Monitoring of dishwasher cleaning programs

Abstract

Among other things, a method is disclosed, comprising the steps of: acquiring at least one set of acceleration data indicating a change in measured acceleration values; determining state data indicating a process step in a cleaning program performed by a dishwasher; outputting the determined state data or causing the output of the determined state data. Further disclosed is a device for performing and / or controlling the method, a system having one or more devices for performing and / or controlling the method, and a computer program for performing and / or controlling the method by means of a processor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments relate to a method for a dishwasher and to an apparatus for a dishwasher, in particular an apparatus for monitoring the status of a cleaning program performed by a dishwasher. Background Art

[0002] Methods for operating or controlling household appliances such as dishwashers are known from the prior art. The aim of operating such household appliances is usually to achieve a high degree of user-friendliness and at the same time the best possible results (in the case of dishwashers, in particular a cleaning result that is as flawless as possible).

[0003] At least partially self-contained metering devices are known which can be placed, for example, in a treatment chamber of a dishwasher and can dispense a plurality of different agents into the rinse process of the dishwasher.

[0004] The use of such self-sufficient metering devices is characterized in particular by improved user-friendliness. Such metering devices often work in combination with temperature and / or conductivity sensors. Conductivity sensors or resistance sensors depend in particular on the fact that the liquid to be measured is forced to bypass the sensor so that the respective sensor can come into contact with the liquid. Furthermore, when such sensors are exposed to cleaning processes, they are subject to constant chemical and physical stresses. In particular, chemicals in the washing liquid may change and damage the contacts of the sensor, since the sensor may be covered with substances, polarization may occur, which may lead to falsification of the measured values, and / or dust deposits in the washing liquid may render the sensor unusable for the reasons mentioned above, in particular if the sensor is installed in a low-flow installation location in the dishwasher process chamber.

[0005] A disadvantage is that, for example, a temperature sensor for controlling such a metering device cannot ensure complete monitoring of the cleaning program, since, for example, during the so-called zeolite-activated drying process, the dishes in the rinse cycle no longer need to be heated. Therefore, in the above example, the temperature sensor for identifying the rinse cycle will no longer be able to detect the drying process. This can lead to non-optimal control and / or regulation of the metering device. In addition, the cleaning program regularly ends after the rinse phase, so that even the end of the cleaning program cannot be reliably detected. Moreover, during the drying phase, for example, no water circulates in the process chamber of the dishwasher, so that even conductivity sensors cannot provide corresponding results.

[0006] An autonomous, automatic metering device is desired to inform the consumer regarding the status of a cleaning program or program status, particularly whether the cleaning program has been completed. Summary of the invention

[0007] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to be able to clearly determine the conditions of a cleaning program of a dishwasher.

[0008] In a first exemplary aspect of the present invention, there is disclosed a method comprising:

[0009] - acquiring at least one set of acceleration data indicating the progress of the measured acceleration values, wherein the at least one set of acceleration data is obtained by at least one acceleration sensor in the processing chamber of the dishwasher

[0010] acquired;

[0011] - determining a set of status data indicative of a process step in a cleaning program performed by the dishwasher, wherein the status data are determined based on at least one set of acceleration data; and

[0012] - Output specific status data or cause the output of specific status data.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the invention, a device is described, which is configured to perform and / or control the method according to the first aspect or comprises suitable means for performing and / or controlling the method according to the first aspect. The device according to the method of the first aspect is in particular or comprises one or more devices according to the second aspect.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus of the device according to the second aspect may further comprise one or more sensors and / or one or more communication interfaces.

[0015] A communication interface is to be understood as meaning, for example, a wireless communication interface and / or a wired communication interface.

[0016] The wireless communication interface is, for example, a communication interface according to a wireless communication technology. Examples of wireless communication technologies are local radio network technologies, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) and / or near field communication (NFC) and / or Bluetooth (e.g., Bluetooth version 2.1 and / or 4.0) and / or wireless local area network (WLAN). For example, RFID and NFC are specified according to ISO standards 18000, 11784 / 11785 and ISO / IEC standards 14443-A and 15693. For example, WLAN is specified in the IEEE 802.11 series of standards. Another example of wireless communication technology is a hyperlocal radio network technology, such as a mobile radio technology, such as a global system for mobile communications (GSM) and / or a universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) and / or a long term evolution (LTE). GSM, UMTS and LTE specifications are maintained and developed by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

[0017] A wired communication interface is, for example, a communication interface according to a wired communication technology. Examples of wired communication technologies are local area networks (LAN) and / or bus systems, such as controller area network bus (CAN bus) and / or universal serial bus (USB). For example, a CAN bus is specified according to ISO standard ISO 11898. A LAN is specified, for example, in the IEEE 802.3 series of standards. It should be understood that the output module and / or the sensor module may also include other devices that are not listed.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the invention, an alternative device is also described, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are suitable for executing and / or controlling at least one method according to the first aspect with the at least one processor. A processor is to be understood as, for example, a control unit, a microprocessor, a microcontroller such as a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0019] For example, the exemplary device further includes means for storing data, such as a program memory and / or a working memory. For example, the exemplary device according to the present invention further includes means for receiving and / or sending data via a network such as a network interface. The exemplary device according to the present invention is interconnected and / or connectable, for example, via one or more networks.

[0020] The exemplary device according to the second aspect is, for example, or includes a data processing system, which is configured in terms of software and / or hardware to be able to perform the corresponding steps of the exemplary method according to the first aspect. Examples of data processing devices are computers, desktop computers, servers, thin clients and / or portable computers (mobile devices) such as laptop computers, tablet computers, wearable devices, personal digital assistants or smart phones.

[0021] The various method steps of the method according to the first aspect can be performed using a sensor device, which also includes at least one sensor element or sensor. Likewise, for example, various method steps that do not necessarily have to be performed together with the sensor device can be performed by another device, which is especially connected to the device including at least one sensor element or sensor via a communication system.

[0022] Further devices are conceivable, such as servers and / or parts or components of a so-called computer cloud, for example, which dynamically provide data processing resources for different users in the communication system. In particular, according to the definition of the term "cloud computing" by the "National Institute of Standards and Technology" (NIST), a computer cloud is understood to be a data processing infrastructure. An example of a computer cloud is the Microsoft Windows Azure platform.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the invention, a computer program is also described, the computer program comprising program instructions, which, when executed on a processor, cause the processor to perform and / or control the method according to the first aspect. The exemplary program according to the invention may be stored in or on a computer-readable storage medium containing one or more programs.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium containing a computer program according to the second aspect is also described. The computer-readable storage medium may be, for example, a magnetic, electrical, electromagnetic, optical and / or other type of storage medium. Such a computer-readable storage medium is preferably physical (i.e., "touchable"), for example, it is designed as a data storage medium device. Such a data storage medium device is, for example, portable or permanently installed in a device. Examples of such data storage medium devices are volatile or non-volatile memories (such as NOR flash memory) with random access (RAM) or volatile or non-volatile memories (such as NAND flash memory) with sequential access and / or memories with read-only access (ROM) or read-write access. For example, computer-readable will be understood to mean that the storage medium can be read and / or written by a computer or data processing system, for example, by a processor.

[0025] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a system is also described, the system comprising one or more devices that together perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0026] Exemplary features and exemplary embodiments according to all aspects are described in more detail below:

[0027] For example, a large number of measured acceleration values ​​acquired within a predetermined time period are used to represent the change of the measured acceleration values, thereby mapping each absolute measured acceleration value to represent the change on the time axis.

[0028] Dishwashers typically use detergents, such as so-called dishwasher tablets and / or rinse aid, to clean items placed in a treatment chamber, such as cutlery, dishes, pots or pans, to name a few non-limiting examples.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the at least one device performing the method comprises or is a dishwasher and / or a separate device, in particular a mobile device (eg a metering device) which can preferably be placed in a process chamber of a dishwasher.

[0030] For example, the device for performing the method is or comprises a household device, ie in particular a dishwasher. If the dishwasher itself is trained for this purpose, the method can be performed with a small amount of equipment, in particular without the need for additional separate equipment of the user.

[0031] Alternatively, however, an additional and separate device is provided for the dishwasher. This has the advantage that the method can generally be performed independently of the type and characteristics of the dishwasher, which otherwise may not be possible or not to the same extent. The separate device is for example a mobile (portable) device. For example, the separate device is a mobile device which can optionally communicate with the dishwasher (e.g. via a wireless network).

