A dishwasher for washing washware in the form of drinking vessels

Abstract

The invention relates to a washing machine (1) for cleaning drinking vessels, wherein the washing machine (1) has a treatment zone (3) and a conveying device (6) for conveying washing items (2) to be cleaned from an introduction area (4) of the washing machine (1) through the treatment zone (3) to a removal area (5) of the washing machine (1). The conveying device (6) is designed to convey a previously determined or determinable group of washing items (2) to be cleaned from the introduction area (4) through the treatment zone (3) in batches and to subsequently supply the group of washing items (2) as cleaned washing items (2) to the removal area (5).

Description

[0001] This invention relates generally to the field of commercial appliance cleaning, and more particularly to a washing machine as described in the preamble of independent patent claim 1.

[0002] Therefore, the present invention relates in particular to a washing machine for washing dishes in the form of drinking containers, especially in the form of drinking cups, porcelain cups, glass cups or bottles, wherein the washing machine has at least one processing area and at least one conveying device for conveying the dishes to be washed from the inlet area of ​​the washing machine through the at least one processing area of ​​the washing machine to the outlet area of ​​the washing machine.

[0003] The washing machine's inlet area, particularly the dirty side inlet area, is designed to allow for the manual input of dishes to be washed in at least one processing zone of the washing machine. Conversely, the washing machine's outlet area, particularly the clean side outlet area, is designed to allow for the manual removal of dishes that have been cleaned in at least one processing zone of the washing machine.

[0004] Washing machines with this type of conveyor system are typically used in the commercial sector. Unlike household washing machines, which hold the dishes to be washed in a fixed position within the machine during cleaning, this type of conveyor washing machine transports the dishes through different processing zones of the machine.

[0005] Conveyor washing machines of the aforementioned type are known, for example, from document DE 19 644 438 A1. Viewed in the direction of dish transport, such conveyor washing machines sequentially comprise: a pre-wash zone with pre-wash nozzles for removing coarse dirt from the dishes; at least one washing zone with washing nozzles for spraying washing liquid onto the dishes; a pre-rinse zone with pre-rinse nozzles; and a final rinse zone with raw water nozzles. The final rinse nozzles spray final rinse liquid, particularly raw water, onto the dishes. The sprayed final rinse liquid enters a pre-rinse tank, from which it is conveyed to the pre-rinse nozzles via a pump line. The pre-rinse liquid sprayed by the pre-rinse nozzles flows back into the pre-rinse tank. A portion of the pre-rinse liquid sprayed by the pre-rinse nozzles is guided by deflectors into the washing tank of the final washing zone. A liquid cascade system allows liquid to flow in the opposite direction to the direction of dish delivery from the pre-rinse tank to the last wash tank, and from that wash tank forward to the tank that collects the liquid sprayed by the pre-rinse nozzles in the pre-rinse zone.

[0006] Unlike stationary cabinet-style washing machines (such as household washing machines or undercounter machines) that operate in batches, conveyor-type washing machines allow for continuous operation by transporting dishes through different processing zones (especially the washing and rinsing zones). However, a disadvantage of conveyor-type washing machines is that they require relatively more space in the installation area (storage room).

[0007] However, there is a growing demand for utilizing the advantages of conveyor-type washing machines in applications where only a small installation area is available.

[0008] Nowadays, hot beverage machines, especially self-service coffee machines of various models and sizes, are almost always available in hotels, company canteens, public buildings, hospitals, schools, and rest stops. These machines are typically designed to fill ceramic cups with selected hot drinks; however, plastic cups are also used in vending machines installed in company or public buildings.

[0009] On the other hand, based on environmental considerations, the use of plastic cups is decreasing, and more precisely, people are increasingly inclined to use reusable tableware (glass cups, porcelain cups, etc.).

[0010] To clean ceramic cups, glass cups, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "drinking containers") after use, commercially available washing machines are typically used. Here, soiled dishes are collected together and transported to the washing machine, which is usually not located near the hot beverage station. The dishes are washed at the washing machine and then taken back to the hot beverage station or hot beverage station.

[0011] Therefore, the transition of hot beverage machines from disposable tableware to reusable tableware raises questions about the logistical support required, particularly the manpower needed to perform the various process steps, which may include collecting soiled, reusable tableware, filling the washing machine (usually provided externally), and refilling the washed tableware into the hot beverage machine.

[0012] It is impossible to install a conventional conveyor-type washing machine known from existing technology near an automatic hot beverage machine because such a conveyor-type washing machine requires relatively large space in the installation space (storage room), and such installation space is usually not available near an automatic hot beverage machine.

[0013] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to develop a washing machine of the type described at the beginning of this document, such that the washing machine has a particularly compact structure so that it can be used even in applications where conventional conveyor washing machines cannot be used due to unavailable installation space.

[0014] According to the invention, this objective is achieved by a washing machine according to independent patent claim 1, wherein advantageous improvements to the washing machine are given in the dependent claims.

