Smart mobile terminal and cleaning method for cleaning a component to be cleaned

Abstract

The present invention relates to a smart mobile terminal (176), optionally a smartphone (177), for detecting at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned comprising the at least one component (102) to be cleaned; wherein the terminal (176) comprises the following: - a digital optical sensor device (208), optionally a digital camera device (209), comprising at least one digital image sensor (232, 252) which can be used to capture digital optical image data relating to a real environment (E) around the terminal (176) in which the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned is positioned; - a memory unit (228) in which a computer program is stored; - a processor unit (PU); and - a display device (230), for example a touch-sensitive display device. The present invention further relates to a cleaning method for cleaning at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned.

Description

[0001] Smart mobile device and cleaning method for cleaning a component to be cleaned

[0002] The present invention relates to a smart mobile device, optionally a smartphone, for capturing at least one geometric dimension, optionally an external dimension, of at least one component to be cleaned and / or of at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a cleaning method for cleaning at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0004] For example, it may be stipulated that the at least one component to be cleaned is part of, or comprises, at least one water dispensing device. The at least one water dispensing device is, for example, designed as at least one aerator for dispensing tap water that also requires cleaning.

[0005] For example, it may be further specified that the at least one assembly to be cleaned is designed as at least one water-carrying fitting, optionally a plumbing fitting. The plumbing fitting could be, for example, a faucet. Alternatively, the plumbing fitting could be a shower head or something similar.

[0006] Components or assemblies to be cleaned, optionally in the sanitary area, exhibit a wide variety of shapes and sizes, the targeted, simple and effective cleaning of which is inadequately solved in the current state of the art.

[0007] The example of an aerator and a faucet regularly demonstrates this aforementioned variety of shapes and sizes to the user.

[0008] Commercially available aerators, for example, have an estimated 95% circular cylindrical base, but are available in an outer diameter range of approximately...

[0009] Available in sizes from 12 mm to approximately 30 mm, this makes cleaning and attaching a cleaning device difficult. Standard faucets also lack a classifiable shape and size, further complicating cleaning and attaching the device.

[0010] Due to the aforementioned challenges, many aerators that are merely scaled up are replaced, even though they would still function normally. Common aerators also contain metallic materials, making their replacement resource-intensive, especially with a view to maximizing their service life, and in many cases avoidable. Given that millions or even billions of aerators are installed in Europe alone, there is significant potential for improved resource utilization if existing aerators, which are essentially just dirty, were cleaned instead of replaced.

[0011] Current state-of-the-art cleaning solutions, for example for cleaning an aerator and a plumbing fitting, essentially use cleaning elements that are clamped onto the aerator based on their inherent elasticity. This form of attachment has disadvantages regarding the application range of such cleaning solutions, as, for example, only an insufficient size range can be addressed for cleaning an aerator. Knowing the external dimensions of an aerator to be cleaned would therefore allow for cleaning that is individually tailored to the specific aerator.

[0012] It is therefore the object of the present invention that at least one component and / or at least one assembly can be used in a more resource-efficient manner.

[0013] The following boundary conditions can be advantageous for the function of the cleaning device or the cleaning process:

[0014] - The component may protrude or stick out from the assembly; and

[0015] - the component can have a geometrically cylindrical, e.g. circular cylindrical, base body.

[0016] The cleaning device optionally serves to clean the at least one component to be cleaned in its mounted state and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned, which includes the at least one component to be cleaned, in its mounted state. The cleaning device thus provides an easy-to-use cleaning tool that enables resource-saving cleaning without any disassembly of the at least one component to be cleaned in its mounted state and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned in its mounted state.

[0017] The cleaning device comprises, for example, a cleaning base body with a receiving chamber. When mounted, the receiving chamber can contain a cleaning medium for cleaning the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned.

[0018] The cleaning medium can optionally be designed as a cleaning fluid. Furthermore, it can be provided that the cleaning fluid has a dynamic viscosity greater than that of water. It is understood that this relationship can apply to a specific discrete temperature value. The cleaning fluid can also have a dynamic viscosity greater than approximately...

[0019] The cleaning fluid can have a dynamic viscosity of 100 mPa·s, optionally greater than approximately 500 mPa·s, and further optionally greater than approximately 1000 mPa·s. It can also have a dynamic viscosity of less than approximately 500,000 mPa·s, optionally less than approximately 300,000 mPa·s, and further optionally less than approximately 200,000 mPa·s. Such configurations of the cleaning fluid are advantageous when a central axis of the cleaning body is inclined towards a direction of gravity in the assembled state, i.e., not vertically oriented.

[0020] Furthermore, the cleaning medium may comprise or be composed of a cleaning colloid. It is also conceivable that the cleaning medium may comprise or be composed of a cleaning gel.

[0021] In addition to or as an alternative to the cleaning medium, a disinfectant, e.g., a disinfectant liquid, can be contained in the receiving chamber. The cleaning device can therefore also be designed as a disinfection device for disinfecting at least one component and / or at least one assembly in its mounted state.

[0022] In addition to or as an alternative to the cleaning medium, a derusting medium, e.g., a derusting fluid, can be contained in the receiving chamber. The cleaning device can therefore also be designed as a derusting device for derusting at least one component and / or at least one assembly in its mounted state.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, a mechanical cleaning device can be installed in the receiving chamber in its fixed position for cleaning the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. The mechanical cleaning device can, for example, be designed as a cleaning brush.

[0024] The cleaning device further comprises, for example, a fastening device for the detachable attachment of the cleaning base to and / or in the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. The fastening device can be designed as an integrated fastening device of the base. Additionally or alternatively, the fastening device can be designed as an external fastening device and connected to the cleaning base.

[0025] The releasable fastening can be understood, for example, as meaning that a user can first attach the cleaning device and then manually detach it, optionally by using their hands.

[0026] The receiving chamber can be understood as the receiving volume within the cleaning base body, which is surrounded by the cleaning base body and / or physically defined by the cleaning base body.

[0027] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the at least one component and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned is at least partially captured in the receiving chamber while in its fixed state.

[0028] Through at least partial absorption, the contaminated, e.g., calcified, component to be cleaned and / or the contaminated, e.g., calcified, assembly to be cleaned comes into contact with the cleaning fluid and can be cleaned accordingly, e.g., descaled.

[0029] The at least one contaminated component and / or assembly to be cleaned may optionally include limescale deposits. For example, in the context of this invention, cleaning can be understood as descaling.

[0030] Accordingly, the cleaning fluid may include descaling fluid or be designed as a descaling fluid for the chemical dissolution of these limescale deposits.

[0031] The descaling fluid can, for example, be an acid of natural origin, such as...

[0032] It contains acetic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid and / or citric acid. This type of acid is particularly environmentally friendly.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, the descaling solution can contain synthetically produced acid(s), such as sulfamic acid and / or formic acid. Sulfamic acid is non-hygroscopic and gentle on materials, making it particularly advantageous for use on components and / or assemblies that are often at least partially made of metallic materials.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, the descaling fluid may contain surfactants, such as non-ionic surfactants and / or amphoteric surfactants.

[0035] The following general description is handled using at least one component to be cleaned as an example, which is, for instance, part of at least one aerator for dispensing tap water or drinking water, or is designed as at least one such aerator.

[0036] Accordingly, the following general description is dealt with using at least one assembly to be cleaned as an example, which includes, for example, a sanitary fitting carrying mains water or drinking water, or is designed as a sanitary fitting carrying mains water or drinking water and includes, for example, the aerator.

[0037] Of course, the "at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned" can be understood more generally. In this context, it is conceivable that the "at least one assembly to be cleaned" could be a water-carrying assembly such as a shower head or a garden hose gun. The "at least one component to be cleaned" could accordingly be a distributor nozzle of the shower head or garden hose gun.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, it may be conceivable that the at least one assembly to be cleaned may be designed as a piped water system for industrial or private water supply systems, e.g. for drinking water, and that the at least one component to be cleaned may be designed as a corresponding water dispensing device that is prone to calcification.

[0039] As explained above, sanitary fittings and aerators are frequently subject to limescale buildup after a certain period of use. A sufficiently large number of users find this bothersome, making a simplified cleaning method for these devices desirable. Due to the wide variety of sizes and shapes of sanitary fittings and aerators, a single, fixed-size cleaning device may not be sufficient to ensure efficient cleaning.

[0040] Aerators have at least the advantage that they can be manufactured in standardized sizes and shapes. As explained above, aerators can advantageously have a circular cylindrical body in almost all designs (apart from custom solutions), the size of which can lie within a defined, because standardized, range of outer diameters.

[0041] Some solutions may have a rectangular base. An outer diagonal dimension can be used as a relevant geometric measure to categorize this type of aerator.

[0042] Furthermore, the cleaning base may be designed to seal around the receiving chamber and have a through-opening connected to the receiving chamber. The cleaning base may optionally be cup-shaped.

[0043] The pot-shaped cleaning base can be understood as being open only at the feedthrough opening and, in its remaining extent, surrounding the receiving chamber in a liquid-tight manner. Through the feedthrough opening, the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned can be inserted, at least partially, in its attached state and protrude into the receiving chamber for its / its placement and cleaning.

[0044] For example, the through-hole may be designed to be circular. Alternatively, the through-hole may be oval or polygonal, e.g., rectangular.

[0045] Furthermore, it may be provided that a geometric internal dimension of the feedthrough opening, for example an internal diameter, defines an opening dimension of the feedthrough opening.

[0046] The cleaning base body includes, for example, an open end area which has the feed-through opening, a bottom area and an intermediate area.

[0047] The open end and the base can be connected via the intermediate section. The open end and the base are positioned opposite each other along a central axis of the cleaning unit.

[0048] The intermediate section and the open end section can, for example, have a concave circular cross-section. The bottom section can be disc-shaped. A bottom-side transition area, e.g., rounded, can extend between the bottom section and the intermediate section.

[0049] In addition, the intermediate area can have an axial stop device for axially limiting the axial penetration depth of the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned through the penetration opening along the central axis into the receiving chamber.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, the bottom area can have the axial stop device. Additionally or alternatively, the open end area can have the axial stop device.

[0051] It can be advantageous if the feed-through opening at the open end is sealed with a sealing and releasable cover. This sealing and releasable closure with the cover advantageously allows the cleaning device to be transported, distributed, and sold as a pre-assembled unit, which can only be opened by the user at the point of use, for example, in a sanitary facility.

[0052] The sealing and releasable closure, achieved by means of the closure cover, is designed, for example, by means of a fabric bond. This fabric bond can be created, for instance, by ultrasonic welding or adhesive bonding. The fabric bond can advantageously be opened manually by a user.

[0053] For easier removal, the closure cover can have a pull tab. The closure cover can be made, for example, from a plastic film or from a plastic film-metal foil composite. The metal foil can be, for example, aluminum foil.

[0054] The open end region and the intermediate region can further comprise an inner shell surface, and the bottom region can have an inner bottom surface by means of which the receiving chamber can be internally bounded. The open end region and the intermediate region can furthermore comprise a common inner shell surface.

[0055] The axial stop device can advantageously comprise one or more axial stop elements. The one or more axial stop elements can optionally be shaped as axial stop projections. The respective stop projection(s) can project from the inner surface of the casing into the receiving chamber. Additionally or alternatively, the respective stop projection(s) can project from the inner bottom surface into the receiving chamber.

[0056] By means of the stop projection(s) a defined axial penetration depth of the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned into the receiving chamber along the central axis can advantageously be defined, which improves the cleaning.

[0057] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the axial stop projection (optionally) has an axial stop surface to axially limit the axial penetration depth of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. The axial stop surface can optionally be oriented perpendicular to the central axis, enabling a particularly well-defined stop. It can also be advantageous if one or more recesses are incorporated into the stop surface to reduce its surface area. This reduction has the advantage, for example, of reducing the contact area with the component and / or assembly to be cleaned, thereby improving the cleaning effect.

[0058] Furthermore, a reference height along the central axis is advantageously defined by means of, for example, the respective stop surface relative to the inner surface of the base, to which the fill level of the cleaning fluid can be referenced. This can be advantageous, for example, to prevent the cleaning fluid from overflowing from the feedthrough opening due to the displacement effect of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned in its fixed state.

[0059] The optional axial stop projection can have a radial extension and project from the inner mantle surface in the direction of the central axis along a radial direction that is, for example, perpendicular to and intersects the central axis.

[0060] For example, two or three axial stop elements can project from the inner surface. One or more of these axial stop elements can, by means of one or more respective inner radial ends, define an inner diameter that is smaller than at least one first, second, or third geometric dimension, such as an outer diameter, of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This dimensional relationship ensures a reliable axial stop.

[0061] In the case of a single axial stop projection, it can be designed as a closed axial stop ring having a circular cylindrical body. In the case of multiple axial stop projections, each can be designed as an axial stop ring segment, each having a circular cylindrical segment body.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, several axial stop projections can each have an axial extension and project axially from the inner base surface along the central axis. Such axial stop projections can also advantageously form the mechanical cleaning device in the form of a cleaning brush. The respective axial stop projections can each be designed as cleaning bristles.

[0063] It can also be advantageous if the multiple axial stop elements, for example those with a radial extension, are aligned symmetrically about a first rotation angle around the central axis along an equal angular spacing. This symmetrical arrangement allows for an even more defined axial stop.

[0064] Furthermore, it can prove advantageous if, in the fixed state, a capillary ring channel is formed at least at the open end area between the inner surface of the casing and an outer circumferential surface of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. The capillary ring channel can, for example, generate a capillary force on the cleaning fluid for capillary absorption from the receiving chamber.

[0065] The capillary ring channel, which can optionally be formed in the fixed state, can be dimensioned in such a way that a capillary effect in the form of a capillary rise of the cleaning fluid against the direction of gravity can be physically generated.

[0066] Advantageously, the capillary ring channel can have a thickness along the radial direction of less than approximately 3 mm. Preferably, the capillary ring channel can have a thickness along the radial direction of less than approximately 2 mm. Particularly preferably, the capillary ring channel can have a thickness along the radial direction of less than approximately 0.5 mm.

[0067] On the one hand, reaction gas resulting from cleaning, for example descaling, can be advantageously removed from the receiving chamber via the capillary ring channel.

[0068] On the other hand, the capillary ring channel has, for example, the function of generating the capillary action on the absorbed cleaning fluid as explained above.

[0069] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the cleaning device includes a fastening device by means of which the cleaning base body can be detachably fastened in and / or on the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. It is also conceivable that the cleaning base body can be detachably fastened in and / or on the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned by means of the fastening device in a material-bonded manner.

[0070] The fastening device can comprise multiple fastening strips. For example, the fastening device can comprise two or three fastening strips. At least one fastening strip can include, or be formed from, a suction strip, at least partially, to receive the cleaning medium that may overflow through the feedthrough opening.

[0071] For example, each fastening strip can have at least one, optionally first, material-bonded fastening section by means of which the cleaning base body can be materially bonded and detachably fastened to and / or in the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned.

[0072] The fastening strips can, for example, be designed as elastic fastening strips. Additionally or alternatively, the fastening strips can be designed as flexible fastening strips.

[0073] This design can be understood, for example, as allowing the fastening strips to adapt to differently shaped surface structures of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, such as concave or convex surfaces. This adaptation can preferably be understood as ensuring that a bonded and releasable fastening is not broken or interrupted. This adaptation can be compared to applying a plaster to human skin.

[0074] Since the fastening strips, for example, each have a thickness that is many times smaller than their length and width, this shape can optionally be used to achieve particularly advantageous flexibility. Elasticity can optionally be achieved by selecting appropriate elastic materials, such as elastic plastics.

[0075] The cleaning base can further have an outer shell surface that externally delimits the cleaning base along a circumferential direction around the central axis. It can be advantageous if each mounting strip is attached to the outer shell surface. This design allows for particularly simple attachment of the cleaning base to and / or in the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned.

[0076] For example, each fastening strip can be attached to the outer shell surface by means of a respective second material-bonded fastening section.

[0077] The first, at least one, material-bonded fastening section can be designed as the first adhesive section. Additionally or alternatively, the second, material-bonded fastening section can be designed as the second adhesive section.

[0078] When the cleaning device is packaged or unused, the first adhesive section (optionally) may be covered with a protective film, which can be manually removed by the user before use. For easier removal, the protective film may have a pull tab that extends beyond the adhesive section.

[0079] Furthermore, it may be provided that the respective at least one first material-bonded fastening section is designed as an adhesive section and the respective at least one second material-bonded fastening section is designed as a welded section.

[0080] The respective mounting strip can be integrally connected to the outer surface of the casing via a welded joint at each welding section. This advantageously enables a stable connection, thus allowing for even more secure attachment of the cleaning base.

[0081] The multiple mounting strips can be symmetrically aligned, for example, by a second rotation angle around the central axis along an equal rotational angular spacing. This alignment allows for a particularly secure and defined attachment of the cleaning base to and / or in the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned.

[0082] The cleaning base can further include a storage device, which is integrated into the receiving chamber for at least partial storage of the cleaning medium. The storage device can, for example, prevent liquid cleaning medium from leaking out of the feedthrough opening. This can become critical if the cleaning base, when mounted, is tilted by a certain limiting angle to the direction of gravity via its central axis.

[0083] The same applies to the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, whose main extension axis(s) or central axis(s) (depending on the shape) are inclined to the direction of gravity.

[0084] Thanks to the storage device, even in this case, where the liquid cleaning medium would have already flowed out of the feedthrough opening, it can still be safely stored in the receiving chamber.

[0085] For example, the storage device can be designed as an open-pore storage device with a plurality of storage pores in which the cleaning medium is stored. This porosity can provide a large surface area with an open cell structure, resulting in a high storage capacity. The storage pores can have a mean diameter of less than approximately 2 mm, for example less than approximately 1 mm, and particularly preferably less than 0.5 mm.

[0086] The storage device can be designed as an elastically deformable sponge body, which, for example, is clamped in the recording chamber when the data is being recorded. The sponge body can be made of plastic foam, e.g., polyurethane foam.

[0087] The storage device can further have a storage height that, in the collected state, extends axially along the central axis in the receiving chamber from the bottom area to the open end. This allows for a high storage capacity and further minimizes the tendency of the cleaning fluid to leak out. For example, the storage device can also have an axial distance from the open end.

[0088] Furthermore, it may be provided that the storage device has one or more recesses corresponding in number, position and shape to the one or more axial stop elements for the respective reception of the one or more axial stop elements.

[0089] The one or more recesses can extend axially along the central axis along the entire storage height within the storage device. This extension has the advantage that the storage device can be more easily inserted into the receiving chamber during manufacturing. Furthermore, with a compressed storage device, the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned can still abut directly axially against the respective axial stop elements in the receiving chamber, i.e., without the storage device in between.

[0090] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the storage device is compressed in the fixed state by means of the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned, which is at least partially received in the receiving chamber.

[0091] As a result, the pore pressure of the cleaning medium within the respective storage pores can increase, and some of the cleaning medium can be dispensed from the storage device into the receiving chamber. For example, the cleaning medium can be dispensed into and / or at the open end area.

[0092] The open end region can further include the fastening device, which forms a fastening area at the open end region, designed as an elastic and annular fastening area. The annular fastening area is optionally shaped as a circular fastening area.

[0093] By means of the fastening area, the cleaning base body is, for example, radially clamped to the outside of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned when fastened.

[0094] For example, the elastic and ring-shaped mounting area can include an elastic radial spring element or be designed as an elastic radial spring element.

[0095] In this regard, it may be provided that the radial spring element comprises the same material as the cleaning base body and is integrally connected to the cleaning base body.

[0096] Alternatively, it can be provided that the radial spring element comprises a different material than the cleaning base body, is designed as a separate component and is positioned at the mounting area and / or received in the mounting area when attached.

[0097] The elastic, annular mounting area can optionally project radially inwards from the open end of the, for example, shared, inner surface. Accordingly, the mounting area can include an annular mounting projection that projects radially from the inner surface into the receiving chamber and / or the feedthrough opening. This annular mounting projection can optionally be shaped as a circular mounting projection.

[0098] The fastening projection can have an inner contact surface by means of which, in the fastened state, for example an outer circumferential surface of the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned is contacted.

[0099] The inner contact surface can be smaller than the area of ​​the inner surface from which the mounting projection protrudes. This relationship can enable secure clamping even with axially short components and / or assemblies to be cleaned, since the inner contact surface can also be designed to be axially short.

[0100] Furthermore, several capillary channels can be incorporated into the inner contact surface, by means of which the mounting projection can be divided into several mounting projection segments. For example, the several capillary channels can each be shaped like an annular segment.

[0101] The multiple capillary channels can advantageously generate a capillary force on the cleaning fluid, enabling its capillary uptake from the receiving chamber. When mounted, the multiple capillary channels can also be radially limited on the inside by the outer circumferential surface.

[0102] The multiple capillary channels, which can only be formed when the device is fixed in place, can be dimensioned such that a capillary effect, in the form of capillary rise of the cleaning fluid against the direction of gravity, can be physically generated. Advantageously, the multiple capillary channels can each have a thickness along the radial direction of less than approximately 3 mm. Preferably, the capillary channels can each have a thickness along the radial direction of less than approximately 2 mm. Particularly preferably, the capillary channels can each have a thickness along the radial direction of less than approximately 0.5 mm.

[0103] The open end section can also have an insertion ramp on the opening side, which surrounds the entire feedthrough opening. Using this insertion ramp, the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned can be inserted axially into the feedthrough opening and into the receiving chamber towards the bottom. This design is optionally advantageous in the variant where the cleaning base is clamped to the outer circumferential surface.

[0104] The insertion ramp can have an angle of less than approximately 45°, for example less than approximately...

[0105] 30°, preferably less than approximately 20°, enclosing the central axis.

[0106] The intermediate area, the open end area and / or the fastening area, for example, have an annular cross-section.

[0107] For example, the outer circumference of the outer casing can decrease from the base to the open end. In other words, the cleaning body can taper from the base along the central axis to the open end.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the inner circumference of the inner casing decreases from the base area towards the open end. In other words, the cleaning body can taper internally from the base area along the central axis to the open end.