[0032] However, the separate device may also be a mobile device that can be placed in particular (during operation) in the dishwasher, i.e., in the case of a dishwasher, it can be placed inside or in the treatment chamber. Such a separate device is, for example, a metering device that is designed to deliver a substance, in particular a detergent, to the dishwasher or into the treatment chamber of the dishwasher. Such a separate device can communicate with the dishwasher, the mobile device and / or a remote server (for example, in order to exchange acquired data (for example, acceleration data and sensor data)). Such a metering device, for example, comprises at least one acceleration sensor. Furthermore, such a metering device comprises, for example, at least one further sensor configured to detect at least one set of sensor data.

[0033] The housing surrounding the device is designed to be placed, for example, in a treatment chamber of a dishwasher, and in particular has a suitable size that allows the housing or device to be at least partially removed from the treatment chamber. In particular, the housing or device can be placed in the treatment chamber loosely and / or without a connection device. For example, in the case of a dishwasher, the housing or device must be placed in the treatment chamber together with the items to be cleaned and / or removed from the treatment chamber. In particular, the housing of the device partially or completely surrounds some or all components of the device. In particular, the housing is designed to be watertight so that when the device is placed in a treatment chamber (e.g., a treatment chamber of a dishwasher) and in particular during treatment, some or all of the cleaning agents of the device will not come into contact with water.

[0034] The devices or housings involved in the second aspect are in particular mobile and / or portable devices and / or devices other than dishwashers. A mobile and / or portable device is to be understood as a device, for example, whose outer dimensions are less than 30 cm×30 cm×30 cm, preferably less than 15 cm×15 cm×15 cm. Devices other than dishwashers are, for example, devices that have no functional connection to the dishwasher and / or are not permanently connected to the dishwasher. For example, a mobile and / or portable device other than a dishwasher is a device that a user places (for example inserts) in the treatment chamber of the dishwasher during a treatment process (for example a cleaning program). An example of such a mobile and / or portable device and a device other than a dishwasher is a metering device, which is placed or inserted into the treatment chamber of the dishwasher before the start of the cleaning program.

[0035] The housing may have at least one output module, which is designed to distribute at least one preparation into the processing chamber of the dishwasher and / or trigger the output. The output of a preparation (e.g., including a detergent) is understood to mean, for example, that the preparation is output to a metering device and / or an environment of a storage container for the preparation (e.g., enclosed by a metering device). The output is performed, for example, by a corresponding output module. Alternatively or additionally, the output may be affected by the output module, for example, the output module causes the preparation to be output through a storage container. For example, the output module causes the preparation to be output to the environment of the output module and / or the storage container through an output opening of the output module, the metering device and / or the storage container.

[0036] The housing further comprises, for example, at least one sensor module configured to acquire at least one set of acceleration data and optionally at least one set of sensor data. Such sensor data may be, for example, at least one parameter of conductivity (e.g., a substance located in the treatment chamber, such as water and / or a cleaning solution or liquid), and / or temperature (e.g., a temperature in the treatment chamber and / or a temperature of a substance located in the treatment chamber (e.g., water), and / or brightness (e.g., a temperature of the water and / or a brightness of a cleaning solution or liquid) (e.g., whether light enters the dishwasher treatment chamber), and / or time (e.g., the time elapsed from a specific event in a cleaning program (e.g., start, water change, drying process, to name a few non-limiting examples). Thus, the sensor module may comprise one or more sensors designed to acquire at least one set of sensor data, such as a conductivity sensor and / or a temperature sensor (e.g., a thermocouple) and / or a timer.

[0037] An acceleration sensor (or accelerometer) is a sensor that measures its acceleration or acceleration. This can be done, for example, by determining the inertial forces acting on the mass of the acceleration sensor. Thus, for example, it can be determined whether the speed increases or decreases. Furthermore, the acceleration sensor can, for example, be included in the aforementioned sensor module.

[0038] For example, an acceleration sensor may represent a motion sensor. Such a motion sensor may, for example, detect a change in position. For example, the motion may be detected by means of an acceleration sensor in such a way that the motion is calculated as an integral of detection data (e.g., measured values, such as at least one set of acceleration data) from the acceleration sensor. For example, a dishwasher may determine the position or orientation of a device (e.g., a metering device), for example, in a treatment chamber.

[0039] The acceleration data acquired by the acceleration sensor, for example, represents the acceleration and / or movement of the device according to the second aspect, the device comprising at least one acceleration sensor. In addition, for example, based on the acceleration data acquired by the acceleration sensor, a specific position and / or orientation of at least one acceleration sensor inside the dishwasher can be determined.

[0040] The at least one acceleration sensor acquires measurement values ​​representing the change, for example, at a predetermined sampling rate and / or sampling frequency (for example, 0.001 Hz to 1 GHz, preferably 0.1 to 25 MHz).

[0041] For operating the at least one acceleration sensor, a power source is used to obtain a supply voltage of approximately 1 V to 6 V, preferably approximately 2.5 V to 4.0 V, depending on the type of acceleration sensor used. In particular, the acceleration sensor can be operated at a supply voltage of 1.9 V to 3.6 V, so that self-sufficient use (for example with a battery as energy source) is possible.

[0042] Acceleration sensors which are also resistant to high temperatures are particularly suitable. This is understood to mean error-free operation of the acceleration sensor, in particular at high ambient temperatures (eg above 60° C.-65° C., 70° C.-75° C., 80° C.-85° C., 90° C.-95° C. or more).

[0043] Furthermore, such an acceleration sensor has a sensitivity (resolution) in a detectable acceleration range of, for example, ±8 g, ±7 g, ±6 g, ±5 g, ±4 g, ±3 g, ±2 g, ±1 g or less. According to the invention, an acceleration sensor with a detectable range of ±2, ±1 g or less is particularly suitable, in particular due to the detection of sometimes small deflections or accelerations by means of the acceleration sensor during the execution of the method according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0044] For example, at least one acceleration sensor has a resolution (also referred to as sensitivity) per LSB of about 0.001 to about 1.0 mg(gravity) / LSB (least significant bit), preferably about 0.05 to about 0.25 mg / LSB.

[0045] The resolution of mg / LSB represents a factor (sensitivity) by which the unprocessed measurement values ​​acquired by the at least one acceleration sensor are multiplied in order to represent the resolution provided by the at least one acceleration sensor as a measurement value. In this way, for example, acceleration data representing an acceleration of 0 g to 1000 g, preferably 0.0001 g to 16 g, can be determined using the at least one acceleration sensor.

[0046] For example, a sensitivity (resolution) of the acceleration sensor of approximately 0.06 mg may be achieved by using, for example, an analog-to-digital (A / D) converter (eg, with a resolution of 16, 20, or 24 bits).

[0047] The at least one acceleration sensor has a sensitivity of, for example, approximately 0.001 mg / LSB (least significant bit) to 1.0 mg / LSB, preferably approximately 0.05 mg / LSB to 0.25 mg / LSB.

[0048] For example, the acceleration sensor is a MEMS (micro-electromechanical system) multi-axis acceleration sensor. Typically, such a MEMS sensor measures a change in capacitance when the acceleration value changes.

[0049] Determining status data indicative of a process step in a cleaning program performed by the dishwasher is based at least in part on at least one set of acceleration data.

[0050] Determining the status data at least partially based on at least one set of acceleration data makes it possible to unambiguously determine, for example, which process step is currently being performed by the dishwasher in the case of a cleaning program. Further details of the individual determinable process steps of a cleaning program and their precise determination at least partially based on at least one set of acceleration data are explained in more detail in the following description.

[0051] According to one embodiment of all aspects of the invention, it is provided that the orientation and / or the positioning of the acceleration sensor within the treatment chamber of the dishwasher is predetermined.

[0052] One embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that the acceleration data are acquired relative to a predetermined orientation and / or positioning of the at least one acceleration sensor in the treatment chamber of the dishwasher.

[0053] This is the case, for example, if the acceleration sensor does not change its orientation and / or positioning relative to the processing chamber of the dishwasher during the performance of the method according to the first aspect of the invention. For example, the device may also include means for determining the orientation and / or positioning relative to the processing chamber of the dishwasher. Alternatively, for example, a device according to the second aspect configured to perform the method according to the first aspect may include instructions (such as markings, etc., to give only one non-limiting example) so that, for example, a user can place the device according to the second aspect of the invention in the processing chamber of the dishwasher in such a way that the orientation and / or positioning of at least one acceleration sensor relative to the processing chamber of the dishwasher is predetermined.

