differs from Example 12 in that the formulation of the second chamber is alkaline with a pH value of 8-12, and chamber 2 contains bleach.

Of course, any desired combination of Examples 1 to 22 may be provided.

The dispensing system is described in more detail below with reference to an exemplary embodiment only.

1 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with the fluid line open to the dispensing drawer of the washing machine.
2 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with fluid lines open to the dispensing drawer of the washing machine.
3 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with a plurality of dispensers.
4 shows an adapter for coupling a dispensing system and a dispensing drawer of a washing machine.
5 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with a fluid line guided through the washing machine door to the process chamber.
6 shows a washing machine with an interface for a dispensing system according to the invention.
7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a dispensing system with a reservoir on the suction side of a pump.
8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a dispensing system with a reservoir on the pressure side of the pump.

1 shows a first possible embodiment of the dispensing system 1 according to the invention. The dispensing system 1 consists of a dispenser 5 detachably coupled with a plurality of reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c. The reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c may be individually removed from the dispenser 5. It is also possible to provide a reservoir 3a, 3b, 3c as a cartridge having three chambers 3a, 3b, 3c, wherein the chambers 3a, 3b, 3c are fixed to each other or inseparably. .

Inside the dispenser 5 for controlling the dispenser 5, preferably an energy source in the form of a battery, a battery or a mains plug and a pump for transporting the preparation from the reservoirs 3a, 3b and 3c. There is a control unit.

A fluid line 7 is arranged in the dispenser 5, through which the preparation delivered by the pump is guided to the dispensing drawer 8 of the washing machine 2. Here, the free end of the fluid line 7 is located in the dispensing drawer 8. The fluid line 7 and the dispensing drawer 8 can also be joined by an adapter provided for this purpose. This point will be discussed in more detail elsewhere. Thereafter, the preparation dispensed from the dispenser 5 passes through the dispensing drawer 8 into the processing chamber 6 of the washing machine 2.

At the free end of the fluid line 7 there is a conductive sensor which detects the inflow or presence of water into the dispensing drawer 8 of the washing machine 2.

In the presence of a corresponding sensor value indicative of the presence or ingress of water, the dispenser 5 dispenses at least one preparation from the reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c according to the dispensing program stored in the control unit.

The fluid line 7 may particularly preferably have the form of a flexible tube of plastic. In this way, the fluid line 7 may be located in the dispensing drawer 8 in a way that is simple for the user. Although the fluid line 7 is pinched by, for example, the dispensing drawer 8 or an object placed on the line, the fluid line 7 is additionally configured so that it is not entangled, ie the conductor cross section is substantially maintained. May be It is also possible to provide the fluid line 7 as a rigid duct.

In place of or in addition to the pump, a vibration atomizer may be provided, in particular at the distal end of the fluid line 7, which is particularly adapted to spray the preparation and to detect vibrations and / or noises from the surrounding environment. do.

FIG. 2 shows the dispensing system 1 shown in FIG. 1, with separate fluid lines 7a, 7b, 7c provided so that each preparation is withdrawn from the reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c. The free ends of the fluid lines 7a, 7b, 7c may be located in the dispensing chamber of the dispensing drawer 8 or in other dispensing chambers of the dispensing drawer 8.

In principle, a plurality of dispensers 5a, 5b, 5c can also be combined to form the dispensing system 1, and the reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c, each containing different preparations, each in each case Is coupled to the dispensers 5a, 5b, 5c. This is shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3. Each dispenser 5a, 5b, 5c comprises in each case a fluid line 7a, 7b, 7c, the free end of the fluid line in each case having different dispensing chambers of the dispensing drawer 8 ( 8a, 8b, 8c).

If the preparation is dispensed from the dispensing system 1 into the dispensing drawer 8 of the washing machine 2, it is advantageous to have a suitable adapter 11 as shown in the embodiment of FIG. The fluid lines 7a, 7b, 7c are thus detachably secured to the dispensing drawer and positioned relative to the existing dispensing chambers 8a, 8b, 8c of the dispensing drawer 8.

In addition to introducing the preparation into the processing chamber 6 via the dispensing drawer 8 of the washing machine 2 by the fluid line 7, the door 9 of the washing machine 2 is opened, as shown in FIG. 5. The preparation can also be introduced into the process chamber 6 via the translucent fluid line 7.