[0109] The tapered shape can improve the clamping of the cleaning base, since the opening dimension, i.e., the inner diameter of the contact surface, can be smaller in the unclamped state than the geometric dimension, e.g., an outer diameter, of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. When the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned is inserted axially into the receiving chamber via the insertion ramp, at least the open end region and / or the intermediate region can expand elastically in the radial direction. Therefore, the tapered shape allows the cleaning base to be clamped with a higher clamping force when attached.

[0110] The cleaning unit's base can be made of a plastic, for example. This plastic can be made from fossil raw materials.

[0111] Additionally or alternatively, the plastic can be made from so-called "ocean impact plastic." This type of plastic can include any kind of plastic waste that has, or is highly likely to have, a negative environmental impact on the Earth's oceans. This can include plastic waste that has already found its way into the oceans. However, it can also include plastic waste from coastal or river basins, known as "coast impact plastic." This can accumulate on coasts or riverbanks, or be transported indirectly into the oceans via rivers.

[0112] Additionally or alternatively, the plastic can be made entirely or partially from biogenic or renewable raw materials, e.g. from corn and / or sugar cane.

[0113] Additionally or alternatively, the plastic can be made from biodegradable plastic. These are plastics that can decompose under natural conditions. Additionally or alternatively, the plastic can be made from recycled plastic.

[0114] Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the plastic is made from a thermoplastic elastomer. This can be advantageous if the cleaning base is to be elastically clamped to the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, utilizing its inherent elasticity.

[0115] For example, the cleaning unit can be designed or manufactured as a 3D-printed component. This can be advantageous if the cleaning unit's shape and size need to be individually adapted to, for example, non-standard components or assemblies to be cleaned. In this regard, the shape and dimensions of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned can be captured, for example, using a smart mobile device, and a correspondingly shaped cleaning device can be printed using a 3D printer. Please refer to the text below for a more detailed description of this process.

[0116] Alternatively, the cleaning unit can be manufactured or designed as an injection-molded component. This design can be advantageous, for example, in terms of cost-effective mass production.

[0117] The cleaning base can, for example, be designed as a single-piece unit. A single-piece cleaning base can be understood to mean, for instance, that it cannot be disassembled into further sub-sections, such as the base, intermediate section, or open end section, without causing damage. Accordingly, a single-piece cleaning base can offer advantages in sealing the receiving chamber, as this chamber only needs to be open towards the feed-through opening.

[0118] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the cleaning body has an annular collection channel for the escaping cleaning medium, which can be molded onto the outer surface. For example, the collection channel can be molded axially along the central axis at the level of the bottom area on the outer surface.

[0119] The cleaning unit can also have a degassing opening that connects the receiving chamber to an environment, such as an external environment of the cleaning unit. The degassing opening can serve to vent reaction gas from the receiving chamber, which is generated during limescale removal by a chemical reaction between the descaling liquid and the limescale on the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned.

[0120] The degassing opening can be incorporated into the cleaning unit and sealed by a semipermeable breathing film. This film can be permeable to the reaction gas and impermeable to the cleaning fluid. Furthermore, it is advantageous for multiple cleaning devices to incorporate several different cleaning assignment codes. For example, the different cleaning assignment codes can include different cleaning assignment color codes.

[0121] The different cleaning assignment codes can advantageously be assigned to several different determination assignment codes from multiple determination devices. The determination assignment codes can optionally include determination assignment color codes from multiple determination devices.

[0122] The multiple measuring devices are advantageously designed for determining several geometric dimensions of several components and / or assemblies to be cleaned. The multiple measuring devices are further advantageously designed for determining several such geometric dimensions if these are enlarged by contamination, e.g., limescale deposits, on several components and / or assemblies to be cleaned.

[0123] Additionally or alternatively, the respective cleaning assignment codes and identification assignment codes can include assignment codes based on the fashion world in the form of size designations such as small "S", medium "M" or large "L", e.g. in the case of three differently sized cleaning and identification devices.

[0124] As described in the introduction, the components and / or assemblies to be cleaned exhibit a wide variety of shapes and dimensions. Therefore, it is advisable to first determine the geometric dimensions (at least approximately) of the components to be cleaned, for example, using a suitable measuring device. Following this measurement, a suitable cleaning device can be selected and used, which facilitates the cleaning process.

[0125] This selection, however, requires a clear assignment of the specific geometric dimensions of the components and / or assemblies to be cleaned to a corresponding cleaning device. For a more detailed explanation of this dimensional determination, please refer to the text passages below. To ensure a clear, dimensionally accurate assignment of cleaning devices to the components and / or assemblies to be cleaned, the respective devices and cleaning equipment can have corresponding assignment codes.

[0126] It can be advantageous if the respective cleaning and determination color codes are the same for unambiguous assignment. This allows for particularly easy mutual assignment.

[0127] The respective color code assignments can include quantifiable color codes. Quantifiable color codes can, for example, include colors from the RAL color system and / or the RGB color space.

[0128] As a non-restrictive example, both a cleaning device and a detection device can be colored signal blue according to RAL 5005 for clear identification. The color blue can be advantageous because it is socially associated with water, which can allow a user to mentally link the cleaning device to a water-bearing fitting.

[0129] The cleaning device can, for example, be designed as a single-use cleaning device. This design allows for a simple and cost-effective construction of the cleaning device.

[0130] The present invention further relates to a cleaning method for cleaning at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0131] It is therefore the object of the present invention that at least one component and / or at least one assembly can be used in a more resource-efficient manner.

[0132] This problem is solved according to the invention by the features of independent claim 22. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims. The cleaning method according to the invention serves to clean at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned; wherein the cleaning method comprises the following steps:

[0133] - Capturing at least one geometric dimension, for example, external dimension, of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, optionally by a smart mobile device as explained below; and - Cleaning the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned in response to the capture step.

[0134] Furthermore, the cleaning process may include the following additional steps:

[0135] - Selection, optionally automatic selection, of at least one cleaning device from several selectable cleaning devices, optionally encompassing different opening dimensions, for cleaning the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned in response to the detection step;

[0136] - Detachable attachment of the at least one selected cleaning device to and / or in the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned; and

[0137] - Cleaning of the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned by means of the at least one detachably attached cleaning device.

[0138] Another cleaning procedure, for example, is designed to clean at least one component and / or at least one assembly and can include the following steps:

[0139] First, at least one geometric dimension of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned can be determined and / or recorded. This at least one geometric dimension is, for example, an external dimension. The at least one external dimension is, for example, an external diameter.

[0140] The identification step can optionally be performed using an identification device, as described in more detail below. The additional or alternative data acquisition step can optionally be performed using a smart mobile device, as described in more detail below.

[0141] In response to the determination step and / or the detection step, for example, at least one cleaning device, as explained above, is selected from several cleaning devices to be selected, which include several opening dimensions.

[0142] The at least one selected cleaning device is then detachably attached, for example, to and / or in the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This can therefore be used to clean the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned by means of the at least one detachably attached cleaning device.

[0143] Subsequently, the detachably attached cleaning device can be disassembled from the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned.

[0144] For example, linking the step of determining and / or recording the respective geometric dimension with a corresponding selection of a suitable cleaning device before the actual cleaning process can provide simplified or improved cleaning.

[0145] This means that a single, selected cleaning device no longer needs to clean a large area of ​​the respective geometric dimension, e.g., an outer diameter range of approximately 12 cm to approximately 30 cm (e.g., of an aerator, regardless of its design, e.g., with external or internal thread). Instead, a cleaning device adapted to the specific geometric dimension can be used, which significantly simplifies the cleaning process.

[0146] All structural and functional features associated with the cleaning device and its embodiments described above can also be included in the cleaning method, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, configurations, and advantages can likewise be included and achieved. Furthermore, the cleaning device described above can be configured to perform at least part of the cleaning method described herein; and the cleaning method described herein can be designed to be at least partially executable by means of the cleaning device described above.

[0147] All structural and functional features associated with the determination device described below and / or with the smart mobile device and its embodiments may at least partially be included in the cleaning process, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages may also be at least partially included and achieved accordingly.

[0148] Furthermore, the detection device and / or the smart mobile device described below may be configured to partially perform the cleaning procedure described herein, and the cleaning procedure described herein may be designed to be partially executable by means of the detection device and / or the smart mobile device described below.

[0149] The cleaning process may also include the following steps:

[0150] Accordingly, at least one geometric dimension is determined using the determining device, as described below.

[0151] This determination step starts, for example, from a second combined measure-determining body area and then switches to a first combined measure-determining body area.

[0152] The reason for this approach is that the second combined measure-determining body area has larger determining dimensions than the first combined measure-determining body area (see more detailed description below).

[0153] Accordingly, measurements can be taken in a sequence of smaller measurements, starting with larger ones. The advantage of this sequence for the user is that the measurement process can be more intuitive. The measuring device can have a starting point to indicate the beginning of the measurement sequence to the user.

[0154] The present disclosure further relates to a manufacturing process for producing a cleaning device, as explained above, for cleaning at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0155] An exemplary manufacturing process for producing a cleaning device as described above for cleaning at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned, includes the following steps:

[0156] - Manufacturing a cleaning base body comprising a receiving chamber and a through-hole connected to the receiving chamber;

[0157] - Providing the manufactured cleaning base;

[0158] - Introducing a cleaning medium, for example through the feedthrough opening into the receiving chamber;

[0159] - Providing a closure cover; and

[0160] - Closing the feedthrough opening using the provided closure cover by means of a material seal to seal the receiving chamber using the closure cover.

[0161] For example, the material bond can be created by ultrasonic welding.

[0162] Additionally or alternatively, the fabric can be joined by gluing.

[0163] The cleaning unit can be manufactured, for example, using a primary forming process. Injection molding is particularly preferred. Alternatively, it can be manufactured using a 3D printing process.

[0164] The insertion step can optionally be carried out by filling.

[0165] The cleaning medium is optionally designed as a cleaning fluid. The structural and functional characteristics of the cleaning medium described in connection with the cleaning device apply accordingly to the manufacturing process. The sealing step is optionally performed as a releasable closure of the feedthrough opening, so that the closure cover can be manually removed before use of the cleaning device.

[0166] Furthermore, it may be provided that the manufacture of the cleaning base body includes the manufacture of the mechanical cleaning device. The mechanical cleaning device can be manufactured during the step of manufacturing the cleaning base body.

[0167] Alternatively, the mechanical cleaning device, e.g., designed as a cleaning brush, can be manufactured separately from the cleaning base and, for example, bonded to the provided cleaning base. This bond can be achieved, for instance, by ultrasonic welding. Additionally or alternatively, this bond can be achieved by adhesive bonding.

[0168] The manufacturing of the cleaning base body is optionally carried out by producing a one-piece cleaning base body that cannot be disassembled into further body parts without destruction.

[0169] Furthermore, it may be provided that a storage device can be introduced into the receiving chamber either before or after the step of introducing the cleaning medium.

[0170] The storage device optionally serves to at least partially absorb or store the cleaning medium. For example, the storage device can be designed as an elastically deformable sponge body.

[0171] During the insertion of the storage device into the receiving chamber, the storage device may be elastically compressed, e.g. by means of an insertion tool.

[0172] All structural and functional features associated with the cleaning device and its embodiments described above can also be included in the manufacturing process, either individually or in combination, and the associated properties, configurations, and advantages can likewise be included and achieved. The present disclosure further relates to a determining device for determining at least one geometric dimension of at least one component to be cleaned and / or of at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0173] The determining device optionally serves to determine at least one geometric dimension of at least one component to be cleaned and / or of at least one assembly to be cleaned that includes the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0174] This provides a user-friendly measuring device that allows for the determination of at least one geometric dimension without any disassembly of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned while it is in its fixed position.

[0175] The at least one geometric dimension is optionally an external dimension. For example, for an aerator, which includes at least one component to be cleaned, the external dimension could be an external diameter. If the at least one assembly to be cleaned is designed as a plumbing fitting, the external dimension could also be an external diameter or an external width.

[0176] The determining device is used to check whether the at least one geometric dimension lies within at least one defined dimension range, i.e., a determination dimension range, or not.

[0177] The determining device optionally does not measure and / or sensorially detect at least one geometric dimension. Accordingly, for example, no numerical or measured value of the at least one geometric dimension is determined using the determining device. Rather, a target state, defined by the determining device, is compared with an actual state in the form of the at least one geometric dimension to be determined.

[0178] The measuring device comprises a measuring base body, which may be, for example, a single piece or multiple pieces. The measuring base body further comprises at least one minimum dimension measuring body area that limits at least one defined minimum dimension for measuring. The minimum dimension for measuring can be greater than, approximately equal to, or less than at least one geometric dimension of at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. For example, the minimum dimension for measuring is smaller than the at least one geometric dimension.

[0179] Using at least one defined minimum measurement, it is therefore possible, for example, to determine whether the at least one geometric measurement is smaller, approximately equal to or larger than / like the at least one defined minimum measurement.

[0180] The at least one geometric dimension is then approximately equal to or the same size as the at least one defined minimum dimension if, for example, the difference between the two dimensions is less than approximately 0.5 mm, for example less than approximately 0.2 mm, and preferably less than approximately 0.1 mm.

[0181] For example, at least one geometric dimension is larger than at least one defined minimum dimension. In this case, for example, elastic and / or plastic deformation of the minimum dimension defining body area occurs.

[0182] In this case, the minimum dimension determining body area can be clamped to the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This clamping can optionally serve as a perceptible indication to the user that the at least one geometric dimension is larger than the at least one defined minimum dimension.

[0183] Additionally or alternatively, the determining body includes, for example, at least one maximum dimension determining body area that limits at least one defined maximum dimension.

[0184] The at least one defined maximum dimension can be greater than the at least one defined minimum dimension and greater than the at least one geometric dimension. This relationship is particularly useful for determining an upper limit of the at least one geometric dimension. Using the at least one defined maximum dimension, it is thus possible, for example, to determine whether the at least one geometric dimension is smaller than the at least one defined maximum dimension.

[0185] A difference between at least one defined maximum measurement and at least one defined minimum measurement can define at least one measurement range.

[0186] Alternatively, the at least one defined maximum determination measure can define the at least one determination measure range, in which case the defined minimum determination measure can be zero.

[0187] For example, the at least one geometric dimension can lie within the at least one determination range. Accordingly, the at least one geometric dimension can advantageously be determined using the at least one determination range. However, this determination can only be made if the at least one defined maximum determination dimension is greater than the at least one geometric dimension. Advantageously, several geometric dimensions can be determined using the determination device.

[0188] Accordingly, it may be provided that at least one first defined maximum dimension is smaller than at least one second geometric dimension of at least one second component to be cleaned and / or of at least one second assembly to be cleaned, encompassing the at least one second component to be cleaned.

[0189] The second geometric dimension can optionally be an external dimension. For example, for an aerator that includes the second component to be cleaned, the external dimension could be an external diameter. If the second assembly to be cleaned is designed as a plumbing fitting, the external dimension could also be an external diameter or an external width.

[0190] Accordingly, the determining device comprises at least one second minimum dimension determining body area, which limits at least one second defined minimum dimension. This second defined minimum dimension can be greater than, approximately equal to, or less than the second geometric dimension of the second component and / or assembly to be cleaned. For example, the second minimum dimension is smaller than the second geometric dimension.

[0191] Using at least one second defined minimum measurement, it is possible, for example, to determine whether the at least one second geometric measurement is smaller, approximately equal to or larger than / like the at least one second defined minimum measurement.

[0192] The at least one second geometric dimension is then approximately equal to the at least one second defined minimum dimension if the difference between the two dimensions is less than approximately 0.5 mm, for example less than approximately 0.2 mm, and particularly preferably less than approximately 0.1 mm.

[0193] For example, at least one second geometric dimension is larger than at least one second defined minimum dimension.

[0194] In this case, for example, the second minimum dimension determining body undergoes elastic and / or plastic deformation. This second minimum dimension determining body area can be clamped to the at least one second component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This clamping can optionally serve as a perceptible indication to the user that the at least one second geometric dimension is larger than the at least one second defined minimum dimension.

[0195] Additionally or alternatively, the determining body includes, for example, at least one second maximum dimension determining body area that limits at least one second defined maximum dimension.

[0196] The at least one second defined maximum dimension can be larger than the at least one second defined minimum dimension and larger than the at least one second geometric dimension. This relationship is particularly useful for determining an upper limit of the at least one second geometric dimension. Using the at least one second defined maximum dimension, it is thus possible, for example, to determine whether the at least one second geometric dimension is smaller than the at least one second defined maximum dimension.

[0197] A difference between at least one second defined maximum determination value and at least one second defined minimum determination value can define at least one second determination value range.

[0198] Alternatively, the at least one second defined maximum determination measure can define the at least one second determination measure range, in which case the at least one second defined minimum determination measure can be equal to zero.

[0199] For example, the at least one second geometric dimension can lie within the at least one second range of determination. Similarly, it is advantageous that the at least one second geometric dimension can be determined using the at least one second range of determination.

[0200] This determination can only be made if the at least one second defined maximum dimension is greater than the at least one second geometric dimension. Furthermore, this determination can only be made if the at least one second defined minimum dimension is greater than the at least one first geometric dimension.

[0201] Furthermore, it may be provided that the at least one second defined maximum dimension is smaller than at least one third geometric dimension of at least one third component to be cleaned and / or of at least one third assembly to be cleaned, encompassing the at least one third component to be cleaned.

[0202] The at least one third geometric dimension is optionally an external dimension. For example, for an aerator that includes the at least one third component to be cleaned, the external dimension could be an external diameter. If the at least one third assembly to be cleaned is designed as a sanitary fitting carrying water, the external dimension could also be an external diameter or an external width. The measuring device includes at least one third minimum dimension measuring body area that limits at least one third defined minimum dimension.

[0203] The at least one third defined minimum dimension can be greater than, approximately equal to, or less than the at least one third geometric dimension of the at least one third component and / or assembly to be cleaned. For example, the at least one third minimum dimension is smaller than the at least one third geometric dimension.

[0204] Using at least one third defined minimum measurement, it is possible, for example, to determine whether the at least one third geometric measurement is smaller, approximately equal to or larger than / like the at least one third defined minimum measurement.

[0205] The at least one third geometric dimension is then approximately equal to the at least one third defined minimum dimension if the difference between the two dimensions is less than approximately 0.5 mm, for example less than approximately 0.2 mm, and particularly preferably less than approximately 0.1 mm.

[0206] For example, at least one third geometric dimension is larger than at least one third defined minimum dimension.

[0207] In this case, for example, the third minimum dimension determining body undergoes elastic and / or plastic deformation. This third minimum dimension determining body area can be clamped to the at least one third component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This clamping can optionally serve as a perceptible indication to the user that the at least one third geometric dimension is larger than the at least one third defined minimum dimension.

[0208] Additionally or alternatively, the defining body includes, for example, at least one third maximum dimension defining body area that limits at least one third defined maximum dimension. The at least one third defined maximum dimension can be larger than the at least one third defined minimum dimension and larger than the at least one third geometric dimension. This relationship is particularly useful for determining an upper limit of the at least one third geometric dimension.

[0209] Using at least one third defined maximum dimension, it is therefore possible, for example, to determine whether the at least one third geometric dimension is smaller than the at least one third defined maximum dimension.

[0210] A difference between the at least one third defined maximum determination measure and the at least one third defined minimum determination measure can define at least one third determination measure range.

[0211] Alternatively, the at least one third defined maximum measure of determination can define the at least one third range of measures of determination, in which case the at least one third defined minimum measure of determination can be equal to zero.

[0212] For example, the at least one third geometric dimension can lie within the at least one third range of determination. Similarly, it is advantageous that the at least one third geometric dimension can be determined using the at least one third range of determination.

[0213] This determination can only be made if the at least one third defined maximum dimension is greater than the at least one third geometric dimension. Additionally, this determination can only be made if the at least one third defined minimum dimension is greater than the at least one second geometric dimension.

[0214] The determination device has been explained above with reference to a three-stage structure, namely with reference to at least one first, second and third minimum dimension determination area, with reference to at least one first, second and third maximum dimension determination area, and with reference to at least one first, second and third determination dimension range. This three-stage structure advantageously allows for the determination of those components and / or assemblies to be cleaned whose respective geometric dimensions extend within the first to third determination dimension ranges.

[0215] It goes without saying that the determining device can be designed using a corresponding two-stage, four-stage, five-stage or six-stage structure.

[0216] The determining device may, for example, comprise a one-piece determining base body that cannot be disassembled into further base body parts without destruction.

[0217] The single-piece defining body can comprise at least one first and second, and for example third, minimum-dimension defining body area and / or at least one first and second, and for example third, maximum-dimension defining body area.

[0218] For example, the at least one first minimum dimension defining area and the at least one first maximum dimension defining area can form a first combined dimension defining area.

[0219] In this training, the at least one first minimum dimension defining body area and the at least one first maximum dimension defining body area accordingly form a one-piece first combined dimension defining body area.

[0220] Accordingly, the at least one second minimum dimension defining body area and the at least one second maximum dimension defining body area can form a second combined dimension defining body area.

[0221] In this design, the at least one second minimum dimension defining element area and the at least one second maximum dimension defining element area form a single, combined second dimension defining element area. Similarly, the at least one third minimum dimension defining element area and the at least one third maximum dimension defining element area can form a third combined dimension defining element area.

[0222] In this training, the at least one third minimum dimension defining body area and the at least one third maximum dimension defining body area accordingly form a one-piece third combined dimension defining body area.

[0223] Alternatively, the at least one first, second and third combined measuring-determining body area can each be formed in one piece and accordingly connected to form a multi-part, optionally three-part, determining body.

[0224] Furthermore, it may be provided that the at least one first minimum dimension determining body area includes a first minimum determining opening for receiving the at least one first component to be cleaned and / or the at least one first assembly to be cleaned. This receiving can optionally be complete or partial.

[0225] The first minimum aperture can define the first minimum dimension for measurement. For example, the first minimum aperture can be designed as a circular or circular segment-shaped aperture.

[0226] The first defined minimum measurement is optionally a first minimum measurement diameter.