[0054] For example, if the orientation and / or positioning of the acceleration sensor inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher is not predetermined, its orientation and / or positioning can be determined (e.g. estimated) at least partially based on at least one set of acceleration data. Therefore, the method according to the first aspect is feasible, for example, independently of the orientation and / or positioning of the at least one acceleration sensor inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher. In the case where the acceleration sensor is not predetermined in its orientation and / or positioning inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher, a recommendation regarding an exemplary, in particular advantageous orientation and / or position of the at least one acceleration sensor in the treatment chamber of the dishwasher can be provided to the user.

[0055] In one embodiment according to all aspects of the present invention, further comprising:

[0056] - acquiring at least one set of sensor data indicative of a change in temperature and / or time, wherein the state data is further determined based on the at least one set of sensor data.

[0057] Determining status data indicative of a process step in a cleaning program performed by the dishwasher is based at least in part on the at least one set of acceleration data and the at least one set of sensor data.

[0058] Thus, both acceleration data and sensor data, such as temperature and / or time, are taken into account to determine the state data.

[0059] Determining the status data at least partially based on the at least one set of acceleration data and the at least one set of sensor data enables a clear determination of the process step currently being performed by the dishwasher, for example as part of a cleaning program.

[0060] An embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that at least one set of sensor data is acquired by a temperature sensor and / or a timer.

[0061] At least one set of sensor data may be, for example, temperature, time, brightness or light intensity or a combination thereof. For example, at least one temperature sensor may be used to detect at least one set of sensor data indicating temperature. In order to obtain at least one set of sensor data indicating time, for example, at least one timer may be used. For example, at least one brightness sensor or light intensity sensor may be used to obtain sensor data indicating brightness. One or more (e.g., all) of these aforementioned sensors (e.g., temperature sensor and / or timer) may, for example, be included in the device according to the second aspect of the invention, or alternatively or additionally may be operably (e.g., electrically) connected thereto.

[0062] An output of specific status data or an initialization of an output occurs. For example, this can be done once. Alternatively, for example, if at least one set of acceleration data is continuously acquired and / or at least one set of sensor data is continuously acquired, and then status data is determined (at least based on the acceleration data and / or a part of the sensor data that has been added (i.e. newly acquired) and for which the status data has not yet been determined), the output of status data or the initialization of the output can be performed several times. For example, in the case where the method according to the first aspect of the invention is performed by a device separate from the dishwasher (a device according to the second aspect of the invention, such as a metering device), the output can be to the dishwasher. Alternatively or additionally, the output can be made or caused to be made to a device different from the dishwasher or a separate device, such as a server. The server can, for example, provide a so-called cloud service, for example, such a server can determine control data for a device according to the second aspect of the invention, just to give a non-limiting example.

[0063] In one embodiment according to all aspects of the present invention, the method further comprises:

[0064] Control data are determined at least partially based on the status data, wherein the control data cause the metering device to meter the cleaning agent and / or care agent as defined by the control data.

[0065] The metering device is for example a device according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0066] The metering device is controlled and / or adjusted based on the control data. The metering device can be, for example, a self-contained or built-in metering device. In addition, the metering device can be, for example, part of a device according to the second aspect of the invention, or can be included in a device according to the second aspect of the invention. In this case, the device according to the second aspect of the invention and the metering device form a single entity. The metering device is alternatively a device separate from the device according to the second aspect of the invention, such as the above-mentioned mobile device. For example, the metering device can at least partially automatically perform and / or control the method according to the first aspect of the invention, for example, automatically perform and control the method according to the first aspect of the invention after a user previously inputs to turn on the metering device.

[0067] The control data may also initiate or cause an operation or control of the dishwasher, at least with respect to certain status data. Such operation or control may, for example, consist of selecting or changing a cleaning program of the dishwasher, changing one or more process parameters of a cleaning program performed by the dishwasher and / or adding or omitting method parts of a cleaning program.

[0068] It will be appreciated that the control data may also initiate or cause an operation or control of the metering device, so that at least certain status data are taken into account. In this case, the control data may be determined by the dishwasher, for example, so that the dishwasher can operate or control the metering device. The control data may be determined, for example, by a server (or a server cloud) and then output (e.g. sent) to the dishwasher and / or the metering device for operation or control. For this purpose, the dishwasher and / or the metering device may, for example, have an API (application programming interface), so that the server (or server cloud) can operate or control the dishwasher and / or the metering device.

[0069] According to a further embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the control data further affects:

[0070] - switching the dishwasher on and / or off;

[0071] - selecting, combining and / or dosing detergents for dishwashers; and / or

[0072] -Dishwasher cleaning programs.

[0073] Regarding turning the dishwasher on and / or off, it may affect, for example, whether the dishwasher is turned on and / or off (completely) and / or at what time (time, date) the dishwasher is turned on and / or off, to name a few non-limiting examples.

[0074] The choice, composition and / or dosage of detergent for a dishwasher may be influenced by different actions. For example, the amount to be metered (e.g. the amount of detergent and / or rinse aid), the metering time, the product to be metered or individual ingredients or a combination thereof may be influenced. The metering device and / or the dispensing module that may be included in the device according to the second aspect of the invention may perform a corresponding metering of the detergent.

[0075] The control data can, for example, cause and / or trigger the output of the preparation on a portion of a metering device and / or an output module, which is included in the device according to the second aspect of the invention or can be connected to the device according to the second aspect of the invention. For example, the control data are determined in such a way that, for example, the start of a cleaning program is acquired, so that, for example, cleaning can be performed by a corresponding cleaning program of a dishwasher.

[0076] Influencing the cleaning program of the dishwasher may, for example, consist of selecting a certain (preprogrammed) program, running an additional program, influencing (extending or shortening) program duration, changing individual parameters of a program (e.g. temperature, drying time, to name just a few non-limiting examples).

[0077] Furthermore, not only can the operation of the dishwasher be (automatically) operated or controlled based on the control data, but recommendations can also be made to the user. For example, in addition to the automatic adjustment of the dishwasher, recommendations can also be displayed to the user, for example by means of an output device of a user interface (e.g. included in the dishwasher). For example, the user can be informed that a thorough cleaning, e.g. by an appropriate cleaning program, will extend the duration of the cleaning program.

[0078] An embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that the device according to the second aspect is designed to communicate with a dishwasher, in particular to communicate wirelessly with the dishwasher.

[0079] For example, communication with the dishwasher can be effected by means of a communication interface comprised in the device according to the second aspect of the invention. The communication interface is particularly designed for wireless communication with the dishwasher.

[0080] According to one embodiment of all aspects of the invention, it is provided that the status data represent one or more process steps i) to xi) of the cleaning program:

[0081] i) Start the cleaning process;

[0082] ii) water injection during the cleaning process;

[0083] iii) Perform water changes during the cleaning process;

[0084] iv) performing a pre-rinse cycle during a cleaning program;

[0085] v) performing a main cleaning cycle during a cleaning program;

[0086] vi) performing a first rinse, in particular an intermediate rinse, during a cleaning program;

[0087] vii) further rinsing steps, in particular further intermediate rinsing, are carried out during the cleaning process

[0088] Operation;

[0089] viii) performing a final rinse during a cleaning program (rinse cycle);

[0090] ix) Drying process during the cleaning process;

[0091] ix) performing an alternative (zeolite-activated) drying process during the cleaning process; and

[0092] xi) End the cleaning process.

[0093] In one embodiment based on all aspects of the present invention, the determination of the status data is further based on one or more of the following steps:

[0094] - the noise level is represented by at least one set of acceleration data at two acquisition times;

[0095] - comparing the changes represented by at least one set of acceleration data with the changes represented by the temperature of the sensor data; and

[0096] - Comparing the changes represented by at least one set of acceleration data with the changes represented by the time of the sensor data.

[0097] Example of a state data table As in process step i), the noise levels represented by at least one set of acceleration data are compared with each other at two acquisition times. For example, the silent noise level is compared with the effective noise level, for example by determining the variance of the respective levels. This corresponds to the start of a cleaning program. Furthermore, for example, the effective noise level is compared with the current noise level. For example, this corresponds to stopping the rotation of the spray arm, which indicates the start of a drying process.

[0098] By comparing the quiet noise level with the current level, it can therefore be clearly determined whether a cleaning program has started.

[0099] An example of a status data table is process step ii) by comparing the changes represented by at least one set of acceleration data with the changes represented by the temperature of the sensor data.

