Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE
Description
[0002] The invention relates to a household appliance such as a
dishwasher, a washing machine or the like, according to the preamble of Claim
1; to a dispensing apparatus for use in a household appliance; to a cartridge
for use in a dispensing apparatus; and to a delivery apparatus for use in a
household appliance.
Background of the Invention
[0003] According to the general existing art, dispensing systems are usually
permanently installed in household appliances, in particular washing machines
and dishwashers that as a rule comprise a working space for treatment of the
objects (such as laundry or tableware) to be cleaned. As the development of
cleaning, washing, and dishwashing agents of all kinds has progressed, a
requirement also exists for a dispensing system that is coordinated with the
respective cleaning substance. This relates both to the optimum point in time
for delivery of the cleaning substance, and to the quantity of cleaning
substance to be delivered. Consideration must also be given to the fact that a
cleaning operation is generally made up of multiple program steps, for example
pre-wash, main wash, rinse, dry. Specific dispensing systems and apparatuses
for household appliances have been developed in order to keep up with these
technical developments. These objects are usually introduced into the working
space of the household appliance through a loading door.
[0004] A dispensing system of this kind for washing and dishwashing
substances is known from the document WO 02/077353 Al. This describes a
dispensing system, preferably for reception in the washing space of a washing
machine, having receiving spaces for washing substances, also the delivery
thereof, the control elements, and a wide variety of sensors. In the case of
the
system from the aforesaid document, dispensing is accomplished on the basis
of measurement parameters such as, for example, pH, that are ascertained via
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the sensors. In particular the dispensing system of WO 02/077353 Al
represents an autonomously operating system.
[0005] An apparatus operating autonomously, i.e. independently of the
control system of the household apparatus, must, on the basis of the
measured values of various process parameters, determine the program status
and, in particular, recognize the end of the washing program or the start of a
new program. Because household appliances such as dishwashers or washing
machines have a variety of different program sequences, and the program
sequences moreover differ among different appliance manufacturers, reliable
dispensing by a dispensing apparatus of this kind, based on an evaluation of
measurement parameters or operating sequences of appliance components, is
very difficult to implement.
Statement of the Object
[0006] The object of the invention is to propose a household appliance
according to the preamble of Claim 1 in which the use of a dispensing
apparatus operating automatically based on the sensing of measurement
parameters and/or operating sequences of appliance components is facilitated.
A further object of the invention is to propose a dispensing apparatus for use
in
a household appliance, a cartridge for use in a dispensing apparatus, and a
delivery apparatus for use in a household appliance.
[0007] This object is achieved, proceeding from an existing art of the kind
recited above, by the characterizing features of Claim 1 and furthermore by a
dispensing apparatus for use in a household appliance according to Claim 10,
by a cartridge for use in a dispensing device according to Claim 14, and by a
delivery apparatus for use in a household appliance according to Claim 15.
[0008] Advantageous embodiments and refinements of the invention are
made possible by the features recited in the dependent claims.
[0009] According to the present invention, a household appliance is
therefore configured so that the program control system comprises, for the
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utilization of a dispensing apparatus not permanently installed in the
household
appliance, a program mode whose program sequence for at least one
operating parameter and/or at least one operating sequence of an appliance
component is coordinated with the ability of the sensor suite of a non-
permanently installed dispensing apparatus to control dispensing on the basis
of sensorially sensed measured values.
[0010] A household appliance of this kind, in particular a dishwasher of this
kind, therefore allows the use of an autonomous dispensing apparatus that is
not controlled directly by the appliance control system. In the corresponding
program mode, the information necessary for controlling the dispensing
apparatus is detectable in a manner coordinated with the sensor suite of an
autonomous dispensing apparatus of this kind, essentially by way of the
sequence of variation of operating parameters or the profile over time of the
values of such operating parameters and/or the time profile during the use of
individual appliance components. The autonomous metering apparatus is
capable, by way of its sensor suite, of recognizing the program mode of the
household appliance and performing a corresponding dispensing action in a
time-coordinated sequence.
[0011] The program mode coordinated with the sensor suite of a non-
permanently installed dispensing apparatus is preferably embodied in manually
activatable fashion. A button on the household appliance can be used, for
example, for this purpose. A so-called three-in-one button now present on the
market in dishwashers is suitable in this context, for example. When such a
button is actuated, the ideally typical program sequence that is best adapted
to
the manner of operation of an autonomously operating dispensing system, or a
program sequence procedure of this kind that can be detected unequivocally
and therefore optimally by the autonomously operating dispensing system, is
started.
[0012] In a particular embodiment of the invention, a receiving apparatus is
provided in which a non-permanently installed dispensing apparatus is
received in a defined operating position. This facilitates configuration of a
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presence sensor, which can be embodied e.g. as a light barrier or the like.
Dispensing of the cleaner can also be better performed thanks to a defined
position. In particular, the sensor suite of the dispensing apparatus can be
implemented more accurately, and therefore reliably, with a defined operation
position.
[0013] If the receptacle for the dispensing apparatus is moreover arranged
outside a container for objects to be cleaned, i.e. outside the tableware
racks
of a dishwasher, the space provided for the desired quantity of tableware is
not
negatively affected.
[0014] In a refinement of the invention, a wireless transmitting unit for
transmitting at least one signal to an autonomous dispensing apparatus can be
provided. With the aid of such a transmitting device, an appliance control
system could intervene, in directly and indirectly controlling fashion, in the
dispensing sequence in the autonomous dispensing system, or at least start a
control signal for processing in a software program present in the autonomous
dispensing system.
[0015] In a simple variant of this embodiment, only one starting signal is
furnished at the beginning of the working procedure of the household
appliance, on the basis of which signal the dispensing apparatus can on the
one hand recognize the start of a program and on the other hand can verify
that the specific program mode is set.
[0016] In a refinement of this embodiment, a receiving unit is furthermore
provided in the household appliance in order to receive at least one signal
from
an autonomous dispensing apparatus of this kind.
[0017] Such a receiver can, for example, receive a confirmation signal from
the dispensing apparatus, thereby simultaneously implementing a presence
sensor suite.
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[0018] In addition, in a particular embodiment, a transfer system for
transferring information between the control unit of an autonomous dispensing
apparatus and the control system of the household appliance can also be
realized, for example, with a transmitting and/or receiving apparatus. This
makes possible more extensive adaptation of the program sequence of the
household appliance to the respective type of autonomous dispensing
apparatus being used. For example, a modified program sequence might
execute in the household appliance depending on the manufacturer and/or
brand of such a dispensing apparatus.
[0019] A transmitting and/or receiving unit of this kind could operate, for
example, on the basis of infrared or visible light, in which context a
corresponding transmitting and/or receiving unit would need to be present in
the autonomous dispensing apparatus.
[0020] In the case of a transmitting and/or receiving unit of this kind, it
could
also be accommodated in the autonomous dispensing apparatus behind a
housing wall in a manner not visible to the user, provided the material and/or
material thickness is at least partly transparent to the visible or infrared
light
being used.
[0021] In particular when a transmitting and/or receiving unit of this kind is
used, properly fitted positioning in a specific receptacle is advantageous for
an
autonomous dispensing apparatus of this kind, in order to enable the desired
communication even at low intensities and/or in the case of unfavorable
conditions in the working space of the appliance.
[0022] The program mode for the autonomous dispensing apparatus
reproduces a specific sequence of process steps that are recognizable by the
autonomous dispensing apparatus. Different values for process parameters
such as, for example, temperature, humidity, pH, etc. are generally present in
the working space of a household appliance in the context of different
cleaning
process steps. With an autonomous dispensing apparatus, as described, at
least one sensor is employed to monitor such process parameters, the
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dispensing apparatus comprising a control system for dispensing in
accordance with said sensorial monitoring.
[0023] Also suitable alongside temperature, humidity, pH, etc. are, for
example, sensing of a cleaner concentration, wetting of the dispensing
apparatus, turbidity of the cleaning liquid, or even the sensing of mechanical
parameters, e.g. vibrations. The corresponding information for the control
unit
of the autonomous dispensing apparatus can also be contained in the variation
over time of such parameters.
[0024] For example, the corresponding information can be encoded in the
switch-on intervals of a spray arm or of the circulation pump. One conceivable
possibility is, for example, to configure, in a sequence during operation of
one
or more spray arms and/or of the circulation pump, a code, for example, a
binary code that can be sensed e.g. via a vibration sensor, a wetting sensor,
or
the like by the dispensing apparatus, and can be transformed by its control
system back into the desired information.
[0025] Application of control to an appliance component of this kind, for
example a spray arm, a pump, or the like, thus makes it possible to transfer
even more-complex, and in particular also digital, information to the control
unit
of an autonomous dispensing apparatus without additional transmitting units.
All known and future codes using time sequences can be used for this;
possibilities might be, for example, coding as a bit sequence by way of long
and short time intervals, or the use of a Morse code or the like.
[0026] Further embodiments of a household appliance according to the
present invention result from the fact that it is adapted to a dispensing
apparatus having a wide variety of sensors. Sensors such as moisture sensors,
turbidity sensors, or vibration sensors are connected to the control unit of
the
dispensing apparatus in order to determine reliably the state of the operating
program. An adaptation of the dispensing action by the control unit in
accordance with the process values sensed by at least one sensor, i.e. the
measured values of process parameters, is also conceivable. Interaction to
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improve the manner in which the stated object is achieved is also conceivable
in this context. For example, upon interruption of the cleaning operation the
vibrations in the working space also greatly decrease, so that a vibration
sensor allows conclusions as to the program status.
[0027] A combination of a variety of sensors is advantageous for optimum
determination of the point in time and/or duration of delivery of a cleaning
substance; such a point in time and/or duration can be stipulated by the
household appliance by way of a corresponding sequence or variation of
process parameters or operating states.
[0028] If applicable, a memory unit for the storage of process values is
present, thereby enabling assistance e.g. in the event of defects in the
household appliance, during maintenance, or even if new cleaning substances
are developed.
[0029] Communication between the dispensing apparatus and the control
system of the household appliance can likewise also be provided as indicated
above. Such data exchange can occur by radio transmission (Bluetooth,
DECT, etc.), or via a wired interface. For example, if required, the
temperature
of the introduced cleaning water could be modified if the control system of
the
household appliance evaluates a sensor suite or an operating state of the
dispensing apparatus.
[0030] Depending on the type of application, it may also be advantageous
to cause the dispensing apparatus to operate non-autonomously or only partly
autonomously. This is brought about, for example, by way of an interface
between the dispensing apparatus and the household appliance. This interface
can be used both for energy supply and for the transfer of information and
measured data.
[0031] Also preferably conceivable is development of a household
appliance that exploits in targeted fashion the aforesaid advantages of a
dispensing apparatus according to the present invention, for example by
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reciprocal communication between the dispensing apparatus according to the
present invention and the control system of the household appliance. It is
conceivable that the dispensing apparatus according to the present invention
can be used in a variety of household appliances. Such household appliances
no longer need their own dispensing apparatus. Household appliances of this
kind can thus be produced more economically and also offer a higher level of
safety, since any sealing problems can be avoided. For example, in the context
of a dispensing system that is mounted in the loading door, in particular in
the
context of membrane-sealed apertures in the loading door or apertures for
plungers e.g. of a rinse aid valve, additional features decrease the risk that
water or cleaning agent may come into contact, as a result of defects, with
voltage-carrying parts in the loading door. This is avoided with an apparatus
according to the present invention, since it is completely housed in the
working
space.
[0032] The delivery of cleaning, washing, and drying agents can be
implemented in a predetermined total quantity or in increments. The delivery
device can be equipped for this purpose not only with the elements necessary
for delivery but additionally with sensors, in particular a temperature
sensor, a
photocell, a vibration transducer, and a moisture sensor. These sensors,
working individually or in networked fashion, are intended to allow an
inference
to be drawn as to the respective operating state of the dishwasher during
operation, resulting in delivery of the agent, stored in the delivery unit,
for the
washing or drying process.
[0033] The numerous dishwasher program sequences available on the
market can be reduced essentially to the phases of pre-washing, main
washing, rinsing, and drying. A distinction is further made here between cold
and hot prewashing, and as to the capability of having not only a cold-water
connection but additionally a hot-water connection to the dishwasher. The
latter is found today especially in the United States. Assuming the respective
sensor suite:
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- Temperature sensor: serves to sense heating phases by way of
absolute value and gradient, thus also cooling phases, simple
Newtonian cooling processes
- Photocell: in combination with a plausibility time, serves to recognize
opening of the dishwasher door
- Vibration transducer: can sense the operating frequency of the
washing pump, drain pump, and spray arms
- Moisture sensor: can sense the relative or absolute humidity in the
internal washing space, but also surface wetting,
and a basic decision to add a first portion of cleaning agent to each
prewashing
operation, the point in time of the second cleaning agent addition can be
determined and the subsequent process for adding rinse aid can also be
recognized, without receiving a direct signal from the appliance control
system.
[0034] The dispensing apparatus according to the present invention is
made up particularly preferably of the basic components of a cartridge filled
with preparation and a dispensing device couplable to the cartridge, which
device in turn is constituted by further assemblies such as, for example, a
component carrier, actuator, closure element, sensor, energy source, and/or
control unit.