[0015] Therefore, the present invention relates in particular to a washing machine for cleaning dishes in the form of drinking containers, wherein the washing machine has at least one processing area and at least one conveying device for conveying the dishes to be cleaned from the inlet area of ​​the washing machine through the at least one processing area to the outlet area of ​​the washing machine.

[0016] In particular, according to the invention, the conveying device is designed to transport in batches a group of pre-determined or determinable washable vessels to be cleaned from the inlet area through the at least one processing area, and then supply the group of washable vessels as cleaned washable vessels to the outlet area.

[0017] Instead, the conveying device is designed to transport the dishes to be cleaned one by one from the inlet area through the at least one processing area, and then supply them as cleaned dishes to the outlet area.

[0018] Obviously, the advantages that can be obtained by using the washing machine according to the invention are: the washing machine according to the invention allows for selective cleaning of the fed washing utensils individually, thereby making the washing machine particularly suitable for cleaning reusable drinking containers (e.g., coffee cups), wherein the machine can be installed directly at or adjacent to a beverage machine, especially an automatic hot beverage machine.

[0019] Currently, beverage machines, especially hot beverage machines, are usually equipped with devices for dispensing disposable containers, which become waste after use or are obligated to be recycled according to legal provisions.

[0020] Furthermore, there are beverage machines that do not provide or dispense containers, and users use their own ceramic cups, which they then clean themselves afterward. Therefore, if users are not mindful of water conservation, a large amount of tap water is unnecessarily consumed. Correspondingly, a large amount of unnecessary wastewater is also generated, and additionally, paper towels are needed to dry their reusable containers, which also become waste.

[0021] Due to the compact structure of the washing machine according to the invention, it is particularly suitable as a reusable beverage container washing machine (e.g., a coffee cup washing machine), which can be installed close to the hot beverage / coffee machine or even as a part of the hot beverage machine as an integral component.

[0022] Conveyor washing machines have an output area where soiled dishes (especially drinking containers) are introduced into the input area. Additionally, conveyor washing machines have an output area that is spatially separate from the input area, where clean dishes can be removed.

[0023] Washing utensils (drinking containers, such as porcelain cups, glass cups, etc.) can be fed in separately (i.e., one after another) and taken out in the same manner; however, in principle, it is also possible to load them in smaller groups.

[0024] In particular, the washing machine according to the invention is a hybrid washing machine, which combines the technology of a stationary washing machine for batch processes with the technology of a conveyor washing machine designed for continuous operation. On the one hand, the washing machine according to the invention provides the advantages of a stationary washing machine designed for batch processes, while on the other hand, it also utilizes the advantages of a conveyor washing machine. The space requirement for installing the washing machine according to the invention corresponds to to the maximum extent the space requirement of a stationary cabinet washing machine designed, which simultaneously enables continuous operation of the washing machine as known in conveyor washing machines and mentioned therein as an advantage.

[0025] In particular, it is conceivable that the conveying equipment is designed to selectively transport pre-determined batches of washbasins to be cleaned from the inlet area through the at least one processing area, and then supply the groups of washbasins as clean washbasins to the outlet area; or to transport the washbasins to be cleaned one by one from the inlet area through the at least one processing area, and then supply them as clean washbasins to the outlet area. Thus, it is particularly possible to individually process and individually transport the treated washbasins to the outlet area.

[0026] In other words, the user of the washing machine can place their personal ceramic cup in the inlet area of ​​the washing machine, which ensures that the personal ceramic cup is also output in a recognizable manner in the outlet area.

[0027] The washing machine is therefore particularly suitable for coffee shops where customers bring their own ceramic cups, which still need to be washed on-site before being filled with hot drinks, for example. The ceramic cups to be washed can then be individually conveyed from the inlet area through the processing area and subsequently supplied to the outlet area.

[0028] On the other hand, washing machines are also suitable for situations where multiple dishes need to be cleaned simultaneously, such as when dishes (which cannot be personalized) are piling up. In this case, the dishes to be cleaned can be guided through the processing area in batches as groups.

[0029] In a conceivable implementation of the solution according to the invention, the conveying device of the washing machine has at least one conveyor track, particularly in the form of a conveyor belt, wherein the at least one conveyor track is designed to individually guide the dishes through at least one processing chamber of the washing machine. In this regard, it is particularly conceivable that the width of the conveyor track be correspondingly narrower. In a preferred implementation of the washing machine according to the invention, the at least one conveyor track thus has an effective width preferably at most 30 cm and preferably at most 15 cm.

[0030] What is particularly advantageous for large coffee shops is that the conveyor system has at least two conveyor tracks that extend parallel to each other, especially in the form of conveyor belts. In order for each of the two conveyor tracks to transport the washed dishes individually through at least one processing area, the corresponding (smaller) width of the conveyor tracks should be selected, wherein each conveyor track has an effective width of at most 30 cm and preferably at most 15 cm.