[0100] Therefore, a water change can be clearly determined by identifying a pumping process and / or a possible subsequent rest period based on acceleration data acquired by an acceleration sensor and / or sensor data acquired by a temperature sensor indicating temperature characteristics (or: temperature data).

[0101] It is therefore also possible to determine whether the spray arm movement has ended by comparing the effective level with the current level. Furthermore, by combining the acceleration data with the time measurement, it is therefore possible to clearly identify a drying process (process step ii)), which is performed as part of the dishwasher cleaning program.

[0102] An example of a status data table is process step iii) by comparing the change conditions represented by at least one set of acceleration data with sensor data indicating temperature change conditions detected by a temperature sensor.

[0103] Thus, by the combination of acquired acceleration data and temperature data, a zeolite-active rinse cycle may be identified during a drying process of a cleaning program performed by the dishwasher.

[0104] An example of a status data table is process step iv) by comparing the changes represented by at least one set of acceleration data with the changes represented by the time of the sensor data.

[0105] Thus, the end of a cleaning program can be identified by a combination of acceleration data and time data acquired during a drying process of the cleaning program, for example time data acquired with a timer.

[0106] An embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that at least one set of acceleration data and at least one set of sensor data are acquired in parallel.

[0107] Acquiring at least one set of acceleration data simultaneously with acquiring at least one set of sensor data enables, for example, determining state data using at least one set of acceleration data and at least one set of sensor data, which then represent at least one of process steps i) to xi) of the cleaning program.

[0108] An embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that the acceleration data and the at least one set of sensor data are each acquired within a predetermined time period.

[0109] The predetermined time span indicates a continuous discrete acquisition of acceleration data and at least one set of sensor data. The predefined time span may be defined, for example, by a duration of a certain time period, for example, a few minutes up to days or weeks, to name a few non-limiting examples. The acquisition of acceleration data and at least one set of sensor data may trigger the acquisition within a subsequently to be determined or predetermined time period. For example, if a device (e.g. a metering device) is switched on according to the second aspect of the invention, the acquisition of acceleration data and at least one set of sensor data may occur within a time period of 1 to 10 minutes, 2 to 8 minutes, 3 to 7 minutes, 4 to 6 or 5 minutes, as it is assumed, for example, that a cleaning program is performed with the aid of a dishwasher after, for example, a user switches on the metering device.

[0110] One embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that at least one acceleration sensor is placed inside a treatment chamber of the dishwasher, in particular on or in a lower basket for receiving items to be cleaned, so that the predetermined placement of the at least one acceleration sensor is inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher.

[0111] Accordingly, the acquired acceleration data is then representative of the movement and / or acceleration of the at least one acceleration sensor relative to the lower basket.

[0112] The state data may be determined, for example, based on a predetermined orientation and / or positioning of the at least one acceleration sensor. For example, the amplitude of the measured acceleration values ​​represented by the at least one set of acceleration data may be related to knowledge of the placement of the at least one acceleration sensor in the processing chamber of the dishwasher. For example, the effective horizontal noise (e.g. represented by the oscillations of the at least one set of acceleration data) may change its amplitude based on whether the at least one acceleration sensor is located, for example, in the lower basket or middle basket or cutlery drawer of the processing chamber of the dishwasher.

[0113] An embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that at least one set of acceleration data represents a signal in the direction of each of two or three degrees of freedom.

[0114] The motion of at least one accelerometer is characterized in that, for example, the motion of at least one accelerometer includes one or more degrees of freedom, motion paths, or a combination thereof. For example, one or more degrees of freedom and / or motion paths can be used to represent the distance covered by the at least one accelerometer. For example, the greater the distance traveled, the stronger the amplitude represented by at least one set of acceleration data. For example, at least one accelerometer can detect acceleration data in the direction of one of two or three degrees of freedom. In the case of acquiring acceleration data in the direction of each of the three degrees of freedom, at least one accelerometer, for example, acquires acceleration data in the x-axis direction (e.g., the axis between the back wall and the door of the processing chamber), the y-axis direction (e.g., the axis between the top and the bottom of the processing chamber), and the z-axis direction (e.g., the axis between the side walls of the processing chamber).

[0115] In a further embodiment according to all aspects of the invention the acceleration data at least partially indicate a movement of the at least one acceleration sensor relative to its orientation and / or positioning in the treatment chamber of the dishwasher.

[0116] According to one embodiment of all aspects of the invention, it is provided that the state data are determined for each two or three degrees of freedom.

[0117] At least one set of acceleration data is acquired (e.g., measured) by at least one acceleration sensor in the direction of, for example, 2 axes (x-axis, y-axis) or 3 axes (x-axis, y-axis, z-axis) relative to a Cartesian coordinate system. The axes are perpendicular to each other so that two or three (all) spatial directions can be detected.

[0118] Furthermore, the acquired acceleration data indicates whether the acceleration is positive or negative.

[0119] According to one embodiment of all aspects of the invention, it is provided that the determination of the state data is respectively carried out for all two or three degrees of freedom.

[0120] For example, in determining the state data, corresponding acceleration data acquired in one of two or three directions of freedom may be compared with each other.Alternatively or additionally, state data may be determined for each set of acceleration data in one direction of two or three degrees of freedom.

[0121] If at least one set of acceleration data represents acceleration data in the direction of each of the three degrees of freedom, the sets of acceleration data in each direction can, for example, be compared with each other. In this way, for example, a recognized characteristic pattern derived from acceleration data in one direction (e.g., the x-direction or along the x-axis of a coordinate system) can be compared with a signal in another direction (e.g., the y or z-direction, or along the y or z-axis of a coordinate system) to verify the characteristic pattern that can be determined in the process of determining the state data.

[0122] An embodiment according to all aspects of the invention provides that the predetermined orientation and / or predetermined placement of the at least one acceleration sensor in the processing chamber of the dishwasher is determined based on a comparison between signals in the directions of all degrees of freedom represented by the at least one set of acceleration data.

[0123] The orientation and / or positioning of the acceleration sensor inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher is predetermined. Based on the at least one set of acceleration data acquired, for example, a predetermined orientation and / or predetermined placement of at least one acceleration sensor inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher can be determined. To this end, for example, the following can be performed:

[0124] As long as the rinsing process of the cleaning program is activated, the change of the corresponding acceleration data oscillates with different amplitudes on all axes (two or three degrees of freedom). The degree of amplitude depends on the placement of at least one acceleration sensor (and optionally on the placement of the metering device including the acceleration sensor). In the case of a defined (i.e. fixed) position of the metering device, this leads to a defined axis direction obtained by the corresponding acceleration data. If the acceleration data on one of the axes indicates a larger amplitude relative to the other axes, it is the axis between the lid and the bottom plate of the treatment chamber of the dishwasher, because the larger amplitude (e.g., oscillation) is caused by the impact of the spray of at least one spray arm on the side surface of the metering device, which leads to the movement of the acceleration sensor. This means that whenever a stronger signal than other axes appears on the z-axis, at least one acceleration sensor (and therefore also an optional metering device) is placed parallel to the side wall. If the signal is strongest on the x-axis, at least one acceleration sensor (and therefore also an optional metering device) is placed parallel to the dishwasher. This means that the position of at least one acceleration sensor (and therefore also an optional metering device) in the treatment chamber of the dishwasher can be clearly determined. This data can be used, for example, to provide users with more information about the placement of metering equipment or, in the case of malfunctions that occur from time to time, to provide advice on how to resolve them.

[0125] According to an embodiment of all aspects of the present invention, the method further comprises:

[0126] - generating user profile data based at least in part on the acquired at least one set of acceleration data and / or at least one set of sensor data, wherein the state data is further determined based on the user profile data.

[0127] For example, status data can be determined for each or at least a plurality of cleaning programs performed by the dishwasher. For example, all acceleration data, sensor data and the associated determined status data can be stored in a database. Optionally, these can be evaluated. The storage and / or evaluation can be performed locally by a device according to the second aspect of the invention, such as a metering device. Alternatively, the storage and / or evaluation can be performed by a remote system, such as a server or a server cloud. With the aid of this storage, a user profile can be generated so that, for example, in a subsequent execution of the method according to the first aspect of the invention, the acceleration data, sensor data and the associated specific status data can be regarded as historical values.

[0128] The stored acceleration data, sensor data and corresponding specific state data can also optionally be fed to a machine learning tool, for example, to identify data patterns. The data patterns can be used, for example, to provide feedback to users about their applications, point out problems or control metering equipment.