[0035] It is preferred that the dispensing apparatus according to the present
invention be movable. "Movable" means, for the purposes of this Application,
that the dispensing apparatus is not connected nondetachably to a water-
conveying apparatus such as, for example, a dishwasher, washing machine,
laundry dryer, or the like, or permanently installed therein, but instead is
removable e.g. from a dishwasher or positionable in a dishwasher by the user,
i.e. can be manipulated independently.
[0036] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is also
conceivable for the dispensing device to be connected, in a manner not
detachable by the user, to a water-conveying apparatus such as, for example,
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a dishwasher, washing machine, laundry dryer, or the like, and for only the
cartridge to be movable.
Cartridge
[0037] A "cartridge" is understood for purposes of this Application as a
packing means that is suitable for encasing or holding together at least one
flowable, pourable, or scatterable preparation, and that for delivery of at
least
one preparation is couplable to a dispensing device.
[0038] In the simplest conceivable embodiment, the cartridge comprises
one, preferably dimensionally stable, chamber for storage of a preparation. In
particular, a cartridge can also encompass multiple chambers that are fillable
with compositions differing from one another.
[0039] It is advantageous that the cartridge comprises at least one outlet
opening which is arranged in such a way that a gravity-produced preparation
release from the cartridge can be produced when the dispensing device is in
the utilization position. As a result, no further conveying means are required
for
the release of preparation from the cartridge, so that the construction of the
dispensing device can be kept simple, and manufacturing costs low. The use
of conveying means such as, for example, pumps can also be omitted, with the
result that the service life of a battery or rechargeable battery of the
dispensing
device can be increased.
[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one second
chamber is provided for reception of at least one second flowable or
scatterable preparation, the second chamber comprising at least one outlet
opening which is arranged in such a way that a gravity-produced product
release from the second chamber can be produced when the dispensing
device is in the utilization position. Provision of a second chamber is
advantageous in particular when preparations that are usually not shelf-stable
with one another, for example bleaching agents and enzymes, are stored in
chambers of the cartridge that are separated from one another.
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[0041] It is furthermore imaginable that more than two, in particular three to
four, chambers are provided in or on a cartridge. In particular, one of the
chambers can be configured to deliver volatile preparations, for example a
scent, into the environment.
[0042] In a further embodiment of the invention, the cartridge is embodied in
one piece. This allows the cartridges to be configured economically in one
manufacturing step, in particular using suitable blow-molding methods. The
chambers of a cartridge can in this context be separated from one another, for
example, by webs or material bridges that are shaped during or after the
blowing process.
[0043] The cartridge can also be constituted in multiple pieces, by way of
components manufactured by injection molding and subsequently joined
together.
[0044] The cartridge can also, in particular, be embodied asymmetrically. It
is particularly preferred to configure the asymmetry of the cartridge in such
a
way that the cartridge is couplable to the dispensing device only in one
predefined position, thereby preventing any incorrect action by the user that
would otherwise be possible.
[0045] According to a further advantageous refinement of the invention, one
or several chamber(s) comprise(s), in addition to a preferably bottom-side
outlet opening, a respective preferably top-side second chamber opening that
can be closed off in liquid-tight fashion. This chamber opening makes it
possible, for example, to replenish a preparation stored in said chamber.
[0046] For venting of the cartridge chambers, venting capabilities can be
provided in particular in the top region of the cartridge in order to ensure
pressure equalization between the interior of the cartridge chambers and the
environment as the fill level of the chambers drops. These venting
capabilities
can be embodied, for example, as a valve, in particular a silicone valve,
micro-
openings in a chamber wall or cartridge wall, or the like.
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[0047] The cartridge can assume any desired three-dimensional shape. It
can be embodied, for example, in cube-like, spherical, or plate-like fashion.
[0048] For utilization of the dispensing device in dishwashers, it is
particularly advantageous to shape the device by analogy with tableware that
is
to be washed in dishwashers. Said device can therefore be, for example, plate-
shaped, having approximately the dimensions of a dinner plate. As a result,
the
dispensing device can be positioned in space-saving fashion, for example, in
the lower rack of the dishwasher. In addition, correct position of the
dispensing
unit becomes immediately and intuitively evident to the user as a result of
the
plate-like conformation.
[0049] The dispensing device and the cartridge preferably have, in the state
when coupled to one another, a height : width : depth ratio of between 5 : 5 :
1
and 50 : 50 : 1, particularly preferably approximately 10 : 10 : 1. The "slim"
configuration of the dispensing device and the cartridge makes it possible, in
particular, to position the device in the lower loading rack of a dishwasher
in
the receptacles provided for plates. This has the advantage that the
preparations delivered from the dispensing device can travel directly into the
washing bath and cannot adhere to other items being washed.
[0050] Commercially usual household dishwashers are usually designed in
such a way that provision is made to arrange larger items to be washed, for
example pots or large plates, in the lower rack of the dishwasher. In order to
prevent the user from positioning the dispensing system, made up of the
dispensing device and the cartridge coupled to the dispensing device, non-
optimally in the upper rack, in an advantageous embodiment of the invention
the dispensing system is dimensioned so as to enable positioning of the
dispensing system only in the receptacles of the lower rack provided therefor.
For this purpose, the width and height of the dispensing system can be
selected in particular to be between 150 mm and 300 mm, particularly
preferably between 175 mm and 250 mm.
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[0051] It is also conceivable, however, to embody the dispensing unit in a
cup or pot shape, with a substantially circular or square base surface.
[0052] The outlet openings of a cartridge are preferably arranged on a line,
thereby enabling a slim, plate-shaped configuration of the dispensing device.
[0053] In the case of a pot- or cup-shaped embodiment of the cartridge, or
a pot- or cup-shaped grouping thereof, however, it may also be advantageous
to arrange the delivery openings of the cartridge, for example, in a circular
arc
shape.
[0054] In order to make available a direct visual fill level monitoring
capability, it is advantageous to shape the cartridge at least locally from a
transparent material.
[0055] In order to protect from the effects of heat the heat-sensitive
constituents of a preparation that is present in a cartridge, it is
advantageous to
manufacture the cartridge from a material having low thermal conductivity.
[0056] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge comprises
an RFID label that contains at least information as to the contents of the
cartridge and that can be read out by a sensor unit that can be provided in
particular in the dispensing device or dishwasher.
[0057] This information can be used, for example, to select a dispensing
program stored in the control unit of the dispensing device. It is possible in
this
fashion to ensure that a dispensing program that is optimal for a specific
preparation is always used. Provision can also be made that, if an RFID label
is not present or in the event of an RFID label having an incorrect or
defective
identifier, dispensing is not performed by the dispensing apparatus and
instead
an optical or acoustic signal is generated that informs the user of the
existence
of the fault.
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[0058] In order to preclude improper use of the cartridge, the cartridges can
also comprise structural elements that interact with corresponding elements of
the dispensing device in accordance with the lock-and-key principle, so that,
for
example, only cartridges of a specific type can be coupled to the dispensing
device. This embodiment further enables information about the cartridge
coupled to the dispensing device to be transferred to the control unit of the
dispensing device, with the result that the dispensing apparatus can be
controlled in a manner coordinated with the contents of the corresponding
container.
[0059] The cartridge is embodied, in particular, to receive flowable washing
or cleaning agents. Particularly preferably, a cartridge of this kind
comprises a
plurality of chambers each for physically separated reception of mutually
differing preparations of a flowable washing or cleaning agent. By way of
example, but not exhaustively, some possible combinations for filling the
chambers with different preparations are listed below:
Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 Chamber 4
A Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic cleaning -- --
preparation preparation
B Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic cleaning Rinse aid --
preparation preparation
C Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic cleaning Rinse aid Scent
preparation preparation
D Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic cleaning Rinse aid Disinfecting
preparation preparation preparation
E Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic cleaning Rinse aid Pretreatment
preparation preparation preparation
[0060] It is particularly preferred that all preparations be pourable, since
this
ensures rapid dissolution of the preparations in the washing bath of the
dishwasher, with the result that these preparations achieve a rapid to
immediate cleaning or rinsing effect, especially including on the walls of the
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washing space and/or of a light guide of the cartridge and/or of the
dispensing
device.
[0061] The cartridge usually has a total volumetric capacity of < 5000 ml, in
particular < 1000 ml, preferably < 500 ml, particularly preferably < 250 ml,
very
particularly preferably < 50 ml.
[0062] The chambers of a cartridge can have volumetric capacities that are
identical or different from one another. In the case of a configuration having
two chambers, the ratio of chamber volumes is preferably 5:1, for a
configuration having three chambers preferably 4:1:1, these configurations
being suitable in particular for use in dishwashers.
[0063] As mentioned earlier, the cartridge preferably possesses three
chambers. For use of a cartridge of this kind in a dishwasher, it is
particularly
preferred that one chamber contain an alkaline cleaning preparation, a further
chamber an enzymatic preparation, and a third chamber a rinse aid, the
volume ratio of the chambers being equal to approximately 4:1:1.
[0064] The chamber containing the alkaline cleaning preparation preferably
has the largest volumetric capacity of the chambers that are present. The
chambers that store an enzymatic preparation and a rinse aid, respectively,
preferably have approximately the same volumetric capacity.
[0065] In the case of a two- and/or three-chamber embodiment of the
cartridge, it is possible in particular to store, in particular, a scent
preparation,
disinfecting preparation, and/or pretreatment preparation in a further chamber
arranged detachably on the cartridge or on the dispensing device.
[0066] The cartridge encompasses a cartridge base that, in the use
position, is directed downward in the direction of gravity, and on which is
provided, preferably for each chamber, at least one outlet opening arranged in
the direction of gravity at the bottom. The outlet openings arranged at the
bottom are, in particular, embodied in such a way that at least one outlet
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opening, preferably all outlet openings, are communicatively connectable to
the
inlet openings of the dispensing device, i.e. preparation can flow through the
outlet openings out of the cartridge into the dispensing device, preferably
under
the influence of gravity.
[0067] It is also conceivable for one or more chambers to have an outlet
opening not arranged in the direction of gravity at the bottom. This is
advantageous in particular when, for example, a scent is to be delivered into
the environment of the cartridge.
[0068] The cartridge is preferably constituted from at least two elements
connected intermaterially to one another, such that the connecting edge of the
elements on the cartridge base extend outside the outlet openings, i.e. the
connecting edge does not intersect the outlet openings. This is advantageous
in particular because sealing problems in the context of coupling to the
dispensing device in the region of the outlet openings, which occur in
particular
in the presence of the large alternating temperature stresses that usually
occur
in a dishwasher, can thereby be avoided.
[0069] The intermaterial connection can be produced, for example, by
adhesive bonding, welding, soldering, pressing, or vulcanizing.
[0070] It is particularly preferred to connect the cartridge elements to one
another by mirror welding. In mirror welding, a metal heating mirror that
contains the contour of the interfaces that are to be connected is used to
heat
the interfaces and bring them briefly into the plastic state, so that after
the
heating mirror is removed and the parts are joined together, these plastic
regions solidify again from the melt and produce a strong connection.
[0071] In addition to the mirror welding technique known from the existing
art, individually injection-molded parts can, for example, also be connected
to
one another by laser welding. In laser welding, one of the two materials that
are melted at the interface should bear an absorbent in order to receive the
energy content of the laser beam and convert it into heat, which then produces
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melting of the corresponding material region. This is typically achieved using
color pigments that enter into a thermal interaction with the laser beam
guided
into the material. These interfaces to be joined can also be covered, if the
material present in front of them in the laser beam irradiation direction is
transparent to the laser beam and has no absorption property.
[0072] It is furthermore possible to connect individual cartridge elements by
means of ultrasonic welding methods or IR welding using electrodes.
[0073] It is advantageous that the connecting edge extends along the top,
bottom, and side surfaces of the cartridge. As a result, two cartridge
elements
can be manufactured in particular using the injection molding method, such
that either both elements are embodied in trough-shaped fashion, or one
element is trough-shaped and the second element is similar to a cover.
[0074] To constitute a two- or multi-chamber cartridge, at least one of the
two cartridge elements can encompass at least one separating web that, when
the elements are joined together, separates each two adjacent chambers of
the cartridge from one another.
[0075] According to a preferable embodiment, the outlet openings of the
cartridge are closed off by closure means at least when the cartridge is in
the
filled, unopened state. The closure means can be embodied in such a way that
they permit the outlet opening to be opened once, by destroying the closure
means. Closure means of this kind are, for example, sealing films or closure
caps.
[0076] According to a preferable embodiment of the invention, the outlet
openings are each equipped with a closure that, in the state coupled to a
dispensing device, allows preparation to flow out of the respective chambers
and, when the cartridge is in the uncoupled state, substantially prevents an
outflow of preparation. A closure of this kind is configured in particular as
a
silicone slit valve.
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[0077] It is further preferred that the vent openings of the cartridge be
closed off by a closure element prior to a first coupling to the dispensing
device. The closure element can be, in particular, a plug or cap that is
opened,
for example punched through, as a result of the coupling process upon first
coupling to the dispensing device.
[0078] It is very particularly preferred that prior to a first coupling of the
cartridge to the dispensing device, all outlet openings of the cartridge be
closed
off by a silicone slit valve, and all vent openings by a cap.