[0031] To enable the selective transport of groups of washers through the at least one processing zone in batches or individually, an improvement to the washing machine according to the invention proposes that the conveying device comprises: a first conveying track, particularly in the form of a conveyor belt; and at least one second conveying track, particularly in the form of a conveyor belt, wherein the first conveying track is assigned to individual washers, and wherein the at least one second conveying track is assigned to the remaining washers. Here, the first conveying track is designed to output the washers transported from the at least one processing zone of the washing machine in the take-out area of ​​the washing machine, particularly in a manner spatially separate from the washers transported from the at least one processing zone of the washing machine via the at least one second conveying track.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the solution of the present invention, the washing machine has a control device designed to activate the at least one conveying device in such a way that the dishes to be washed are intermittently conveyed from the inlet area of ​​the washing machine through the at least one processing area to the outlet area of ​​the washing machine by means of the at least one conveying device.

[0033] In this context, "intermittently" means: using conveying equipment, for example, to transport dishes to be washed from an inlet area to at least one processing area, where the conveying equipment stops, and the dishes are held in place and washed (washing phase, rinsing phase, and optionally subsequently drying phase) in the processing area, followed by conveying the washed dishes to an outlet area. By performing different processes sequentially in the same processing area over time, the space requirement of the washing machine is reduced.

[0034] However, alternatively, it is conceivable that the washing machine has a control device designed to activate the at least one conveying device in such a way that the dishes to be cleaned are continuously, and especially at a previously determined or determinable conveying speed, transported through the at least one processing zone via the at least one conveying device. In this context, it is proposed that at least two processing zones be arranged one after another in the direction of dish transport.

[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, the washing machine is designed to individually output washed dishes in its take-out area, allowing them to enter the take-in area of ​​the washing machine and be processed in at least one processing area, such that the washed dishes processed in the at least one processing area can be clearly assigned to an individual. This feature is particularly helpful when used in coffee shops where customers can bring their own cups or other drinking containers.

[0036] To achieve this implementation, it is conceivable that the washing machine preferably has a system for identifying dishes in or at the inlet area, wherein the system for identifying dishes is designed to assign an identifier to the dishes in or at the inlet area, the identifier allowing for clear identification of the dishes delivered to the inlet area in the take-out area of ​​the washing machine.

[0037] In this context, it is conceivable that the washing machine preferably has a system for identifying dishes in or at the inlet area, wherein the system for identifying dishes is designed to assign an identifier to the dishes in or at the inlet area, the identifier allowing for clear identification of the dishes delivered to the inlet area in the take-out area of ​​the washing machine.

[0038] Different solutions are considered for systems used to identify washers. For example, the system for identifying washers may have an RFID device, which is used to identify washers preferably automatically and without contact in the entry area of ​​the washing machine.

[0039] As an alternative or addition, the system for identifying washware may have a barcode reader for automatically and non-contactly identifying washware, preferably in the inlet area of ​​the washing machine.

[0040] As an alternative or addition, the system for identifying washware may have a laser scanner device for preferably automatically detecting at least one surface-specific feature that characterizes the washware and is therefore used for preferably non-contact identification of the washware in the introduction area of ​​the washing machine.

[0041] It can be envisioned that, in order to assign an identifier to a dish, preferably located in the inlet area of ​​a washing machine, a system for identifying the dish uses the corresponding surface microstructure of the dish as a distinguishing feature. Therefore, a characteristic bit sequence can be generated based on the unique surface microstructure for each dish, forming an identifier or at least a portion of an identifier, or the identifier can be assigned to a bit sequence, wherein the surface microstructure is preferably recorded at high resolution at a previously determined or determinable, defined dish location in the inlet area of ​​the washing machine.

[0042] As an alternative or addition, the system for identifying washware may have a QR code reader for automatically and non-contactly identifying washware, preferably in the inlet area of ​​the washing machine.

[0043] As an alternative or addition, the system for identifying dishes may have a recognition device, particularly based on the YUV color model, for identifying dishes preferably automatically and without contact in the introduction area of ​​the washing machine.

[0044] The advantage in principle is that the system for identifying washers is designed to detect, preferably automatically or selectively, at least one feature of a washer being fed into the inlet area of ​​the washing machine, wherein the system for identifying washers is also designed to re-identify the corresponding washer in the outlet area of ​​the washing machine by means of the at least one feature detected in the inlet area of ​​the washing machine, and preferably to mark it accordingly, or to make it personalized, eye-catching or different from other washers in the outlet area.

[0045] According to the washing machine implementation of the invention, the at least one processing zone is designed to allow at least one dish supplied to the at least one processing zone by the at least one conveying device to temporarily and continuously undergo washing, rinsing, and optionally drying downstream of the rinsing.