[0129] In a further exemplary embodiment according to all aspects of the invention, the state data are determined by means of an artificial neural network.

[0130] For example, at least one set of acceleration data and optionally at least one set of sensor data may be transmitted (e.g. sent) to a server comprising an artificial neural network or connected to an artificial neural network. The determination of the state data may then be performed, e.g. with the aid of the artificial neural network. The result may then be transmitted to the device and / or dishwasher according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0131] The artificial neural network comprises, for example, an evaluation algorithm, so that, for example, training cases can be learned from them as examples, which can then be summarized as the basis for determining the results (state data) after the training phase. This means that not only the examples must be remembered, but also patterns and regularities in the learning data must be identified. Different methods can be used for this purpose. For example, supervised learning, partially supervised learning, unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning and / or active learning can be used. Supervised learning can be carried out, for example, using artificial neural networks (e.g., recursive neural networks) or support vector machines. Unsupervised learning can also be performed with the aid of artificial neural networks (e.g., autoencoders). The learning data are, for example, acceleration data acquired several times and / or sensor data and / or state data acquired several times, which are determined after the operation of the artificial neural network.

[0132] The repeated acquisition of acceleration data and sensor data and state data can also be used for machine learning. For example, a user profile or one or more sets of data covered by the user profile can be determined based at least in part on machine learning.

[0133] By these measures, the reliability of the determination of the status data of the dishwasher and / or the control and / or regulation of the device and / or the dishwasher according to the second aspect of the invention and the subsequent processing of items to be cleaned by the dishwasher, in particular in order to improve the removal of dirt, can be increased.

[0134] Each of the training cases may be given, for example, by an input vector, a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data, and an output vector of the artificial neural network.

[0135] Each of the training cases can be generated, for example, by converting the control and / or regulation of an apparatus and / or dishwasher belonging to a training case according to the second aspect of the invention and determining the corresponding state data as a predetermined state (e.g. a defined execution of a cleaning process using a priori knowledge of the cleaning program parameters, e.g. which process step is performed at that time within the scope of a defined cleaning program, to give only one non-limiting example), and representatively acquiring acceleration data and optional sensor data. The acceleration data and the optional sensor data then acquired are determined, for example, as an input vector, and the (actual) process step of the cleaning program of the dishwasher is determined as an output vector of the training case as reference state data. The state data determined by the artificial neural network are then transferred to the state data of the output vector. In this way, the artificial neural network can be trained iteratively or successively, and the accuracy (e.g. hit rate) of the artificial neural network can be improved.

[0136] The artificial neural network can also be of the generative adversarial network (GAN) type. Such a GAN comprises, for example, at least two artificial neural networks that compete with each other in such a way that their results are compared with each other. In this way, the quality of the result determined by the artificial neural network can be inferred. For example, the first artificial neural network of the GAN operates using data obtained from, for example, current measurements (e.g., acquiring at least one set of acceleration data, and optionally acquiring at least one set of sensor data) and generates a statement about the result (e.g. with the aid of a corresponding generator). In the current case, for example, state data is determined. The second artificial neural network of the GAN (also called a discriminator) can now compare this statement with an ideal predetermined result or an ideal training result. The best result is obtained if the second artificial neural network has no difference or only a small difference compared to the statement of the first artificial neural network. In this way, the determination of state data with the aid of such a GAN artificial neural network can be significantly improved.

[0137] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above in this specification should also be understood in conjunction with each other in the disclosed manner. In particular, the exemplary embodiments should be understood according to the different aspects disclosed.

[0138] In particular, the previous or following description of method steps according to preferred embodiments of the method should also disclose corresponding means for performing the method steps by preferred embodiments of the device. Likewise, by disclosing means for performing the method steps, the corresponding method steps should also be disclosed.

[0139] In the following detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, in particular in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, other advantageous exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, these drawings are intended only to illustrate, rather than to determine the scope of protection of the present invention. These figures are not drawn to scale, but are merely used to illustrate the general concept of the present invention. In particular, the features included in the drawings are not intended to be considered as essential elements of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0140] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a system according to the present invention is shown;

[0141] Figure 2 A block diagram showing an embodiment of a device according to the invention for performing an embodiment of a method according to the invention;

[0142] Figure 3 A flow chart showing an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the present invention is shown;

[0143] Figure 4 A first exemplary variation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data is shown (see also exemplary embodiment A described below);

[0144] Figure 5 A second exemplary variation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data is shown (see also exemplary embodiment A described below);

[0145] Figure 6 A third exemplary variation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data is shown (see also exemplary embodiment B described below);

[0146] Figure 7 A fourth exemplary variation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data is shown (see also exemplary embodiment C described below);

[0147] Figure 8 A fifth exemplary variation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data is shown (see also exemplary embodiment C described below);

[0148] Fig. 9 A sixth exemplary variation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data is shown (see also exemplary embodiment D described below);

[0149] Fig.10 shows a seventh exemplary variation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data (see also exemplary embodiment D described below); and

[0150] Fig.11 An eighth exemplary variation situation represented by a set of acceleration data and a set of sensor data is shown (see also exemplary embodiment D described below). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0151] Figure 1 First, a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system 1 according to the present invention is shown, and the system 1 includes devices 200, 300 and 400. System 1 is configured to perform an exemplary method according to the present invention. Device 200 is an exemplary mobile device 200, which in this case can be placed in the processing chamber of a dishwasher 300. Device 200 and dishwasher 300 can each be a device according to the present invention. In addition, system 1 includes a mobile device 400 in the form of a smartphone as another device. Mobile device 400 can also perform the various steps of the exemplary method according to the present invention. However, device 400 can also be a computer, a desktop computer or a portable computer, such as a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA) or a wearable device. In addition to devices 300 and 400 or as an alternative thereto, the system may also include a server ( Figure 1 ). It is also conceivable that the system 1 further comprises less than or more than three devices. The device 400 may also represent a server. In this case, the device 400 is then operatively connected to at least one of the devices 200 or 300 via a communication network (e.g., the Internet).

[0152] Each of the devices 200 , 300 , 400 may have a communication interface in order to communicate with one or more other devices or to transfer data from one device to another and / or to exchange data from one device to another.

[0153] Figure 3 Flowchart 30 shows an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the first aspect of the present invention. Flowchart 30 may be, for example, Figure 1 The flow chart 30 may be performed by, for example, Figure 1 The device 300 shown in FIG. 30 can be executed by, for example, Figure 1 The device 200 and the Figure 1 The flow chart 30 can be executed by the device 300. Figure 1 The devices 200, 300 and 400 are shown to be implemented together.

[0154] In a first step 301, at least one set of acceleration data is acquired. For example, by means of an acceleration sensor (e.g., according to Figure 2 The acceleration sensor 215 is integrated according to Figure 1 During the detection, the acceleration sensor is located in the processing chamber of the dishwasher 300. Figure 1 In the case where the device 200 comprises an acceleration sensor, it is therefore at least temporarily located inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher 300 during the acquisition.

[0155] In an optional second step, at least one set of sensor data is acquired. For example, by means of a sensor (e.g., according to Figure 2 The temperature sensor and / or timer 216) is obtained, the sensor is included in the Figure 1 During acquisition, the temperature sensor and / or the timer are located in the processing chamber of the dishwasher 300. Figure 1 In the case where the device 200 comprises a temperature sensor and / or a timer, these are at least temporarily located inside the treatment chamber of the dishwasher 300 during the acquisition period.

[0156] In a third step 303, at least one set of status data is determined. The determination of the status data may be performed, for example, by a device that has also performed steps 301 and 302. Alternatively, the determination of the status data may be performed by a device that has performed steps 301 and 302 (e.g., according to Figure 1 200) different devices (for example, according to Figure 1 Device 400) is used to perform the determination of the status data of step 303.

[0157] In a fourth step 304, the status data determined in step 303 is output or caused to be output. For example, the status data is output to device 200, 300, or 400. For example, if the status data is output to dishwasher 300, dishwasher 300 may perform cleaning of items based on the status data, to give just one example. In the event that the status data is output to device 400 (e.g., a user's mobile device), the user of device 400 may be prompted to perform an action, for example, to perform a task based on the status data. Figure 1 The device 200 is in accordance with Figure 1 The processing chamber of the dishwasher 300 is predeterminedly positioned and / or oriented.