[0227] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one first maximum dimension determining body area can include a first maximum determining opening for receiving the at least one first component to be cleaned and / or the at least one first assembly to be cleaned. This receiving can also be complete or partial.

[0228] The first maximum measurement aperture, for example, limits the first defined maximum measurement dimension. The first maximum measurement aperture can be designed, for example, as a circular or circular segment-shaped measurement aperture. The first defined maximum measurement dimension is optionally a first maximum measurement diameter.

[0229] Furthermore, it may be provided that the at least one second minimum dimension determining body area includes a second minimum determining opening for receiving the at least one second component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This receiving can optionally be complete or partial.

[0230] The second minimum aperture can define the second minimum dimension for measurement. The second minimum aperture can, for example, be designed as a circular or circular segment-shaped aperture.

[0231] The second defined minimum measurement is accordingly a second minimum diameter for measurement.

[0232] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one second maximum dimension determining body area can include a second maximum determining opening for receiving the at least one second component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This receiving can optionally be complete or partial.

[0233] The second maximum opening for determining the size of the opening defines, for example, the second maximum dimension for determining the size of the opening. This second maximum opening can, for example, be designed as a circular or circular segment-shaped opening.

[0234] The second defined maximum dimension is accordingly a second maximum diameter.

[0235] Furthermore, it may be provided that the at least one third minimum dimension determining body area includes a third minimum determining opening for receiving the at least one third component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This receiving can optionally be complete or partial. The third minimum determining opening can limit the third defined minimum dimension. The third minimum determining opening can, for example, be designed as a circular or circular segment-shaped determining opening.

[0236] The third defined minimum measurement is accordingly a third minimum diameter for measurement.

[0237] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one third maximum dimension determining body area can include a third maximum determining opening for receiving the at least one third component and / or assembly to be cleaned. This receiving can optionally be complete or partial.

[0238] The third maximum opening for determining the size of the opening defines, for example, the third maximum dimension for determining the size of the opening. This third maximum opening can be designed, for example, as a circular or circular segment-shaped opening.

[0239] The third defined maximum measurement is accordingly a third maximum measurement diameter.

[0240] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the first minimum determining aperture has a first center point and the first maximum determining aperture has another first center point. For example, the first center point and the second first center point are aligned concentrically with each other.

[0241] The single-piece first combined measuring-determining body area comprises the first minimum and first maximum determining apertures, which overlap concentrically. Physically, the first minimum and maximum determining apertures are differentiated from each other by a first circumferential area extending radially from their centers.

[0242] The at least one first component and / or assembly to be cleaned can, if in a recorded state the at least one first geometric dimension is larger than the first defined minimum dimension for determination, elastically and / or plastically expand the base body for determination in the first circumferential region. This first circumferential region is, for example, arranged around the first minimum opening for determination and optionally represents the first dimension range for determination. In the fully expanded state, the first minimum opening for determination has, for example, completely transitioned into the first maximum opening for determination.

[0243] Accordingly, the first minimum determination opening and the first maximum determination opening partially or completely overlap in this embodiment. In other words, the first minimum determination opening is completely / partially contained within the first maximum determination opening. The first maximum determination opening is thus advantageously only created or released if the circumferential area deforms plastically and / or elastically.

[0244] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the second minimum determination aperture has a second center point, and the second maximum determination aperture has yet another second center point. For example, the second center point and the further second center point are concentrically aligned with each other.

[0245] The one-piece second combined measuring element optionally includes the second minimum measuring aperture and the second maximum measuring aperture, which are arranged concentrically and overlap accordingly. Physically, the second minimum and second maximum measuring apertures are differentiated from each other by a second circumferential area extending radially from their centers.

[0246] The at least one second component to be cleaned and / or the at least one second assembly to be cleaned can, in the event that in a recorded state the at least one second geometric dimension is larger than the second defined minimum dimension of determination, elastically and / or plastically expand the basic body of determination in the second circumferential area.

[0247] This second circumferential region is, for example, arranged around the second minimum determining opening and optionally embodies the second determining dimension range. In the fully expanded state, the second minimum determining opening, for example, has completely merged into the second maximum determining opening. Thus, according to this second embodiment, the second minimum determining opening and the second maximum determining opening partially or completely overlap. In other words, the second minimum determining opening is completely / partially contained within the second maximum determining opening. The second maximum determining opening is therefore advantageously only created or released if the second circumferential region deforms plastically and / or elastically.

[0248] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the third minimum determination aperture has a third center point, and the third maximum determination aperture has yet another third center point. For example, the third center point and the other third center point are concentrically aligned with each other.

[0249] The one-piece third combined measuring element optionally includes the third minimum measuring aperture and the third maximum measuring aperture, which are arranged concentrically and overlap accordingly. Physically, the third minimum and maximum measuring apertures are differentiated from each other by a third circumferential region extending radially from their centers.

[0250] The at least one third component and / or assembly to be cleaned can, in the event that in a recorded state the at least one third geometric dimension is larger than the at least one third defined minimum dimension of determination, elastically and / or plastically expand the basic body of determination in the third circumferential area.

[0251] This third circumferential region is, for example, arranged around the third minimum measuring aperture and optionally represents the third measuring range. In the fully expanded state, the third minimum measuring aperture has, for example, completely merged into the third maximum measuring aperture.

[0252] Accordingly, the third minimum determination opening and the third maximum determination opening partially or completely overlap in this embodiment. In other words, the third minimum determination opening is completely / partially contained within the third maximum determination opening. The third maximum determination opening is thus advantageously only created or released if the third circumferential region deforms plastically and / or elastically. The first circumferential region can advantageously include one or more perforations.

[0253] Additionally or alternatively, the second circumference area may include one or more perforations. Additionally or alternatively, the third circumference area may include one or more perforations.

[0254] The one or more perforations can extend and be introduced in a radial direction towards the first and further first center point in the first circumferential area.

[0255] Additionally or alternatively, one or more perforations may extend and be incorporated in a radial direction towards the second and further second center point in the second circumferential area.

[0256] Additionally or alternatively, one or more perforations may extend radially towards the third and further third center point in the third circumferential area and be incorporated.

[0257] The respective perforations thus provide advantageously defined predetermined deformation points, optionally predetermined separation points, at or between which, e.g. in the circumferential direction, the respective first, second and / or third circumferential area can deform.

[0258] Furthermore, it can be provided that the multiple perforations radially define the outer boundaries of the first circumferential region, the second circumferential region, and / or the third circumferential region, and are each incorporated into the base body at these points. These perforations are arranged concentrically along a circle around the respective first, second, second, and / or third, third center points, thus advantageously defining the first, second, and third maximum openings for determining the measurement.

[0259] Additionally or alternatively, the multiple perforations can be symmetrically aligned around a third rotation angle about the first and subsequent first center points. This symmetrical alignment can be achieved, for example, by maintaining an equal angular distance between them.

[0260] Additionally or alternatively, the multiple perforations can be symmetrically aligned around a fourth rotation angle about the second and subsequent second center points. This symmetrical alignment can be achieved, for example, by maintaining an equal angular distance between them.

[0261] Additionally or alternatively, the multiple perforations can be symmetrically aligned around a fifth rotation angle about the third and subsequent third center points. This symmetrical alignment can be achieved, for example, by maintaining an equal angular distance between them.

[0262] The basic body can advantageously comprise a cardboard material. Additionally or alternatively, the basic body can comprise a composite cardboard material.

[0263] For example, a cost-effective determination device can be provided by means of a cardboard material, especially since the cardboard material, optionally in connection with the perforations, can have a defined plastic and / or elastic deformability.

[0264] Additionally or alternatively, the basic body of the device can comprise a plastic.

[0265] The determining device may further comprise at least one first determining assignment code on the first combined measuring element area, which is assigned to the first determining measuring element area.

[0266] The at least one initial determination assignment code fulfills an important function, for example, because the at least one initial geometric dimension can be determined using the initial determination measurement range. The at least one initial determination assignment code, for instance, ensures a unique assignment only to the at least one initial geometric dimension.

[0267] The at least one initial identification-assignment code can therefore be considered a link in a causal chain by means of which at least one initial specific geometric dimension can be uniquely assigned to a geometrically matching cleaning device. Consequently, the corresponding opening dimension of the matching cleaning device is aligned with the at least one previously determined geometric dimension. Furthermore, it may be provided that an initial identification-assignment code has an initial identification-assignment color code. Color codes are advantageous for users, for example, because they allow for a clear and intuitive assignment.

[0268] Accordingly, it may be provided that the first determination assignment color code and the first cleaning assignment color code of a first cleaning device, as described above, are the same for the unambiguous dimensionally related assignment of the first cleaning device and the at least one first component to be cleaned and / or the at least one first assembly to be cleaned.

[0269] For example, a further first identification assignment code may have a first identification QR assignment code that can be detected, for example, by means of an optical sensor device of a smart mobile device.

[0270] The first identification QR code advantageously performs the same function in the causal chain explained above as the at least one initial identification code. However, it has the advantage that the assignment to a geometrically matching cleaning device can be carried out using an app on a smart mobile device, which is described in more detail below.

[0271] Accordingly, the first determination QR assignment code can include initial assignment information that can be assigned to the first cleaning device, as described above. Using this initial assignment information, a unique dimensionally related assignment of the first cleaning device and the at least one first component and / or assembly to be cleaned can be made.

[0272] Furthermore, it may be provided that the first determination QR code also includes initial order information for purchasing the first assigned cleaning device in an online shop. Such initial order information can be captured and processed using the optical sensor device of the smart mobile device. For a detailed description, please refer to the relevant text passages below. The determination device may also include at least one second determination code on the second combined measuring element area, which is assigned to the second measuring element area.

[0273] The at least one second determination assignment code advantageously fulfills an important function, since the at least one second geometric dimension can be determined by means of the second determination measurement range. Using the at least one second determination assignment code, a unique assignment is then made, for example, only to the at least one second geometric dimension.

[0274] The at least one second determination-assignment code can therefore be considered a link in a causal chain by means of which the at least one second determined geometric dimension can be uniquely assigned to a geometrically matching cleaning device. Consequently, the corresponding opening dimension of the matching cleaning device is aligned with the at least one second determined geometric dimension.

[0275] Furthermore, it may be provided that a second identification assignment code has a second identification assignment color code. Color codes are optionally advantageous for users because they allow for simple and intuitive assignment.

[0276] Accordingly, it may be provided that the second determination assignment color code and the second cleaning assignment color code of a second cleaning device, as described above, are the same for the unambiguous dimensionally related assignment of the second cleaning device and the at least one second component to be cleaned and / or the at least one second assembly to be cleaned.

[0277] For example, a further second identification assignment code can have a second identification QR assignment code, which can be detected, for example, by means of the optical sensor device of the smart mobile device.

[0278] The second determination QR code advantageously performs the same function in the causal chain described above as the at least one second determination code. However, it has the advantage that the assignment to a geometrically matching cleaning device can be carried out using an app on a smart mobile device, which is described in more detail below. Furthermore, the second determination QR code can include second assignment information that can be assigned to the second cleaning device, as described above. Using this second assignment information, a unique, dimensionally related assignment of the second cleaning device and the at least one second component and / or assembly to be cleaned can be made.

[0279] Furthermore, it may be provided that the second identification QR code also includes second order information for purchasing the second assigned cleaning device in an online shop. Such second order information can be captured and processed using the optical sensor of the smart mobile device. For a detailed description, please refer to the relevant text passages below.

[0280] The determining device may further comprise at least one third determining assignment code on the third combined measuring element area, which is assigned to the third determining measuring area.

[0281] The at least one third determination assignment code advantageously fulfills an important function, since the at least one third geometric dimension can be determined by means of the third determination measurement range. Using the at least one third determination assignment code, a unique assignment is now made, for example, only to the at least one third geometric dimension.

[0282] The at least one third determination-assignment code can therefore be considered a link in a causal chain by means of which at least one third specific geometric dimension can be uniquely assigned to a geometrically matching cleaning device. Consequently, the corresponding opening dimension of the matching cleaning device is aligned with the at least one specific geometric dimension.

[0283] Furthermore, it may be provided that a third determination assignment code has a third determination assignment color code. Color codes are optionally advantageous for users because they allow for simple and intuitive assignment. Accordingly, it may be provided that the third determination assignment color code and the third cleaning assignment color code of a third cleaning device, as described above, are identical for the unambiguous dimensionally related assignment of the third cleaning device and the at least one third component and / or assembly to be cleaned.

[0284] For example, a further third identification assignment code may have a third identification QR assignment code, which can be detected, for example, by means of the optical sensor device of the smart mobile device.

[0285] The third identification QR code advantageously performs the same function in the causal chain described above as the at least one third identification code. However, it has the advantage that the assignment to a geometrically matching cleaning device can be carried out using an app on a smart mobile device, which is described in more detail below.

[0286] Furthermore, the third determination QR assignment code can include third assignment information that can be assigned to the third cleaning device, as described above. This third assignment information allows for a unique, dimensionally related assignment of the third cleaning device and the at least one third component and / or assembly to be cleaned.

[0287] Furthermore, it may be stipulated that the third determination QR code also includes third-party order information for purchasing the third assigned cleaning device in an online shop. Such third-party order information can be captured and processed using the optical sensor device of the smart mobile device. For a detailed description, please refer to the relevant text passages below.

[0288] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the identification device includes an instruction text field. For example, the identification base body can incorporate the instruction text field, making the use of the identification device even more intuitive and further minimizing misclassifications to incorrectly sized cleaning devices. Additionally or alternatively, the identification device, or optionally the identification base body, can include an instruction QR code containing operating instructions for the operation and handling of the identification device.

[0289] The instruction manual QR code can, for example, be located on a side of the device body opposite the first, second and / or third device QR code assignment code.

[0290] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a manufacturing process for producing a determining device as explained above.

[0291] This manufacturing process includes, for example, the following steps:

[0292] - Providing a die comprising one or more cutting edges shaped according to the form of the intended device to be manufactured; - Providing a flat body;

[0293] - Punching out the device to be manufactured from the flat body using the die; and

[0294] - Providing the manufactured determining device.

[0295] The advantage of this manufacturing process lies in its simplicity and reproducibility. Once the die meets the required specifications, thousands or even millions of devices can be produced quickly, easily, and cost-effectively.

[0296] To optimize wear, one or more of the punched edges can be replaceable.

[0297] The punching step is carried out, for example, by means of a single punching step, so that the basic body to be produced in one piece is easy to manufacture.

[0298] The flat body is printed, for example, before the step of deploying it. The printed areas can include the first, second, and / or third combined dimension / determination area. Furthermore, the printed areas can include the first, second, and / or third determination assignment code. In addition, the printed areas can include the first, second, and / or third determination QR assignment code. Finally, the printed areas can include the operating instructions text field and / or the operating instructions QR code.

[0299] The flat body can, for example, consist of a cardboard flat body. A composite cardboard flat body can be a cost-effective option. The cardboard flat body can, for example, consist of recycled cardboard material.

[0300] A flat body can be understood, for example, as a flat, planar body with two flat and parallel sides in the form of a top and bottom. Such a body can also be understood as having a thickness that is many times smaller than its length and width.

[0301] All structural and functional features associated with the previously described determining device and its embodiments can also be included in this manufacturing process, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0302] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a kit comprising the following:

[0303] - a drying cloth for pre-drying at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0304] Furthermore, the kit may include a cleaning device as described above.

[0305] In addition to or as an alternative to the cleaning device, the kit may include a determination device as described above.

[0306] The drying cloth can advantageously be attached to the cleaning device by means of a detachable fabric fastener. Additionally or alternatively, the drying cloth can advantageously be attached to the dispensing device by means of a detachable fabric fastener. The detachable fabric fastener can optionally consist of one or more adhesive points.

[0307] If the base material is made of cardboard, or optionally a composite cardboard material, the bare, i.e., uncoated, paper-based base material may be exposed at the perforations, acting like a sponge for liquids. Therefore, if the component to be cleaned is an aerator and / or the assembly to be joined is a water-carrying sanitary fitting, pre-drying is particularly advantageous.

[0308] The kit can optionally be distributed free of charge to potential users for marketing purposes, for example at checkouts or service points in supermarkets, drugstores or other retail outlets.

[0309] The kit can, for example, be packaged in a packaging unit. The packaging unit can be made of cardboard. The packaging unit can also contain the operating instructions QR code and / or the operating instructions text field described above.

[0310] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for selecting at least one cleaning device.

[0311] The computer-implemented method is used to select at least one cleaning device as explained above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0312] - Recording at least one geometric dimension of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned;

[0313] - Comparing the at least one recorded geometric dimension with several cleaning devices to be selected, comprising several opening dimensions, as described above; and

[0314] - Selecting at least one cleaning device from the several cleaning devices to be selected in response to the comparison step.

[0315] For example, after the selection step, the display of at least one selected cleaning device can take place.

[0316] This computer-implemented method can be operated by any computer device, whether in the form of a mobile computer device as described below, or by means of a computer system. The steps described above can also be performed by different devices that are part of a computer system.

[0317] For example, the step of capturing at least one geometric dimension can be performed using a digital camera device, and the steps of comparing and selecting can be performed using a separate computer device that is in data communication with the digital camera device.

[0318] The display step can in turn be carried out, for example, by means of a display device which is in data communication with the computer device.

[0319] All structural and functional features associated with the cleaning device and its embodiments described above can also be included in this computer-implemented method, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0320] An application example of such a computer-implemented method could be, for example, the provision of an alternative, at least partially location-bound, computer-implemented method compared to the smart mobile device described below.

[0321] Accordingly, the present invention further relates to a smart mobile device for detecting at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned.

[0322] It is therefore the object of the present invention that the at least one component and / or the at least one assembly can be used in a more resource-efficient manner.

[0323] This problem is solved according to the invention by the features of independent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0324] The smart mobile device according to the invention, optionally a smartphone, serves to detect at least one component to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component to be cleaned; wherein the device comprises the following:

[0325] - a digital optical sensor device, optionally a digital camera device, comprising at least one digital image sensor, by means of which digital optical image data of a real environment of the terminal device can be captured, in which the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned are positioned;

[0326] - a storage unit in which a computer program is stored;

[0327] - a processor unit; and

[0328] - a display device, for example a touch-sensitive one; wherein

[0329] The processor unit is configured to perform the following steps in response to instructions contained in the computer program:

[0330] - Processing the captured image data, which comprises several digital image points, e.g. image pixels, by means of which several real object points of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, each uniquely assigned to them, are digitally represented; and

[0331] - Calculate at least one geometric dimension of the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned based on the processed image data.

[0332] All structural and functional features associated with the cleaning device described above and / or with the at least one component to be cleaned and / or with the at least one assembly to be cleaned and their embodiments can also be included by the smart mobile device, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0333] Due to its mobile capabilities, the smart mobile device can be used to capture at least one geometric dimension of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned in its mounted state. Capturing at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned can additionally or alternatively include recognizing the component and / or assembly to be cleaned. The smart mobile device thus provides an easy-to-use capture device that enables the capture of at least one geometric dimension without any disassembly of the component and / or assembly to be cleaned in its mounted state.

[0334] Within the scope of this invention, the acquisition of at least one geometric dimension can be understood to mean, for example, sensory acquisition, optionally by means of the optical sensor device. The acquisition can additionally include processing and / or calculation of the acquired data. This acquisition optionally enables the measurement of the at least one geometric dimension, which may distinguish it from the determination device described above.

[0335] The smart mobile device can optionally be a smartphone. Alternatively, the smart mobile device can be a tablet, a phablet, VR glasses, AR glasses, MR glasses, a smartwatch, a fitness tracker, a smart band, at least one pair of smart headphones, an e-reader, a portable game console, a netbook, a notebook, a laptop, a smart scale, a smart tag, a cleaning robot, or similar.

[0336] The optical sensor device can optionally be designed as a digital camera device. The computer program can optionally be a so-called application, or app for short. The display device can, for example, be designed as a touch-sensitive display device.

[0337] The smart mobile device may also include an internet module for connecting to the internet, which allows data to be downloaded from and uploaded to the internet.

[0338] The corresponding graphical display information provided can optionally be stored in the memory unit. Additionally or alternatively, the corresponding graphical display information provided can be downloaded from a database and / or server via an internet connection and, optionally, stored temporarily.

[0339] The provisioning step can optionally include a prior selection from the provided corresponding graphical display information. The processor unit can be designed as a system-on-a-chip (SoC). Accordingly, the processor unit can comprise multiple processors, each capable of performing specialized tasks. An example of this is a processor in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor unit can also include multiple co-processors. Examples include an image processing processor for processing image data and a position processor for processing position data from a position sensor device, which is explained in more detail below.

[0340] The digital camera device can be configured, for example, to capture multiple individual images, so-called frames, which comprise several images captured sequentially over time, with each image being assigned a unique time.

[0341] Furthermore, it may be provided that the terminal device includes a position sensor device for recording its position data corresponding to its position, which includes at least one of the following sensor units:

[0342] - a linear acceleration sensor unit comprising three orthogonally aligned linear acceleration sensors for capturing three-dimensional linear acceleration data from corresponding three-dimensional linear accelerations of the terminal device, optionally in real time;

[0343] - a gyroscope sensor unit comprising three mutually orthogonally aligned gyroscope sensors for capturing three-dimensional angular velocity data of corresponding three-dimensional angular velocities of the terminal device, optionally in real time;

[0344] - a magnetic field sensor unit for acquiring Earth magnetic field data from an Earth magnetic field, optionally in real time; or

[0345] - a GNSS sensor unit for capturing additional position data of the terminal device, optionally in real time.

[0346] The three orthogonally aligned linear accelerometers can be aligned along a device coordinate system, e.g., a Cartesian one. To calculate the respective device positions based on the acquired linear acceleration data, the data must be integrated twice over time, e.g., using the processor unit. Accordingly, the device position data for each acquisition time can include axial position components assigned to the three device coordinate axes. This allows, for example, position estimations, such as the distance traveled (e.g., in meters) within, for example, two defined time points.