[0046] Alternatively, the washing machine may have: at least one first processing zone designed as a washing zone; and at least one second processing zone located downstream of the at least one first processing zone in the transport direction of the washed dishes, the at least one second processing zone being designed as a rinsing zone, particularly a final rinsing zone, wherein optionally, the washing machine may also have at least one third processing zone designed as a drying zone and located downstream of the at least one second processing zone in the transport direction of the washed dishes.

[0047] According to an embodiment of the washing machine of the invention, the washing machine has an additional conveying device for preferably automatically and especially selectively conveying the washed dishes from the take-out area of ​​the washing machine to a dispenser, particularly to a dispenser for cold or hot drinks for a beverage machine or coffee machine, wherein the washing machine also has a means for positioning and / or orienting the dishes relative to the dispenser.

[0048] Furthermore, it can be envisioned that the washing machine is equipped with a storage system to return, in particular, dishes that have been or are to be introduced into the washing machine's entry area to the operator of the washing machine, or to allow for the reuse of dishes that have been or are to be introduced into the washing machine's entry area.

[0049] Preferably, the input and output areas, which are spatially separated, are located on opposite sides of the machine.

[0050] For transfer to the conveying equipment, the washers may require a certain registration and orientation. Correct registration and / or orientation can be achieved mechanically within the washing machine, or more simply, the user can ensure correct registration and / or orientation during loading (i.e., when the washers are introduced into the input area). As an aid, the desired orientation can be visually indicated, for example.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the input area has an access entrance with a guide path corresponding to the drinking container to be cleaned, wherein the orientation and possible registration of the washing vessel (drinking container) can be preset by means of the guide path when the washing vessel (drinking container) is introduced into the input area of ​​the washing machine.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the washing machine of the present invention, the output area of ​​the washing machine is designed as a storage area where a previously determined or determinable number of washed drinking containers can be temporarily stored. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the input area is designed as a storage area to temporarily store drinking containers that still need to be washed.

[0053] It is particularly preferred that the washing machine has a storage area in which a previously determined or determinable number of washed drinking containers can be temporarily stored, wherein a conveying device is designed to convey the drinking containers from the storage area to the output area of ​​the washing machine as needed.

[0054] The advantage of this solution is that the drinking container is only dispensed from the output area when the user needs it. This prevents washed dishes from becoming dirty in the output area.

[0055] The tray can be used as a storage area, and a conveyor can push cleaned drinking containers (such as ceramic cups, mugs, etc.) onto the tray one by one. For this purpose, the conveyor can, for example, have a conveyor belt.

[0056] If a washing machine is used in combination with a hot beverage dispenser, it is advantageous to preheat the drinking containers in the storage area or at least the output area of ​​the washing machine. In this context, it is conceivable, for example, to install a corresponding heating device in the storage area or the output area. A heating coil below the storage area or the output area, or a radiant heater above the storage area or the output area, can serve as the heating device.

[0057] In addition, the heating device can be arranged such that the drinking containers are heated during their journey from the final rinsing area to the output area or storage area. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the heating device can also be used to dry the drinking containers.

[0058] According to another aspect of the invention, the washing machine is designed as an automatic return machine for reusable drinking containers, particularly coffee cups, and preferably has a refund device. The refund can be made in cash, coupons, chip cards, or by means of a cashless credit system.

[0059] According to an improvement of the washing machine of the present invention, the washing machine has a control device for activating the conveying equipment and the operable components (pumps, valves, heating devices, etc.) assigned to the washing zone and the final rinsing zone. The control device is preferably designed to coordinate the conveying of the washed dishes through the processing zone according to whether or not drinking containers are present in the input and / or output zones.

[0060] The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising an automatic beverage machine and a washing machine of the type described above according to the present invention. The automatic beverage machine is, for example, a beverage dispenser for hot drinks (hot beverage machine). Naturally, the automatic beverage machine can also be designed as a cold beverage machine. Combined forms are also conceivable and included.

[0061] The combination of an automatic beverage machine and a washing machine has the advantage that the beverage machine no longer needs (as is usually the case) a dispensing channel for the disposable beverage containers stored there. This also allows for a more compact design of the beverage machine, in which no waste or at least very little waste is generated during operation.

[0062] The washing machine according to the invention can be designed in particular as an add-on unit for beverage machines. Such an add-on unit can be understood as a separate, modular functional unit from the perspective of the beverage machine.

[0063] However, alternatively, it is conceivable that the washing machine and beverage machine according to the invention are combined into a single system.

[0064] Especially when combined as a whole system, a shared water heater can be provided for the final rinsing or washing area of ​​the washing machine and the automatic beverage machine. Here, the invention is based on the understanding that both the automatic beverage machine and the washing machine use hot water.

[0065] Various advantages can be achieved by providing a shared hot water supply method for both the beverage preparation unit and the washing machine in a beverage machine. A shared heating device for providing hot water is advantageous not only from an energy perspective but also due to lower technical costs. A shared heating device also saves space, thereby further improving the compactness of the combination of the washing machine and the automatic beverage machine. Continuous flow heaters or water heater systems are typically used as the heating device, and these systems are preferably integrated into the beverage preparation unit of the beverage machine.