[0158] In an optional fifth step 305, control data is determined based on the state data or based on the state data output. This specific control data can then be output. Figure 1 The device 400 or the device according to Figure 1The device 400 determines, then the device 400 may also perform step 305. Afterwards, the specific control data may be output from the device 400 to the Figure 1 The device 200 and / or 300 makes the Figure 1 The device 200 and / or 300 triggers an action corresponding to the control data, such as performing a metering or starting a cleaning program, to name a few non-limiting examples. Alternatively, the status data determined by the device 200 can be output to the device 300 and / or 400 accordingly.

[0159] In an optional sixth step 306, a set of user profile data is created, for example based on the at least one set of acceleration data acquired in step 301, the at least one set of sensor data acquired in step 302, and the state data determined in step 303. The creation of the user profile data may be performed, for example, by a device that performs the acquisition steps 301 and 302. Alternatively, the creation of the user profile data may be performed, for example, by a device that performs the determination step 303. The two devices mentioned above may be different from each other, for example, steps 301 and 302 may be performed by a device that performs the determination step 303. Figure 1 The device 200 or 300 is executed, and step 303 can be performed according to Figure 1 Alternatively, all steps 301 to 303 may be performed by a device 400 according to Figure 1 The device 200 or 300 is executed.

[0160] The step of acquiring at least one set of acceleration data 301 and / or the step of acquiring at least one set of sensor data 302 may be performed simultaneously with step 303. This means, for example, that after an initial execution of steps 301 and 302, step 303 for determining state data is performed, while steps 301 and 302 are further performed by acquiring further acceleration data (step 301) and sensor data (step 302). Subsequently, based at least in part on these further acceleration data (step 301) and sensor data (step 302) that have been acquired, for example, step 303 or steps 303 to 304 and optional steps 305 and / or 306 may be performed again.

[0161] Now, Figure 2 A block diagram 20 shows an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the second aspect of the invention for performing an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the first aspect of the invention. Figure 2 The block diagram 20 can be used as Figure 1 Examples of the illustrated device 200 , the illustrated dishwasher 300 , or the illustrated mobile device 400 (or a portion thereof).

[0162] The processor 210 of the device 20 is designed in particular as a microprocessor, a microcontroller unit, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0163] The processor 210 executes program instructions stored in a program memory 212 and stores, for example, intermediate results, etc. in a working or main memory 211. The program memory 212 is, for example, a non-volatile memory, such as a flash memory, a magnetic memory, an EEPROM memory (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) and / or an optical memory. The main memory 211 is, for example, a volatile or non-volatile memory, in particular a random access memory (RAM), such as a static RAM memory (SRAM), a dynamic RAM memory (DRAM), a ferroelectric RAM memory (FeRAM) and / or a magnetic RAM memory (MRAM).

[0164] The program memory 212 is preferably a local data storage medium firmly connected to the device 20. A data storage medium permanently connected to the device 20 is, for example, a hard disk built into the device 20. Alternatively, the data storage medium may also be a data storage medium detachably connected to the device 20, for example.

[0165] The program memory 212 contains, for example, an operating system of the device 20, which is at least partially loaded into the main memory 211 when the device 20 is started and executed by the processor 210. In particular, when the device 20 is started, at least a portion of the kernel of the operating system is loaded into the main memory 211 and executed by the processor 210.

[0166] In particular, the operating system allows the device 20 to be used for data processing. For example, it manages resources such as main memory 211 and program memory 212, communication interface 213, optional input and output devices 214, provides basic functions to other programs through programming interfaces and controls the execution of programs.

[0167] The processor 210 further controls the communication interface 213, which may be, for example, a network interface and may be designed as a network card, a network module and / or a modem. The communication interface 213 is particularly configured to establish the device 20 (eg, according to Figure 1The communication interface 213 may, for example, receive data (via the communication system) and forward it to the processor 210 and / or receive data from the processor 210 and send it (via the communication system). Examples of communication systems are a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless network (e.g. according to the IEEE 802.11 standard, the Bluetooth (LE) standard and / or the NFC standard), a wired network, a mobile network, a telephone network and / or the Internet. For example, it is possible to communicate with the Internet and / or other devices using the communication interface 213. In accordance with Figure 1 In the case of the devices 200, 300, 400, the communication interface 213 can be used to communicate with other devices 200, 300, 400 or the Internet.

[0168] Via this communication interface 213, in particular, at least one set of acceleration data (see Figure 3 Step 301), at least one set of sensor data (see according to Figure 3 Step 302) and / or a set of status data (participate in accordance with Figure 3 Step 303 or 304) may be acquired (received) or output to another device via these.

[0169] In addition, the processor 210 can control at least one optional input / output device 214. The input / output device 214 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display unit, a microphone, a touch-sensitive display unit, a speaker, a reader, a drive, and / or a camera. For example, the input / output device 214 can receive input from a user and forward it to the processor 210 and / or receive and output data from the processor 210.

[0170] Finally, the device 20 may include further components 215 , 216 .

[0171] The acceleration sensor 215 can, for example, obtain one or more sets of acceleration data (see Figure 3 301 in step 301).

[0172] Sensor 216 is, for example, a temperature sensor for obtaining temperature data from at least one set of sensor data, and / or a timer for obtaining time data from at least one set of sensor data, and / or an optional brightness sensor for obtaining brightness data from at least one set of sensor data. Temperature data, time data, and brightness data may be included or represented by at least one set of sensor data (see Figure 3 302 in step 302).

[0173] The following exemplary embodiments are also to be understood as disclosed:

[0174] The solution according to the invention makes it possible to unambiguously (ie precisely or correctly) describe the processes and program sequences of a dishwasher, both for dishwashers for domestic use and for commercial use.

[0175] For this purpose, for example, a metering device may perform and / or control the method according to the first aspect of the invention, it may operate autonomously, and it may deliver a plurality of different agents to the washing process.

[0176] According to the second aspect of the invention, the device (e.g. according to Figure 1 The metering device 200 of the present invention comprises at least one acceleration sensor which can be placed in the process chamber of the dishwasher. Such an acceleration sensor (e.g. mounted on an electronic board of the (separate) metering device) is able to fully detect vibrations, shocks and / or mechanical events during the dishwashing process or cleaning program and make them easy to interpret. In combination with other sensors (e.g. temperature sensors), the cleaning program can be clearly described. The data determined by the sensor can, for example, be provided to an application for machine learning, from which, for example, pattern analyses can then be created and these pattern analyses can then be used to determine control data for controlling and / or regulating the device according to the second aspect of the invention (e.g. metering device or dishwasher).

[0177] The present invention provides the following advantages:

[0178] - A complete sensory description of the cleaning program performed by the dishwasher;

[0179] - a clear description of the process events;

[0180] - Machine-independent applicability;

[0181] - Create a washing profile;

[0182] -Applications of machine learning and pattern recognition; and

[0183] - Development of algorithms, for example for controlling and / or regulating metering devices.

[0184] Exemplary embodiment A - normal wash process of a cleaning program performed by a dishwasher:

[0185] Figure 4The acquired data 415 from the acceleration sensor (415x, 415y, 415z) and the temperature sensor (416) are shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the variation of the acquired acceleration data (415x, 415y, 415z) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the variation of the temperature (416). The acceleration data (415x, 415y, 415z) and the sensor data (416) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Figure 4 The markings in the figure identify the following process steps: filling, cold pre-wash (without water change), main wash, water change, 1st rinse, final rinse and drying.

[0186] The acceleration sensor and temperature sensor used to acquire data are included in the metering device (e.g., according to Figure 1 In the apparatus 200), the device can be removably placed in the processing chamber of the dishwasher (for example, according to Figure 1 In the present case, the metering device is placed upright in the lower basket of the process chamber and is fixed between the plate holding devices of the lower basket. Figure 4 The variation of the cleaning program in all axes of the acceleration sensor in combination with the temperature is shown. The evaluation of the acquired (eg measured) acceleration data of the acceleration sensor in combination with the temperature allows a clear description of the cleaning program.

[0187] Surprisingly, despite the fact that the metering equipment was fixed in the basket, the accelerometers still detected significant vibrations in all three axes (e.g. Figure 4 The vibrations are caused by the movement of the spray arm and the impact of the water on the metering device and the operation of the dishwasher's circulation pump. This makes the acceleration sensor suitable for determining whether the washing process has started (in Figure 4 Compared to the running cleaning program, during the filling phase (see also Figure 4 and Figure 5 ), only a significantly reduced and uniform signal can be detected in all directions (at Figure 4 marked as “silent noise” in the figure).