[0079] The cartridge elements forming the cartridge are preferably
constituted from a plastic, and can be shaped in a common injection molding
process; it may be advantageous in this context to configure between the two
elements a connecting web acting as a hinge, so that after shaping, the two
elements are butted against another by folding over, and are connected
intermaterially along the connecting edge.
[0080] In a further, preferred embodiment of the invention the cartridge
comprises, for coupling to a dispensing device positionable in the interior of
a
household appliance for delivery of at least one washing- and/or cleaning-
agent preparation, at least one chamber for storage of at least one flowable
or
pourable washing- and/or cleaning-agent preparation, the cartridge being, in
the state coupled to the dispensing device, protected against the entry of
washing water into the chamber(s), and the cartridge encompassing at least
one output opening on the bottom in the direction of gravity for (in
particular,
gravity-produced) delivery of preparation out of at least one chamber, and at
least one vent opening on the bottom in the direction of gravity for venting
of at
least one chamber, the vent opening being separated from the delivery
opening and the vent opening being connected communicatively to at least one
chamber of the cartridge.
[0081] It is particularly preferred that the cartridge encompass at least two
chambers, very particularly preferably at least three chambers. It is
18
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
advantageous in this context that a respective vent opening and delivery
opening is provided for each chamber.
[0082] It is further preferred that the bottom-side vent opening be connected
communicatively to a venting duct whose end facing away from the vent
opening terminates above the maximum fill level of the cartridge when the
cartridge coupled to the dispensing device is in the dispensing position.
[0083] It is advantageous in this connection that the venting duct is shaped
entirely or partly in or on the walls and/or webs of the cartridge. In
particular,
the venting duct can be shaped integrally in or on the walls and/or webs of
the
cartridge.
[0084] Advantageously, the venting duct can be shaped for this purpose by
joining at least two elements forming the cartridge. For example, a venting
duct
can be formed by joining a separating web, shaped in the shell-shaped
element, of the cartridge to two webs arranged on the cartridge element and
enclosing the separating web.
[0085] It is advantageous in this context if the venting duct is formed by
intermaterial joining, in particular by welding, of a separating web, shaped
in
the shell-shaped element, of the cartridge to two webs arranged on the
cartridge element and enclosing the separating web.
[0086] As an alternative to this, the venting duct can also be embodied, for
example, as a so-called dip tube.
[0087] In order to ensure venting of the cartridge even in an oblique
position, for example if the dispensing device is placed in the plate
receptacle,
it is advantageous that with the cartridge in the unopened, filled state and
in an
oblique position of up to 45 , the fill level (F) of the cartridge is not
present at
the venting duct orifice (83).
19
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0088] It is furthermore advantageous in this context to arrange the venting
duct orifice approximately centeredly on or in the chamber wall of the
cartridge
top.
[0089] In order to ensure functionality even after, for example, the cartridge
has been in a horizontal position, it is advantageous if the viscosity of a
flowable preparation, and the venting duct, be configured in such a way that
the preparation is not drawn by capillary forces into the venting duct if the
preparation is present at the venting duct orifice.
[0090] Coupling of the cartridge to the dispensing device is advantageously
to be configured so that there is arranged on the dispensing device a spike,
communicatively connected to the inlet opening of the dispensing device, that
interacts with the couplable cartridge or cartridge chamber in such a way that
upon coupling of the vent opening of the cartridge or cartridge chamber to the
dispensing device, the spike displaces a volume Av in the venting duct,
thereby
generating in the venting duct a pressure Ap which is suitable for
transporting
flowable preparation present in the venting duct into the chamber that is
connected to the venting duct and that stores preparation.
[0091] It is preferred that the vent opening of a chamber be
communicatively connected, using the spike on the dispensing device, before
the closed-off outlet opening of the corresponding chamber is opened, for
example by communicative connection to the inlet opening of the dispensing
device.
[0092] According to a further, advantageous embodiment of the invention, a
venting chamber is arranged between the vent opening and venting duct.
[0093] The cartridge can be embodied so that it can be arranged
detachably or fixedly in or on the dispensing device and/or a dishwasher or
washing machine and/or laundry dryer.
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
Cartridge light guide
[0094] The cartridge for coupling to a dispensing device for delivery of at
least one washing- and/or cleaning-agent preparation out of the cartridge into
the interior of a household appliance encompasses, in a preferred embodiment
of the invention, a light guide, arranged in or on the cartridge, into which a
light
signal can be coupled from outside the cartridge. It is preferred in
particular to
couple into the cartridge a light signal that is emitted from the dispensing
device.
[0095] In particular, the light guide can be shaped entirely or partly on the
walls and/or webs of the cartridge.
[0096] It is additionally advantageous to embody the light guide integrally in
or on the walls and/or webs of the cartridge.
[0097] The light guide is preferably made of a transparent plastic material,
It
is also possible, however, to configure the entire cartridge from a
transparent
material.
[0098] It is preferred that the light guide be suitable for guiding light in
the
visible region (10 to 780 nm). It is particularly preferable that the light
guide be
suitable for guiding light in the near infrared region (780 nm to 3000 nm). It
is
especially preferred that the light guide be suitable for guiding light in the
medium infrared region (3.0 pm to 50 pm).
[0099] The light guide is made, in particular, from a transparent plastic
material having a high refractive index.
[0100] Advantageously, the light guide is at least locally surrounded,
entirely
or partly, by a material having a lower optical refractive index. In
particular, the
material having the lower optical refractive index can be a preparation stored
in
a chamber of the cartridge.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0101] A ratio of the refractive indices of the preparation and light guide
from 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 advantageous, the refractive index having been
determined in each case at a wavelength of 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 ascertained by means of an
Abbe refractometer per DIN 53491.
[0102] It is particularly advantageous for the preparation that entirely or
partly surrounds the light guide to have a transmittance from 45% to 95%,
particularly preferably 60% to 90%, very particularly preferably 75% to 85%.
The light guide preferably has a transmittance > 75%, very particularly
preferably > 85%. The transmittance can be determined per DIN 5036.
[0103] It is further preferred that the wavelength of the light that is
transmitted through the light guide correspond approximately to the wavelength
of at least one preparation, at least locally surrounding the light guide,
that is
not absorbed from the visible spectrum by the preparation. It is particularly
preferred in this context that the wavelength of the light that is transmitted
through the light guide, and the wavelength that is not absorbed by the
preparation, be between 600 and 800 nm.
[0104] The light signal that can be coupled into the light guide is, in
particular, a carrier of information, especially e.g. with reference to the
operating state of the dispensing device and/or to the fill level of the
cartridge.
[0105] In a preferable refinement of the invention, the light guide is
embodied in such a way that the light signal that can be coupled into the
light
guide can also be coupled back out of the light guide.
[0106] It may be advantageous in this context that the light guide is
embodied in such a way that the light signal can be coupled out at a point on
the cartridge that is different from the point into which the light signal can
be
coupled into the cartridge.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0107] Incoupling and outcoupling of the light signal can be implemented, in
particular, at a prismatically configured edge of the cartridge.
[0108] It is particularly preferred to embody the incoupling and outcoupling
points of the light signal in the corresponding injection mold by means of
highly
polished or hard chrome-plated mold surfaces, so that the reflective property
of
the incoupling or outcoupling point is low and the desired signal incoupling
is
possible.
[0109] The spacing between the light source, in particular an LED, arranged
in the dispensing device, and the incoupling point of the light into the
cartridge
when the cartridge and dispensing device are in the coupled state, should be
kept as small as possible.
[0110] It is also advantageous that the light signal and the light guide are
configured in such a way that a light signal visible to a user can be
generated
at and/or in the cartridge.
[0111] According to a further embodiment, the light guide can be cut
through, at at least one point in the cartridge, in such a way that
preparation
can fill the cut point. This allows simple implementation of a fill-level
and/or tilt
sensor, such that a light signal that passes through the cut point without
preparation differs from the light signal that passes through the cut point
filled
entirely or partly with preparation.
Dispensing device
[0112] The control unit necessary for operation, as well as at least one
actuator, are integrated into the dispensing device. Preferably a sensor unit
and/or an energy source are likewise arranged on or in the dispensing device.
[0113] The dispensing device is preferably made up a water-spray-
protected housing that can prevent the penetration into the interior of the
dispensing device of sprayed water such as can occur, for example, upon use
23
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
in a dishwasher, in which housing at least the control unit, sensor unit,
and/or
actuator are arranged.
[0114] It is furthermore advantageous to arrange the components or
assemblies on, at, and/or in a component carrier in the dispensing device;
this,
too, is further explained elsewhere.
[0115] It is particularly preferred that the dispensing device encompass at
least one first interface that interacts _ corresponding interface embodied in
or on a household appliance, in particular a water-conveying household
appliance, preferably a dishwasher or washing machine, in such a way that a
transfer of electrical energy and/or signals from the household appliance to
the
dispensing device and/or from the dispensing device to the household
appliance is brought about.
[0116] In an embodiment of the invention, the interfaces are embodied by
plug connectors. In a further embodiment, the interfaces can be embodied in
such a way that a wireless transfer of electrical energy and/or of electrical
and/or optical signals is produced.
[0117] It is particularly preferred in this context that the interfaces
provided
for the transfer of electrical energy be inductive transmitters or receivers
of
electromagnetic waves. In particular, for example, the interface of a water-
conveying device, such as a dishwasher, can be embodied as a transmitter coil
operated with alternating current and having an iron core, and the interface
of
the dispensing device as a receiver coil having an iron core.
[0118] In an alternative embodiment, the transfer of electrical energy can
also be provided by means of an interface that encompasses on the household
appliance side an electrically operated light source, and on the dispensing
device side a light sensor, for example a photodiode or a solar cell. The
light
emitted from the light source is converted by the light sensor into electrical
energy which then in turn feeds into, for example, a rechargeable battery on
the dispensing device side.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0119] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, an interface is
configured on the dispensing device and on the water-conveying device, for
example a dishwasher, for the transfer (i.e. transmission and reception) of
electromagnetic and/or optical signals that represent in particular operating-
state, measurement, and/or control data of the dispensing device and/or of the
water-conveying device such as a dishwasher.
[0120] It is of course possible to provide only an interface for the transfer
of
signals or an interface for the transfer of electrical energy, or one
interface for
the transfer of signals and one interface for the transfer of electrical
energy,
respectively, or to provide an interface that is suitable for making available
a
transfer of both electrical energy and signals.
[0121] An interface of this kind can be embodied in particular in such a way
that a wireless transfer of electrical energy and/or electromagnetic and/or
optical signals is produced.
[0122] It is particularly preferred that the interface be configured for the
emission and/or reception of optical signals. It is very particularly
preferred that
the interface be configured for the emission and reception of light in the
visible
region. Because darkness usually prevails in the interior of the washing space
during operation of a dishwasher, signals in the visible optical region, for
example in the form of signal pulses or light flashes, can be emitted and/or
detected by the dispensing device. It has proven particularly advantageous in
this context to use wavelengths between 600 and 800 nm in the visible
spectrum.
[0123] Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous for the interface to
be
configured for the emission or reception of infrared signals. It is
advantageous
in particular for the interface to be configured for the emission or reception
of
infrared signals in the near infrared region (780 nm to 3000 nm).
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0124] The interface encompasses in particular at least one LED.
Particularly preferably, the interface encompasses at least two LEDs. It is
also
possible, according to a further preferable embodiment of the invention, to
provide at least two LEDs that emit light at wavelengths differing from one
another. This makes it possible, for example, to define different signal bands
on which data can be sent and received.
[0125] It is further advantageous, in a refinement of the invention, for at
least one LED to be an RGB LED whose wavelength is adjustable. It is thus
possible, for example, to define with one LED a variety of signal bands that
emit signals at different wavelengths. It thus also conceivable, for example,
that during the drying operation, during which high humidity (mist) is present
in
the washing space, light is emitted at a different wavelength than, for
example,
during a washing step.
[0126] The interface of the dispensing device can be configured so that the
LED is provided both for the emission of signals into the interior of the
dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door is closed, and for optical
indication of an operating state of the dispensing device, in particular when
the
dishwasher door is open.
[0127] It is particularly preferred that an optical signal be embodied as a
signal pulse having a pulse duration of between 1 ms and 10 second,
preferably between 5 ms and 100 ms.
[0128] It is further advantageous that the interface of the dispensing device
be configured in such a way that it emits an optical signal, when the
dishwasher is closed and unloaded, that produces an average illumination
intensity E of between 0.01 and 100 lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux,
measured at the walls delimiting the washing space. This illumination
intensity
is then sufficient to produce multiple reflections with or at other washing-
space
walls, thereby reducing or preventing signal shadows in the washing space,
especially when the washing machine is in the loaded state.
26
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0129] The signal emitted and/or received by the interface is in particular a
carrier of information, in particular a control signal or a signal that
represents
an operating state of the dispensing device and/or of the dishwasher.
[0130] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the dispensing
device for delivery of at least one washing- and/or cleaning-agent preparation
from a cartridge into the interior of a household appliance comprises a light
source by means of which a light signal can be coupled into a light guide of
the
cartridge. The light source can be, in particular, an LED. This makes it
possible, for example, to couple light signals, which represent e.g. the
operating state of the dispensing device, out of the dispensing device into
the
cartridge, so that they are visually perceptible at the cartridge by a user.