[0066] Furthermore, in terms of simplifying the system and presenting it in the most user-friendly way possible, it is advantageous to provide the automatic beverage machine and the washing machine with a shared raw water connection and / or a shared power connection.

[0067] The washing machine according to the invention (as already described) is particularly designed for use in coffee shops. Due to its compact structure, the washing machine according to the invention can, for example, be integrated into the counter design of a coffee shop. The washing machine can be implemented as an under-counter machine or a counter machine, and can have a size adapted to the counter size.

[0068] Preferably, the washing machine has a coverage area of ​​up to 700mm × 1,000mm, and more preferably up to 500mm × 600mm, and even more preferably up to 350mm × 600mm. These dimensions allow for easy placement of the washing machine on common countertops, typically 600mm deep. A relatively small structural height can also be achieved based on the washing machine's hybrid design. According to one embodiment, the maximum height of the washing machine is 500mm.

[0069] Depending on the implementation of the washing machine, it may have a door, such as a movable screen door, to close the entrance to the washing machine's access area as needed. Alternatively, a splash curtain (splashproof cloth) may be installed at the entrance.

[0070] It is particularly advantageous that the at least one processing zone is provided with a suction device for drawing out vapors, and / or the at least one processing zone is provided with a splash guard to prevent vapors and / or liquids from escaping from the at least one processing zone.

[0071] Preferably, the inlet has a height of up to 300 mm, and more preferably up to 250 mm, and a width of up to 500 mm, and more preferably up to 350 mm. This allows drinking containers to be introduced into the inlet area individually or side-by-side.

[0072] According to embodiments of the washing machine of the present invention, a spiral conveyor or a helical conveyor and / or a rotary conveyor is used as the conveying device. For example, a rotary disc is suitable as a rotary conveyor so as to enable circumferential conveying of the dishes.

[0073] Preferably, the washing machine has a first door, preferably in the form of a movable screen door, to close the entrance to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine as needed; and preferably also has a second door, preferably in the form of a movable screen door, to close the entrance to the outlet area of ​​the washing machine as needed.

[0074] Various embodiments of the washing machine according to the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the illustrations in Figures 2 to 5.

[0075] The invention will now be described in more detail with the aid of the accompanying drawings.

[0076] In the attached diagram:

[0077] Figure 1 An exemplary first embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention is shown schematically and in a side view;

[0078] Figure 2a An exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in an isometric view, more precisely in a state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is open and no dishes have been received in the inlet area.

[0079] Figure 2b Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 2a An exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0080] Figure 2cAn exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in an isometric view, more precisely in the state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is closed;

[0081] Figure 2d Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 2c An exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0082] Figure 2e An exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in a side view;

[0083] Figure 2f An exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in a state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is open and at least one dish has been received in the inlet area;

[0084] Figure 2g Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 2f An exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0085] Figure 2h An exemplary second embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in a cross-sectional side view, more precisely in a state in which at least one washing dish is respectively present in the inlet area, at least one processing area and the outlet area of ​​the washing machine;

[0086] Figure 3a An exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in a state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is open and no dishes have been received in the inlet area.

[0087] Figure 3b Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 3a An exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0088] Figure 3c An exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in the state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is closed;

[0089] Figure 3d Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 3c An exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0090] Figure 3eAn exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in a side view;

[0091] Figure 3f An exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in a state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is open and at least one dish has been received in the inlet area.

[0092] Figure 3g Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 3f An exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0093] Figure 3h An exemplary third embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in a cross-sectional side view, more precisely in a state in which at least one washing vessel is respectively present in the inlet area, at least one processing area and the outlet area of ​​the washing machine;

[0094] Figure 4a An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in a state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is open and no dishes have been received in the inlet area.

[0095] Figure 4b Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 4a An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0096] Figure 4c An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in the state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is closed;

[0097] Figure 4d Schematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 4c An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0098] Figure 4e An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in a side view;

[0099] Figure 4f An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in a state where the door to the inlet area of ​​the washing machine is open and at least one dish has been received in the inlet area.

[0100] Figure 4gSchematic and shown in the view of the introduced area according to Figure 4f An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention;

[0101] Figure 4h An exemplary fourth embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in a cross-sectional side view, more precisely in a state in which at least one washing dish is respectively present in the inlet area, at least one processing area and the outlet area of ​​the washing machine;

[0102] Figure 5a An exemplary fifth embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in a state where a dish has been received in the take-out area of ​​the washing machine;

[0103] Figure 5b An exemplary fifth embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention is shown schematically and in isometric view, more precisely in a state where two dishes have been received in the take-out area of ​​the washing machine; and

[0104] Figure 5c Schematic and shown in a sectional top view according to Figure 5b The fifth exemplary embodiment of the washing machine according to the present invention.