[0188] Figure 5 The acquired data 515 from the acceleration sensor (515x, 515y, 515z) and the temperature sensor (516) is shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the variation of the acquired acceleration data (515x, 515y, 515z) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the variation of the temperature (516). The acceleration data (515x, 515y, 515z) and the sensor data (516) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Figure 5 The markings in the figure can identify the following process steps: filling, main wash, water change, 1st rinse, final rinse.

[0189] By comparing the quiet noise level with the current level, it can therefore be clearly determined whether a cleaning program has started.

[0190] As long as the rinsing phase of the cleaning program is active, the signal oscillates with different deflections in all axes. The degree of deflection depends on the design of the metering device and therefore on the placement of the acceleration sensor. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the acceleration sensor is placed upright on a plate surrounded by the metering device. In the case of a defined (ie fixed) position of the metering device, this leads to a defined axis direction. Figure 4 In the example of , the metering device and therefore also the plate are parallel to the side walls of the process chamber of the dishwasher. Therefore, the x-axis points to the rear wall and the door, the y-axis points to the lid and the bottom and the z-axis points to the side walls on the left and right. Now, the z-axis clearly shows the strongest oscillations compared to the other axes. These oscillations are caused by the impact of the jet on the side surfaces of the metering device and thus cause the acceleration sensor to move. This means that whenever a stronger signal appears on the z-axis than on the other axes, the metering device is placed parallel to the side wall. If the signal is strongest on the x-axis, the metering device is placed parallel to the side wall. This means that the position of the metering device in the dishwasher can be clearly determined. This data can be used, for example, to provide the user with instructions on how to place the metering device or to provide advice on how to solve any problems that may arise.

[0191] Exemplary Embodiment B - Detecting a water change during a cleaning cycle of a dishwasher:

[0192] Self-sufficient measuring and / or metering systems, such as metering equipment (e.g. Figure 1 The device 200 of the present invention should be able to identify the individual program steps during the running cleaning program in order to be able to ensure, for example, an individual preparation of the detergent. This is particularly important for self-sufficient automatic metering devices, since, depending on the time of the rinse process, the metering process must be triggered to ensure satisfactory performance for the user. Each rinse process is characterized by a water change, in which at least a part (usually the entire volume) is replaced with fresh water (usually cold water). As part of the cleaning program of the dishwasher (e.g., according to Figure 1 In the case of dishwashers, such water changes usually take place after a pre-rinse or pre-cleaning cycle, after a main wash or main cleaning cycle and after an intermediate wash cycle. They are characterized by a pumping process in which the water from the previous rinse portion is discharged by means of a wastewater pump, and a filling process in which fresh water flows into the dishwasher. During these processes, the rotation of the spray arm is stopped.

[0193] Figure 6The acquired data 615 from the acceleration sensor (615y) and the temperature sensor (616) is shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the acquired acceleration data (615y) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the change of the temperature (616). The acceleration data (615y) and the sensor data (616) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Figure 6 The markings in the figure identify the following process steps: cold pre-wash (without water change), main wash, drain pump, 1st rinse, final rinse and drying.

[0194] Figure 6 The y-axis shows the changes represented by the acquired acceleration sensor data for several water changes. The y-axis is particularly sensitive to the process because its orientation is particularly towards the machine floor. The acceleration sensor first detects the wastewater pump ( Figure 6 This is followed by a static period without movement of the spray arm, during which water flows in. The combination of these two processes clearly describes a water change. If the signal of the acceleration sensor is combined with the signal as temperature data acquired by the temperature sensor, the process can be clearly described. This is because if cold water flows into the machine, then after restarting the circulation pump (in Figure 6 marked "First Rinse" or at the beginning of the "Final Rinse" section), the internal temperature will drop significantly.

[0195] Therefore, a water change can be unambiguously determined based on the acceleration data acquired by the acceleration sensor and the temperature data acquired by the temperature sensor by identifying a pumping process and / or a possible subsequent rest period.

[0196] In cases where a pumping process cannot be clearly identified, for example due to the placement of the metering device, it is sometimes sufficient to combine the stationary phase after a restart with the temperature drop as a unique signal and to infer from this that a water change has taken place. When a stationary phase is identified, the metering device can, for example, start a timer to monitor when a movement is detected again on the axes of the acceleration sensor, which detects the movement of the acceleration sensor on these axes. If this occurs within a defined time window and the temperature drops within the defined time window, a water change is also reliably detected here.

[0197] Reliable detection of water changes is important for describing the entire washing process or the cleaning program performed by the dishwasher, since a clear distinction must be made between whether the subsequent rinse cycle of a cleaning program is a cleaning cycle, an intermediate rinse cycle or a rinse cycle.

[0198] Example Embodiment C - Identifying a Drying Cycle of a Cleaning Program Executed by a Dishwasher:

[0199] After the final rinse (see Example B above), the dishwasher (e.g. according to Figure 1 The drying phase is started with the device 300 of FIG. 1 . In the drying phase, the dishes are dried based on the energy stored in the previous rinse (corresponding to the heat capacity of the different dishware materials). However, the drying phase is characterized in particular by the fact that the spray arm is no longer moving. For example, similar to the embodiment A with water injection, the drying is a different "silent noise" phase, since no water circulates. This means that by comparing the oscillations, the drying phase can be clearly distinguished from the previous rinse cycle in all axes of the acceleration sensor (see Figure 6 and Figure 7 ).

[0200] Figure 7 The acquired data 715 from the acceleration sensor (715x, 715y, 715z) and the temperature sensor (716) are shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the variation of the acquired acceleration data (715x, 715y, 715z) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the variation of the temperature (716). The acceleration data (715x, 715y, 715z) and the sensor data (716) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Figure 7 The markings in the figure identify the following process steps: main wash, water change, 1st rinse, final rinse and drying.

[0201] from Figure 7 It can be clearly seen that the dishwasher stops the spray arm rotation between 62 and 63 minutes. The water is pumped out and the dishes are dried using its own heat. For the user, the waiting period now begins, during which the dishwasher may be inactive. Self-sufficient metering devices (e.g., according to Figure 1 The device 200 can, for example, start a timer at the beginning of the waiting time. If the timer exceeds a defined value and the acceleration sensor does not detect more movement on all axes, it can be clearly assumed that the drying phase has begun.

[0202] Therefore, it is necessary to compare the activation level with the current level to determine whether the spray arm movement has ended. Furthermore, by combining the acceleration data with the time measurement, a clear identification of a drying process can be made, which is carried out as part of the cleaning program of the dishwasher.

[0203] Figure 8The acquired data 815 from the acceleration sensor (815z) and the temperature sensor (816) is shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the variation of the acquired acceleration data (815z) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the variation of the temperature (816). The acceleration data (815z) and the sensor data (816) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Figure 8 The markings in the figure identify the following process steps: water filling, main wash, water change, 1st rinse, final rinse and zeolite drying including ventilation and heating.

[0204] In an exemplary embodiment, the drying process is, for example, a heat-activated drying process, also known as a zeolite drying method. In an ideal washing process, this method eliminates the need to heat the dishes during the final rinse cycle; in fact, the dishes may even cool down slightly (see Figure 8 ). The transition to the drying cycle can now be determined again by means of a horizontal comparison. However, the timer combined with the movement signal will now detect oscillations on all axes again after about 5 minutes, because in the so-called zeolite drying method, the fan is then started, which conveys moist air to the zeolite adsorber. The water contained in the air is absorbed there by the zeolite. Since adsorption is an exothermic process, the drying air flowing back into the rinse tank is strongly heated, which leads to an increase in the internal temperature. This means that in the special case of zeolites, the temperature rises significantly again during drying. This process can again be identified using an acceleration sensor combined with a temperature sensor, and thus also the special case of the zeolite drying method, since no other dishwasher (e.g. European design) is an actively heated drying process.

[0205] Thus, by the combination of the acquired acceleration data and temperature data, a zeolite-active rinse cycle can be identified during the drying process of a dishwasher cleaning program.

[0206] Example Embodiment D—End of Cycle Detection of a Cleaning Program Performed by a Dishwasher:

[0207] For independent metering equipment (e.g. Figure 1 The end of the oscillation phase was originally referred to by the dishwasher (e.g., according to Figure 1 The start of the drying phase of a cleaning program performed by the device 300) and is independent of the absolute end of the washing cycle.