This is
advantageous in particular because the dispensing device may, in the
utilization position in the plate receptacle of a tableware rack in a
dishwasher,
be visually concealed between other items being washed. As a result of the
incoupling of light from the dispensing device into the cartridge, the
corresponding light signals can be, for example, also conveyed into the top
region of the cartridge so that the light signals are visually perceptible by
the
user even if the dispensing device is positioned in the plate receptacle
between
other items being washed, since when the tableware rack is correctly loaded,
the top region of the items being washed, and of the cartridge, usually
remains
unconcealed.
[0131] It is further possible for the light signal that is coupled into the
light
guide of the cartridge, and that passes through the light guide, to be capable
of
being sensed by a sensor present on the dispensing device. This is explained
further in a section that follows.
[0132] In a further, advantageous embodiment, the dispensing device for
delivery of at least one washing- and/or cleaning-agent preparation into the
interior of a household appliance encompasses at least one optical
transmitting
unit, the optical transmitting unit being configured in such a way that
signals
from the transmitting unit can be coupled into a cartridge couplable to the
dispensing device, and signals from the transmitting unit can be radiated into
27
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
the environment of the dispensing device. It is thereby possible to implement,
by means of one optical transmitting unit, both signal transmission between
the
dispensing device and, for example, a household appliance such as a
dishwasher, and signal input into a cartridge.
[0133] The optical transmitting unit can be, in particular, an LED that
preferably radiates light in the visible and/or IR region. It is also
conceivable to
use a different suitable optical transmitting unit, for example a laser diode.
It is
particularly preferable to use optical transmitting units that emit light in
the
wavelength region between 600 and 800 nm.
[0134] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the dispensing
device can encompass at least one optical receiving unit. This makes it
possible, for example, for the dispensing device to receive signals from an
optical transmitting unit arranged in the household appliance. This can be
implemented by way of any suitable optical receiving unit, for example
photocells, photomultipliers, semiconductor detectors, photodiodes,
photoresistors, solar cells, phototransistors, CCD and/or CMOS image
sensors. It is particularly preferred that the optical receiving unit be
suitable for
receiving light in the wavelength region from 600 to 800 nm.
[0135] In particular, the optical receiving unit on the dispensing device can
also be embodied in such a way that the signals that can be coupled from the
transmitting unit into a cartridge couplable to the dispensing device can be
coupled out of the cartridge, and can be detected by the optical receiving
unit
of the dispensing device.
[0136] The signals emitted by the transmitting unit into the environment of
the dispensing device can preferably represent data with regard to operating
states or control instructions.
Component carrier
[0137] The dispensing device encompasses a component carrier on which
are arranged at least the actuator and the closure element, as well as the
28
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
energy source and/or control unit and/or sensor unit and/or dispensing
chamber.
[0138] The component carrier comprises receptacles for the aforesaid
components, and/or the components are shaped in one piece with the
component carrier.
[0139] The receptacles for the components in the component carrier can be
provided for a frictionally engaged, positive, and/or intermaterial connection
between a respective component and the corresponding receptacle.
[0140] It is further conceivable that for easy removal of the components
from the component carrier, the dispensing chamber, actuator, closure
element, energy source, control unit, and/or sensor unit are each arranged
detachably on the component carrier.
[0141] It is also advantageous that the energy source, control unit, and
sensor unit are arranged on or in the component carrier in a manner grouped
into one assembly.
[0142] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the energy source,
control unit, and sensor unit are grouped together into one assembly. This can
be implemented, for example, by the fact that the energy source, control unit,
and sensor unit are arranged on a common electrical circuit board.
[0143] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the
component carrier is embodied in trough-shaped fashion, produced as an
injection-molded part. It is particularly preferred that the dispensing
chamber
be embodied in one piece with the component carrier.
[0144] The component carrier makes possible, to a very large extent, simple
automatic population with the necessary components of the dispensing device.
The component carrier can thus be preassembled in its entirety, preferably
automatically, and joined to a dispensing device.
29
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0145] According to an embodiment of the invention, the trough-shaped
component carrier can be closed off after population, in liquid-tight fashion,
by
an e.g. cover-like closure element. The closure element can be embodied, for
example, as a film that is connected intermaterially and in liquid-tight
fashion to
the component carrier and forms, with the trough-like component carrier, one
or more liquid-tight chambers.
[0146] The closure element can also be a console into which the
component carrier is introducible, the console and component carrier
constituting, in the assembled state, the dispensing device. In the assembled
state, the component carrier and the console interact in such a way that a
liquid-tight connection is constituted between the component carrier and the
console so that washing water cannot get into the interior of the dispensing
device or the component carrier.
[0147] It is further preferred that when the dispensing device is in the
utilization position, the receptacle for the actuator be arranged above the
dispensing chamber in the direction of gravity, thereby allowing a compact
conformation of the dispensing device to be achieved. The compact design
can be further optimized by the fact that when the dispensing device is in the
utilization position, the dispensing chamber inlet on the component carrier is
arranged above the actuator receptacle. It is also preferable that the
components be arranged on the component carrier substantially in line with
one another, in particular along the longitudinal axis of the component
carrier.
[0148] In a refinement of the invention, the receptacle for the actuator
comprises an opening that lies on a line with the dispensing chamber outlet,
so
that a closure element can be moved by the actuator back and forth through
the opening and the dispensing chamber outlet.
[0149] It is particularly preferred that the component carrier be formed from
a transparent material.
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0150] Advantageously, the component carrier encompasses at least one
light guide through which light can be guided from the environment of the
dispensing device to an optical transmitting and/or receiving unit into and/or
out
of the interior of the dispensing device or of the component carrier, the
light
guide being in particular shaped in one piece with the transparent component
carrier.
[0151] It is therefore further preferred that there be provided in the
dispensing device at least one opening through which light can be coupled in
and/or out from the environment of the dispensing device into and/or out of
the
light guide.
Actuator
[0152] An "actuator" for purposes of this invention is an apparatus which
converts an input variable into an output variable of a different nature, and
with
which an object is moved or motion thereof is generated, the actuator being
coupled to at least one closure element in such a way that the release of
preparation from at least one cartridge chamber can be brought about
indirectly or directly.
[0153] The actuator can be driven by drive systems selected from the group
of the gravity drives, ionic drives, electric drives, motor drives, hydraulic
drives,
pneumatic drives, gear drives, threaded spindle drives, ball screw drives,
linear
drives, roller screw drives, worm drives, piezoelectric drives, chain drives,
and/or reaction drives.
[0154] The actuator can be configured in particular from an electric motor
which is coupled to a linkage that converts the rotary motion of the motor
into a
linear motion of a carriage coupled to the linkage. This is advantageous in
particular in the case of a slim, plate-shaped embodiment of the dispensing
unit.
[0155] There can be arranged on the actuator at least one magnet element
that, with a magnet element of identical polarity on a dispenser, brings about
a
31
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
product delivery from the container as soon as the two magnet elements are
positioned opposite one another in such a way that a magnetic repulsion of the
identically polarized magnet elements is brought about, and a non-contact
release mechanism is implemented.
[0156] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuator
is a bistable solenoid that, together with a closure element that engages into
the bistable solenoid and is embodied as a plunger core, forms a pulse-
controlled bistable valve. Bistable solenoids are electromagnets having a
linear
motion direction, such that the plunger core locks in unenergized fashion in
each end position.
[0157] Bistable solenoids and bistable valves are known in the existing art.
A bistable valve requires one pulse for the change in valve position
(open/closed), and then remains in that position until a counter-pulse is sent
to
the valve. This is therefore also referred to as a pulse-controlled valve. An
essential advantage of such pulse-controlled valves is that they consume no
energy in order to remain in the valve end positions (closure position and
delivery position), but merely require an energy pulse in order to change the
valve position; the valve end positions may thus be regarded as stable. A
bistable valve remains in the switched position that most recently received a
control signal.
[0158] The closure element (plunger core) is shifted into one end position
by a current pulse. The current is switched off and the closure element
retains
its position. The closure element is shifted into the other end position by a
current pulse. The current is switched off and the closure element retains its
position.
[0159] A bistable property can be implemented in solenoids in various ways.
On the one hand, splitting of the coil is known. The coil is split more or
less
centeredly, thus creating a gap. A permanent magnet is inserted into this gap.
The plunger core itself is machined down at both the front and back so that it
has, in each end position, a surface abutting in planar fashion with respect
to
32
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
the magnet frame. The magnetic field of the permanent magnet flows over this
surface and the plunger core adheres here. Another alternative possibility is
the use of two separate coils. The principle is similar to that of the
bistable
solenoid having a split coil. The difference is that electrically, there are
in fact
two different coils. Control is applied to them separately from one another,
depending on the direction in which the plunger core is to be moved.
[0160] It is thus particularly preferable that the closure element be coupled
to the actuator in such a way that the closure element is displaceable by the
actuator into a closure position and into a passthrough position (delivery
position), the closure element being embodied as an on/off valve element; that
the actuator is embodied in such a way that, under the control of a suitable
pulse, it assumes in selectably determinable fashion one of two end positions
and, without application of control, maintains in stable fashion the end
position
that was reached; and that the combination thus constitutes a pulse-controlled
bistable on/off valve.
[0161] The actuator can be embodied for this purpose, in particular, as a
bistable solenoid having a space that receives an armature, and having an
outer receiving space surrounding said space. The armature of the bistable
solenoid can be embodied so that it forms the closure element or is coupled to
it.
[0162] In order to bring about a separation between a wet space and a dry
space in the dispensing device, the space of the actuator that receives the
armature can be separated from the outer receiving space of the actuator in
liquid-tight and by preferably also gas-tight fashion.
[0163] It is further advantageous to constitute at least the outer surface of
the armature from a material that cannot be attacked by the washing or
cleaning agent that is to be dispensed, in particular from a plastic material.
[0164] The armature preferably encompasses a core made of a
magnetizable, in particular ferromagnetic, material, and a permanent magnet
33
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
positioned in the outer receiving space, a respective coil being arranged at
the
two axial ends of said magnet.
[0165] It is additionally preferred that permanent magnets be arranged in
axially anti-polar fashion in the armature at its axial ends; and that yoke
rings
made of a ferromagnetic material, in particular of iron, be arranged in the
outer
receiving space at both axial ends, with a coil winding between said rings.
[0166] It is advantageous in this context that the axial spacing of the yoke
rings is greater than the axial spacing of the permanent magnets.
[0167] In addition, yoke rings can be arranged in the armature at its axial
ends, permanent magnets being arranged in axially anti-polar fashion in the
outer receiving space at both axial ends, and a coil winding being arranged
between them. The axial spacing of the permanent magnets is, in this context,
preferably greater than the axial spacing of the yoke rings.
[0168] The actuator/closure element combination is provided in particular in
a dispensing device of a dispensing system having a cartridge for flowable
washing or cleaning agents having a plurality of chambers each for physically
separated reception of mutually differing preparations of a washing or
cleaning
agent, and having a dispensing device couplable to the cartridge, the
dispensing device comprising: an energy source, a control unit, a sensor unit,
an actuator which is connected to the energy source and to the control unit in
such a way that a control signal of the control unit produces an actuation of
the
actuator, a closure element which is coupled to the actuator in such a way
that
it is displaceable by the actuator into a closure position and into a
passthrough
position (delivery position), at least one dispensing chamber which, when the
dispensing device is assembled with a cartridge, is communicatively connected
to at least one of the cartridge chambers, the dispensing chamber comprising
an inlet for the inflow of washing or cleaning agent out of a cartridge
chamber,
and an outlet for the outflow of washing or cleaning agent out of the
dispensing
chamber into the environment, and at least the outlet of the dispensing
34
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
chamber being capable of being closed off or uncovered by the closure
element.
[0169] The actuator is, in particular, arranged in a component carrier in
such a way that when the dispensing device is in the utilization position, a
receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier is arranged above the
dispensing chamber in the direction of gravity. It is very particularly
advantageous in this context that when the dispensing device is in the
utilization position, the inlet of the dispensing chamber on the component
carrier is arranged above the receptacle of the actuator.
[0170] It is also conceivable for the dispensing device to comprise a
component carrier in which, when the dispensing device is in the utilization
position, a receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier is arranged
laterally next to the dispensing chamber.
[0171] The receptacle for the actuator preferably comprises an opening that
lies on a line with the outlet of the dispensing chamber, the closure element
being movable by the actuator through the opening to the outlet and back.
Closure element
[0172] A "closure element" for purposes of this Application is a component
on which the actuator acts and which, as a consequence of that action, brings
about opening or closure of an outlet opening.
[0173] The closure element can involve, for example, valves that can be
brought by the actuator into a product delivery position or a closure
position.
[0174] An embodiment of the closure element and the actuator in the form
of a solenoid valve, in which the dispenser is embodied by the valve and the
actuator is embodied by the electromagnetic or piezoelectric drive system of
the solenoid valve, is particularly preferred. Especially when a plurality of
containers, and thus of preparations to be dispensed, are used, the use of
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
solenoid valves allows the dispensed quantity and dispensing times to be
regulated very accurately.