[0105] exist Figure 1 An exemplary first embodiment of the washing machine 1 according to the invention is shown schematically and in a side view. The washing machine 1 is particularly suitable for washing dishes 2 in the form of drinking containers, especially in the form of drinking cups, porcelain cups, glass cups or bottles.

[0106] For this purpose, the washing machine 1 has at least one processing zone 3 and at least one conveying device 6, which is used to convey the dishes 2 to be cleaned from the inlet area 4 of the washing machine 1 through the at least one processing zone 3 of the washing machine 1 to the outlet area 5 of the washing machine 1.

[0107] Here, the conveying device 6 is designed to convey a group of pre-determined or determinable washers 2 to be cleaned in batches from the inlet area 4 through at least one processing area 3, and then supply the group of washers 2 as cleaned washers 2 to the outlet area 5; or to convey the washers 2 to be cleaned one by one from the inlet area 4 through at least one processing area 3, and then supply them as cleaned washers 2 to the outlet area 5.

[0108] Specifically, the washing machine 1 has a housing in which a washing area, serving as a processing area 3, and a final rinsing area are arranged.

[0109] The final rinse zone is a raw water final rinse zone, where raw water with added final rinse agent is sprayed onto the dishes to be treated.

[0110] In this context, it is conceivable that an additional processing zone 3, in the form of a pump-operated final rinse zone, is provided between the washing zone and the final rinse zone. In this pump-operated final rinse zone, the liquid previously sprayed in the raw water final rinse zone is sprayed onto the washing dishes through a recirculation process.

[0111] The various processing zones 3 of the washing machine 1 can be arranged separately from each other in space, and corresponding splash protection components, such as curtains, can be installed between the processing zones 3 to prevent excessive liquid splashing and to prevent the washing dishes from getting dirty again.

[0112] However, to achieve the most compact structure possible for the washing machine 1, it is advantageous that the processing zones 3, or at least some of the processing zones 3, of the washing machine 1 are designed in a common processing chamber of the washing machine 1. In this case, the washing machine 1 should have a control device designed to activate the at least one conveying device 6 in such a way that the dishes 2 to be washed are intermittently conveyed from the inlet area 4 of the washing machine 1 through the at least one processing zone 3 to the outlet area 5 of the washing machine 1 by means of the at least one conveying device 6.

[0113] Exemplary embodiments of the washing machine 1 according to the present invention (such as those described in...) Figure 1 The key feature of the washing machine (exemplarily shown in the example) is that it has an inlet area 4 into which dishes to be washed in the washing machine 1 can be manually fed / loaded. Furthermore, a take-out area 5, implemented separately from the inlet area, is provided for outputting dishes that have been processed / washed in the processing area 3 of the washing machine 1.

[0114] The inlet area 4 and the outlet area 5 are designed on opposite sides of the housing of the washing machine 1.

[0115] The washing machine 1 also has the at least one conveying device 6 mentioned above, by means of which the (dirty) dishes that have been fed into the introduction area 4 can be conveyed through the processing area 3 of the washing machine 1 to the take-out area 5.

[0116] Due to the compactness of the washing machine 1, the loading opening of the introduction area 4 can be correspondingly small. If (for example, as in the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures) the washing machine 1 is used to clean drinking containers, especially reusable drinking containers (e.g., coffee cups), the loading opening of the introduction area 4 can be slightly higher than the drinking container 2 to be processed.

[0117] Despite Figure 1Not shown, but the inlet of the inlet area 4 of the washing machine 1 can be assigned a guide path corresponding to the drinking container 2 to be cleaned, so that the orientation of the drinking container 2 can be preset when the drinking container 2 is introduced into the inlet area 4.

[0118] according to Figure 1 The take-out area 5 of the washing machine 1 is designed as a storage area for temporarily storing a pre-determined or determinable number of cleaned drinking containers 2. Similarly, the inlet area 4 of the washing machine 1 can also be designed as a storage area for temporarily storing a pre-determined or determinable number of drinking containers 2 to be cleaned. This enables the so-called batch operation of the washing machine 1.

[0119] Preferably, the washing machine 1 has a control device for correspondingly activating the conveying device 6 and the actuable components assigned to the washing zone and the final rinsing zone. The control device is designed to activate the conveying device 6 of the washing machine 1 and, if necessary, the actuable components of the washing zone and the rinsing zone depending on whether the drinking containers 2 are present in the inlet zone 4 and / or the outlet zone 5, or depending on the number of drinking containers.

[0120] Despite Figure 1 Not shown, but it can be envisioned that the washing machine 1 is designed as an automatic return machine for reusable drinking containers 2 (especially coffee cups), and preferably has a corresponding refund device.