[0208] Fig. 9The acquired data 915 from the acceleration sensor (915x, 915y, 915z) and the temperature sensor (916) is shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the variation of the acquired acceleration data (915x, 915y, 915z) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the variation of the temperature (916). The acceleration data (915x, 915y, 915z) and the sensor data (916) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Fig. 9 The markings in the figure identify the following process steps: pre-wash, water dilution, main wash, pumping after main wash ("Pumping (end of main cycle)"), water change, 1st rinse, final rinse, pumping after final rinse ("Pumping (end of final rinse cycle)"), drying and final pumping.

[0209] Fig.10 The acquired data 1015 from the acceleration sensor (1015x, 1015y, 1015z) and the temperature sensor (1016) is shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the variation of the acquired acceleration data (1015x, 1015y, 1015z) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the variation of the temperature (1016). The acceleration data (1015x, 1015y, 1015z) and the sensor data (1016) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Fig.10 The markings in the figure identify the following process steps: pre-wash, main wash, water change, 1st rinse, final rinse, drying and final pumping.

[0210] Fig.11 The acquired data 1115 from the acceleration sensor (1115x, 1115y, 1115z) and the temperature sensor (1116) are shown in a graph. The x-axis represents time in minutes. The y1-axis of the variation of the acquired acceleration data (1115x, 1115y, 1115z) represents the oscillation of the acceleration sensor. The y2-axis represents the variation of the temperature (1116). The acceleration data (1115x, 1115y, 1115z) and the sensor data (1116) indicating the temperature are acquired at a sampling rate of 10 Hz. According to Fig.11 The markings in the figure identify the following process steps: filling, main wash, water change, 1st rinse, final rinse and drying.

[0211] The end of the rinse cycle is usually indicated to the consumer by an acoustic signal or a message on the display. However, the metering devices in the process chamber of the dishwasher do not have this option. For example, many dishwasher cleaning programs end the drying phase with one or more pumping steps to remove condensation and residual liquid. The operation of the wastewater pump in turn causes sufficient vibrations, which can be detected by an acceleration sensor (see Fig. 9 , 10 and 11, “Final Pumping”).

[0212] Thus, the end of a cleaning program can be identified by a combination of acceleration data and time data acquired during a drying process of the cleaning program, for example time data acquired with a timer.

[0213] Example Embodiment E - Use of Results:

[0214] A metrological device (e.g. according to Figure 1 The device 200 can be used, for example, to inspect, monitor and transmit dishwashers (e.g., according to Figure 1 All sensor data, in particular acceleration data, temperature data and time data, can be stored in a database and evaluated. The storage and evaluation can be done locally, but preferably in a remote system, such as a server or a server cloud. The data can also optionally be fed into a machine learning tool, for example to identify data patterns. The data patterns can be used, for example, to provide feedback to the user about his application, to point out problems or to control the metering device.

[0215] The examples are as follows:

[0216] (Separate) metering equipment (e.g. according to Figure 1 A user of the device 200) selects a specific cleaning program on his dishwasher, but always (e.g. Figure 4 ). The metering device observes the progress of the cleaning program. In a conventional setting, for example, if the metering device detects spray arm movement and temperature increases, the metering device will meter detergent. Now, however, the metering device can learn to meter earlier due to the early recognition of the cleaning program pattern. This significantly extends the cleaning time of the chemicals present and thus achieves an improved cleaning result, for example.

[0217] In another example, a user of such a (self-sufficient) metering device uses a cleaning program with a long cleaning duration during the week and always uses a cleaning program with a short cleaning duration on the weekends. Using the acquired data, a user profile can be created and, for example, the amount of detergent to be metered can be adjusted for the individual cleaning programs during the week and on the weekends.

[0218] In principle, one or more of the following aspects apply to all aspects of the invention:

[0219] - All data can be stored locally and remotely;

[0220] -All data can be subjected to additional data analysis;

[0221] -All data can be edited using machine learning tools;

[0222] - Conclusions can be drawn from the data about user behavior;

[0223] - a user profile can be created from the data; and

[0224] - From the results of the data analysis and / or machine learning, algorithms (instructions) for the operation of the self-sufficient metering device can be derived.

[0225] Terms used in the claims such as "comprising", "having", "containing", "including" etc. do not exclude other elements or steps. The expression "at least partly" covers the "partially" case and the "completely" case. The wording "and / or" should be understood as meaning that alternative forms and combinations should be disclosed, i.e., "A and / or B" means "(A) or (B) or (A and B)". The use of the indefinite article does not exclude a plurality. A single device may perform the functions of several units or devices mentioned in the claims. The reference signs shown in the claims should not be seen as limitations to the means and steps used.

[0226] The exemplary embodiments of the invention described in this specification and the optional features and characteristics mentioned in each case should also be understood to be disclosed in all combinations. In particular, unless otherwise explicitly stated, the description of the features included in the examples of the embodiments should not be understood in the present case as meaning that the features are indispensable or essential for the functioning of the examples. The order of the method steps described in the various flow charts in this specification is not mandatory; alternative orders of the method steps can be envisaged. The method steps can be implemented in various ways, for example, it is conceivable to implement the method steps in software (by program instructions), hardware or a combination of the two.

Claims

1. A method (30), comprising: - detecting at least one set of acceleration data indicating a change in measured acceleration values, wherein The at least one set of acceleration data is detected by at least one acceleration sensor in a processing chamber of the dishwasher (300); - determining status data indicative of a process step in a cleaning program performed by said dishwasher, wherein the state data is determined based on the at least one set of acceleration data; - detecting at least one set of sensor data indicative of changes in temperature and / or time, wherein the state data is further determined based on the at least one set of sensor data; - output or cause output of determined status data, wherein the at least one set of acceleration data is acquired based on a predetermined orientation and / or positioning of the at least one acceleration sensor in the processing chamber of the dishwasher, wherein the at least one set of acceleration data represents a signal in the direction of each of two or three degrees of freedom, Wherein the predetermined orientation and / or predetermined positioning of the at least one acceleration sensor in the processing chamber of the dishwasher is determined based on a comparison between signals in directions of all degrees of freedom represented by the at least one set of acceleration data.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: - control data are determined at least partially based on the status data, wherein the control data cause the metering device to carry out metering of the cleaning agent and / or care agent defined in accordance with the control data.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the status data represent one or more process steps i) to xi) of the cleaning program: i) starting the cleaning procedure; ii) injecting water during said cleaning procedure; iii) performing water changes during said cleaning procedure; iv) performing a pre-rinse during said cleaning program; v) performing main cleaning during said cleaning program; vi) performing a first rinse, in particular an intermediate rinse, during the cleaning program; vii) performing a further rinsing step, in particular a further intermediate rinse, during the cleaning process; viii) performing a final rinse during said cleaning process; ix) drying during the cleaning process; ix) performing alternative drying during the cleaning process, in particular zeolite-activated drying; and xi) ending the cleaning process.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one set of sensor data is obtained from a temperature sensor and / or a timer. 5 . The method according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one set of acceleration data and the at least one set of sensor data are acquired in parallel.

6. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the acceleration data and / or the at least one set of sensor data are each acquired within a predetermined time period.

7. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one acceleration sensor is arranged inside the processing chamber of the dishwasher, in particular on or in a lower basket for receiving items to be cleaned, so that the predetermined positioning of the at least one acceleration sensor is inside the processing chamber of the dishwasher.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the state data are determined for all two or three degrees of freedom, respectively.

9. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the determination of the status data is further based on one or more of the following steps: - representing the noise level by the at least one set of acceleration data at two acquisition times; - comparing the variation represented by the at least one set of acceleration data with the variation represented by the temperature of the sensor data; and - comparing the variation represented by the at least one set of acceleration data with the variation represented by the time of the sensor data.

10. The method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: - creating a set of user profile data based at least in part on the acquired at least one set of acceleration data and / or the at least one set of sensor data, wherein the state data is further determined based on the user profile data.

11. An apparatus configured to execute and / or control the method according to one of claims 1 to 10, or comprising means for executing and / or controlling the steps of the method (30) according to one of claims 1 to 10.

12. System comprising one or more devices configured to execute and / or control the method according to one of claims 1 to 10 or having means for executing and / or controlling the steps of the method according to one of claims 1 to 10.

13. A computer-readable storage medium containing a computer program, wherein the computer program comprises program instructions which, when the computer program is executed on a processor, cause the processor to perform and / or control the method according to one of claims 1 to 10.

Images