[0175] It is therefore advantageous to control the delivery of preparations
out of each outlet opening of a chamber using a solenoid valve, by the fact
that
the solenoid valve indirectly or directly determines the release of
preparation
out of the product delivery opening.
Sensor
[0176] A "sensor" for purposes of this Application is a measured variable
transducer or sensing element that can sense specific physical or chemical
properties and/or the material nature of its environment, qualitatively or
quantitatively as a measured variable.
[0177] The dispensing unit preferably comprises at least one sensor that is
suitable for sensing a temperature. The temperature sensor is embodied in
particular for sensing a water temperature.
[0178] It is further preferred that the dispensing unit encompass a sensor
for sensing conductivity, with which, in particular, the presence of water or
the
spraying of water, in particular in a dishwasher, is sensed.
[0179] In a refinement of the invention, the dispensing unit comprises a
sensor that can determine physical, chemical, and/or mechanical parameters
from the environment of the dispensing unit. The sensor unit can encompass
one or more active and/or passive sensors for qualitative and/or quantitative
sensing of mechanical, electrical, physical, and/or chemical variables, which
are conveyed as control signals to the control unit.
[0180] The sensors of the sensor unit can be selected, in particular, from
the group of the timers, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, brightness
sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, elongation sensors, rotation
speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors,
vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors,
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acoustic pressure sensors, "lab on a chip" sensors, force sensors,
acceleration
sensors, tilt sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors, magnetic field sensors,
RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors,
hydrogen sulfide sensors, and/or MEMS sensors.
[0181] Especially in the case of preparations whose viscosity fluctuates
greatly as a function of temperature, it is advantageous in terms of
monitoring
the volume or mass of the dispensed preparations to provide flow sensors in
the dispensing apparatus. Suitable flow sensors can be selected from the
group of the diaphragm flow sensors, magnetic induction flow meters, mass
flow measurement using the Coriolis method, vortex meter flow measurement
methods, ultrasonic flow measurement methods, suspended solid particle flow
measurement, oscillating piston flow measurement, thermal mass flow
measurement, or differential pressure flow measurement.
[0182] It is particularly preferred that at least two sensor units be provided
for measuring parameters different from one another; very particularly
preferably, one sensor unit is a conductivity sensor and a further sensor unit
is
a temperature sensor. It is further preferred that at least one sensor unit be
a
brightness sensor.
[0183] The sensors are, in particular, coordinated so as to detect the
beginning, course, and end of a washing program. The sensor combinations
listed (by way of example and not exhaustively) in the table below can be used
for this purpose:
Sensor l Sensor 2 Sensor 3 Sensor 4
Conductivity Temperature
sensor sensor
Conductivity Temperature Brightness
sensor sensor sensor
Conductivity Temperature Brightness Turbidity
sensor sensor sensor sensor
Acoustic sensor Temperature
sensor
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By means of the conductivity sensor it is possible to detect, for example,
whether the conductivity sensor is wetted with water, thereby allowing a
determination, for example, as to whether water is present in the dishwasher.
[0184] Washing programs generally exhibit a characteristic temperature
profile, which is determined inter alia by the heating of the wash water and
by
drying of the items being washed, and can be sensed via a temperature
sensor.
[0185] By means of a brightness sensor it is possible, for example, to detect
the entry of light into the interior of a dishwasher upon opening of the
dishwasher door, from which e.g. an end of the washing program can be
inferred.
[0186] A turbidity sensor can also be provided in order to ascertain the
degree of soiling of the items to be washed in the dishwasher. This also
allows,
for example, selection in the dispensing device of a dispensing program that
is
relevant to the ascertained soiling situation.
[0187] It is also conceivable to determine the progress of a washing
program with the aid of at least one acoustic sensor, by detecting specific
acoustic and/or vibration emissions in the context of, for example the pumping
in and pumping out of water.
[0188] It is of course possible for one skilled in the art to use any suitable
combinations of multiple sensors in order to achieve washing program
monitoring.
[0189] According to a refinement of the invention, it is conceivable for a
temperature-dependent viscosity curve of at least one preparation to be stored
in the control unit, the dispensing action being adapted by the control unit
in
accordance with the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.
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[0190] In a further embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for directly
determining the viscosity of the preparation is provided.
[0191] The alternatives set forth above for determining the dispensed
quantity or viscosity of a preparation serve for generation of a control
signal
that is processed by the control unit to control a dispenser, in such a way
that
substantially constant dispensing of a preparation is brought about.
[0192] The data line between the sensor and control unit can be
implemented by way of an electrically conductive cable, or wirelessly. It is
also
conceivable in principle for at least one sensor to be positioned or
positionable
outside the dispensing device in the interior of a dishwasher, and for a data
line
to be embodied, in particular wirelessly, for transmitting measured data from
the sensor to the dispensing device.
[0193] A wirelessly embodied data line is embodied in particular by the
transfer of electromagnetic waves or light. It is preferred to embody a
wireless
data line in accordance with accepted standards such as, for example,
Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS, etc.
[0194] To enable efficient production and assembly of the dispensing
device it is also possible, however, for at least one sensor to be arranged on
or
in the control unit. For example, it is possible to provide a temperature
sensor
in the dispensing device or directly on the circuit board carrying the control
unit,
so that the temperature sensor has no direct contact with the environment.
[0195] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor is
arranged at the base of the dispensing device, the base of the dispensing
device being directed, in the utilization position, downward in the direction
of
gravity. It is particularly preferred in this context that the sensor unit
encompass
a temperature sensor and/or a conductivity sensor. A configuration of this
kind
ensures that water is conveyed by means of the spray arms of the dishwasher
onto the underside of the dispensing device and thus into contact with the
sensor. Because the spacing between the spray arms and the sensor is as
39
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
small as possible as a result of the bottom-side arrangement of the sensor,
the
water experiences only slight cooling between emergence at the spray arms
and contact with the sensor, so that a maximally accurate temperature
measurement can be carried out.
[0196] To extend the energy consumption of the dispensing device and the
service life of the energy source, in particular a battery, the energy loads
of the
dispensing device, in particular the control unit, can be connected to the
energy source with inclusion of an on/off switch, and the energy source can be
under load only after the on/off switch has reached the "on" state, such that
a
sensor unit constitutes the on/off switch or is connected to it and switches
it.
[0197] It is particularly preferred that the sensor down at the base of the
dispensing device comprise two contacts that are in contact with the
environment, embodied in particular as contact pins projecting downward out
of the base; that one contact be connected with respect to the energy source
as an anode contact and the other contact as a cathode contact; and that
without an electrically conductive connection between the contacts, the on/off
switch that is in the "off' state remains in the "off" state, and upon
creation of
an electrically conductive connection between the contacts, the on/off switch
that is in the "off' state switches into the "on" state.
[0198] It is further preferred that the on/off switch be equipped or combined
with a self-locking circuit that ensures or brings about self-locking of the
energy
supply to the energy load after the "on" state of the on/off switch is
reached,
until reception of a switch-off signal of the control signal.
[0199] The on/off switch can be embodied in particular as a transistor
circuit. It is preferable in this context that the transistor of the on/off
switch be
embodied as a pnp transistor and connected at the emitter, optionally via a
control application circuit, to the supply voltage; at the collector,
optionally via a
control application circuit, to ground and to the cathode contact; and at the
base on the one hand, optionally via a control application circuit, to the
supply
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
voltage, and on the other hand, optionally via a control application circuit,
to the
anode contact.
[0200] The control application circuit preferably comprises at least one
control resistor that is embodied in particular as a resistor-type voltage
divider.
[0201] It is very particularly advantageous that in addition to the on/off
sensor unit, a sensor unit embodied as a conductivity sensor is provided,
which
comprises, down at the base of the dispensing device, two contacts in contact
with the environment; and that the anode contact of the on/off sensor unit is
simultaneously the anode contact of the sensor unit that constitutes the
conductivity sensor. It thereby becomes possible to implement an on/off switch
and a conductivity sensor in one component (a transistor).
[0202] It is also possible for the sensor unit constituting the temperature
sensor to be integrated into a contact, in particular the cathode contact, of
the
sensor unit constituting the conductivity sensor.
[0203] In the sensor unit constituting the conductivity sensor, the contact
that receives the temperature sensor can be embodied as a hollow contact pin
in which the temperature sensor of the sensor unit constituting the
temperature
sensor is arranged.
[0204] In order to achieve a compact overall size, it is furthermore
advantageous that the energy source, the control unit, and the sensor unit are
arranged, grouped in one assembly, on or in the component carrier.
[0205] It is particularly preferred that the contacts of a conductivity sensor
arranged on the bottom side be surrounded by an electrically conductive
silicone. The conductivity sensor can be embodied in this context in
particular
in the form of a resistance measurement between two contacts that are spaced
apart from one another and are in contact with the environment of the
dispensing device. It is very particularly preferable in this context that the
silicone be embedded flush in the base of the dispensing device.
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Advantageously, the silicone has an approximately circular base surface.
Silicone exhibits good wettability with water, and thus furnishes good
measurement results in terms of the detection of water in the dishwasher.
[0206] In order to avoid polarization, which would negatively affect sensor
accuracy, at the contacts of the conductivity sensor when a DC voltage source
is used, it is advantageous to perform two successive resistance
measurements at the conductivity sensor using a different polarity in each
case, i.e. with the positive and negative poles transposed, so that excess
charges cannot form at the contacts.
Control unit
[0207] A "control unit" for purposes of this Application is an apparatus which
is suitable for influencing the transportation of material, energy, and/or
information. For this purpose, the control unit influences actuators with the
aid
of data, in particular measurement signals of the sensor unit, which it
processes as defined by the control objective.
[0208] The control unit can be in particular a programmable
microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a
plurality of dispensing programs, which in a particularly preferred embodiment
can be selected and executed in a manner corresponding to the container
coupled to the dispensing device, are stored on the microprocessor.
[0209] In a preferred embodiment, the control unit has no connection to the
household appliance control system that is possibly present. No data, in
particular electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signals, are therefore
exchanged directly between the control unit and the household appliance
control system.
[0210] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the control unit is
coupled to the household appliance control system that is present. This
coupling is preferably embodied wirelessly. It is possible, for example, to
position a transmitter on or in a dishwasher, preferably on or at or in the
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
dispensing chamber recessed into the door of the dishwasher, which
transmitter wirelessly transfers a signal to the dispensing unit when the
household appliance control system brings about dispensing, for example, of a
cleaning agent out of the dispensing chamber, or of rinse aid.
[0211] Multiple programs for the release of different preparations, or for the
release of products in different application instances, can be stored in the
control unit.
[0212] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, invocation of the
corresponding program can be brought about by means of corresponding RFID
labels, or geometric information carriers shaped on the container. For
example,
it is possible to use the same control unit for a plurality of applications,
for
example to dispense cleaning agents in dishwashers, to deliver perfumes in
the context of room scenting, to apply cleaning substances into a toilet bowl,
etc.
[0213] For the dispensing of, in particular, preparations that tend to gel,
the
control unit can be configured in such a way that on the one hand dispensing
occurs in a sufficiently short time to ensure a good cleaning result, and on
the
other hand the preparation is not dispensed so quickly that gelling of the
surge
of preparation occurs. This can be achieved, for example by way of an interval-
type release, the individual dispensing intervals being adjusted so that they
completely trigger the correspondingly dispensed quantity during one cleaning
cycle.
[0214] It is particularly preferred that the dispensing intervals for delivery
of
a preparation be between 30 and 90 seconds, particularly preferably 45 to 75
seconds.
[0215] The delivery of preparations out of the dispensing device can occur
sequentially or simultaneously.
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[0216] It is particularly preferred to dispense a plurality of preparations
sequentially in one washing program. The following dispensing sequences are
particularly to be preferred:
Dispensing action 1 Dispensing action Dispensing action Dispensing
2 3 action 4
Enzymatic cleaning Alkaline cleaning
preparation preparation
Alkaline cleaning Rinse aid
preparation
Enzymatic cleaning Alkaline cleaning Rinse aid
preparation preparation
Enzymatic cleaning Alkaline cleaning Rinse aid Disinfecting
preparation preparation preparation
Enzymatic cleaning Alkaline cleaning Rinse aid Scent
preparation preparation
Pretreatment Enzymatic Alkaline cleaning Rinse aid
preparation cleaning preparation
preparation
[0217] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention,
the dishwasher and the dispensing device interact in such a way that 1 mg to 1
g surfactant per square meter of washing space wall area is released in the
rinse program of the dishwasher. This ensures that the walls of the washing
space retain their gloss even after a plurality of washing cycles, and that
the
dispensing system retains its optical transfer capability.
[0218] It is furthermore advantageous 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 the prewash program
and/or main wash program of the dishwasher, release of the enzyme-
containing preparation preferably occurring earlier in time than the release
of
the alkaline preparation.
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[0219] In a further, advantageous embodiment of the invention, the
dishwasher and the dispensing device interact in such a way that 0.1 mg to
250 mg of enzyme protein per square meter of washing space wall area is
released in the prewash program and/or main wash program of the
dishwasher, with the result that the gloss of the washing space walls is
further
improved or is maintained even after a plurality of washing cycles.