[0347] The three mutually orthogonally aligned gyroscope sensors can also be aligned along the Cartesian device coordinate system. To calculate the respective device rotations based on the recorded angular velocities, the former are simply integrated over time, for example, using the processor unit. Accordingly, the device rotation data for each acquisition time can encompass a specific device rotation, based on which the device is rotated around the device coordinate axes according to a rotation angle. This allows, for example, rotation or orientation estimations to be made, such as determining the rotation or change in rotation of the device within two defined time points.

[0348] Furthermore, the linear acceleration sensor unit can be configured to detect the magnitude and direction of gravitational acceleration in real time. Accordingly, the device can define a vertical reference direction or axis, which can serve as a reference for at least one device coordinate axis. This reference direction can also serve as a reference for at least one world coordinate axis of an environment's world coordinate system. Additionally, the device can interpret and correctly classify further information, such as "up" and "down," in relation to the direction of gravity.

[0349] GNSS, on the other hand, stands for Global Navigation Satellite System and is a general term for satellite systems that can be used individually or together for positioning and navigation by the end device. Well-known systems include GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, and BeiDou.

[0350] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the digital camera device includes the following:

[0351] - a first digital camera unit comprising a first digital image sensor and at least a second digital camera unit comprising at least a second digital image sensor for the respective acquisition of the digital optical image data; and / or - a depth sensor for acquiring an, optionally three-dimensional, point cloud of the environment of the terminal device in which the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned is positioned; wherein

[0352] The processor unit is further configured to perform the following step: - Processing the captured image data as well as the captured position data and / or the captured point cloud, wherein the point cloud comprises several, optionally three-dimensional, cloud points, on the basis of which several real object points of the at least one component to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned, each uniquely assigned to them, are captured accordingly in three dimensions, optionally and true to scale.

[0353] The digital camera device can therefore be designed as a stereo camera, at least in the area where the two fields of view of the first and at least one second digital camera unit overlap. Furthermore, the digital camera device can be configured to include at least one third digital camera unit comprising at least one third digital image sensor.

[0354] The advantage of multiple camera units is that depth data, e.g., along an optical axis of the digital camera device, can be extracted more precisely from the captured image data, which can make the calculation of at least one geometric dimension more accurate overall. This calculation can be made even more precise by incorporating the point cloud of the depth sensor, since this point cloud contains corresponding cloud points that already represent scaled three-dimensional cloud point positions or coordinates. For example, the processor unit can further calculate a two-dimensional depth map from the point cloud, which can then be superimposed on the captured image data.

[0355] In devices with multiple camera units, each unit has its own optical axis. To enable the device to know which cloud point corresponds to which pixel in the captured image data, a defined distance and angle between these axes—an extrinsic parameter—can be known and stored within the device. Furthermore, the processor unit can be configured to perform spatial alignment between the first and second camera units and / or at least one third camera unit.

[0356] The depth sensor can be implemented, for example, as a LiDAR sensor. Alternatively, it can be designed as a Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor and / or a structured light sensor. The depth sensor may only function if a defined minimum depth distance to the component or assembly being detected is reached. This minimum depth distance could be approximately 15 cm. Since the captured image data, position data, or point cloud are acquired in different coordinate systems, a transformation, for example, into a so-called world coordinate system, is necessary. This transformation can be performed by the processor unit, for example, in milliseconds. The underlying mathematical process is called coordinate transformation.

[0357] Given the known internal orientation of the digital camera device and the known external orientation of the terminal device using position data and / or the point cloud, a functional relationship can be established between the three-dimensional coordinates of the object points of the at least one component and / or assembly and their captured image data. The underlying model can be a pinhole camera, which represents a technical implementation of a mathematical central projection. A mathematical formulation of the central projection can be derived from the so-called collinearity equations, which are also central equations of photogrammetry. Additionally or alternatively, a coordinate transformation using quaternions can be calculated, which can be implemented accordingly in software.

[0358] Furthermore, it may be provided that the computer program contains an augmented reality algorithm and / or a machine learning algorithm, and that the processor unit is further configured to perform additional processing and / or computational steps in response to corresponding instructions.

[0359] Additionally, it is conceivable that the machine learning algorithm implemented on the smart mobile device and / or on a server, e.g., a cloud, can be trained using the captured image data. The captured image data can also originate from other external devices and be used for training, making the data acquisition even more precise.

[0360] Furthermore, it may be possible for object recognition to include a classification step, for example using a machine learning algorithm. Accordingly, the end device can exhibit artificial intelligence characteristics through the machine learning algorithm.

[0361] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the processor unit is also configured to perform the following steps: - Linking the captured image data with the position data and / or with the point cloud to create linked image data; and

[0362] - Calculating at least one geometric measure based on the linked image data.

[0363] This integration, in the form of sensor data fusion, can be achieved by creating a real-time initial model of the environment with corresponding world coordinates during, for example, manual movement of the device using the depth sensor (e.g., a LiDAR sensor). This model can serve as an anchor for the world coordinate system and / or the device coordinate system. Additionally, a digital map of the environment, and thus also of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, can be calculated using the captured image data.

[0364] The processor unit is further configured to estimate or calculate the movement of the device from frame to frame, e.g., on a map, based on the captured image data. From this, the relative movement of the device can be calculated.

[0365] Simultaneously, position data can be acquired using the position sensor and transmitted to the processor unit. The aforementioned integration allows for a synergistic effect, enabling more precise calculation or estimation of the device's position. While the camera becomes less accurate during rapid movements or in low light, the position sensor provides more precise position data in these situations, which can be used for more accurate position calculations. Conversely, the acquired image data can be used to correct, for example, drift in the position sensor. A similar approach can be achieved by merging the point cloud. Such sensor fusion applications can be calculated using a VIO algorithm or a SLAM algorithm.

[0366] Accordingly, the computer program may be designed to include a VIO algorithm and / or a SLAM algorithm; wherein

[0367] The processor unit is optionally configured, in response to corresponding instructions, to perform at least one of the following steps:

[0368] - Processing the linked image data for, optionally three-dimensional, position estimation of the terminal device in its environment; or - Processing the captured image data and / or the linked image data for, optionally three-dimensional, object recognition and / or object differentiation of various objects in the captured image data.

[0369] As explained above, the digital camera device can capture digital optical image data from individual images of the environment, from which a digital map can be calculated. Since the positional data can be acquired at a higher acquisition frequency than the image data, a new position of the device can be calculated or estimated between each pair of consecutive individual images.

[0370] Using the VIO algorithm, the processor unit can also be configured to calculate a virtual local map of the device's environment using the linked image data, and simultaneously estimate or calculate the device's local position within that map. VIO stands for "Visual-Inertial Odometry" and can be described as "visual-inertial odometry" in German.

[0371] Accordingly, SLAM can stand for "Simultaneous Localization and Mapping," which in German can be called simultane Positionsbestimmung und Kartierung (simultaneous positioning and mapping). The processor unit can therefore be configured to calculate a virtual global map of the device's environment based on the linked image data and simultaneously calculate or estimate the device's position within that map. Such a calculation is more computationally intensive than with VIO, can be performed in real time, and can be executed at least 30 times per second, optionally at least 40 times, and further optionally at least 60 times.

[0372] Both the VIO and SLAM algorithms are based on a principle of so-called dead reckoning navigation, meaning that small sensor-related acquisition errors, such as noise or drift (e.g., of inertial sensor units), can accumulate and reduce the precision of at least one geometric measurement. Correction of the terminal's position can be effectively achieved using an extended Karmann filter and / or a particle filter.

[0373] Another correction option, for example with the SLAM algorithm, involves the processor unit performing a so-called Pose Graph Optimization (PGO). This allows the processor unit to detect a loop closure. This can be achieved using a data association algorithm. New observations can be compared with previously known points in the calculated map to determine if an object has already been detected. A loop closure can then occur at a previous starting point on the map, where the device has already been and knows its original starting position, thus closing the graph at that point. By comparing the current position with the previous position, the entire generated map can be effectively and precisely corrected.According to this, a SLAM algorithm can create a global map, but this entails a high demand for storage and computing power on the end device.

[0374] A VIO algorithm (e.g., based on a Kalman filter) can be considered more local, since individual images used for position calculation can be deleted after a defined time to save storage and computing power on the end device.

[0375] Furthermore, the processor unit can be configured to calculate a so-called depth alignment. This allows the less precise depth estimates from the acquired image data to be compared and corrected with the more precise distance values ​​from the depth sensor, e.g., a LiDAR sensor. However, this is only possible if a depth sensor is present. Using the point cloud from the depth sensor, the drift of the position data and / or the acquired image data can be corrected. The processor unit can be configured to perform this:

[0376] - spatial alignment, e.g. using extrinsic methods;

[0377] - a temporal alignment to synchronize different acquisition rates of the captured image data, position data and the point cloud; and / or

[0378] - to perform a resolution alignment, e.g. by means of upsampling, to align different point resolutions of the pixels of the captured image data and the point cloud to each other.

[0379] Since the resolution of the point cloud in smart mobile devices is lower, for example compared to point clouds acquired with higher performance from stationary devices, the processor unit can also be configured to calculate a point cloud model from the point cloud. Using a suitable mesh algorithm, the processor unit can connect the individual points of the point cloud, for example with triangles, a process known as meshing. Furthermore, the processor unit can be configured to overlay a higher-resolution mesh, calculated from the acquired image data, onto the meshed point cloud. It is also conceivable that the processor unit could be configured to perform the following steps:

[0380] - Transferring the captured image data and / or the linked image data to the display device;

[0381] - Instructing the display device to graphically display the captured image data and / or the linked image data to a user of the terminal device in real time for interaction with the user; and

[0382] - Creating at least one virtual graphical object and instructing the display device to overlay this at least one object with the graphically displayed image data and display it to the user.

[0383] This can improve the user experience, as an AR application can be made more user-friendly by means of at least one created virtual graphic object. This at least one virtual object can be designed as one or more guidelines. Additionally or alternatively, this at least one virtual object can be a virtual measuring tape or a crosshair. The user can then select one or more points in the displayed image data by inputting a touch on the end device, for example, by touching the touch-sensitive display. Such a selection can, for example, improve the precision in capturing at least one geometric measurement.

[0384] Furthermore, the at least one component to be cleaned may include or be formed from at least one cylindrical, optionally circular-cylindrical, water dispensing device for dispensing water, wherein optionally the at least one water dispensing device includes or is formed from at least one aerator for dispensing water, optionally tap water. Furthermore, the at least one assembly to be cleaned may include or be formed from at least one water-carrying fitting, optionally a tap water-carrying sanitary fitting.

[0385] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the processor unit is also configured to perform the following steps:

[0386] - Comparing at least a subset of the captured image data and / or the linked image data with geometric boundary conditions of at least one virtual geometric comparison body, optionally a virtual geometric cylinder; and - Generating positive comparison data in response to a positive comparison step or negative comparison data in response to a negative comparison step.

[0387] Such geometric boundary conditions stabilize the position of the device and the captured map geometry. Instead of triangulating each pixel individually and independently, pixels, or optionally feature pixels, can be positioned on parallel lines, such as two outline edges, using these boundary conditions. This can advantageously reduce image noise and improve map accuracy.

[0388] The at least one subset of points can correspond to at least one real area of ​​the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned and digitally represent it. The at least one subset can, for example, completely digitally represent the at least one component to be cleaned and / or digitally represent at least part of the at least one assembly to be cleaned. The comparison step can be considered a preparatory step before the actual VIO or SLAM algorithm is started. The VIO or SLAM algorithm can be started, for example, in response to positive comparison data.

[0389] Such a comparison step can significantly simplify the processing and acquisition of image data, as only a limited range of shapes can be captured from the otherwise vast array of forms in the real-world environment of the device. For example, in the case of a virtual geometric cylinder, such as a circular cylinder, it should have parallel outlines or generatrix lines, which are created by a side view, front view, and / or a perspective view.

[0390] Furthermore, the geometric cylinder can be shaped as a vertical cylinder, so that its (optionally circular) base surfaces can also be aligned parallel to each other, resulting in additional advantageous geometric boundary conditions. Such geometric boundary conditions can facilitate object detection during the comparison step. This object detection can be performed using the machine learning algorithm described above, which can represent a further improvement. Furthermore, to continue with the example of the geometric cylinder, curved surfaces or contours can be filtered out efficiently and effectively.

[0391] Furthermore, the comparison can be displayed graphically to the user. The water dispensing device and / or the water-carrying fitting can be modeled, and the deviation or tolerance compared to their respective virtual geometric reference bodies can be displayed. Modeling can be performed, for example, using a cylinder fitting. In this case, the processor unit is configured by an image processing algorithm to recognize a cylinder contour in the captured image data and fit it accordingly. The fitting can be performed, for example, using a least-squares cylinder fit and / or a RANSAC algorithm.

[0392] Furthermore, the processor unit may be configured to perform the following steps:

[0393] - Processing the captured image data and / or the linked image data in response to generated positive comparison data;

[0394] - Generating initial user information data to inform the user in response to the generated positive or negative comparison data; and

[0395] - Instructing the display device to graphically display the initial user information data to the user in real time, optionally by overlaying the initial user information data with the graphically displayed image data.

[0396] In the case of negative comparison data, a text field can be displayed, for example, informing the user that no component and / or assembly requiring cleaning could be detected. This can happen for two reasons:

[0397] First, no water dispensing device and / or water-carrying fitting was detected by the user. Second, while a water dispensing device and / or a water-carrying fitting was detected by the user, the corresponding image data may not, for example, match the geometric boundary conditions, or the quality of the captured image data may be below a quality threshold at which a reliable calculation of at least one geometric dimension is possible. An example of such a situation would be an approximately rectangular water dispensing device or a camera device that is not powerful enough to capture a minimum resolution.

[0398] Additionally, it is conceivable that the processor unit is further configured to perform the following steps:

[0399] - Recognition, optionally automatic recognition, of: several characteristic feature image points based on the captured image data and / or the linked image data and / or of: several characteristic feature cloud points based on the point cloud, each comprising at least one characteristic feature, by means of which several real feature object points of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, each uniquely assigned to the characteristic feature image points and / or feature cloud points, are digitally represented and / or captured accordingly.

[0400] Such feature points can be high-contrast or distinctive. Accordingly, these feature points can, for example, correspond to or digitally represent edges, optionally outline edges and / or circumferential edges, of the water dispensing device and / or the water-carrying fitting. Additionally or alternatively, such feature points can correspond to or digitally represent corners, for example, between the outline and circumferential edges, of the water dispensing device and / or the water-carrying fitting. Such feature points are characteristic structures that facilitate position calculation for the processor executing the VIO and / or SLAM algorithms. This is because these feature points are easily located and can thus reliably serve as the basis for position estimation, frame by frame. The machine learning algorithm can further simplify and refine the position estimation.

[0401] Furthermore, it may be provided that the real feature object points are included as a component of: - an outer perimeter area or a perimeter line of the outer perimeter area;

[0402] - one or both outline edges of the outer circumferential surface;

[0403] - a water dispensing area; and / or

[0404] - a circumferential edge of the outer circumferential surface and / or the water output surface of the at least one cylindrical water output device and / or the at least one, at least partially cylindrical, water-carrying fitting is formed.

[0405] The processor unit can be configured to determine that defined characteristic feature pixels remain stable over a defined period of accumulated time points. In this case, the processor unit can be configured to place anchor points at these stable feature pixels. Such stable feature pixels can represent corresponding outlines, perimeters, and / or corners of at least one cylindrical water outlet device and / or at least one water-carrying fitting that is at least partially cylindrical. Such corners can, for example, be formed between the outline and perimeter edges. These anchor points can be fixed reference points in the map, for example, for virtual objects. Depending on the computing power, thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, or even more anchor points can be placed automatically.Additionally or alternatively, such anchor points can be set by a user in the form of AR anchor points on the display device, for example, using raycasting. These anchor points can also be set as persistent anchor points. This can simplify the future acquisition of at least one geometric dimension, as concrete reference points can already be included in the map at the beginning of the future image data acquisition.

[0406] The anchor points are also advantageous for closing the loop, as they provide a precise reference base and thus allow for further optimization of the map. Accordingly, the at least one water dispensing device and / or the at least one water-carrying fitting can be digitally represented even more precisely, enabling the at least one geometric dimension to be captured or calculated even more accurately. Due to the rotationally symmetric properties of a circular cylinder, a simplified loop closure of the SLAM algorithm can be achieved. It may be sufficient to detect a loop closure using anchor points placed at 90° or 180° around the central axis of the at least one water dispensing device and / or the at least one water-carrying fitting. The missing 270° or 180° can be automatically inferred using the rotationally symmetric boundary condition.This can simplify or advantageously accelerate the SLAM algorithm. Furthermore, it is conceivable that such water dispensing devices and / or water-carrying fittings may not be accessible around 360° of their central axis, thus simplifying the application for the user.

[0407] The stability of the set anchor points can be improved, for example, using a machine learning algorithm and by linking them to the cloud points of the point cloud. This can be advantageous, for example, when the device is moving rapidly.

[0408] After setting the anchor points, at least two virtual objects can be displayed on the screen. The processor unit can be further configured so that the two virtual objects are overlaid as two virtual lines with the displayed image data and aligned parallel to the two outlines, regardless of the viewing angle. A user can move the virtual lines until they snap to the anchor points on the outline edges. This movement can also be performed automatically by the processor unit using a machine learning algorithm. Additionally or alternatively, the processor unit can be configured to perform a bounding box process by modeling the captured and / or linked image data of the water dispensing device and / or the water-carrying fitting with a 2D or 3D bounding box.Such modeling can save computing power. To refine the modeling, the processor unit can be configured to execute a least-squares cylinder fitting and / or a RANSAC cylinder fitting. This can increase the accuracy of the modeled water outlet device and / or the water-carrying fitting, which also enables a more precise calculation of at least one geometric dimension.

[0409] To improve edge detection in feature pixels, the processor unit can be configured to execute an edge detection algorithm. This algorithm can, for example, include a Canny algorithm. This can be advantageous, for instance, on glossy surfaces.

[0410] Furthermore, the processor unit may be configured to perform the following steps:

[0411] - Determining multiple feature pixel subsets from the multiple detected feature pixels and / or determining multiple feature cloud point subsets from the multiple detected cloud points;

[0412] - Hierarchizing the multiple specific feature pixel subsets and / or the multiple specific feature cloud pixel subsets depending on the expected processing power for processing the multiple specific feature pixel subsets and / or the multiple specific feature cloud pixel subsets; and

[0413] - Processing at least one feature pixel subset and / or at least one feature cloud pixel subset with a lowest expected processing performance.

[0414] Several factors can play a role in influencing the expected processing performance. These factors can include: - geometric attributes such as circumferential areas or edges, which are more difficult to process than straight outlines;

[0415] - Qualitative attributes such as the resolution quality of the captured image data; - Surface texture of the surface to be captured, as it may be glossy and thus produce unwanted reflections;

[0416] - Processor unit performance; and / or

[0417] - existing lighting conditions.

[0418] Another influencing factor can be, additionally or alternatively, a so-called rolling shutter.

[0419] The multiple feature pixel subsets can, for example, include the edges in the image data described above. Here, the processor unit can, for example,

[0420] Feature pixel subsets of outline edges are compared with feature pixel subsets of circumferential edges. Such a comparison step may reveal that processing the feature pixel subsets of the outline edges, for example, offers the lowest expected processing performance. Accordingly, this feature pixel subset can be processed. Furthermore, outline edges may be sufficient to calculate at least one geometric dimension, as it can, for example, be defined as the outer diameter, which can be determined perpendicular to the central axis using the outline edges. Therefore, the at least one geometric dimension in the form of the outer diameter can be defined as the shortest linear distance between these two outline edges.

[0421] If processing the feature set with the lowest expected processing performance fails, the system can automatically switch to processing a feature set with a next higher expected processing performance.

[0422] Furthermore, it may be provided that the captured image data and / or linked image data comprise several temporally successive individual images, with each individual image being assigned a respective unique time point and the multiple feature image points per individual image comprising respective unique feature image point positions;

[0423] The processor unit is configured to perform the following steps:

[0424] - Defining a start time, several intermediate points and an end time from the respective times;

[0425] - Calculating the respective depth distance from each real feature object point to the at least one image sensor based on, optionally a displacement, the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time; - Calculating the at least one geometric dimension based on, optionally a displacement, the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth distance; and optionally

[0426] - Comparing the terminal device's position data with the respective unique feature pixel positions at each point in time.

[0427] Each unique feature point position can correspond to a unique feature point coordinate for each individual image on the image sensor and / or on the respective image sensors. The respective depth distance can be calculated using triangulation by knowing the respective feature point positions at the respective time. This allows the position of at least each feature object point to be calculated at every defined time, from which the map described above can be calculated locally (VIO) or globally (SLAM). By linking this with the position data, a more precise calculation of the calculated depth distances, and thus of the map and the position of the end device within the map, i.e., in the world coordinate system, can be achieved. Accordingly, the at least one geometric dimension that is part of the map can be calculated even more precisely.The map can be further refined by linking it to the point cloud of the depth sensor.

[0428] Calculating the required depth distance can be most challenging when the camera system consists solely of a camera unit, i.e., without a depth sensor. In this case, a baseline for triangulation can only be generated by moving the device using parallax. However, the accuracy of the captured geometric measurement may be insufficient. If this is detected by the processor, it can automatically switch from a VIO algorithm to a SLAM algorithm with a closed loop. Corresponding user information can then be displayed to the user on the screen via augmented reality. Based on this information, the user can move the device around the at least one water outlet and / or the at least one water-carrying fitting using a sweeping arc motion. This arc motion can, for example,Depth estimation can be performed using a circumferential angle around the central axis of at least 90° or at least 180°. Sufficient accuracy of the captured geometric dimension can be achieved through continuous integration with positional data and, optionally, a loop closure. In the case of a single camera unit, the processor unit can be configured by machine learning algorithm commands to perform monocular depth estimation in the form of software-based depth calculation. This allows the software to identify, in one or more individual images, which objects are typically in the foreground or background, and thus estimate the depth. Such a depth estimation can be combined with, for example, triangulation-based depth estimation and thereby refined, and the reverse is also possible.

[0429] Correspondingly, at least one geometric dimension can be calculated if the camera device comprises at least two camera units. Again, the camera device may not include a depth sensor. In this case, the execution of the VIO algorithm may suffice.