[0121] The washing machine 1 according to the present invention, when used in combination with a beverage machine, especially a hot beverage machine, enables the use of reusable tableware and thus avoids waste.

[0122] The solution according to the invention allows for time savings in operation. Dirty dishes (drinking containers 2) go directly into the washing machine 1, meaning that there is no need to send the dirty drinking containers 2 to the kitchen and no need to send the clean drinking containers 2 back to the automatic hot beverage machine from the kitchen.

[0123] Furthermore, the present invention provides space saving because no space is required around the hot beverage maker to store clean and dirty drinking containers 2.

[0124] The washing machine 1 according to the invention is particularly suitable for use as a dedicated coffee cup washing machine 1, ideally located adjacent to a coffee machine or even as part of the coffee machine in a coffee shop or similar installation location. The washing machine 1 has: an input position into which soiled tableware is introduced; and an output position separate from the input position into which clean tableware can be removed. Porcelain cups, glass cups, etc., can be fed in and removed individually (i.e., one after another), or, if necessary, loaded in smaller groups.

[0125] Preferably, the input position is located on the dirty side, and the output position is located on the clean side, which is spatially separate from it. For example, a porcelain cup may be placed on one side by a customer and removed on the opposite side by the same customer, another customer, or even a service staff member.

[0126] For example, the washing machine 1 according to the invention is suitable for use in chain coffee shops, such as Starbucks, where customers come to the coffee shop with their porcelain mugs and want them refilled.

[0127] The porcelain cup is automatically washed by washing machine 1 and then refilled. To ensure that the customer actually gets "his / her" own porcelain cup back, it is marked in an analog or digital way.

[0128] To achieve this implementation, it is conceivable that the washing machine 1 preferably has a system 7 for identifying the washing vessel in or at the inlet area 4, wherein the system 7 for identifying the washing vessel is designed to assign an identifier to the washing vessel 2 in or at the inlet area 4, the identifier allowing the washing vessel fed into the inlet area 4 to be clearly identified in the take-out area 5 of the washing machine 1.

[0129] In this regard, it is conceivable that the washing machine 1 preferably has a system 7 for identifying the washing vessel in or at the inlet area 4, wherein the system 7 for identifying the washing vessel is designed to assign an identifier to the washing vessel 2 in or at the inlet area 4, the identifier allowing the washing vessel fed into the inlet area 4 to be clearly identified in the take-out area 5 of the washing machine 1.

[0130] The advantage in principle is that the system 7 for identifying washers is designed to detect, preferably automatically or selectively, at least one feature of the washers fed into the inlet area 4 of the washing machine 1, wherein the system 7 for identifying washers is also designed to identify the corresponding washer 2 in the outlet area 5 of the washing machine 1 by means of the at least one feature detected in the inlet area 4 of the washing machine 1, and preferably to mark it appropriately, or to make it personalized, eye-catching or different from other washers 2 in the outlet area 5.

[0131] In particular, the washing machine 1 according to the invention is designed to be integrated into, for example, a counter area of ​​a coffee shop based on its structural shape and dimensions, so that customers in the area in front of the counter can place dirty porcelain cups into the machine, and then staff behind the counter can remove the clean porcelain cups from the machine after the rinsing process is completed, so that the clean porcelain cups can be immediately refilled according to customer orders.

[0132] The take-out area 5 of the washing machine 1 may be additionally equipped with a conveyor belt / transfer device, thereby enabling clean dishes to be transported from the actual take-out area 5 to an additional storage area (e.g., next to the washing machine 1 or on the other side of the coffee machine), so as to increase the capacity or maximum possible number of ceramic and glass cups that can be circulated by any amount without having to increase the size of the actual washing machine 1.

[0133] In particular, it can be envisioned that instead of conveying clean washing utensils to a separate storage area via an additional conveyor belt / transfer device, there is a direct connection to the coffee machine (including rotating the ceramic cup 180° so that the opening faces upward), so that the clean ceramic cup can be immediately and fully automatically refilled with beverages according to the customer's order immediately after the rinsing process.

[0134] Other embodiments of the washing machine 1 according to the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the illustrations in Figures 2 to 5.

[0135] Specifically, these embodiments are implemented as benchtop machines, allowing them to be placed without problems on, for example, a coffee shop counter. Embodiments of the washing machine 1 according to the invention are designed to transport washing dishes 2 in batches from the inlet area 4 through at least one processing area 3, and subsequently supply the washed dishes 1 as cleaned dishes to the outlet area 5.

[0136] Here, the washing machine may have a door 8, particularly a movable screen door, to close the entrance to the inlet area 4 of the washing machine as needed. The door 8 can be actuated manually or automatically. When the door 8 is actuated automatically, a sensor system can be provided to the inlet area, which is designed to detect the presence of the dish 2 in the inlet area 4. Upon detecting the presence of the dish 2 in the inlet area 4, the sensor system activates the door mechanism to close the door 8 and begin the washing machine 1's processing program.