[0220] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, data such as, for
example, control programs and/or dispensing programs of the control unit, or
operating parameters or protocols stored by the control unit, can be read out
of
or loaded into the control unit. This can be achieved, for example, by means
of
an optical interface, the optical interface being correspondingly connected to
the control unit. The data to be transferred are then coded, and emitted or
received, as light signals, in particular in the visible region, the
wavelength
region between 600 and 800 nm being preferred. It is also possible, however,
to use a sensor that is present in the dispensing device to transfer data out
of
and/or to the control unit. For example, the contacts of a conductivity
sensor,
which are connected to the control unit and make available a conductivity
determination by means of a resistance measurement at the contacts of the
conductivity sensor, can be used for data transfer.
Methods in the control unit
[0221] The control unit allows, in particular, configuration of a method for
operating a dispensing device, not permanently connected to a household
appliance, for delivery of at least one washing- or cleaning-agent preparation
into the interior of the household appliance, at least one dispensing program
being stored in the control unit, and the control unit interacting with at
least one
actuator, located in the dispensing device, in such a way that washing- and/or
cleaning-agent preparation is releasable from the dispensing device into the
interior of the household appliance; the dispensing device comprises at least
one receiving unit for signals that are emitted from at least one transmitting
unit
arranged in the household appliance; and at least a portion of the signals are
converted, in the dispensing-device-side control unit, into control
instructions
for the actuators of the dispensing device, reception of the signals being
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
monitored on the dispensing-device side by means of the control unit, and a
dispensing program from the control unit of the dispensing device being
activated in the event the signals are not received at the dispensing device.
[0222] This makes it possible to ensure dispensing of preparation in the
event of a signal cutoff between the household-appliance-side transmitting
unit
and the dispensing device, by the fact that the dispensing device transfers
control authority from the household appliance to the control system within
the
dispensing device.
[0223] It is advantageous in particular that the signal on the household-
appliance side is emitted at predefined periodic time intervals from the
transmitting unit on the household-appliance side into the interior of the
household appliance. This makes it possible for the defined periodic time
intervals at which a signal is delivered from the household-appliance-side
transmitting unit to be stored in the control unit of the dispensing device
and in
the household appliance. If contact between the transmitting unit of the
household appliance is cut off after reception of a signal at the dispensing
device, this cutoff can be ascertained at the dispensing-device end by a
comparison between the time elapsed since the most recently received signal
and the time at which, after the defined periodic time interval, reception of
a
subsequent signal is expected.
[0224] It is preferable that the periodic signal spacings be selected to be
between 1 second and 10 minutes, preferably between 5 seconds and 7
minutes, particularly preferably between 10 seconds and 5 minutes. It is very
particularly preferable that the periodic signal spacings selected to be
between
3 minutes and 5 minutes.
[0225] It is therefore particularly advantageous that reception of a signal
delivered from the household appliance is logged in the control unit of the
dispensing device with a time datum ti.
46
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0226] It is very particularly preferred that, after expiration of a
predetermined time interval t1_2, beginning at t1, in which no further signal
from
the household appliance has been received by the dispensing device, the
control unit of the dispensing device activate a dispensing program from the
control unit of the dispensing device.
[0227] According to an advantageous refinement of the invention, the
control unit evaluates the number and/or time sequence of the signals received
by the dispensing device in such a way that a dispensing program is activated
in the control unit in accordance with the evaluation result. This makes it
possible, for example, to determine the duration of a washing program in a
dishwasher since its inception, by comparing the point in time of the first
signal
reception up to the time at which signal cutoff is identified, so that in
accordance with the progress of the washing program, a suitable dispensing
program corresponding to the progress of the washing program is activated in
the control unit of the dispensing device.
[0228] It is also conceivable that, based on the aforementioned evaluation
of the number and/or time sequence of the signals received by the dispensing
device, a dispensing program stored in the control unit of the dispensing
device
is activated in the control unit, beginning from a defined program step
corresponding to the progress of the washing program. It is thus possible, in
the event of a signal cutoff in the main washing step of a washing program, to
activate a dispensing program in the dispensing device that is provided for a
main washing step and subsequent washing program segments.
[0229] The signals emitted from the transmitting unit on the household-
appliance side encompass, in particular, at least one control signal.
[0230] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the signals emitted
from the transmitting unit on the household-appliance side encompass at least
one monitoring signal.
47
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0231] It is additionally advantageous that at least one dispensing program
stored in the control unit encompasses a dispensing program of the household
appliance. This enables the dispensing device, in the event of a signal cutoff
between the household appliance and the dispensing device, to continue a
dispensing program begun by the household appliance.
[0232] It is therefore particularly preferred that the dispensing programs
stored in the control unit of the dispensing device encompass the dispensing
programs of the household appliance.
[0233] If a signal fails to occur at the dispensing device, in advantageous
fashion an acoustic and/or optical signal, which is perceptible by a user and
indicates the signal cutoff, can be generated.
[0234] It may further be advantageous that emission of a monitoring signal
and/or control signal to the household appliance can be brought about
manually by a user. A user can thereby check, for example, whether, for a
positioning of the dispensing device within the household appliance selected
by him or her, signal reception exists between the transmitting unit of the
household appliance and the dispensing device. This can be implemented, for
example, by way of an operating element, for example a button or switch, that
is embodied on the household appliance and emits a monitoring and/or control
signal upon actuation.
Energy source
[0235] For purposes of this Application, an "energy source" is understood
as a component of the dispensing system that is useful for making available
energy suitable for operation of the dispensing system or dispensing device.
The energy source is preferably configured in such a way that the dispensing
system is autonomous.
[0236] The energy source preferably makes available electrical energy. The
energy source can be, for example, a battery, a rechargeable battery, a power
supply, solar cells, or the like.
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[0237] It is particularly advantageous to embody the energy source
exchangeably, for example in the form of a replaceable battery.
[0238] A battery can be selected, for example, from the group of the
alkaline manganese batteries, zinc-carbon batteries, nickel-oxyhydroxide
batteries, lithium batteries, lithium-iron sulfide batteries, zinc-air
batteries, zinc
chloride batteries, mercury oxide-zinc batteries, and/or silver oxide-zinc
batteries.
[0239] Suitable as rechargeable batteries are, for example, lead batteries
(lead dioxide/lead), nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries,
lithium ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, alkaline manganese
rechargeable batteries, silver-zinc rechargeable batteries, nickel hydride
batteries, zinc-bromine batteries, sodium-nickel chloride batteries, and/or
nickel-iron batteries.
[0240] The rechargeable battery can be configured in particular so that it
can be recharged by induction.
[0241] It is also conceivable, however, to embody mechanical energy
sources made up of one or more helical springs, torsional or torsion-bar
springs, flexural springs, air springs or gas-pressure springs, and/or
elastomer
springs.
[0242] The energy source is dimensioned in such a way that the dispensing
device can execute approximately 300 dispensing cycles before the energy
source is depleted. It is particularly preferred that the energy source be
capable of executing between 1 and 300 dispensing cycles, very particularly
preferably between 10 and 300, more preferably between 100 and 300, before
the energy source is depleted.
[0243] In addition, means for energy conversion can be provided in or on
the dispensing unit, which means generate a voltage with which the
49
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
rechargeable battery is charged. These means can be embodied, for example,
as a dynamo that is driven by water flows during a washing cycle in a
dishwasher, and that delivers to the rechargeable battery the voltage thus
generated.
Dispensing device light guide
[0244] An optical transmitting and/or receiving unit is preferably arranged
within the dispensing device, in particular in or on the component carrier, in
order to protect the electrical and/or optical components of the transmitting
and/or receiving unit from the influence of water spray and washing water.
[0245] In order to convey light out of the environment of the dispensing
device to the optical transmitting and/or receiving unit, a light guide that
has at
least a light transmittance of 75% is arranged between the optical
transmitting
and/or receiving unit and the environment of the dispensing device. The light
guide is preferably made of a 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 at which light is coupled
into the light guide out of the environment of the dispensing device, and the
surface at which light is coupled out of the light guide to the optical
transmitting
and/or receiving unit. The transmittance can be determined per DIN 5036.
[0246] The light guide encompasses at least one incoupling and/or
outcoupling point at which light is incoupled or outcoupled from an optical
transmitting and/or receiving unit and/or out of the environment of the
dispensing device.
[0247] It is particularly preferred that the light guide be embodied in one
piece with the component carrier. Advantageously, the component carrier is
therefore shaped from a transparent material.
[0248] An opening is provided in the dispensing device for reception of the
incoupling and/or outcoupling point of the light guide, and to produce an
optical
connection between the light guide and environment. The incoupling and/or
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
outcoupling point can be arranged in the enveloping surface at the base or top
of the dispensing device. In order to make available good transmitting and/or
receiving characteristics for optical signals, it may be advantageous for the
incoupling and/or outcoupling point of the light guide to be embodied in
lenticular or prismatic fashion.
[0249] The light guide can also be constructed in multi-layer and/or multi-
part fashion, from identical or different materials. It is also possible to
provide
an air gap between a light guide shaped in multi-layer and/or multi-part
fashion.
The transmittance of the light guide, in the case of a multi-layer and/or
multi-
part construction, is understood to be between the surface of the light guide
at
which light is coupled into the light guide out of the environment of the
dispensing device, and the surface at which light is coupled out of the light
guide to the optical transmitting and/or receiving unit.
[0250] It is further preferred that at least two incoupling or outcoupling
points between the light guide and the environment be provided. It is
particularly advantageous that the incoupling and outcoupling points be
located
substantially oppositely on the dispensing device.
Dispensing apparatus of the dishwasher
[0251] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the dispensing device
can receive signals from a dispensing apparatus fastened in a dishwasher.
[0252] The delivery apparatus for delivering at least one preparation into the
interior of a dishwasher can be, in particular, a cleaning agent dispenser, a
delivery device for rinse aid or salt, or a combination dispensing device.
[0253] The delivery apparatus advantageously encompasses at least one
transmitting unit and/or at least one receiving unit for wireless transmission
of
signals into the interior of the dishwasher and for wireless reception of
signals
from the interior of the dishwasher.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0254] It is particularly preferred that the transmitting and/or receiving
unit
be configured for the emission or reception of optical signals. It is very
particularly preferred that the transmitting unit and/or receiving unit be
configured for the emission or reception of light in the visible region.
Because
darkness usually prevails in the interior of the washing space during
operation
of a dishwasher, signals in the visible optical region, for example in the
form of
signal pulses or light flashes, can be emitted and/or detected.
[0255] Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous that the transmitting
unit and/or receiving unit is configured for the emission or reception of
infrared
signals. It is advantageous in particular that the transmitting and/or
receiving
unit is configured for the emission or reception of infrared signals in the
near
infrared region (780 nm to 3000 nm).
[0256] The transmitting unit encompasses in particular at least one LED.
Particularly preferably, the transmitting unit encompasses at least two LEDs.
It
is very particularly advantageous in this context that at least two LEDs are
arranged with an emission angle offset 90 from one another. This makes it
possible, by way of the multiple reflections that are generated within the
dishwasher, to reduce the risk of signal shadows in which an arbitrarily
positionable receiver of the signals, in particular a dispensing device, might
be
located.
[0257] It is also possible, according to a more preferable embodiment of the
invention, to provide at least two LEDs that emit light at wavelengths
differing
from one another. This makes it possible, for example, to define different
signal
bands on which data can be sent and received.
[0258] It is further advantageous, in a refinement of the invention, for at
least one LED to be an RGB LED whose wavelength is adjustable. It thus
possible, for example, to define with one LED a variety of signal bands that
emit signals at different wavelengths. It thus also conceivable, for example,
that during the drying operation, during which high humidity (mist) is present
in
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the washing space, light is emitted at a different wavelength than, for
example,
during a washing step.
[0259] The transmitting unit of the delivery apparatus can be configured so
that the LED is provided both for the emission of signals into the interior of
the
dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door is closed, and for optical
indication of an operating state, for example the fill level of the salt or
rinse-aid
reservoir container of a dishwasher, in particular when the dishwasher door is
open.
[0260] It is particularly preferred that an optical signal be embodied as a
signal pulse or a sequence of signal pulses having a pulse duration of between
1 ms and 10 second, preferably between 5 ms and 100 ms.
[0261] It is further advantageous that the transmitting unit is configured in
such a way that it emits an optical signal, when the dishwasher is closed,
that
produces an average illumination intensity E of between 0.01 and 100 lux,
preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux, measured at the walls delimiting the
washing space. This illumination intensity is then sufficient to produce
multiple
reflections with or at other washing-space walls, thereby reducing or
preventing
possible signal shadows in the washing space, especially when the washing
machine is in the loaded state.
[0262] The receiving unit of the delivery apparatus can encompass, in
particular, a photodiode.
[0263] In a refinement of the invention, the delivery apparatus can also,
additionally or alternatively, be configured for the emission or reception of
radio
signals.
[0264] The signal emitted by the transmitting unit and/or received by the
receiving unit is, in particular, a carrier of information, in particular a
control
signal.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0265] It is particularly preferred that the delivery apparatus be arranged in
the door of a dishwasher.
[0266] A receptacle for detachable fastening of a dispensing device on the
delivery apparatus can further be provided on the delivery apparatus. This
makes it possible, for example, to position the dispensing device not only in
the
tableware rack of a dishwasher, but also directly on a delivery apparatus of
the
dishwasher, in particular a combination dispensing device. On the one hand
this means that loading space in the tableware rack is not occupied by the
dispensing device; on the other hand, defined positioning of the dispensing
device relative to the delivery apparatus is achieved.