[0430] Furthermore, it is conceivable that a respective depth distance can be calculated based on a single image or on a series of individually captured images. Accordingly, it may be intended that the individual images were not captured from a video. In this case, the camera device can include a depth sensor. Additionally, the camera device can comprise at least two camera units, so that an exact geometric baseline can be provided by these camera units. In this case, the depth calculations can be precise enough to calculate at least one geometric dimension.

[0431] In the event that the camera device includes a depth sensor and at least two additional camera units, the processor unit can be configured to execute commands of the VIO algorithm.

[0432] The start time described above can be defined, for example, in response to the positive comparison data generated (also described above). At the start time, the processor unit can also define a fixed point, such as an anchor point, as the zero point. The zero point can, for example, correspond to the position at which the VIO and / or SLAM algorithm was started by a user. An end time can be defined, for example, in response to a loop closure and / or a fall below the required accuracy value of at least one measured geometric dimension.

[0433] Furthermore, the processor unit may be configured to perform the following steps: - Calibration, optionally of the displacement, of the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth spacing by linking:

[0434] - the multiple detected feature cloud points; and / or

[0435] - the location data of the terminal device

[0436] with the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time.

[0437] Length measurements and units are already known from the position data of the position sensor device and / or the point cloud. Accordingly, these measurements and units can be used with the linked image data to calibrate the respective feature pixel positions and the resulting local or global map. This allows the respective feature pixel positions, which correspond to, for example, one pixel or several defined pixels, to correspond to calibrated device coordinates and world coordinates.

[0438] Furthermore, the processor unit may be configured to perform the following steps:

[0439] - Calculate at least one calibrated geometric dimension, optionally an outside diameter, comprising a numerical value and a unit of measurement based on the respective calibrated feature pixel positions and / or the respective calibrated depth spacing; and optionally

[0440] - Instructing the display device to graphically display at least one calibrated geometric measurement to a user.

[0441] Accordingly, the precision of the recorded or calculated at least one geometric dimension can be further increased by advantageously calibrating the geometric dimension.

[0442] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the processor unit is also configured to perform the following steps:

[0443] - Determining a physical design of the camera device; and

[0444] - Adapting the processing of the captured image data and / or the linked image data in response to the determined physical design of the camera device.

[0445] The determination step can include, for example, whether the camera device comprises one, two, or three camera units. Furthermore, the determination step can include whether the camera device includes a depth sensor. Accordingly, the acquisition of at least one geometric dimension can be carried out efficiently, quickly, and precisely, depending on the design of the camera device.

[0446] Furthermore, the processor unit may be configured to perform the following step:

[0447] - Generation of secondary user information data to inform the user about the positioning of a real reference object next to the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned; wherein the camera device is configured to capture digital optical reference image data, optionally in addition to and simultaneously with the digital optical image data, of the reference object; and wherein

[0448] The processor unit is further configured to perform the following step:

[0449] - Processing the captured reference image data, which comprises several digital reference image points, e.g. reference image pixels, by means of which several real reference object points of the reference object, each uniquely assigned to the captured reference image data, are digitally mapped.

[0450] The calibration of the calculated depth distance, when the camera device does not include a depth sensor, may not be accurate enough to capture at least one geometric dimension within a tolerance range. This can occur, for example, with older, less powerful devices. In such cases, capturing reference image data is a suitable method for providing a more precise calibration.

[0451] The positioning next to the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned can be understood to mean that the reference object does not exceed a maximum distance, e.g., to the centerline of the component and / or assembly to be cleaned. Furthermore, it can be stipulated that the reference object has dimensions known to the end device, e.g., in the form of a standardized reference object. Accordingly, reference dimensions can be captured in the image data itself, by means of which the captured reference image data can be calibrated from within.

[0452] Furthermore, the processor unit may be configured to perform the following steps:

[0453] - Calibration, optionally of the displacement, the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth distance by linking: - the multiple reference pixels; and / or

[0454] - the multiple detected feature cloud points; and / or

[0455] - the location data of the terminal device

[0456] with the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time.

[0457] This provides another way to capture at least one geometric dimension even more precisely. The reference object can be, for example, a coin and / or an identity card, such as a bank card. According to the ISO / IEC 7810 standard, such a bank card can be approximately 85.60 mm x 53.98 mm with a thickness of approximately 0.76 mm. Furthermore, such an identity card is advantageous because it is a flat map, allowing a reference plane to be incorporated. This simplifies, for example, the transformation of device coordinates into the map's world coordinates, or vice versa.

[0458] For example, the processor unit can be configured to count the number of reference image pixels that the captured reference object occupies in the image data. This allows for a conversion so that each pixel can be assigned a numerical value and a unit of measurement, thus enabling appropriate calibration.

[0459] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the processor unit is also configured to perform the following steps:

[0460] - Comparing the at least one recorded geometric dimension with several cleaning devices to be selected, optionally including several different opening dimensions;

[0461] - Selecting at least one cleaning device from the several cleaning devices to be selected in response to the comparison step;

[0462] - Providing corresponding graphical display information for at least one selected cleaning device;

[0463] - Transferring the provided corresponding graphic display information to the display device; and

[0464] - Instructing the display device to graphically display at least one selected cleaning device to a user based on the provided corresponding graphical display information. The multiple cleaning devices to be selected can, for example, be stored locally in the storage unit. Additionally or alternatively, the cleaning devices to be selected can be downloaded from a database and / or a server, e.g., in the form of a cloud, via an internet connection and optionally stored temporarily. As explained above, due to a large diameter variation of the at least one component and / or assembly to be cleaned, selecting at least one of the multiple cleaning devices can be advantageous and facilitate the cleaning process.

[0465] Furthermore, it may be provided that the first determination QR assignment code of the determination device, as described above, can be detected by means of the optical sensor device, which may contain the first assignment information.

[0466] The first assignment information fulfills, for example, the function that it can be assigned, via the first determination QR assignment code, to the first determination measurement range of at least one first determined geometric measurement.

[0467] The smart mobile device can thus be functionally linked to the measuring device if a user wants to use the smart mobile device, but still finds it easier to determine at least one geometric dimension physically using the measuring device.

[0468] By capturing the initial assignment information, a user can still select a cleaning device using a smart mobile device.

[0469] Accordingly, the processor unit can be configured to perform the following step: - Selecting an initial cleaning device in response to the initial mapping information acquired and assigned to the initial determination measurement range.

[0470] Using the initial mapping information, a unique mapping can alternatively be made to the at least one initial geometric dimension indirectly via the initial identification QR code (and not directly via the initial sensor-detected geometric dimension). The initial identification QR code can therefore be considered a link in a causal chain, in which the smart mobile device can also be linked to the identification device.

[0471] Using the first identification QR code, at least one initial geometric dimension can thus be clearly assigned to a first cleaning device via the smart mobile device.

[0472] Additionally or alternatively, the first destination QR code can contain initial order information. Such initial order information can be captured using the optical sensor device.

[0473] Furthermore, the processor unit can be configured to assign the first order information contained in the first destination QR code to the first selected cleaning device.

[0474] The processor unit can then further be configured to perform the following step: - Instructing the display device to graphically display at least one initial cleaning device to a user, which is associated with at least one initial order information.

[0475] Furthermore, the processor unit can be configured to link at least one such graphically displayed cleaning device with an internet link to an online shop.

[0476] Furthermore, the processor unit can be configured to trigger an online purchase and ordering process for at least one graphically displayed cleaning device in response to at least one manual confirmation input from a user.

[0477] The minimum required manual confirmation input can optionally be performed by the user tapping the touch-sensitive display device at least once. For this purpose, the touch-sensitive display device can, for example, have a corresponding virtual confirmation button.

[0478] The selection, purchase process and ordering process of at least one initial cleaning device can be carried out indirectly, as explained above, via the recorded initial allocation information and order information.

[0479] Additionally or alternatively, the selection, purchase process and ordering process of the at least one first cleaning device can be carried out directly by the processor unit, starting from the at least one first geometric dimension directly detected (by means of the optical sensor device).

[0480] Accordingly, the processor unit can also be configured to link at least one, optionally first, directly detected and graphically displayed cleaning device with an internet link to an online shop.

[0481] Accordingly, an online purchase process and / or online order process can then be triggered for at least one, optionally the first, graphically displayed cleaning device in response to at least one, optionally manual, confirmation input by a user.

[0482] The required manual confirmation input can be achieved, for example, by the user tapping the touch-sensitive display device at least once. The touch-sensitive display device can, for instance, have a corresponding virtual confirmation button for this purpose.

[0483] The procedure described above for the smart mobile device was only described with regard to the first cleaning device. Additionally or alternatively, the procedure described above for the smart mobile device can be functionally and structurally equivalent for the second cleaning device. Additionally or alternatively, the procedure described above for the smart mobile device can be functionally and structurally equivalent for the third cleaning device.

[0484] Furthermore, the optical sensor device can be used to capture the operating instructions QR code and the operating instructions information it contains. The processor unit can also be configured to provide corresponding digital operating instructions information in response to the captured operating instructions information.

[0485] The processor unit can also be configured to transmit the provided corresponding digital user manual information to the display device and to instruct the display device to graphically display the transmitted digital user manual information to a user.

[0486] In the event of direct acquisition of at least one geometric dimension by means of the terminal device, it may further be provided that the processor unit is configured to perform the following steps:

[0487] - Providing digital user manual information;

[0488] - Transferring the provided digital user manual information to the display device; and

[0489] - Instructing the display device to graphically display the transmitted digital operating manual information to a user.

[0490] The following may apply, for example, to the components to be cleaned as described above:

[0491] The at least one component to be cleaned can be part of at least one water dispensing device for dispensing water, or can be designed as at least one such water dispensing device. For example,

[0492] which must include at least one water dispensing device designed as at least one aerator to be cleaned for dispensing tap water.

[0493] Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided that the at least one assembly to be cleaned includes at least one water-carrying fitting to be cleaned or is designed as at least one water-carrying fitting to be cleaned.

[0494] The at least one water-carrying fitting to be cleaned can include at least one plumbing fitting or be designed as at least one plumbing fitting. The plumbing fitting can be a tap. The cleaning fluid can include descaling fluid or be designed as a descaling fluid.

[0495] Further preferred features and / or advantages of the present invention are the subject of the following description and the graphic representation of exemplary embodiments.

[0496] The figures show:

[0497] Fig. 1 shows a schematic front view of a cleaning device according to a first exemplary embodiment in the fixed state;

[0498] Fig. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of the cleaning device according to Fig. 1 in the unsecured state;

[0499] Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the cleaning device according to Fig. 2.

[0500] comprising a storage device;

[0501] Fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a cleaning device according to a second exemplary embodiment in the fixed state;

[0502] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a manufacturing process for producing the cleaning devices according to Figs. 1 to 4 according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0503] Fig. 6 shows a schematic dimensional view of a determining device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0504] Fig. 7 shows a schematic top view of the determining device according to Fig. 6 according to an exemplary physical embodiment;

[0505] Fig. 8 is a schematic partial sectional view of the determining device according to Fig. 7; Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of a manufacturing process for producing the determining device according to Figs. 7 and 8 according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0506] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of the sequence of a computer-implemented method for selecting the cleaning device according to Figs. 1 to 4 according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0507] Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a smart mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0508] Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of a cleaning process according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0509] Identical or functionally equivalent elements or devices are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0510] For example, the following may apply to the components 102 described below that are to be cleaned:

[0511] The at least one component 102 to be cleaned can be part of at least one aerator 103 to be cleaned for dispensing tap water or be designed as an aerator 103 to be cleaned for dispensing tap water.

[0512] For the following assemblies to be cleaned, as described below: 104, for example, the following may apply:

[0513] The at least one assembly 104 to be cleaned can comprise at least one water-carrying sanitary fitting 105 to be cleaned, or can be designed as at least one water-carrying sanitary fitting 105 to be cleaned. The water-carrying fitting 105, e.g., a water-carrying sanitary fitting, can, for example, comprise a tap 105 or be designed as a tap 105.

[0514] For example, the following may apply to the cleaning fluids described below: The cleaning fluid may include descaling fluid F or be designed as descaling fluid F.

[0515] Accordingly, the following may apply to cleaning, for example:

[0516] Cleaning can include, for example, descaling or limescale removal.

[0517] Accordingly, the following may apply, for example, to the cleaning devices described below:

[0518] The cleaning devices 100 may include descaling devices or be designed as descaling devices.

[0519] Fig. 1 shows a schematic front view of a cleaning device 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment in the fixed state.

[0520] The dashed lines serve only to illustrate the interior of the cleaning device 100 or the areas of the aerator 103 concealed by it.

[0521] Accordingly, Fig. 1 shows a flow regulator 103, which is screwed into a tap 105 for example, for dispensing tap water.

[0522] The cleaning device 100 is used to clean the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105.

[0523] As shown in Fig. 1, the cleaning device 100 only accommodates the aerator 103. Of course, the cleaning device 100 can also or alternatively accommodate and clean the tap 105.

[0524] The cleaning device 100 comprises a pot-shaped cleaning base body 112.

[0525] The cleaning base body 112 seals around a receiving chamber 108 and has a through-opening 114. The through-opening 114 has an opening dimension 178. The through-opening 114 is optionally shaped as a circular through-opening 114, so that the opening dimension 178 can be an inner diameter.

[0526] The through-hole 114 is connected to the receiving chamber 108 and the aerator 103 is passed through the through-hole 114 at least in some areas.

[0527] As can also be seen in Fig. 1, the aerator 103 projects into the receiving chamber 108 for its reception therein.

[0528] In other words, the aerator 103, in its fixed state, is at least partially captured in the receiving chamber 108.

[0529] The receiving chamber 108 also contains a descaling fluid F for descaling the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105 in the fixed state.

[0530] Additionally or alternatively, a mechanical cleaning device can be included in the receiving chamber 108 for the mechanical cleaning of the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105 in the fixed state.

[0531] The cleaning base body 112 also has an open end area 116, a bottom area 118 and an intermediate area 120.

[0532] The open end area 116 and the bottom area 118 are connected by means of the intermediate section 120.

[0533] The intermediate area 120 and the open end area 116 can have a hollow circular cross-section, whereas the bottom area 118 can be shaped as a circular disk-shaped base body area, which is arranged along a central axis M of the cleaning base body 112 opposite the open end area 116.

[0534] A bottom end of the intermediate section 120 and a radially outer ring region of the bottom section 118 are integrally connected by means of a transition section 110. The open end section 116 and the intermediate section 120 have a common inner shell surface 126. The bottom section 118 also has an inner bottom surface 128, which transitions into the inner shell surface 126 at the transition section 110.

[0535] The receiving chamber 108 is bounded internally on the base body side by means of the inner shell surface 126 and the inner bottom surface 128.

[0536] As can be seen further in Fig. 1, in the fixed state a capillary ring channel 138 can be formed at the open end region 116 between the inner mantle surface 126 and an outer circumferential surface 136 of the aerator 103.

[0537] By means of the capillary ring channel 138, a capillary force can be generated on the cleaning fluid F for capillary uptake of the same from the receiving chamber 108.

[0538] This can advantageously result in the outer circumferential surface 136 of the aerator 103, which may have limescale deposits, also being descaled by means of the descaling fluid F absorbed in the capillary ring channel 138.

[0539] The cleaning base body 112 further has an outer shell surface 144, which externally limits the cleaning base body 112 along a circumferential direction U around the central axis M.

[0540] The cleaning base body 112 can optionally be designed as a one-piece base body that cannot be disassembled into further body parts without destruction.

[0541] The cleaning device 100 further comprises a fastening device 106 for detachably attaching the cleaning base body 112 to the aerator 103 and / or to the tap 105, wherein Fig. 1 shows, by way of example, only a detachable fastening to the aerator 103. For example, a detachable fastening to the tap 105 may also be provided.

[0542] The fastening device 106 further comprises several fastening strips 140. Figure 1 shows two fastening strips 140 by way of example. It is understood that the fastening device 106 can comprise more than two fastening strips 140, for example three or four. The two fastening strips 140 are symmetrically aligned about a second rotation angle q > 2 about the central axis M. The two fastening strips 140 have an equal rotation angle separation of 180° about the central axis M.

[0543] In the case of three fastening strips 140, they have an equal rotational angular distance of 120° around the central axis M. In the case of four fastening strips 140, they have an equal rotational angular distance of 90° around the central axis M.

[0544] The fastening strips 140 can, for example, be designed as elastic and / or flexible fastening strips 140 in order to be adaptable to as many shapes and sizes as possible of aerators 103 and taps 105.

[0545] For example, the variety of shapes of taps 105 is high and can therefore be advantageously addressed by means of fastening strips 140 designed in this way.

[0546] Each fastening strip 140 has a first material-bonded fastening section 142 by means of which the cleaning base body 112 can be materially bonded and detachably fastened to the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105.

[0547] The respective first material-bonded fastening section 142 is designed, for example, as the respective first adhesive section.

[0548] Each end of a respective fastening strip 140, which is associated with the respective first material-bonded fastening section 142, may furthermore have a respective strip pull tab 141 for simplified detachable separation of the respective first material-bonded fastening section 142.

[0549] Each fastening strip 140 is further attached to the outer shell surface 144 by means of a respective second material-bonded fastening section 146.

[0550] The respective second material-bonding fastening section 146 can be designed as a respective second adhesive section.

[0551] Alternatively, the respective second material-bonded fastening section 146 can be designed as a respective welded section, by means of which the respective fastening strip 140 is integrally connected to the outer shell surface 144 by means of a respective welded connection.

[0552] The respective fastening strips 140 can, for example, be designed using a fabric material that advantageously exhibits flexible properties. The fabric material can, for example, be a textile fabric and be coated section by section with an adhesive layer to form the first adhesive section and the second adhesive section.

[0553] In the case of a textile fabric material, for example, both respective fastening sections 142, 146 can be designed as adhesive sections.

[0554] Additionally or alternatively, the respective fastening strips 140 can be formed by means of a plastic film which can be made of the same plastic as the cleaning base body 112. This design can, for example, have a positive effect on an ultrasonic welding connection of the respective second material-bonded fastening section 146.

[0555] The cleaning base body 112 can, for example, be made of a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0556] The cleaning base body 112 can also be designed as a 3D printed component or as an injection molded component.

[0557] The cleaning device 100 or the cleaning base body 112 further comprises a cleaning assignment code 166, which differs from at least one further cleaning assignment code 166 of at least one further cleaning device 100, which, however, is not shown in Fig. 1.

[0558] The cleaning assignment code 166 includes a cleaning assignment color code 168. The cleaning base body 112 can therefore be colored using a cleaning assignment color code 168.

[0559] The cleaning assignment color code 168 is assigned to a corresponding determination assignment code 170 in the form of a determination assignment color code 172 of a determination device 174 (see Fig. 7). This assignment is advantageous, for example, when dealing with several different cleaning devices 100 and several different aerators 103 to be cleaned, which differ, for example, in their respective opening dimension 178 and their respective geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 (see Fig. 2).

[0560] The respective cleaning assignment color code 168 and the determination assignment color code 172 are identical for the respective unique assignment.

[0561] Therefore, a clear assignment can be made between a geometric dimension GM1 determined by means of the determining device 174 and a corresponding cleaning device 100. This relationship is explained in detail in Figures 7 and 8.

[0562] Fig. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of the cleaning device 100 according to Fig. 1 in the unsecured state.

[0563] The aerator 103 and the tap 105 according to Fig. 1 are also shown in a schematic sectional view in Fig. 2.

[0564] The fastening device 106 is not shown in Fig. 2.

[0565] The aerator 103 comprises, for example, a circular cylindrical base body that projects axially along a central axis M from the tap 105.

[0566] In the circumferential direction U, the aerator 103 is bounded externally by the outer circumferential surface 136. The outer circumferential surface 136 is, for example, shaped as an outer circumferential circular surface.

[0567] The aerator 103 has a water dispensing surface 107, by means of which tap water is dispensed axially from the aerator 103 along the central axis M. Due to its axial end position, the water dispensing surface 107 is particularly frequently affected by limescale deposits. The outer circumferential surface 136 is also often affected by limescale deposits.

[0568] The aerator 103 has a geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3, which, in the case of a circular cylindrical base body, corresponds to a respective outer diameter. In everyday life, users of the cleaning device 100 encounter aerators with a wide variety of outer diameters, with circular aerators 103 accounting for an estimated 95% of the market.

[0569] The different outer diameters, which in practice range from approximately 12 cm to approximately 30 cm, are to be symbolized by the different dimensions GM1, GM2, GM3.

[0570] Accordingly, the cleaning devices 100 can be adapted to the different geometric dimensions GM1, GM2, GM3 by means of different opening dimensions 178, cf. Fig. 1.

[0571] For a defined penetration depth T, the open end region 116 and / or the intermediate region 120 comprise an axial stop device 122 for axially limiting an axial penetration depth T of the aerator 103 through the penetration opening 114 along the central axis M of the cleaning base body 112 into the receiving chamber 108.

[0572] Additionally or alternatively, the floor area 118 can include the axial stop device 122.

[0573] The axial stop device 122 comprises, for example, several axial stop elements 130, each of which is shaped as an axial stop projection 132.

[0574] The axial stop projections 132 protrude from the inner mantle surface 126 into the receiving chamber 108.

[0575] The respective axial stop projection 132 has a respective axial stop surface 134 for axial limitation of the axial penetration depth T e.g. of the aerator 103.

[0576] This allows the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105 to be immersed in the receiving chamber 108 by means of a defined axial penetration depth T.

[0577] The defined axial penetration depth T advantageously allows for a precisely matched quantity of descaling fluid F contained in the receiving chamber 108. The precisely matched quantity can be set, for example, via a fluid level H, which, in the unused state as well as in the horizontally and vertically aligned state of the cleaning device 100, can be a distance above (in the direction of gravity g) the axial stop surfaces 134 to these.

[0578] This distance can be, for example, at least approximately 3 mm, at least approximately 2 mm, and preferably at least approximately 1 mm.

[0579] This prevents, for example, little or no descaling fluid F from escaping from the feedthrough opening 114 when, for example, the aerator 103 is inserted.