Here, the fluid line 7 has the form of a particularly entangled tube. Here, the distal end of the fluid line 7 is fixed inside the washing machine door, for example by a suction cup or adhesive.

A vibrating atomizer is provided at the distal end of the fluid line 7, and the vibrating atomizer is configured to spray the preparation and to detect vibrations and / or noises from the surrounding environment. In the configuration shown in FIG. 5, due to the geodetic difference in height of the dispenser and the vibrating atomizer at the distal end of the fluid line 7, there is always a preparation at the distal end of the fluid line 7 so that Can be dispensed by use.

Also preferably, the dispenser 5 and the fluid connection can be created between the rigid fluid lines 7a, 7b, 7c of the dispenser 5 and the process chamber 6 of the washing machine via the interfaces 10a, 10b, 10c. It is also possible to provide the washing machine 2 with interfaces 10a, 10b, 10c that allow for coupling.

FIG. 7 shows a dispensing system 1 according to the invention consisting of a dispenser 5 and a reservoir 3 connected with the dispenser 5 and containing a preparation 4.

The dispenser 5 comprises a power source 13, a control unit 14, a sensor 15 and a pump 12, which parts are preferably integrated into the housing. The pump 12 is connected to the power source 13 via the control unit 14. The control unit 14 is in turn connected to a sensor 15 which transmits a measurement signal to the control unit 14.

The pump 12 has a pressure side fluid line 7 and a suction line 16, which is connected with a reservoir 3 containing a preparation 4. Accordingly, the pump 12 transfers the flowable preparation 4 from the reservoir 3 to the pressure side fluid line 7 via the suction line 16, from which the preparation 4 is supplied to the water supply appliance. It is discharged to the processing chamber 6 of the product 2.

The reservoir 3 may comprise a pressure equalizing valve 17 which equalizes the pressure between the surrounding environment and the interior of the reservoir 3 when the pump 12 pumps the preparation 4 out of the reservoir 3.

The pump 12 is connected to the control unit 4 so that the conveying direction of the pump 12 is reversed and the preparation 4 still present in the pump 12 and the lines 7, 16 is conveyed back to the reservoir 3. It may be driven by. This back-flushing may be advantageous especially if the preparation 4 tends to thicken, for example, to clogg the lines 7 or 16.

FIG. 8 shows a further embodiment of the dispensing system shown in FIG. 7, wherein the reservoir 3 is connected to the pressure side of the pump 12. The pump 12 generates pressure in the reservoir 3 by pumping ambient air into the reservoir 3. The valve 17d may be provided on the preparation discharge side of the container 3, and the valve only permits the discharge of the preparation 4 from the reservoir 3 if a prescribed pressure is achieved in the reservoir 3. In addition, a non-return valve 17a may be arranged in the pressure line 7 between the pump 12 and the reservoir 3, which increases in the reservoir 3 when the pump 12 is stopped. Prevented pressure from leaking through the pressure line (7). The preparation discharge side of the container 3 is connected to the processing chamber 6 of the water supply household appliance via a fluid line (not shown).

Claims (16)

As a dispensing system 1 for use with water supply appliances 2 such as washing machines, dishwashers, washing machines and dryers, etc.,

At least one reservoir 3a, 3b, 3c for storing a plurality of dispensing portions of at least one flowable preparation 4a, 4b, 4c,

Can be coupled to reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c,
Is located outside the processing chamber 6 of the water-delivery appliance 2,
At least one dispenser 5a, 5b, 5c that does not contain any connection with the water supply line of the water supply household appliance 2,

At least one sensor for detecting at least the presence of water in the water supply household appliance,

At least one pump or vibration atomizer for transferring or dispensing a preparation from the reservoir or the dispenser,

If there is a defined sensor signal indicative of the presence of water and / or the operation of the water supply appliance, the sensor and the pump or such that at least one preparation is conveyed from the reservoir or the dispenser by the pump or vibration atomizer or At least one control unit cooperating with the vibrating atomizer, and

The reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c or the dispensers 5a, 5b, 5c are connected to the processing chamber 6 of the water supply household appliance 2 so that preparations 4a, 4b, 4c are used for the water supply household appliances. Orifices 8, 8a, 8b, 8c, 9, of the water supply and electrical appliance 2 connected with the processing chamber 6 from the dispensers 5a, 5b, 5c located outside the processing chamber 6 of the product 2. Water supply appliances, comprising at least one fluid line 7, 7a, 7b, 7c which may be supplied to the process chamber 6 of the water supply appliance 2 via 10, 10a, 10b, 10c; Dispensing System for Use Together. The method of claim 1,
The at least one sensor is disposed at the distal end of the fluid line (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) protruding into the processing chamber (6). 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
Wherein said dispenser comprises at least one conductive sensor and / or a temperature sensor and / or an acoustic sensor. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
Dispensing system for use with water supply appliances, wherein a vibration atomizer and / or a pump is disposed at the distal end of the fluid line (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) protruding into the processing chamber (6). The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
A plurality of reservoirs 3a, 3b, 3c, each storing three to four reservoirs respectively storing different preparations 4a, 4b, 4c, for use with water supply appliances, combined with the dispenser 5. Dispensing System. 6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A plurality of dispensers 5a, 5b, 5c are in each case combined with at least one reservoir 3a, 3b, 3c, in which case different preparations 4a, 4b, 4c are dispensed with the dispensers ( Dispensing system for use with water supply appliances, dispensed by 5a, 5b, 5c). 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Dispensing system for use with water supply appliances, in each case one fluid line (7a, 7b, 7c) is provided for each preparation (4a, 4b, 4c). The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
Said orifice of said water household appliance connected to said processing chamber (6) is a dispensing drawer (8) of a washing machine. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
Adapter 11 is provided, by which the fluid line (7a, 7b, 7c) can be combined with the dispensing drawers (8, 8a, 8b, 8c) of the washing machine (2) Dispensing system for use with water. 10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
Dispensing system for use with water supply appliances, the orifice of the water supply appliances (2) connected to the processing chamber (6) is a washing machine or dishwasher door (9). 11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
The orifice connected with the processing chamber 6 takes a dispensing system for use with water supply appliances, taking the form of interfaces 10a, 10b, 10c between the water supply appliance 2 and the dispensing system 1. . 12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
At least three reservoirs and / or chambers of reservoirs containing different flowable formulations are provided,

The first reservoir or first chamber stores at least one enzyme and at least one surfactant and / or complexing agent selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and / or pectate lyases,

The second reservoir or second chamber stores at least one protease and at least one surfactant and / or complexing agent,

The third reservoir or the third chamber stores at least one fragrance and / or one optical brightener, and / or one fabric softening compound. 13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
At least three reservoirs and / or chambers of reservoirs containing different flowable formulations are provided,

The first reservoir or the first chamber stores at least one enzyme, one enzyme stabilizer and one surfactant,

The second reservoir or the second chamber stores at least one bleach, one complexing agent,

The third reservoir or the third chamber stores at least one fragrance and / or one optical brightener, and / or one fabric softening compound. The method according to claim 12 or 13,
Wherein the dispenser is configured such that dispensing proceeds from a first reservoir or a first cartridge chamber in the presence of water within the water supply appliance and / or at least one sensor signal indicative of operation of the water supply appliance Dispensing system for use with household appliances. 15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14,
After dispensing from the first reservoir or the first chamber, dispensing starts from the second reservoir or the second chamber after a predefined time of 0.1 second to 30 minutes, preferably 0.5 to 15 minutes ( and the dispenser is configured to trigger). As a method of discharging the preparations into the water supply household appliances,
The water supply household appliances,

At least one dispenser having at least one sensor suitable for detecting the presence of water inside the washing machine,

At least one reservoir capable of coupling with the dispenser,
The reservoir comprises at least three chambers and / or at least three reservoirs containing different flowable formulations,
The first chamber stores at least one enzyme, one enzyme stabilizer and one surfactant,
The second chamber stores at least one bleach and / or one complexing agent or the second chamber stores at least one protease and at least one surfactant and / or complexing agent,
The third chamber stores at least one fragrance and / or one optical brightener,

Dispensing from the first chamber occurs in the presence of at least one sensor signal indicative of the presence of water inside the washing machine,

Dispensing from the second chamber is initiated after the predetermined time period of 0.1 second to 30 minutes, preferably 0.5 to 15 minutes, after dispensing from the first cartridge chamber. How to discharge it.

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