[0267] Delivery apparatuses, such as a combination dispensing device,
often comprise a pivotable flap that opened within a washing program in order
to deliver into the interior of the dishwasher the cleaning preparation
present in
the dispensing chamber of the combination device. The receptacle for the
dispensing device can be embodied on the delivery apparatus in such a way
that opening of the flap is prevented when the dispensing device is fastened
in
the receptacle. This prevents the risk of double dispensing out of the
dispensing device and the delivery apparatus.
[0268] It is furthermore advantageous to configure the delivery apparatus
fastening system and the transmitting and/or receiving unit in such a way that
at least the transmitting unit radiates directly onto the receiver of the
dispensing device arranged in the fastening system.
[0269] Advantageously, the dispensing device not permanently connected
to the dishwasher, for use in a dispensing system encompassing the delivery
apparatus, comprises at least one receiving unit and/or at least one
transmitting unit for wireless transmission of signals out of the interior of
the
dishwasher to the delivery apparatus, or for wireless reception of signals
from
the delivery apparatus.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
Adapter
[0270] Simple coupling of the dispensing system to a water-conveying
household appliance can be achieved by means of an adapter. The adapter
serves for mechanical and/or electrical connection of the dispensing system to
the water-conveying household appliance.
[0271] The adapter is connected, preferably fixedly, to a water-conveying
line of the household appliance. It is also conceivable, however, to provide
the
adapter for a position in or on the household appliance, in which position the
adapter is contacted by the water flow and/or spray stream of the household
appliance.
[0272] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adapter is
shaped in such a way that a release of preparation out of the dispensing
device that is in a state coupled to the adapter occurs not directly into the
washing bath but into the water conveyed through the water-conveying line into
the adapter, the water thereby charged with preparation then being conveyed
out of the adapter into the interior of the dishwasher.
[0273] The adapter is preferably configured in such a way that in the state
uncoupled from the dispensing device, emergence of water from the adapter is
prevented. This can be prevented, for example, by the fact that the water-
conveying line with which the adapter is in fluid communication conveys no
water into or to the adapter, or else water of the water-conveying line flows
through the adapter but the adapter comprises sealing means that prevent
emergence of water from the adapter, for example silicone slit elements that,
upon removal of the dispensing device from the adapter, close off the adapter
in substantially liquid-tight fashion.
[0274] The adapter makes it possible to configure a dispensing system in
both an autonomous and a built-in version, by coupling the inherently
autonomous dispensing device to the adapter. It is also possible to embody the
adapter as a kind of loading station for the dispensing system, in which e.g.
the
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
energy source of the dispensing system is charged or data are exchanged
between the dispensing device and the adapter or the dishwasher.
[0275] The adapter can be arranged in a dishwasher on one of the inner
walls of the washing chamber, in particular on the inner side of the
dishwasher
door. It is also conceivable, however, for the adapter as such to be
positioned
in the water-conveying household appliance in a manner not accessible to the
user, so that the dispensing device is, for example, inserted into the adapter
during assembly with the household appliance, such that the adapter, the
dispensing device, and the household appliance are embodied in such a way
that a cartridge can be coupled by the user to the dispensing device.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
Exemplifying embodiment
[0276] Exemplifying embodiments of the invention are depicted in the
Figures that follow, and are explained in further detail below with reference
thereto.
[0277] In the individual Figures:
FIG. 1 schematically depicts a dishwasher,
FIG. 2 schematically depicts an autonomously operating dispensing
apparatus, and
FIG. 3 schematically depicts another embodiment of an autonomously
operating dispensing apparatus,
FIG. 4 shows an autonomous dispensing device,
FIG. 5 shows an autonomous dispensing device,
FIG. 6 shows an appliance-integrated dispensing device,
FIG. 7 shows a cartridge in an appliance-integrated dispensing device,
FIG. 8 shows a cartridge in an appliance-integrated dispensing device,
FIG. 9 shows a cartridge in an appliance-integrated dispensing device,
FIG. 10 shows an appliance-couplable dispensing device in the
uncoupled state,
FIG. 11 shows an appliance-couplable dispensing device in the coupled
state,
FIG. 12 shows a combination dispensing device,
FIG. 13 shows a combination dispensing device,
FIG. 14 shows a combination dispensing device having an adapter for
coupling to a control device,
FIG. 15 shows the signal path from the dishwasher to the dispensing
device,
FIG. 16 shows a disrupted signal path from the dishwasher to the
dispensing device,
FIG. 17 shows a signal path from the dishwasher to the dispensing
device,
FIG. 18 shows a signal path from the dispensing device to the
dishwasher,
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FIG. 19 shows a signal path between the dispensing device, cartridge,
and dishwasher,
FIG. 20 is an exploded view of a dispensing device and cartridge,
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a dispensing device and cartridge,
FIG. 22 is a perspective exploded view of a component carrier,
FIG. 23 is a detail view of a component carrier and actuator
configuration.
[0278] Dishwasher 1 according to FIG. 1 encompasses a loading door 2,
rotors or spray arms 3 for wetting the objects 4 to be cleaning, and racks 5
for
holding them and introducing them securely into the appliance. Also visible is
a
dispensing apparatus 6 according to the present invention, which in this
embodiment has been introduced into one of the racks.
[0279] The autonomously operating dispensing apparatus 6 according to
FIG. 2 delivers exactly one cleaning tablet 7. It can also be embodied,
however, for the dispensing of one or more liquid cleaners. Stocking of
cleaners for more than one washing cycle is also conceivable. In this
exemplifying embodiment, dispensing apparatus 6 is equipped with a
photodiode 8 and with a further sensor, for example a moisture sensor 9, both
of which are connected to control unit 12. Energy supply is ensured by a
photocell 10 which, when dishwashers are open or when the dispensing
apparatus has been removed, charges a rechargeable battery 11 that in turn
supplies energy to control unit 12. Measured values can be saved or buffered
by the control unit in a memory 13. For the storage of cleaning tablets 7, the
dispensing apparatus depicted here encompasses a dispensing chamber 14
that is opened by the control unit, via mechanical components 15, as soon as
e.g. a specific state in the appliance is detected by sensors 8, 9.
[0280] The schematic depiction according to FIG. 3 shows a dispensing
apparatus 16 that can be introduced into a dishwasher 17, e.g. into the
dishwasher door. In this example a receptacle 10 is provided with which the
dispensing apparatus is introduced in a defined position.
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[0281] This also makes possible, for example, wireless communication
between the dispensing apparatus and appliance control system 19,
conceivably e.g. by way of an infrared or light-based sensor suite.
[0282] FIG. 2 furthermore depicts an operating button 20 that serves for
manual setting of a program sequence that is detectable by an autonomous
dispensing apparatus, for example in accordance with the above-described
exemplifying embodiment, so that the dispensing apparatus control system is
better able to control the dispensing operation.
[0283] In the variant embodiment depicted, the dispensing apparatus was
described for the dispensing of cleaning tablets.
[0284] According to the present invention, however, a household appliance
of this kind can also be used for autonomous dispensing apparatuses that
dispense liquid cleaners, in particular including multi-component systems of
liquid cleaners.
[0285] FIG. 4 shows, in the separated and the assembled state, an
autonomous dispensing device 20 having a two-chamber cartridge 21.
[0286] Dispensing device 20 comprises two dispensing chamber inlets
211 a, 211 b for repeatedly detachable reception of the corresponding outlet
openings 25a, 25b of chambers 23a, 23b of cartridge 21. Located on the front
side are indicating and control elements 37 that indicate the operating state
of
dispensing device 20 and act on it.
[0287] Dispensing chamber inlets 211 a, 211 b further comprise means that,
upon placement of cartridge 21 onto dispensing device 20, cause outlet
openings 25a, 25b of chambers 23a, 23b to open, so that when dispensing
device 20 and cartridge 21 are in the coupled state, the interior of chambers
23a, 23b is communicatively connected to dispensing chamber inlets 211 a,
211 b.
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[0288] Cartridge 21 can be made up of one or more chambers 23a, 23b.
Cartridge 21 can be embodied in one piece with multiple chambers 23a, 23b,
or in multiple pieces, the individual chambers 23a, 23b then being joined
together into a cartridge 21, in particular by means of intermaterial,
positive, or
frictionally engaged connecting methods.
[0289] Fastening can be accomplished, in particular, by means of one or
more connection types from the group of the snap-in connections, press
connections, melt connections, adhesively bonded connections, weld
connections, solder connections, screw connections, wedge connections,
clamped connections, or flip connections. Fastening can, in particular, also
be
effected by way of a shrink sleeve that, in a heated state, is pulled at least
locally over the cartridge and that in the cooled state fixedly surrounds the
cartridge.
[0290] Chambers 23a, 23b of cartridge 21 can have fill volumes that are
identical or that differ from one another. In the case of a configuration
having
two chambers 23a, 23b, the ratio of the chamber volumes is preferably 5:1; in
the case of a configuration having three chambers, preferably 4:1:1, these
configurations being suitable in particular for use in dishwashers.
[0291] Chambers 23a, 23b each contain a preparation 40a, 40b.
Preparations 40a, 40b can have the same or different compositions.
[0292] Advantageously, chambers 23a, 23b are produced from a
transparent material so that the fill level of preparations 40a, 40b is
visible to
the user from outside. It may also be advantageous, however, to produce at
least one of the chambers from an opaque material, especially if the
preparation present in that chamber contains light-sensitive ingredients.
[0293] Outlet openings 25a, 25b are configured so that they constitute, with
the corresponding dispensing chamber inlets 211 a, 211 b, a positive and/or
frictionally engaged, in particular liquid-tight, connection.
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0294] It is particularly advantageous that each of the outlet openings 25a,
25b is embodied so that it fits onto only one of the dispensing chamber inlets
211 a, 211 b, thereby preventing a chamber from being inadvertently put onto
an incorrect dispensing chamber inlet. This can be achieved, for example, by
means of outlet openings 25a, 25b and/or dispensing chamber inlets 211 a,
211 b that are different in size or vary in terms of basic shape.
[0295] FIG. 5 shows an autonomous dispensing device 20 having a two-
chamber cartridge 21 in dishwasher rack 5, dishwasher door 2 of a dishwasher
1 being open. It is evident that dispensing device 20 having cartridge 21 can
in
principle be positioned at any point within tableware rack 5, there being an
advantage to providing a plate- or cup-shaped dispensing system 20, 21 in a
corresponding plate or cup receptacle of tableware rack 5. Located in
dishwasher door 2 is a dispensing chamber 53 into which a dishwashing
cleaner preparation can be placed, for example in the form of a tablet. If
dispensing system 20, 21 is present in the interior of dishwasher 1 in the
operationally ready state, there is then no need to add cleaning preparation
for
each washing cycle via dispensing chamber 53, since cleaning agent delivery
for a plurality of washing operations is implemented via dispensing system 20,
21, as will be explained in further detail below. An advantage of this
embodiment of the invention is that if the autonomous dispensing system 20,
21 is arranged in the lower tableware rack 5, the delivery of preparations
40a,
40b out of cartridge 21 occurs directly into the washing water bath through
the
outlet openings arranged at the bottom of the dispensing device, thus ensuring
rapid dissolution and uniform distribution of the cleaning preparations in the
washing program.
[0296] FIG. 6 shows a two-chamber cartridge 21, separated into an
autonomous dispensing device 20 and an internal, appliance-integrated
dispensing device. Cartridge 21 is embodied here in such a way that it can be
coupled both to the autonomous dispensing device 20 and to the appliance-
integrated dispensing device (not depicted; can be located, for example, in
dishwasher door 2), as indicated by the arrows depicted in FIG. 6.
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[0297] Shaped on the interior of the side of dishwasher door 2 directed into
the interior of dishwasher 1 is a depression 43 into which cartridge 21 can be
inserted; as a result of the insertion, outlet openings 25a, 25b of cartridge
21
are communicatively connected to adapter pieces 42a, 42b. Adapter pieces
42a, 42b are in turn coupled to the appliance-integrated dispensing device.
[0298] Holding elements 44a, 44b, which ensure frictionally engaged and/or
positive fastening of the cartridge in depression 43, can be provided on
depression 43 for the fastening of cartridge 21 in depression 43. It is of
course
also conceivable for corresponding holding elements to be provided on
cartridge 1. Holding elements 44a, 44b can preferably be selected from the
group of the snap connections, latch connections, snap/latch connections,
clamped connections, or plug connections.
[0299] During the operation of dishwasher 1, preparation 40a, 40b is
conveyed by the appliance-integrated dispensing device out of cartridge 21
and through adapter elements 42a, 42b to the corresponding washing cycle.
[0300] FIG. 7 shows cartridge 21, known from FIG. 6, in its installed state in
door 2 of a dishwasher 1. It is evident that as a result of the integration of
dispensing unit 20 and cartridge 21 in door 2 of dishwasher 1, there is no
loss
of space for items being washed in tableware rack 5; this represents a
substantial advantage of this embodiment.