[0580] Recesses may optionally be incorporated into the respective axial stop surface 134 to reduce the contact area with the water output surface 107 of the aerator 103, resulting in a larger descaling area and consequently better descaling.

[0581] The two axial stop projections 132 shown in Fig. 2 project from the inner lateral surface 126 in the direction of the central axis M along a radial direction R, which is oriented perpendicular to and intersects the central axis M.

[0582] Additionally or alternatively, a respective axial stop projection can protrude axially along the central axis M from the inner bottom surface 128 (not shown).

[0583] The two axial stop elements 130 in the form of the axial stop projections 132 are symmetrically aligned about a first rotation angle cp1 about the central axis M.

[0584] The two axial stop projections 132 have an equal rotational angular separation of 180° about the central axis M. In the case of three axial stop projections 132, they have an equal rotational angular separation of 120° about the central axis M. In the case of four axial stop projections 132, they have an equal rotational angular separation of 90° about the central axis M.

[0585] The through-hole 114 (see Fig. 1) is furthermore sealed at the open end region 116 by means of a sealing cover 124 by means of a material closure S, and is releasable. The sealing cover 124 has a cover pull tab 125 for manual removal from the open end region 116, which is integrally formed as an extension onto the sealing cover 124.

[0586] The closure cover 124 thus covers the entire feedthrough opening 114 and seals it by being attached to an end face of the open end area 116 in a materially bonded and detachable manner.

[0587] The material connection S is designed, for example, by means of an ultrasonic welding connection or an adhesive connection.

[0588] The open end region 116 can further have an opening-side insertion ramp 164, which surrounds the through-hole 114 and by means of which the aerator 103 can be inserted axially into the through-hole 114 (see Fig. 1) and into the receiving chamber 108 in the direction of the bottom region 118.

[0589] The insertion ramp 164 is particularly advantageous when the geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 is larger than the opening dimension 178 and the cleaning base body 112 is radially expanded at least at the open end area 116 (see Fig. 4).

[0590] Fig. 3 shows the schematic sectional view of the cleaning device 100 according to Fig. 2 comprising a storage device 148.

[0591] The storage device 148 is installed in the receiving chamber 108 for at least partial storage of the descaling liquid F.

[0592] The storage device 148 is designed as an open-pore storage device 148 with a plurality of storage pores P in which the descaling fluid F is stored.

[0593] The storage device 148 is designed as an elastically deformable sponge body 150, which is elastically clamped in the receiving chamber 108 when received. This advantageously eliminates the need for fastening or retaining elements for securing or holding the storage device 148 in the receiving chamber 108.

[0594] The storage device 148 has a storage height H which, in the recorded state, extends axially along the central axis M in the recording chamber 108 from the bottom area 118, i.e. from the inner bottom surface 128, in the direction of the open end area 116 (see Fig. 2).

[0595] According to Fig. 3, the storage device 148 has two recesses 152 corresponding in position and shape to, for example, the two axial stop elements 130, for receiving the two axial stop elements 130. The corresponding recesses 152 can advantageously extend axially along the entire storage height H or axially in sections along the storage height H in the storage device 148.

[0596] The storage device 148 can be compressed in the fixed state by means of the aerator 103 which is at least partially received in the receiving chamber 108.

[0597] Consequently, the partial pore pressure of the descaling fluid F within the respective storage pores P can increase, and the descaling fluid F can be partially discharged from the storage device 148 into the receiving chamber 108, optionally at the open end area 116.

[0598] The additional arrangement of the storage device 148 in the receiving chamber 108 is advantageous, for example, if the central axis M of the aerator 103 is inclined to a vertical axis.

[0599] In this case, when the device is fixed or during assembly, the liquid level H (see Fig. 2) would approach the open end area 116 at least on one side, resulting in a greater tendency for the descaling liquid F to overflow.

[0600] However, if the descaling fluid F is at least partially stored in the storage device 148, this tendency to overflow can be minimized or avoided by means of the storage pores P.

[0601] Fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a cleaning device 100 according to a second exemplary embodiment in the fixed state.

[0602] The cleaning device 100 according to the second exemplary embodiment has essentially the same structural and functional features as the cleaning device 100 according to Figures 1 to 3. Only the following differences in features will be highlighted:

[0603] The open end area 116 includes a fastening device 106 for forming a fastening area 154, which is designed as an elastic and, for example, annular fastening area 154.

[0604] By means of the fastening area 154, the cleaning base body 112 is radially clamped to the outside of the jet regulator 103 in the fastened state.

[0605] Additionally or alternatively, the cleaning base 112 can also be radially clamped to the outside of the tap 105 when attached.

[0606] The elastic and ring-shaped mounting area 154 can be designed as an elastic radial spring element 156. The elastic radial spring element 156 can, for example, be integrally integrated into the mounting area 154 and be made of an elastic material.

[0607] Alternatively, the fastening area 154 can include a separate elastic radial spring element, e.g. in the form of a radial steel spring (not shown in Fig. 4).

[0608] The fastening area 154 can include an annular fastening projection 158 that extends radially from the inner mantle surface 126 into the through-hole 114 (see Fig. 1).

[0609] The fastening projection 158 also has an inner contact surface 160, by means of which the outer circumferential surface 136 of the aerator 103 is contacted in the fastened state.

[0610] Several capillary channels 162 (only two capillary channels 162 are visible in Fig. 4) are incorporated into the inner contact surface 160, by means of which the fastening projection 158 is divided into several fastening projection segments.

[0611] The multiple capillary channels 162 can each be shaped like an annular segment. By means of the multiple capillary channels 162, a capillary force can be generated on the descaling liquid F for capillary uptake of the same from the receiving chamber 108.

[0612] Fig. 4 also shows that the multiple capillary channels 162 are additionally limited by the outer circumferential surface 136 in the fixed state.

[0613] Furthermore, the outer circumference of the outer shell surface 144 and / or the inner circumference of the inner shell surface 126 can decrease from the bottom area 118 towards the open end area 116.

[0614] In other words, the cleaning base body 112 tapers from the bottom area 118 towards the open end area 116, so that the fastening area 154 and the intermediate area 120 can additionally or alternatively be considered elastic radial spring areas due to this axial cross-sectional profile.

[0615] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a manufacturing process for producing the cleaning devices 100 according to Figs. 1 to 4 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0616] All structural and functional features associated with the previously described cleaning device 100 and its embodiments can also be included in this manufacturing process, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0617] Since the cleaning devices 100 according to Fig. 1 to 4 are intended to be filled with descaling fluid F before use, the former should advantageously be sealed until use.

[0618] Against this background, the manufacturing process for producing a cleaning device 100 for cleaning a flow regulator 103 and / or a tap 105 according to a first step S1 includes producing the cleaning base body 112 by means of a primary forming process.

[0619] The primary forming process can, for example, include injection molding. Additionally or alternatively, the primary forming process can include 3D printing. According to a second step S2, the manufactured cleaning base body 112 is provided.

[0620] According to a third step S3, the descaling fluid F is poured into the receiving chamber 108. For example, the fluid is poured through the feedthrough opening 114 into the receiving chamber 108, so that a separate filling opening can be advantageously dispensed with.

[0621] According to a fourth step S4, the closure cover 124 is provided. The closure cover 124 can, for example, be made of a plastic material or plastic composite material comprising at least one layer of metal foil. The plastic material or plastic composite material can, for example, be weldable plastic materials or plastic composites.

[0622] According to a fifth step S5, the feedthrough opening 114 is releasably closed by means of the provided closure cover 124 by means of a material closure S. By means of the latter, the receiving chamber 108 is sealed in the attached state by means of the closure cover 124.

[0623] For example, the material bond S can be created by ultrasonic welding. Additionally or alternatively, the material bond S can be created by adhesive bonding.

[0624] In a further step, the fastening strip(s) 140 (see Fig. 1) can be attached to the outer surface 144 by means of a fabric closure S.

[0625] For example, the material bond S can be created by ultrasonic welding. Additionally or alternatively, the material bond S can be created by adhesive bonding.

[0626] Fig. 6 shows a schematic dimensional view of a determining device 174 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0627] It should be emphasized at the outset that the illustrations of the measuring device 174 are to be interpreted as schematic representations which, according to Fig. 6, do not allow any conclusions to be drawn about any physical structural features of the measuring devices 174. The measuring device 174 comprises, by way of example, three differently dimensioned measuring body areas 180, 182, 184, 186, 187, 189, so that a three-stage dimensional determination of geometric dimensions GM1, GM2, GM3 of aerators 103 and / or taps 105 is possible.

[0628] For example, the triple-stage dimension-determining body ranges 180, 182, 184, 186, 187, 189 should enable a determination of geometric dimensions GM1, GM2, GM3 of commercially available aerators 103, wherein the aerators 103 may have the following minimum necessary conditions:

[0629] - round, for example circular, cylindrical base body; and

[0630] - Protrusion or projection from a surface of the tap 105 (see

[0631] Fig. 1 to 4).

[0632] As indicated above, the determining device 174 serves to determine at least one geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of an outer dimension D1, D2, D3 of at least one aerator 103 to be cleaned. The respective outer dimension D1, D2, D3 is, for example, an outer diameter D1, D2, D3.

[0633] Additionally or alternatively, the determining device 174 can be used to determine at least one geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of an external dimension D1, D2, D3 of at least one tap 105.

[0634] The determining device 174 comprises a first minimum-dimension determining body area 180, which defines a first defined minimum determination dimension BM1 m in limited, which is, for example, smaller than a first geometric dimension GM1 of the aerator 103.

[0635] Using the first defined minimum determination measure BM1 m It is possible to determine whether the first geometric measure GM1 is smaller, approximately equal to, or, for example, larger than the first defined minimum measure BM1. m inist.

[0636] The determining device 174 further comprises a first maximum dimension determining body area 182, which limits a first defined maximum determination dimension BMImax, which is greater than the first defined minimum determination dimension BM1. m in and larger than the first geometric dimension GM1. Using the first defined maximum dimension BM1 ma It is possible to determine whether the first geometric dimension GM1 is smaller than the first defined maximum dimension BM 1 max.

[0637] In the event that the above-explained dimensional relationships are fulfilled, a difference between the first defined maximum determination dimension BM1 is defined. ma xund the first defined minimum determination measure BM1 m into a first determination range BMB1. Within this range lies, for example, the first geometric measure GM1, so that the first geometric measure GM1 can be determined using the first determination range BMB1.

[0638] If this is not the case, a second minimum and maximum dimension determining body area 184, 186 is to be used to determine the first geometric dimension GM1.

[0639] The first defined maximum determination dimension BM1 ma Incidentally, xist is smaller than a second geometric dimension GM2 in the form of the second external dimension D2 of a second aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0640] The background is that the second geometric measure GM2 cannot erroneously fall into the first determination measure range BMB1 if it is larger than the aforementioned first geometric measure GM1.

[0641] The determining device 174 accordingly comprises a second minimum dimension determining body area 184, which limits a second defined minimum dimension BM2min, which is, for example, smaller than the second geometric dimension GM2 of the aerator 103.

[0642] Using the second defined minimum determination measure BM2 m It is possible to determine whether the second geometric measure GM2 is, for example, greater than the second defined minimum measure BM2. m in is.

[0643] The determining device 174 further comprises a second maximum dimension determining body area 186, which limits a second defined maximum determination dimension BM2max that is greater than the second defined minimum determination dimension BM2 m in and greater than the second geometric dimension GM2. By means of the second defined determining maximum dimension BM2 ma It is possible to determine whether the second geometric measure GM2 is smaller than the second defined maximum measure BM2max.

[0644] In the event that the above-explained dimensional relationships are fulfilled, a difference between the second defined maximum determination dimension BM2 is defined. ma x and the second defined minimum determination measure BM2 minto a second determination area BMB2.

[0645] If this is not the case, the third minimum and maximum dimension determining body area 187, 189 is to be used to determine the second geometric dimension GM2.

[0646] The second defined maximum determination value BM2 ma x is smaller than a third geometric dimension GM3 in the form of the third outer dimension D3 of a third aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0647] The background is that the third geometric measure GM3 cannot be mistakenly included in the second determination measure range BMB2 if it is larger than the aforementioned second geometric measure GM2.

[0648] The second defined minimum determination measure BM2 mFurthermore, it is larger than the first geometric dimension GM1 in the form of the first external dimension D1 of the first aerator 103 to be cleaned. The reason for this is that the first geometric dimension GM1 cannot erroneously fall into the second determination dimension range BMB2.

[0649] The determining device 174 comprises a third minimum-size determining body area 187, which defines a third minimum determination size BM3 m in limited, which is, for example, smaller than a third geometric dimension GM3 of a jet regulator 103.

[0650] Using the third defined minimum determination measure BM3 mIt is possible to determine whether the third geometric dimension GM3 is, for example, greater than the third defined minimum determination dimension BM3miniSt. The determination device 174 further comprises a third maximum dimension determination body area 189, which limits a third defined maximum determination dimension BM3max that is greater than the third defined minimum determination dimension BM3 m in and larger than the third geometric measure GM3.

[0651] Using the third defined maximum determination measure BM3 ma It is possible to determine whether the third geometric dimension GM3 is smaller than the third defined maximum determination dimension BM3max. With a three-stage determination device 174, this dimensional relationship should always be fulfilled, which can be achieved by appropriately selecting the third defined maximum determination dimension BM3. ma x is feasible.

[0652] In the event that the above-explained dimensional relationships are fulfilled, a difference between the third defined maximum dimension BM3 is defined. ma x and the third defined minimum determination measure BM3 m into a third determination area BMB3.

[0653] If this is not the case, a further optional minimum and maximum dimension defining body range is to be used to determine the third geometric dimension GM3 (not shown in Fig. 6).

[0654] The third defined minimum determination measure BM3 m Furthermore, it is larger than the second geometric dimension GM2 in the form of the second external dimension D2 of the second aerator 103 to be cleaned. The reason for this is that the second geometric dimension GM2 cannot erroneously fall into the third determination dimension range BMB3.

[0655] Fig. 7 shows a schematic top view of the determining device 174 according to Fig. 6 according to an exemplary physical embodiment.

[0656] The determining device 174 comprises, for example, a one-piece determining base body 188. The one-piece determining base body 188 cannot be disassembled into further body parts without destruction.

[0657] The one-piece defining body 188 can, for example, be made of a composite cardboard material. The defining body 188 comprises the first, second, and third minimum-dimension defining body ranges 180, 184, 187. Furthermore, the defining body 188 comprises the first, second, and third maximum-dimension defining body ranges 182, 186, 189.

[0658] The first minimum dimension defining area 180 and the first maximum dimension defining area 182 can form a first combined dimension defining area 190.

[0659] The first minimum dimension determining body area 180 includes a first minimum determining opening 194 for receiving a flow regulator 103 (see Fig. 8), if this has, for example, the first geometric dimension GM1.

[0660] The first minimum determination aperture 194 limits the first defined minimum determination dimension BMIminZ.B. in the form of a first minimum determination diameter D1. m in.

[0661] Accordingly, the first maximum dimension determining body area 182 includes a first maximum determining opening 196 for receiving a flow regulator 103 (see Fig. 8), if it has the first geometric dimension GM1.

[0662] The first maximum determination opening 196 limits the first defined maximum determination dimension BM1 max, e.g., in the form of a first maximum determination diameter D1. m ax.

[0663] The first minimum detection aperture 194 can be shaped as a circular detection aperture. The first maximum detection aperture 196 can also be shaped as a circular detection aperture.

[0664] Consequently, the first minimum circular aperture 194 can have a first center point MP1 and the first maximum circular aperture 196 can have another first center point MP1 W exhibit.

[0665] The first center point MP1 and the other first center point MP1 W are, for example, aligned concentrically to each other.

[0666] Accordingly, a first circumferential region 202 is formed around the first minimum measuring aperture 194, which is shaped as a circular ring arranged concentrically around the first minimum measuring aperture 194. The first circumferential region 202 embodies, for example, the first measuring area BMB1. The first circumferential region 202 has several radial perforations 206. The several radial perforations 206 extend radially towards the first and second first center points MP1, MP1 W in the first scope area 202 and are included therein.

[0667] Several extensive perforations 206 also externally limit the first circumferential area 202 in the circumferential direction and are introduced there into the defining base body 188.

[0668] The multiple radial perforations 206 are rotated by a third angle q>3 around the first and the further first center point MP1, MP1 Wsymmetrically aligned based on an equal angular distance to each other.

[0669] The multiple radial and circumferential perforations 206 optionally serve to define the geometric deformation of the first circumferential region 202. This deformation occurs if the first geometric dimension GM1 is larger than the first defined minimum dimension BMImin, but smaller than the first defined maximum dimension BM1 max.

[0670] In this case, the first circumferential area 202 is separated into circumferential segments at the radial perforations 206 and radially widened by bending the respective circumferential segments with respect to the respective circumferential perforations 206 (see Fig. 8).

[0671] The radial perforations 206 can thus be understood as predetermined separation points, whereas the circumferential perforations 206 can be understood as predetermined bending points.

[0672] Furthermore, the second minimum dimension defining area 184 and the second maximum dimension defining area 186 can form a second combined dimension defining area 192.

[0673] The second minimum dimension determination area 184 includes a second minimum determination opening 198 for receiving a flow regulator 103 (see Fig. 8), if this has the second geometric dimension GM2. The second minimum determination opening 198 limits the second defined minimum determination dimension BM2min, e.g., in the form of a second minimum determination diameter D2. m in.

[0674] Accordingly, the second maximum dimension determining body area 186 includes a second maximum determining opening 200 for receiving a flow regulator 103 (see Fig. 8) if it has the second geometric dimension GM2.

[0675] The second maximum determination opening 200 limits the second defined maximum determination dimension BM2 max z in the form of a second maximum determination diameter D2. m ax.

[0676] The second minimum aperture 198 can be shaped as a circular aperture. The second maximum aperture 200 can also be shaped as a circular aperture. Consequently, the second minimum circular aperture 198 can have a second center point MP2, and the second maximum circular aperture 200 can have a further second center point MP2. W exhibit.

[0677] The second center point MP2 and the other second center point MP2 W are, for example, aligned concentrically to each other.

[0678] Accordingly, a second circumferential area 204 is formed around the second minimal determination aperture 198, which is shaped as a circular ring that is arranged concentrically around the second minimal determination aperture 198.

[0679] The second scope area 204, for example, embodies the second determination area BMB2.

[0680] The second circumferential region 204 has several radial perforations 206. The multiple radial perforations 206 extend radially towards the second and further second center points MP2, MP2 W in the second scope area 204 and are included therein.

[0681] Several extensive perforations 206 also externally delimit the second circumferential region 204 in the circumferential direction and are incorporated there into the one-piece defining base body 188. The several radial perforations 206 are rotated by a fourth angle q>4 around the second and the further second center point MP2, MP2 W symmetrically aligned based on an equal angular distance to each other.

[0682] The multiple radial and circumferential perforations 206 optionally serve to define the geometric deformation of the second circumferential region 204. This deformation occurs if the second geometric dimension GM2 is larger than the second defined minimum dimension BM2min, but smaller than the second defined maximum dimension BM2max.

[0683] In this case, the second circumferential area 204 is separated into circumferential segments at the radial perforations 206 and radially widened by bending the respective circumferential segments with respect to the respective circumferential perforations 206 (see Fig. 8).

[0684] The radial perforations 206 can therefore be considered as intended separation points, whereas the circumferential perforations can be considered as intended bending points.

[0685] The third minimum dimension determining body area 187 includes a third minimum determining aperture 199 for receiving a flow regulator 103 (see Fig. 8) if it has the third geometric dimension GM3.

[0686] The third minimum determination aperture 199 limits the third defined minimum determination dimension BM3minZ.B. in the form of a third minimum determination diameter D3. m in.

[0687] Thus, the third minimum dimension defining area 187 and the third maximum dimension defining area 189 can form a third combined dimension defining area 193.

[0688] Accordingly, the third maximum dimension determining body area 189 includes a third maximum determining opening 201 for receiving a flow regulator 103 (see Fig. 8) if it has the third geometric dimension GM3.

[0689] The third maximum determination opening 201 limits the third defined maximum determination dimension BM3maxZ.B. in the form of a third maximum determination diameter D3 ma The third minimum aperture 199 can be shaped as a circular aperture. The third maximum aperture 201 can also be shaped as a circular aperture.

[0690] Consequently, the third minimum circular aperture 199 can have a third center point MP3 and the third maximum circular aperture 201 can have a further third center point MP3 W exhibit.

[0691] The third center point MP3 and the other third center point MP3 W are, for example, aligned concentrically to each other.

[0692] Accordingly, a third circumferential region 205 is formed around the third minimum measuring aperture 199, which is shaped as a circular ring arranged concentrically around the third minimum measuring aperture 199. The third circumferential region 205 embodies, for example, the third measuring range BMB3.

[0693] The third circumferential region 205 further features several radial perforations 206. The multiple radial perforations 206 extend radially towards the third and further third center points MP3, MP3W in the third scope area 205 and are included therein.

[0694] Several extensive perforations 206 also externally limit the third circumferential area 205 in the circumferential direction and are introduced there into the one-piece determining base body 188.

[0695] The multiple radial perforations 206 are rotated by a fifth angle <ps um den dritten und den weiteren dritten Mittelpunkt MP3, MP3 W symmetrically aligned based on an equal angular distance to each other.

[0696] The multiple radial and circumferential perforations 206 optionally serve to define the geometric deformation of the third circumferential region 205. This deformation occurs if the third geometric dimension GM3 is larger than the third defined minimum dimension BM3min, but smaller than the third defined maximum dimension BM3max. In this case, the third circumferential region 205 is divided into circumferential segments at the radial perforations 206 and radially widened by bending the respective circumferential segments relative to the respective circumferential perforations 206 (see Fig. 8).

[0697] The radial perforations 206 can therefore be considered as intended separation points, whereas the circumferential perforations can be considered as intended bending points.

[0698] The basic body 188 further includes a first determination assignment code 170 in the form of a determination assignment color code 172 on the first combined dimension-determination body area 190. The latter is only partially shown and can extend within the entire first combined dimension-determination body area 190, whereby a boundary can be formed, for example, by the dividing line shown.

[0699] The identification and assignment color code 172 is assigned to the first identification measurement area BMB1.

[0700] A further first determination assignment code 170 may also have a first determination QR assignment code 210, which is also assigned to the first determination measure area BMB1.

[0701] This means that if a user has determined the first geometric dimension GM1, they can directly assign the first geometric dimension GM1 to the first determination assignment color code 172 and / or the first determination QR assignment code 210.

[0702] The first determination QR assignment code 210 can be detected by means of an optical sensor device 208 of a smart mobile device 176 (see Fig. 11).

[0703] Furthermore, the first determination-assignment color code 172 and the first cleaning-assignment color code 168 of a first cleaning device 100 (see Fig. 1) are identical for the unambiguous dimension-related assignment of the first cleaning device 100 and the associated aerator 103 to be cleaned. Consequently, the opening dimension 178 and the first geometric dimension GM1 correspond to each other, so that the correct cleaning device 100 can be selected safely and intuitively for the aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0704] The first determination QR assignment code 210 also contains first assignment information that is assigned to a first cleaning device 100 (see Fig. 1) for the unambiguous dimension-related assignment of the first cleaning device 100 and the aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0705] The first determination QR assignment code 210 may also include initial order information for the purchase of the first assigned cleaning device 100 in an online shop.

[0706] The basic body of determination 188, for example, comprises a second and third determination assignment code 170 in the form of a determination assignment color code 172 in the second and third combined dimension-determination body area 192, 193. The latter is only shown in part and can extend within the entire second and third combined dimension-determination body area 192, 193, whereby a boundary can be formed by the respective dividing line shown.

[0707] The respective determination assignment color code 172 is assigned to the second and third determination measurement ranges BMB2 and BMB3.

[0708] Furthermore, a second and third determination assignment code 170 may each have a second and third determination QR assignment code 212, 213, which are assigned to the second and third determination measurement area BMB2, BMB3.

[0709] This means that if a user has determined the second and third geometric dimension GM2, GM3, they can directly assign the second and third geometric dimension GM2, GM3 to the second and third determination assignment color code 172 and / or the second and third determination QR assignment code 212, 213.

[0710] The second and third identification QR code assignment codes 212, 213 can each be detected by means of an optical sensor device 208 of a smart mobile device 176 (see Fig. 11). Furthermore, the second and third identification color code 172 and a second and third cleaning color code 168 of a second and third cleaning device 100 (see Fig. 1) are each identical for the unambiguous dimension-related assignment of the second and third cleaning device 100 and a respective associated aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0711] Accordingly, the respective opening dimension 178 and the respective second or third geometric dimension GM2, GM3 correspond to each other, so that the correct cleaning device 100 can be selected safely and intuitively for the aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0712] The second and third determination QR assignment codes 212, 213 further comprise second and third assignment information that is assigned to the second and third cleaning device 100 (see Fig. 1) for the unambiguous dimension-related assignment of the second and third cleaning device 100 and the respective aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0713] The second and third determination QR assignment codes 212, 213 may also include second and third order information for the purchase of the second and third assigned cleaning device 100 in an online shop (see the description for Fig. 11).

[0714] The basic body 188 may also include an operating instructions text field 214 and / or an operating instructions QR code 216 containing operating instructions information for the operation and handling of the determining device 174.

[0715] The operating instructions text field 214 and / or the operating instructions QR code 216 can be arranged on the top side of the destination body 188 shown in Fig. 7.

[0716] Alternatively, the operating instructions text field 214 and / or the operating instructions QR code 216 can be arranged on the opposite underside of the base body 188. The advantage of the latter arrangement is a larger display area on the underside of the base body 188. Furthermore, a kit 224 can be provided, which includes a drying cloth 226 that allows for pre-drying of the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105.

[0717] Additionally, the kit 224 includes the cleaning device 100 according to Figs. 1 to 4 and / or the determining device 174 as explained in Fig. 7.

[0718] Kit 224 can optionally be designed as a combination of drying cloth 226 and cleaning device 100 or determining device 174 (not shown in Fig. 7).

[0719] For example, the drying cloth 226 can be manually detachably attached to the cleaning device 100 or the determining device 174.

[0720] Pre-drying can be advantageous if the measuring device 174 is made of a cardboard material that, while inexpensive, cannot be water-repellent. A composite cardboard material could remedy this.

[0721] Fig. 8 shows a schematic partial sectional view of the determining device 174 according to Fig. 7.

[0722] The tap 105 and the aerator 103, each shown schematically, are also shown in a sectional view.

[0723] Fig. 8 shows the case where the first, second or third geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 of the aerator 103, for example, is larger than the first, second or third defined minimum dimension BM1 in a recorded state. m in, BM2 m in, BM3 m in is. Furthermore, the first, second, or third geometric measure GM1, GM2, GM3 is smaller than the first, second, or third defined maximum determination measure BM1. ma x, BM2 ma x, BM3 ma x.

[0724] The determining body 188 is elastically and / or plastically expanded in a respective first, second or third circumferential region 202, 204, 205 around the respective first, second or third minimal determining opening 194, 198, 199.

[0725] The elastic and / or plastic expansion leads, for example, to a self-clamping of the determining device 174 on the aerator 103.

[0726] This clamping feature provides a user with a reliable and intuitive way to identify that the first, second, or third geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 lies within the first, second, or third determination dimension range BMB1, BMB2, BMB3 and has therefore been determined.

[0727] Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of a manufacturing process for producing the determining device according to Figs. 7 and 8 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0728] The manufacturing process is used to produce the determining device 174 according to Figs. 7 and 8.

[0729] Accordingly, all structural and functional features associated with the previously described determining device 174 and its embodiments can also be included in this manufacturing process, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0730] In a first step S10, a die is provided. The latter comprises one or more die edges (not shown) which are shaped according to a form of the device 174 to be manufactured.

[0731] According to a second step S20, a flat body 222 is provided (see Fig.

[0732] 8) The latter can optionally be designed as a cardboard flat body.

[0733] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, a flat body 222 can be understood as having a thickness (as seen in Figure 8) that is many times smaller than its longitudinal and transverse dimensions as shown in Figure 7. The second step S20 can alternatively be carried out after the first step S10 or simultaneously with it.

[0734] According to a third step S30, the determining device 174 to be manufactured is punched out of the flat body 222 using the die. In this third step S30, the determining device 174 to be manufactured is punched out of the flat body 22 according to its shape, e.g., shown in Fig. 7.

[0735] According to a fourth step, S40, the manufactured measuring device 174 is provided to a user. Due to its cost-effective production, the measuring device 174 can be manufactured millions of times and given away to potential users. For example, the measuring device 174 can be distributed free of charge as a marketing tool at relevant sales outlets of the cleaning device 100, such as supermarkets, drugstores, or hardware stores.

[0736] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of a sequence of a computer-implemented method for selecting the cleaning device according to Figs. 1 to 4 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0737] The computer-implemented method is used accordingly to select at least one cleaning device 100 according to Figs. 1 to 4.

[0738] Accordingly, all structural and functional features associated with the previously described cleaning device 100 and its embodiments can also be included in this computer-implemented method, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0739] According to a first step S100, a geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of an outer diameter D1, D2, D3 of the at least one aerator 103 to be cleaned and / or the at least one tap 105 to be cleaned is detected.

[0740] The data can be captured, for example, using an optical sensor device, such as a digital camera. The data can also be captured, for example, by taking a digital photograph.

[0741] According to a second step S200, the at least one recorded geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 is compared with several cleaning devices 100 to be selected, which have several opening dimensions 178 (see Fig. 1).

[0742] The second step S200 can be performed using any computer device comprising a processor unit configured to execute the computer-implemented procedure according to steps S100 to S400 in response to instructions contained in a computer program. Regarding the second step S200, a respective detected outer diameter D1, D2, D3 is optionally compared with several opening dimensions 178 (see Fig. 1).

[0743] The opening dimensions 178 can, regardless of the computer-implemented method, be, for example, triple-stage, so that a total of three differently selectable cleaning devices 100 are available. It is understood that a double or quadruple stage can alternatively be provided.

[0744] According to a third step S300, a suitable cleaning device 100 is selected from the several cleaning devices 100 to be selected in response to the comparison step.

[0745] According to a fourth step S400, at least one selected cleaning device 100 is displayed. For example, at least one selected cleaning device 100 can be displayed to a user on a display device.

[0746] The displayed cleaning device 100 can, for example, be selected by a user and ordered directly from an online shop.

[0747] Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of a smart mobile device 176 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0748] Accordingly, all structural and functional features associated with the previously described cleaning device 100 and its embodiments can also be included in this smart mobile device 176, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0749] Furthermore, all structural and / or functional features associated with the previously described cleaning method and its embodiments can also be included in this smart mobile device 176, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs, and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly. The smart mobile device 176 can, for example, be a smartphone 177. Alternatively, the smart mobile device 176 can be a tablet, VR glasses, AR glasses, MR glasses, a smartwatch, or the like.

[0750] The smart mobile device 176 is configured to detect a component 102 and / or an assembly 104 to be cleaned, comprising the component 102 to be cleaned. The component 102 to be cleaned is designed as a water dispensing device 103, e.g., in the form of an aerator 103. The assembly 104 to be cleaned is designed as a water-carrying fitting 105, e.g., in the form of a plumbing fitting 105 or a tap 105.

[0751] The smart mobile device 176 further comprises a digital optical sensor device 208, which includes a digital camera device 209, by means of which the geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 can be optically detected. The geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 is, for example, an outer diameter D1, D2, D3 of the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105. The digital optical sensor device 208 can optionally be configured to detect additional geometric shape information, e.g., from the respective aerators 103, in addition to the respective detected geometric dimensions GM1, GM2, GM3.

[0752] Data capture can take the form of one or more digital photos or a digital video sequence. Additionally or alternatively, data capture can also occur in real time.

[0753] The digital camera device 209 further comprises a first digital camera unit 248 comprising a first digital image sensor 232. The digital camera device 209 further comprises a second digital camera unit 250 comprising a second digital image sensor 252, by means of which digital optical image data of a real environment E of the terminal device 176 can be acquired, in which the aerator 103 and the tap 105 are positioned.

[0754] Furthermore, the first camera unit 248 and the second camera unit 250 each have a first and a second optical axis OA1, OA2, which can be aligned orthogonally to a planar display surface of the display device 230. The acquisition can be performed, for example, such that the optical axes OA1, OA2 are aligned approximately perpendicular and / or parallel to a central axis M of the beam regulator 103. It is understood that the camera device 209 can comprise only one camera unit 248, 250 or more than two camera units 248, 250.

[0755] The digital camera device 209 can further include a depth sensor 254, e.g. in the form of a LiDAR sensor, for capturing a three-dimensional point cloud of the real environment E of the terminal device 176 in which the aerator 103 and the tap 105 are positioned.

[0756] The smart mobile device 176 further comprises a storage unit 228 in which a computer program is stored; a processor unit PU; a touch-sensitive display device 230, for example, and an internet module 229.

[0757] All of the aforementioned device modules 208, 209, PU, ​​228, 229 and 230 of the smart mobile device 176 can be interconnected by signal.

[0758] The terminal device 176 further includes a position sensor device 234 for recording its position data corresponding to its position. The position sensor device 234 comprises the following sensor units:

[0759] - a linear acceleration sensor unit 236 comprising three mutually orthogonally aligned linear acceleration sensors 238 for acquiring three-dimensional linear acceleration data of corresponding three-dimensional linear accelerations of the terminal device 176 in real time; and - a gyroscope sensor unit 240 comprising three mutually orthogonally aligned gyroscope sensors 242 for acquiring three-dimensional angular velocity data of corresponding three-dimensional angular velocities of the terminal device 176 in real time.

[0760] Furthermore, it may be provided that the position sensor device 234 comprises at least one of the following sensor units:

[0761] - a magnetic field sensor unit 244 for acquiring Earth's magnetic field data from an Earth's magnetic field in real time; or

[0762] - a GNSS sensor unit 246 for recording further position data of the terminal device 176 in real time.

[0763] Furthermore, it is provided that the processor unit PU is configured, in response to instructions contained in the computer program, to perform the following steps: - Processing the captured image data, which comprises several digital image points, e.g., image pixels, by means of which several real object points OP of the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105, each uniquely assigned to them, are digitally mapped accordingly; and

[0764] - Calculating a geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 of the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105 based on the processed image data.

[0765] Furthermore, the processor unit PU is configured to perform the following step: processing the captured image data and the captured position data.

[0766] Additionally or alternatively, the processor unit PU may be configured to perform the following step: processing the captured point cloud.

[0767] The point cloud comprises several three-dimensional cloud points, on the basis of which several real object points OP of the beam regulator 103, each uniquely assigned to them, are captured accordingly in three dimensions and true to scale.

[0768] Figure 11 shows two object points OP as examples. Since the faucet 105 is not depicted as a cylindrical body in Figure 11, the geometric dimensions GM1, GM3, GM3 can be determined using the aerator 103 as an example, as explained below. It is understood that the geometric dimensions GM1, GM3, GM3 can also be determined using the faucet 105 if it is at least partially cylindrical. Furthermore, designs are known in which the aerator 103 is formed integrally with a hollow cylindrical shape of the faucet 105. Therefore, the boundaries between the aerator 103 and the faucet 105 can be fluid.

[0769] Furthermore, the computer program may contain an augmented reality algorithm and / or a machine learning algorithm, and the processing unit (PU) may be configured to perform further processing and / or computational steps in response to corresponding instructions. These corresponding instructions may be designed according to the augmented reality algorithm and / or the machine learning algorithm. The further processing and / or computational steps may be explained, at least in part, below. It is also conceivable that the processing unit (PU) may be configured to perform the following steps:

[0770] - Linking the captured image data with the position data to create linked image data; and - Calculating the geometric measure GM1 , GM2 , GM3 based on the linked image data.

[0771] Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the processor unit PU is further configured to perform the following steps:

[0772] - Linking the captured image data with the position data and with the point cloud to create linked image data; or

[0773] - Linking the captured image data with the position data or with the point cloud to create linked image data.

[0774] Furthermore, the computer program may contain a VIO algorithm and / or a SLAM algorithm. The processing unit (PU) may also be configured to perform the following steps:

[0775] - Processing the linked image data for three-dimensional position estimation of the terminal device 176 in its environment E; and / or

[0776] - Processing the linked image data for three-dimensional object recognition and / or object differentiation of different objects in the captured image data.

[0777] Furthermore, in response to corresponding instructions from the VIO algorithm and / or the SLAM algorithm, the processing unit PU can also be configured to perform at least one of the steps described above.

[0778] Furthermore, the processor unit (PU) is configured to perform the following steps:

[0779] - Transferring the captured image data to the display device 230;

[0780] - Instructing the display device 230 to graphically display the captured image data to a user N of the terminal device 176 in real time for interaction with the user N; and - Creating at least one virtual graphic object GO and instructing the display device 230 to overlay this at least one object GO with the graphically displayed image data BD and display it to the user N.

[0781] According to Fig. 11, the graphically displayed image data BD correspond to the digitally captured aerator 103 and the tap 105. The at least one virtual graphic object GO is represented in Fig. 11 in the form of two virtual lines, which are displayed to the user N according to an augmented reality application. The user N can manually manipulate the two virtual lines and, for example, align them with the two virtually displayed outlines of the image data BD or place them directly onto the image data and snap them into place. This can facilitate the acquisition of the geometric dimensions GM1, GM2, and GM3.

[0782] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the processor unit PU is also configured to perform the following steps:

[0783] - Comparing at least a subset of the captured image data and / or the linked image data with geometric boundary conditions of a virtual geometric cylinder; and

[0784] - Generating positive comparison data in response to a positive comparison step or negative comparison data in response to a negative comparison step.

[0785] A partial point set can, for example, correspond to the digital image capture of the aerator 103. The faucet 105, on the other hand, can be represented, for example, at a lower resolution. Such a comparison can reduce the computing power of the processor unit PU, since, due to the geometric boundary conditions of a cylinder, e.g., a circular cylinder, many objects, such as the faucet 105, in the environment E cannot / must not be captured, or not with the same resolution as the aerator 103.

[0786] Accordingly, it may further be intended that the processor unit PU is configured to perform the following steps:

[0787] - Processing the linked image data in response to generated positive comparison data; - Generating initial user information data NID1 to inform user N in response to the generated positive or negative comparison data; and

[0788] - Instructing the display device 230 to graphically display the first user information data NID1 to the user N in real time by superimposing the first user information data NID1 with the graphically displayed image data BD.

[0789] Furthermore, the processor unit PU is configured to perform the following step: Automatic detection of multiple characteristic feature points based on the captured image data and / or the linked image data. Additionally or alternatively, the processor unit PU is configured to perform the following step: Automatic detection of multiple characteristic feature cloud points based on the point cloud.

[0790] The characteristic feature image points and / or the characteristic feature cloud points can each comprise at least one characteristic feature, by virtue of which several real feature object points MOP of the beam regulator 103, each uniquely assigned to the characteristic feature image points and / or feature cloud points, are digitally mapped and / or recorded accordingly.

[0791] Fig. 11 shows two real feature object points MOP on the outline edges 256 and generatrix of the outer circumferential surface 136 and outer lateral surface of the aerator 103 as examples, as well as one real feature object point MOP on its lower circumferential edge 258 in the direction of gravity g.

[0792] Accordingly, it is further planned that the real feature object points (MOP) will be included as a component:

[0793] - an outer circumferential surface 136 or a circumferential line of the outer circumferential surface 136; - one or both outline edges 256 of the outer circumferential surface 136;

[0794] - a water dispensing area 107; and / or

[0795] - a circumferential edge 258 of the outer circumferential surface 136 and / or the water output surface 107

[0796] of the aerator 103.

[0797] Since the outline edges 256 cannot exhibit any significant curvature even under parallax, these edges 256 can simply be used to determine the geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of the outer diameter D1, D2, D3. However, the other surfaces, lines, and edges described above can also be used for this purpose.

[0798] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the processor unit PU is also configured to perform the following steps:

[0799] - Determining multiple feature pixel subsets from the multiple recognized feature pixels and / or determining multiple feature cloud point subsets from the multiple recognized cloud points; - Hierarchizing the multiple determined feature pixel subsets and / or the multiple determined feature cloud point subsets depending on the expected processing power for processing the multiple determined feature pixel subsets and / or the multiple determined feature cloud point subsets; and

[0800] - Processing at least one feature pixel subset and / or at least one feature cloud pixel subset with a lowest expected processing performance.

[0801] The feature image point subsets or the feature cloud point subsets can, for example, be assigned to the outline edges 256. This hierarchization step allows for particularly efficient capture of the geometric dimensions GM1, GM2, GM3.

[0802] Furthermore, it is planned that the captured image data and the linked image data comprise several sequentially captured and linked individual images, with each individual image being assigned a unique time point and the multiple feature pixels per individual image comprising unique feature pixel positions. The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Defining a start time, several intermediate time points, and an end time from the respective time points;

[0803] - Calculating a respective depth distance 260 from each real feature object point MOP to the at least one image sensor 232, 252 based on, optionally a displacement, the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time; - Calculating the at least one geometric dimension GM1, GM2 based on, optionally the displacement, of the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth distance 260; and optionally

[0804] - Comparing the position data of terminal device 176 with the respective unique feature pixel positions at each time.

[0805] Fig. 11 shows, by way of example, a depth distance of 260, e.g. starting from the first image sensor 232.

[0806] For example, the processor unit PU can further be configured to process the captured and / or linked image data only from the start time. Additionally or alternatively, the camera device 209 can be configured to capture image data from the start time.

[0807] A start time can be defined, for example, in response to the positive comparison data generated as described above. At the start time, the processor unit (PU) can also define a fixed point as the zero point. The zero point can, for example, correspond to the position at which the computer program is started by a user. An end time can be defined, for example, in response to a loop closure and / or upon reaching an accuracy value of the measured geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3.

[0808] Furthermore, the processor unit (PU) is configured to perform the following steps:

[0809] - Calibrating the respective feature pixel positions and the respective depth spacing 260 by linking:

[0810] - the multiple detected feature cloud points; and / or

[0811] - the location data of the terminal device 176

[0812] with the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time.

[0813] Furthermore, it may be provided that the processor unit PU is also configured to perform the following step: Calibrating the displacement of the respective feature pixel positions and the respective depth spacing 260 by the linking step explained above.

[0814] Furthermore, the processor unit PU is intended to be configured to perform the following step:

[0815] - Calculating a calibrated geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of an outer diameter D1, D2, D3 comprising a numerical value and a unit of measurement based on the respective calibrated feature pixel positions and the respective calibrated depth distance.

[0816] Furthermore, the processing unit (PU) may be configured to perform the following step:

[0817] - Instructing the display device 230 to graphically display the calibrated geometric dimension GM1, GM2 to a user N.

[0818] Furthermore, the processor unit PU can also be configured to perform the following steps: - Determining a physical configuration of the camera device 209; and - Adapting the processing of the captured image data and / or the linked image data in response to the determined physical configuration of the camera device 209.

[0819] According to Fig. 11, the physical design of the camera device 209 comprises two camera units 248, 250 and a depth sensor 254.

[0820] Furthermore, the PU processor unit can also be configured to perform the following step:

[0821] - Generation of second user information data NID2 to inform the user N about the positioning of a real reference object 262 next to the aerator 103.

[0822] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 11, a reference object 262 is provided, which is shaped as a flat reference object 262. The reference object 262 is exemplified by the form of an identity card, such as a national identity card or a bank card. Other reference objects 262, such as a coin, may also be provided.

[0823] Accordingly, the camera device 209 can be further configured to acquire digital optical reference image data of the reference object 262. This acquisition can be performed in addition to and simultaneously with the acquisition of the digital optical image data.

[0824] Furthermore, the processing unit (PU) can also be configured to perform the following step:

[0825] - Processing the captured reference image data, which includes several digital reference image points, e.g. reference image pixels, by means of which several real reference object points (ROP) of the reference object 262, each uniquely assigned to the captured reference image data, are digitally mapped.