[0301] A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 8. FIG. 8
shows cartridge 1, known from FIG. 6, with a chamber 45 that is arranged at
the top of cartridge 1 and comprises in its enveloping surface a plurality of
openings 46. Chamber 45 is preferably filled with an air freshening
preparation
that is delivered through openings 46 to the environment. The air freshening
preparation can encompass, in particular, at least one scent and/or one odor-
counteracting substance.
[0302] In contrast to the arrangement of cartridge 21 in the interior of a
dishwasher 1, as known from FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, it is also possible to provide
a
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
depression 43, having adapter elements 42a, 42b for coupling to cartridge 1,
on an outer surface of a dishwasher 1. This is depicted by way of example in
FIG. 8 and FIG. 9. This configuration can be advantageous in particular for
highly temperature-sensitive preparations 40a, 40b, since they are not
directly
exposed to the temperature fluctuations that usually occur in the washing
program.
[0303] Cartridge 21 illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 can of course also be
arranged, with a chamber 45 containing an air freshening substance, in a
correspondingly embodied receptacle in the interior of a dishwasher 1.
[0304] A further embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 10 and FIG.
11. Here dispensing device 20 can be coupled to cartridge 21, as
correspondingly indicated by a first arrow on the left in the drawing.
Cartridge
21 and dispensing device 20 are then coupled as one assembly, via interface
47, 48, to the dishwasher, as indicated by the arrow on the right. Dispensing
device 20 comprises an interface 47 through which data and/or energy are
transferred to and/or from dispensing device 20. A depression 43 for the
reception of dispensing device 20 is provided in door 2 of dishwasher 1.
Provided in depression 43 is a second interface 48 that transfers data and/or
energy to and/or from dispensing device 20.
[0305] Data and/or energy are preferably exchanged wirelessly between
first interface 47 on dispensing device 20 and second interface 48 on
dishwasher 1. It is particularly preferred that energy be transferred from
interface 48 of dishwasher 1 wirelessly via interface 47 to dispensing device
20. This can occur, for example, inductively and/or capacitively.
[0306] It is further advantageous also to configure the interface for the
wireless transfer of data. This can be achieved using methods known in the
existing art for the wireless transfer of data, for example by radio transfer
or IR
transfer. It is particularly preferred to embody the transfer of data and
signals
wirelessly by means of optical transfer technologies in the visible region.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0307] Alternatively, interfaces 47, 48 can also be embodied by means of
integrated plug connections. Advantageously, the plug connections are
embodied in such a way that they are protected from the penetration of water
or moisture.
[0308] FIG. 12 shows a dispensing chamber 53 into which a transmitting
unit 87 and a receiving unit 91 are integrated. A dispensing chamber 53 of
this
kind is also referred to as a combination dispensing device. Dispensing
chamber 53 comprises a receptacle, closable by way of an articulating closure
cover, for a dishwashing agent. FIG. 13 shows the closure cover in its open
position. In addition, dispensing chamber 53 can also comprise a receptacle
for
a rinse aid, as indicated by the circular closure to the right of the closure
cover
in FIGS. 12 and 13.
[0309] Transmitting unit 87 encompasses a light-emitting means that is
arranged in transmitting unit 87 in such a way that the light-emitting means
radiates into the interior of the dishwasher. The light-emitting means can be,
in
particular, an LED or a laser diode. The LED is arranged so that it projects
out
of the plane of transmitting unit 87, so that the LED produces the largest
possible emission angle.
[0310] Transmitting unit 87 can be configured so that the LED is provided
both for the emission of signals into the interior of dishwasher 1, in
particular
when dishwasher door 2 is closed, and for optical indication of an operating
state, for example the fill level of the reservoir container for salt or rinse
aid of a
dishwasher, in particular when dishwasher door 2 is open.
[0311] Receiving unit 91 is preferably made up of a photodiode that is
suitable for detecting light signals from the interior of the dishwasher. Like
transmitting unit 87, the photodiode of receiving unit 91 can also project out
of
the plane of the receiving unit in order to achieve a maximally optimum
radiation characteristic onto the photodiode.
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
[0312] It is furthermore possible for dispensing chamber 53 to comprise a
receptacle 107 by means of which a movable dispensing system made up of
dispensing device 20 and cartridge 21 can be coupled detachably or fixedly to
dispensing chamber 53. This is shown schematically in FIG. 14.
[0313] In this variant embodiment, dispensing chamber 53 is integrated
fixedly into a dishwasher door 2. Dispensing device 2 comprises a receiving
unit 91 that is suitable for receiving signals from transmitting unit 87 of
dispensing chamber 53. As may be gathered from FIG. 14(B), when the
dispensing system and dispensing chamber 53 are in the coupled state,
receiving unit 91 on the dispensing device and transmitting unit 87 on the
dispensing chamber are located directly opposite one another, thereby
achieving the shortest possible distance between transmitting unit 87 and
receiving unit 91.
[0314] Receptacle 107 can form with the dispensing system, for example, a
positive and/or frictionally engaged detachable or fixed connection, for
example
a snap/latch connection.
[0315] The manner in which transmitting unit 87 interacts with a dispensing
device 20 arranged in the interior of a dishwasher 1, in particular in a
tableware
rack, will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 15 to 19.
[0316] FIG. 15 will be discussed first. A dishwasher 1 is depicted in a
schematic cross-sectional view. Located in the interior of dishwasher 1,
arranged one above another, are two tableware racks 5a, 5b for receiving
items to be washed, for example plates, cups, etc. Dishwasher 1 possesses a
pivotable door 2, which is shown in FIG. 15 in the closed state. Integrated
into
dishwasher door 2 is a transmitting unit 87 that is coupled to the control
system
of dishwasher 1. Transmitting unit 87 is preferably integrated into a
combination dispensing device 53 in accordance with FIGS. 12 to 14.
[0317] Transmitting unit 87 encompasses an LED that emits an optical
signal 88, which is a carrier of a control datum, into the interior of
dishwasher
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
1. This signal, and its direction, are indicated by the arrow in FIG. 33. The
dashed line of the arrow indicates that optical signals 88 emitted from
transmitting unit 87 are light flashes or light pulses.
[0318] Dispensing device 20, having a cartridge 21, is positioned in lower
tableware rack 5b. It is of course possible to arrange dispensing device 2
with
cartridge 1 at any suitable location in the lower or upper tableware rack 5;
plate
receptacles provided in or on tableware rack 5 are preferable for the
arrangement of dispensing device 20.
[0319] Dispensing device 2 possesses a receiving unit 91 that is not
depicted in FIG. 15. Optical signals 88 emitted from transmitting unit 87 are
received by receiving unit 91 of dispensing device 2, and are evaluated or
converted by the control unit of dispensing device 20.
[0320] In particular at the beginning of a washing program, an optical signal
88 can be sent out from transmitting unit 87, which signal, after being
received
by dispensing device 20, causes control of the dispensing device 20, in
particular the control of dispensing times and quantities, to be transferred
to
the control system of dishwasher 1. This is advantageous in particular if the
control system of dispensing device 20 has its own dispensing programs for
operation independently of dishwasher 1, but they are not to be executed upon
detection of a corresponding signal 88 of a transmitting unit 87 that is
present.
[0321] FIG. 16 depicts a situation in which dispensing device 20 cannot
receive signals from transmitting unit 87 because, for example, dispensing
device 20 in tableware rack 5b is surrounded by items to be washed (objects)
89a, 89b in such a way that reception of signals 88 from and to transmitting
unit 87 is prevented. This can also occur, for example, because items being
washed tip over in the course of a dishwashing program.
[0322] In this instance of non-reception or cutoff of signals 88 at dispensing
device 20, a dispensing program from the control unit of dispensing device 20
is activated so that dispensing device 20, independently of the control system
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
of dishwasher 1, will dispense at least one preparation 40 during a washing
program. This prevents a situation in which, because of a signal cutoff,
preparation 40 is not delivered into the interior of dishwasher 1 during a
washing program, thereby producing poor cleaning performance. This applies
to situations both at the start of a washing program and during a washing
program.
[0323] In order to detect a signal cutoff between dispensing device 20 and
transmitting unit 87, an additional monitoring signal 90 can be provided which
is emitted by transmitting unit 87 at predefined fixed time intervals, while
control signal 88 is emitted at fixed time intervals or only upon immediate
transmission of a control signal. This is sketched by way of example in FIG.
17.
Because transmitting unit 87 is usually operated by way of the power supply
line of dishwasher 1, emission of a period monitoring signal 90 does not
represent an unacceptable load on the energy source of dispensing device 20,
since monitoring signals 90 simply need to be received and evaluated during a
washing program.
[0324] As shown in FIG. 18, it is of course also conceivable, if the energy
source of dispensing device 20 is dimensioned adequately, for both monitoring
signals 90 and control signal 88 to be transmitted from dispensing device 2 to
a
corresponding receiving unit 91 in dishwasher 1.
[0325] It is also possible in principle for the transmitting and receiving
modes of control and monitoring signals 88, 90 according to FIG. 18 and FIG.
19 to be superimposed and/or to proceed in parallel. In other words, a
monitoring signal 90 is emitted by transmitting unit 87 and received by
dispensing unit 20, and control signal 88 is transmitted by the dispensing
unit
to a receiving unit 91.
[0326] A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 20, which
shows dispensing device 20 that possesses an optical transmitting and
receiving unit 111. By means of optical transmitting and receiving unit 111,
control signals 88b can be transmitted to a dishwasher-side receiving unit 91,
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
and control signals 88c can be received from a dishwasher-side transmitting
unit 87. The dishwasher-side receiving unit 91 and dishwasher-side
transmitting unit 87 are preferably arranged in a combination dispensing
device
as shown in FIGS. 12 to 14. Furthermore, optical signals 88a from optical
transmitting and receiving unit 111 can be coupled into cartridge 21, in
particular into strut 9 embodied as a light guide, and/or coupled out of
cartridge
21 and received by optical transmitting and receiving unit 111.
[0327] FIG. 21 is an exploded view depicting the essential components of
the dispensing system made up of cartridge 21 and dispensing device 20.
[0328] As may be gathered from FIG. 21, cartridge 21 is assembled from
two cartridge elements 26, 27. Dispensing device 20 is made up substantially
of a component carrier 231 and a console 54 into which component carrier 231
is insertable. In the assembled state, console 54 surrounds component carrier
231, preferably in such a way that penetration of water into component carrier
231 is prevented.
[0329] FIG. 22 is a side view of an embodiment of component carrier 231 of
dispensing device 20, which embodiment will be further explained below.
[0330] Dispensing chamber 200, actuator 218, and closure element 219, as
well as energy source 215, control unit 216, and sensor unit 217, are arranged
on component carrier 231. Dispensing chamber 220, predispensing chamber
226, dispensing chamber inlet 221, and receptacle 229 are embodied in one
piece with component carrier 231.
[0331] As may further be gathered from FIG. 22, energy source 215, control
unit 216, and sensor 217 are grouped together into one assembly by being
arranged on a corresponding circuit board.
[0332] As shown in FIG. 23, predispensing chamber 226 and actuator 218
are arranged substantially next to one another on component carrier 231.
Predispensing chamber 226 has an L-shaped basic shape, with a shoulder in
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CA 02733108 2011-02-04
the lower region into which is recessed receptacle 229 for actuator 218.
Outlet
chamber 227 is arranged below predispensing chamber 226 and actuator 218.
Predispensing chamber 226 and outlet chamber 227 together constitute
dispensing chamber 220.
[0333] Predispensing chamber 226 and outlet chamber 227 are connected
to one another through opening 234. Receptacle 229, opening 234, and
dispensing chamber outlet 222 are located on an alignment running
transversely to the longitudinal axis of component carrier 231, so that the
rod-
shaped closure element 219 can be guided through openings 222, 229, 234.
[0334] As is apparent in particular from FIG. 23, outlet chamber 227 and the
rear walls of predispensing chamber 226 are shaped integrally with component
carrier 223. The front wall can then be connected intermaterially, for example
by way of a cover element or a film (not illustrated), to dispensing chamber
220.
[0335] The configuration of dispensing chamber 220 will be further
explained below with reference to the detail view in FIG. 23. This shows
outlet
chamber 227, which has a base 262. Base 262 is inclined, in the manner of a
funnel, toward dispensing chamber outlet 222 arranged centeredly in outlet
chamber 227. Dispensing chamber outlet 222 is located in a channel 263 that
extends in outlet chamber 227 at right angles to the longitudinal axis of
component carrier 223. The funnel-shaped base 262, as well as channel 263
and outlet opening 222 arranged therein, ensure a capability for dispensing
preparation, and almost completely draining its residue, out of dispensing
chamber 220 when the position of the dispensing device deviates from the
horizontal. In addition, the preparation flows more quickly out of the
dispensing
chamber because of the correspondingly funnel-shaped base conformation, in
particular with higher-viscosity preparations, so that the dispensing interval
during which preparation is released can be kept short.
[0336] In FIG. 23, only the middle dispensing chamber 220 is equipped with
a funnel-shaped base conformation of the kind just described. It is understood
69
CA 02733108 2011-02-04
that in a deviation from this depiction, other, further, or all dispensing
chambers
can also have such a conformation. This also applies to predispensing
chambers 226 and outlet chambers 227, to the extent they are provided.