[0826] The reference object points ROP can, for example, be arranged on edges of the reference object 262. Processing the acquired reference image data can be advantageous, for example, in a physical design of the camera device 209 if it does not include a depth sensor.

[0827] Additionally, the processor unit PU can be further configured to perform the following steps: - Calibration, optionally of the displacement, of the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth spacing 260 by linking:

[0828] - the multiple reference pixels; and / or

[0829] - the multiple detected feature cloud points; and / or

[0830] - the location data of the terminal device 176

[0831] with the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time.

[0832] The processing unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps in response to instructions contained in the computer program:

[0833] First, the recorded geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 can be compared with several selectable cleaning devices 100, each comprising several different opening dimensions 178. Such cleaning device data for the several selectable cleaning devices 100 are stored, for example, in the storage unit 228.

[0834] The smart mobile device 176 can be configured to select at least one cleaning device 100 for cleaning at least one aerator 103 to be cleaned.

[0835] Furthermore, a selection of one cleaning device 100 is made from the several cleaning devices 100 to be selected in response to the comparison step.

[0836] Furthermore, corresponding graphical display information is provided for at least one selected cleaning device 100. This corresponding graphical display information can, for example, be stored in the storage unit 228. Additionally or alternatively, the corresponding graphical display information can be stored on a server, e.g., in a cloud, and downloaded using the internet module 229.

[0837] Furthermore, the provided corresponding graphic display information is transferred to the display device 230.

[0838] Following this, the display device 230 is instructed to graphically display at least one selected cleaning device 100 to a user. The processor unit PU is further configured to perform the following additional steps:

[0839] Furthermore, each graphically displayed cleaning device 100 is linked to an internet connection to an online shop. This internet connection can be provided, for example, via the internet module 229.

[0840] Furthermore, an online purchase and ordering process for the respective graphically displayed cleaning device 100 is triggered in response to a manual confirmation entry by a user N.

[0841] In the case of a smartphone 177, this manual confirmation input can be performed by a user N.

[0842] For this purpose, the touch-sensitive display device 230 can, for example, have a correspondingly assigned virtual confirmation button.

[0843] With reference to Fig. 7, the first, second and / or third determination QR assignment code 210, 212, 213 of the determination device 174 can be detected by means of the optical sensor device 208.

[0844] The respective determination QR assignment code 210, 212, 213 includes the respective first, second and third assignment information.

[0845] Additionally or alternatively, the respective destination QR code assignment code 210, 212, 213 can include the respective first, second and third order information.

[0846] Regarding the detailed description of the structure and function of the respective determination QR assignment code 210, 212, 213 and its interaction with the determination device 174, reference is made to the description for Fig. 7.

[0847] The processor unit PU can be configured to select a specific cleaning device 100 in response to the acquired first, second, and third assignment information assigned to the first, second, and third measurement ranges BMB1, BMB2, and BMB3 of the determination device 174. The optical sensor device 208 can also acquire the respective order information. Based on the respective assigned determination QR codes 210, 212, and 213, the respective order information is already correctly assigned to the respective measurement ranges BMB1, BMB2, and BMB3.

[0848] The processor unit PU is thus further configured to instruct the display device 230 to graphically display to a user the respective cleaning device 100 that is assigned to the respective order information.

[0849] From the step of graphical display onwards, the processor unit PU proceeds, for example, in a corresponding manner, as if the respective cleaning device 100 were selected directly by the smart mobile device 176.

[0850] Furthermore, it may be provided that the operating instructions QR code 216 and the operating instructions information contained therein can be detected by means of the optical sensor device 208.

[0851] The processor unit PU is further configured to provide corresponding digital user manual information in response to the captured user manual information.

[0852] Furthermore, the provided corresponding digital operating instructions information is transferred to the display device 230.

[0853] Subsequently, the display device 230 is instructed to graphically display the transmitted digital operating instructions information to a user N.

[0854] Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of a cleaning process according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0855] According to a first step S1000, at least one geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of at least one outer diameter D1, D2, D3 of the aerator 103 to be cleaned is detected.

[0856] According to a first step S1000, additionally or alternatively, at least one geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of at least one outer diameter D1, D2, D3 of the at least one aerator 103 to be cleaned can be determined.

[0857] The determination can be carried out using the determination device 174 described above.

[0858] The acquisition of the at least one geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 in the form of the at least one outer diameter D1, D2, D3 is carried out using several acquisition steps by means of the smart mobile device 176 explained in Fig. 11 and is summarized in step S1000.

[0859] The determination of a respective geometric dimension GM1, GM2, GM3 using the determining device 174 according to Fig. 7 can proceed as follows:

[0860] For example, a jet regulator 103 to be cleaned may have a first geometric dimension GM1.

[0861] From what has been said about Fig. 7, it follows that the first geometric dimension GM1 can be determined, for example, by means of the first combined dimension-determining body area 190 by means of a clamping according to the intended purpose (see Fig. 8).

[0862] However, an inexperienced user (e.g., with an untrained eye) may not readily recognize this connection.

[0863] Therefore, the determination step can, for example, begin from the third combined measure-determining body area 193.

[0864] Since the third minimum measuring opening 199 is larger than the first geometric dimension GM1, a user N will find that there is still a radial gap between the third combined dimension-measuring body area 193 and the aerator 103. The necessary clamping condition according to Fig. 8 is therefore not yet met.

[0865] User N now switches to the second combined dimension-determining body area 192, with respect to which there is also a radial gap between the second combined dimension-determining body area 192 and the aerator 103. Subsequently, user N can switch to the first combined dimension-determining body area 190 and thus determine the first geometric dimension GM1 in the form of the outer diameter D1 (which user N did not know previously).

[0866] One advantage of determining the dimensions from the largest, i.e., third, combined dimension-determining body area 193 to the smallest, i.e., first, dimension-determining body area 190 may be that the basic determination principle of passing through can initially be understood more intuitively.

[0867] Furthermore, the first dimensioning body area 190 cannot be destroyed by an overly forceful application if a geometrically unsuitable determination is forced there by a user N.

[0868] It is understood that a determination of dimensions from the smallest, i.e., first, combined dimension-determining body area 190 to the largest, i.e., third, dimension-determining body area 193 may alternatively also be conceivable.

[0869] Accordingly, all structural and functional features associated with the previously described determining device 174 and / or the smart mobile device 176 and their embodiments can also be included in this cleaning process, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, designs and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0870] In response to the determination step S1000 explained above, the at least one aerator 103 and / or the at least one tap 105 can be cleaned.

[0871] Additionally or alternatively, in response to the detection step S1000 described above, the at least one aerator 103 and / or the at least one tap 105 can be cleaned. The cleaning procedure can then proceed as follows:

[0872] According to a second step S2000, a cleaning device 100, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, is selected, for example automatically, from several selectable cleaning devices 100 (comprising different opening dimensions 178) in response to the detection step S1000. Additionally or alternatively, according to the second step S2000, the selection can be made in response to the determination step S1000. Accordingly, all structural and functional features associated with the previously described cleaning device 100 and its embodiments can also be included in this cleaning process, either alone or in combination, and the associated properties, configurations, and advantages can also be included and achieved accordingly.

[0873] According to a third step S3000, the selected cleaning device 100 is detachably attached to the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105 to be cleaned. This initiates a cleaning process.

[0874] Accordingly, in a fourth step S4000, the aerator 103 and / or the tap 105 to be descaled are cleaned or descaled using the detachably attached cleaning device 100. Reference list

[0875] Cleaning device

[0876] component to be cleaned

[0877] Water dispensing device; aerator assembly to be cleaned

[0878] Water-bearing fitting; faucet mounting device; water dispensing area

[0879] Admissions chamber

[0880] Transition area

[0881] Cleaning base body through-hole

[0882] open end

[0883] floor area

[0884] Intermediate area

[0885] Axial stop device, locking cover

[0886] Cover pull tab

[0887] inner coat surface

[0888] Interior floor area

[0889] Axial stop element

[0890] Axial stop projection

[0891] Axial stop surface

[0892] External perimeter area

[0893] Capillary ring canal

[0894] Mounting strips

[0895] Strip pull tab

[0896] first material-bonded fastening section outer shell surface

[0897] second material-bonded fastening section storage device

[0898] elastically deformable sponge body with recesses

[0899] Mounting area

[0900] elastic radial spring element mounting projection

[0901] Contact surface

[0902] capillary channels

[0903] Lead-in chamfer

[0904] Cleaning assignment codes

[0905] Cleaning assignment color codes

[0906] Determination-assignment codes

[0907] Identification-assignment color codes Identification device

[0908] smart mobile device

[0909] Smartphone

[0910] Opening dimensions

[0911] first minimum dimension defining body area, first maximum dimension defining body area, second minimum dimension defining body area, second maximum dimension defining body area, third minimum dimension defining body area, defining body

[0912] third maximum dimension determination area, first combined dimension determination area, second combined dimension determination area, third combined dimension determination area, first minimum determination opening

[0913] first maximum determination opening

[0914] second minimal determination opening

[0915] third minimal determination opening

[0916] second maximum determination opening

[0917] third maximum determination opening

[0918] first scope area

[0919] second scope area

[0920] third scope area

[0921] Perforations

[0922] optical sensor device

[0923] digital camera device

[0924] first determination QR assignment code

[0925] second destination QR code assignment code 213 third destination QR code assignment code 214 operating instructions text field

[0926] 216 User manual QR code

[0927] 222 flat bodies

[0928] 224 Kit

[0929] 226 drying cloth

[0930] 228 storage units

[0931] 229 Internet module

[0932] 230 Display device

[0933] 232 first digital image sensor

[0934] 234 Position sensor device

[0935] 236 linear acceleration sensor unit 238 linear acceleration sensors

[0936] 240 Gyroscope sensor unit

[0937] 242 gyroscope sensors

[0938] 244 Magnetic field sensor unit

[0939] 246 GNSS sensor unit

[0940] 248 first digital camera unit

[0941] 250 second digital camera unit

[0942] 252 second digital image sensor

[0943] 254 Depth sensor

[0944] 256 Outline edge

[0945] 258 circumferential edge

[0946] 260 depth spacing

[0947] 262 real reference object

[0948] T axial penetration depth

[0949] M Central axis

[0950] S fabric closure

[0951] q>i first rotation angle

[0952] cp2 second rotation angle

[0953] >3 third rotation angle

[0954] cp4 fourth rotation angle

[0955] P5 fifth rotation angle

[0956] U circumferential direction

[0957] H Storage height P Storage pores

[0958] GM1 first geometric measure

[0959] GM2 second geometric measure

[0960] GM3 third geometric measure

[0961] D1 External dimension

[0962] D2 External dimensions

[0963] D3 External dimensions

[0964] BMImin first minimum measurement

[0965] BMImax first maximum measurement BM2min second minimum measurement BM2max second maximum measurement BM3min third minimum measurement

[0966] BM3max third maximum determination dimension

[0967] BMB1 first determination range

[0968] BMB2 second determination range

[0969] BMB3 third determination range

[0970] Dimin first minimum diameter for determination D1max first maximum diameter for determination D2min second minimum diameter for determination D2max second maximum diameter for determination MP1 first center point

[0971] MP1 W further first center

[0972] MP2 second center point

[0973] MP2 W further second center

[0974] MP3 third center

[0975] MP3 W another third focal point

[0976] PU processor unit

[0977] F Descaling fluid

[0978] H liquid level height

[0979] OA1 first optical axis

[0980] OA2 second optical axis

[0981] N users, users

[0982] A real environment

[0983] OP real object points

[0984] MOP real feature object points

[0985] ROP real reference object points GO virtual graphic object BD graphically displayed image data NID1 first user information data NID2 second user information data g direction of gravity

[0986] 51 first step

[0987] 52 second step

[0988] 53 third step

[0989] 54 fourth step

[0990] 55 fifth step

[0991] S10 first step

[0992] S20 second step

[0993] S30 third step

[0994] S40 fourth step

[0995] S100 first step

[0996] S200 second step

[0997] S300 third step

[0998] S400 fourth step

[0999] S1000 first step

[1000] S2000 second step

[1001] S3000 third step

[1002] S4000 fourth step

Claims

Patent claims 1. Smart mobile device (176), optionally smartphone (177), for detecting at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component (102) to be cleaned; wherein the device (176) comprises the following: - a digital optical sensor device (208), optionally a digital camera device (209), comprising at least one digital image sensor (232, 252), by means of which digital optical image data of a real environment (E) of the terminal device (176) can be acquired, in which the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned are positioned; - a storage unit (228) in which a computer program is stored; - a processing unit (PU); and - a display device, for example a touch-sensitive one (230); wherein the processing unit (PU) is configured to perform the following steps in response to instructions contained in the computer program: - Processing the captured image data, which comprises several digital image points, e.g. image pixels, on the basis of which several real object points (OP) of the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned are digitally mapped accordingly; and - Calculate at least one geometric dimension (GM1, GM2) of the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned based on the processed image data.

2. Terminal device (176) according to claim 1, characterized in that the terminal device (176) comprises a position sensor device (234) for recording its position data corresponding to its position, which comprises at least one of the following sensor units: - a linear acceleration sensor unit (236) comprising three mutually orthogonally aligned linear acceleration sensors (238) for acquiring three-dimensional linear acceleration data of corresponding three-dimensional linear accelerations of the terminal device (176), optionally in real time; - a gyroscope sensor unit (240) comprising three mutually orthogonally aligned gyroscope sensors (242) for recording three-dimensional angular velocity data of corresponding three-dimensional angular velocities of the terminal device (176), optionally in real time; - a magnetic field sensor unit (244) for acquiring Earth magnetic field data from an Earth magnetic field, optionally in real time; or - a GNSS sensor unit (246) for recording additional position data of the terminal device (176), optionally in real time.

3. Terminal device (176) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the digital camera device (209) comprises the following: a first digital camera unit (248) comprising a first digital image sensor (232) and at least a second digital camera unit (250) comprising at least a second digital image sensor (252) for the respective acquisition of the digital optical image data; and / or - a depth sensor (254) for capturing an, optionally three-dimensional, point cloud of the environment (E) of the terminal device (176) in which the at least one component (102) and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned are positioned; wherein The processing unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following step: - Processing the captured image data as well as the captured position data and / or the captured point cloud, wherein the point cloud comprises several, optionally three-dimensional, cloud points, on the basis of which several real object points (OP) of the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned are captured accordingly in three dimensions, optionally and true to scale.

4. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the computer program contains an augmented reality algorithm and / or a machine learning algorithm and the processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform further processing steps and / or computation steps in response to corresponding instructions.

5. Terminal device (176) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Linking the captured image data with the position data and / or with the point cloud to create linked image data; and - Calculating at least one geometric measure (GM1, GM2) based on the linked image data.

6. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that optionally the computer program contains a VIO algorithm and / or a SLAM algorithm; wherein The processing unit (PU), optionally in response to corresponding instructions, is further configured to perform at least one of the following steps: - Processing the linked image data for, optionally three-dimensional, position estimation of the terminal device (176) in its environment (E); or - Processing the captured image data and / or the linked image data for, optionally three-dimensional, object recognition and / or object discrimination of different objects in the captured image data.

7. Terminal device (176) according to claim 6, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Transferring the captured image data and / or the linked image data to the display device (230); - Instructing the display device (230) to graphically display the captured image data and / or the linked image data to a user (N) of the terminal device (176) in real time for interaction with the user (N); and - Creating at least one virtual graphic object (GO) and instructing the display device (230) to overlay this at least one object (GO) with the graphically displayed image data (BD) and to display it to the user (N).

8. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one component (102) to be cleaned comprises or is formed from at least one cylindrical, optionally circular cylindrical, water dispensing device (103) for dispensing water, wherein optionally the at least one water dispensing device (103) comprises or is formed from at least one aerator (103) for dispensing water, optionally tap water; wherein - 128 - the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned comprises or is formed from at least one water-carrying fitting (105), optionally a tap water-carrying sanitary fitting; and wherein The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Comparing at least a subset of points from the captured image data and / or the linked image data with geometric boundary conditions of at least one virtual geometric comparison body, optionally a virtual geometric cylinder; and - Generating positive comparison data in response to a positive comparison step or negative comparison data in response to a negative comparison step.

9. Terminal device (176) according to claim 8, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Processing the captured image data and / or the linked image data in response to generated positive comparison data; - Generating initial user information data (NID1) to inform the user (N) in response to the generated positive or negative comparison data; and - Instructing the display device (230) to graphically display the initial user information data (NID1) to the user (N) in real time, optionally by overlaying the initial user information data (NID1) with the graphically displayed image data (BD).

10. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Recognition, optionally automatic recognition, of: several characteristic feature image points based on the captured image data and / or the linked image data and / or of: several characteristic feature cloud points based on the point cloud, each comprising at least one characteristic feature, by virtue of which several real feature object points (MOPs) of the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned, each uniquely assigned to the characteristic feature image points and / or feature cloud points, are digitally represented and / or captured accordingly. - 129 - 11. Terminal device (176) according to claim 10, characterized in that the real feature object points (MOP) as a component: - an outer circumferential surface (136) or a perimeter line of the outer circumferential surface (136); - one or both outline edges (256) of the outer circumferential surface (136); - a water dispensing area (107); and / or - a circumferential edge (258) of the outer circumferential surface (136) and / or the water discharge surface (107) which is formed by at least one cylindrical water dispensing device (103) and / or at least one, at least partially cylindrical, water-carrying fitting (105).

12. Terminal (176) according to claim 10 or claim 11, characterized in that The processing unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Determining multiple feature pixel subsets from the multiple detected feature pixels and / or determining multiple feature cloud point subsets from the multiple detected cloud points; - Hierarchizing the multiple determined feature pixel subsets and / or the multiple determined feature cloud point subsets depending on the expected processing power for processing the multiple determined feature pixel subsets and / or the multiple determined feature cloud point subsets; and - Processing at least one feature pixel subset and / or at least one feature cloud pixel subset with a lowest expected processing performance.

13. Terminal device (176) according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the captured image data and / or linked image data comprise several sequentially captured and / or linked individual images, each individual image being assigned a unique time point, and the multiple feature image points per individual image comprising unique feature image point positions; wherein The processing unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - 130 - - Defining a start time, several intermediate times and an end time from the respective times; - Calculating a respective depth distance (260) from each real feature object point (MOP) to the at least one image sensor (232, 252) based on, optionally a shift, the respective feature image point positions at the respective time; - Calculating at least one geometric dimension (GM1, GM2) based on, optionally, the displacement, the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth distance (260); and optionally - Comparing the terminal device's position data (176) with the respective unique feature pixel positions at each time.

14. Terminal device (176) according to claim 13, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Calibration, optionally of the displacement, of the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth spacing (260) by linking: - the multiple detected feature cloud points; and / or - the location data of the terminal device (176) with the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time.

15. Terminal device (176) according to claim 14, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Calculate at least one calibrated geometric dimension (GM1, GM2), optionally an outside diameter (D1, D2), comprising a numerical value and a unit of measurement based on the respective calibrated feature pixel positions and / or the respective calibrated depth spacing; and optionally - Instructing the display device (230) to graphically display at least one calibrated geometric dimension (GM1, GM2) to a user (N).

16. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Determining a physical design of the camera device (209); and- 131 - - Adapting the processing of the captured image data and / or the linked image data in response to the determined physical design of the camera device (209).

17. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The processing unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following step: - Generation of second user information data (NID2) to inform the user (N) about the positioning of a real reference object (262) next to the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned; wherein the camera device (209) is configured to acquire digital optical reference image data, optionally in addition to and simultaneously with the digital optical image data, of the reference object (262); and wherein The processing unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following step: - Processing the captured reference image data, which includes several digital reference image points, e.g. reference image pixels, by means of which several real reference object points (ROP) of the reference object (262) are digitally mapped, each uniquely assigned to the captured reference image data.

18. Terminal device (176) according to claim 17, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Calibration, optionally of the displacement, of the respective feature pixel positions and / or the respective depth spacing (260) by linking: - the multiple reference pixels; and / or - the multiple detected feature cloud points; and / or - the location data of the terminal device (176) with the respective feature pixel positions at the respective time.

19. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Comparing the at least one recorded geometric dimension (GM1, GM2) with several cleaning devices to be selected (100), optionally including several different opening dimensions (178); - 132 - - Selection of at least one cleaning device (100) from the several cleaning devices to be selected (100) in response to the comparison step; - Providing corresponding graphical display information for at least one selected cleaning device (100); - Transferring the provided corresponding graphic display information to the display device (230); and - Instructing the display device (230) to graphically display at least one selected cleaning device (100) to a user (N) based on the provided corresponding graphic display information.

20. Terminal device (176) according to claim 19, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Linking the at least one graphically displayed cleaning device (100) with an internet link to an internet connection with an online shop; and - triggering an online purchase and / or order process of the at least one graphically displayed cleaning device (100) in response to at least one, optionally manual, confirmation input by a user (N), optionally by at least one confirmation touch by the user (N) on the touch-sensitive display device (230).

21. Terminal device (176) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The processor unit (PU) is further configured to perform the following steps: - Providing digital user manual information; - Transferring the provided digital operating instructions information to the display device (230); and - Instructing the display device (230) to graphically display the transmitted digital operating instructions information to a user (N).

22. Cleaning method for cleaning at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned, comprising the at least one component (102) to be cleaned; wherein the cleaning method comprises the following steps: - Capturing at least one geometric dimension (GM1, GM2), for example external dimension (D1, D2), of the at least one component (102)- 133 - to be cleaned - and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned, optionally by a smart mobile device (176) according to one of the preceding claims; and - cleaning the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned in response to the capture step.

23. Cleaning method according to claim 22, further comprising the following steps: - Selections, optionally automatic selection, of at least one cleaning device (100) from several cleaning devices to be selected (100), optionally comprising different opening dimensions (178), for cleaning the at least one component to be cleaned (102) and / or the at least one assembly to be cleaned (104) in response to the detection step; - Detachable attachment of the at least one selected cleaning device (100) to and / or in the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned; and - Cleaning the at least one component (102) to be cleaned and / or the at least one assembly (104) to be cleaned by the at least one detachably attached cleaning device (100).

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