[0137] The washing machine according to the embodiments shown in Figures 2 to 5 is therefore particularly suitable for coffee shops where customers bring their own ceramic cups, which, however, still need to be washed on-site before being filled with hot drinks, for example. The ceramic cups to be washed can then be individually conveyed from the inlet area 4 through the processing area 3 and subsequently supplied to the outlet area 5.

[0138] On the other hand, the washing machine 1 is also suitable for situations where multiple dishes need to be washed simultaneously, such as when (unindividualized) dishes 2 are piled up. In this case, the dishes 2 to be washed can be guided through the processing area 5 in batches as a group of dishes.

[0139] In the embodiments shown in Figures 2 to 4, the conveying device 6 of the washing machine 1 has a conveying track, particularly in the form of a conveyor belt, wherein this conveying track is designed to guide the dishes 2 individually or in pairs through at least one processing chamber 3 of the washing machine 1. Here, the width of the conveying track is chosen to be correspondingly narrow. In a preferred embodiment of the washing machine 1 according to the invention, the conveying track has an effective width preferably at a maximum of 30 cm and preferably at a maximum of 15 cm.

[0140] The washing machine 1 according to the invention shown in Figures 2 to 5 has a control device designed to activate the conveying device 6, such that the dishes 2 to be washed are intermittently conveyed from the inlet area 4 of the washing machine 1 through the at least one processing area 3 to the take-out area 5 of the washing machine 1 by means of the conveying device 6.

[0141] Here, the dish 2 to be cleaned is conveyed from the inlet area 4 to the at least one processing area 3 by means of the conveying device 6, then the conveying device 6 stops, and the dish 2 is fixed in position in the processing area 3 and cleaned (washing stage and final rinsing stage or optionally followed by drying stage), and then the cleaned dish 2 is conveyed to the take-out area 5 by means of the conveying device 6.

[0142] Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the washing machine 1 according to the present invention, wherein a rotary conveyor is used as the conveying device 6. For example, a rotary disc is suitable as a rotary conveyor so as to enable circumferential conveying of the washing dishes 2.

[0143] The inlet of the washing machine 1 according to the invention preferably has a maximum height of 300 mm and a maximum width of 500 mm, and more preferably a maximum width of 350 mm.

[0144] The preferred dimensions of the washing machine 1 shown in Figures 2 to 5 are summarized in the table below:

[0145] A 140mm to 340mm Preferred size: 200mm to 280mm B 285mm to 485mm Preferred size: 345mm to 425mm C 400mm to 850mm Preferred size: 500mm to 600mm D 100mm to 250mm Preferred size: 120mm to 200mm E 150mm to 300mm Preferred size: 180mm to 240mm F 100mm to 250mm Preferred size: 120mm to 200mm G 300mm to 650mm Preferred size: 350mm to 550mm H 285mm to 485mm Preferred size: 345mm to 425mm I 150mm to 300mm Preferred size: 180mm to 240mm

[0146] The washing machine 1 is preferably also provided with a splash guard 9 to shield the introduction area 4 relative to the at least one processing chamber 3 and, in particular, to prevent steam from escaping.

[0147] The present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, but rather derives from a comprehensive consideration of all the features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A washing machine (1) for washing dishes (2) in the form of drinking containers, wherein the washing machine (1) has a single processing area (3) and at least one conveying device (6) for conveying the dishes (2) to be washed from an inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1) through the single processing area (3) of the washing machine (1) to an outlet area (5) of the washing machine (1). in: The conveying device (6) is designed to convey in batches a group of pre-determined or determinable washers (2) to be cleaned from the inlet area (4) through the single processing area (3), and subsequently supply the group of washers (2) as cleaned washers (2) to the outlet area (5); or The conveying device (6) is designed to convey the wash dishes (2) to be cleaned one by one from the inlet area (4) through the single processing area (3) and then supply them as cleaned wash dishes (2) to the take-out area (5). The conveying device (6) includes a turntable conveyor that rotates to move the group of vessels or the individual vessels from the inlet area (4) through the single processing area (3) and then to the take-out area (5). The washing machine (1) has a control device configured to activate the at least one conveying device (6) in such a way that each dish (2) to be washed is conveyed intermittently, such that for each dish (2), the dish (2) is conveyed from the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1) to the single processing area (3), and then stopped at a position in the single processing area (3) for washing, so that the dish (2) is temporarily washed and rinsed sequentially while it is stopped at the position in the single processing area (3), and then the dish (2) is conveyed to the take-out area (5).

2. The washing machine (1) according to claim 1, The conveying device (6) has at least one conveying track, wherein the at least one conveying track has an effective width of at most 30 cm. The conveying device (6) therein has at least two conveying tracks that extend parallel to each other, wherein each conveying track has an effective width of up to 30 cm.

3. The washing machine (1) according to claim 1, The conveying device (6) described therein includes: a first conveying track; and at least one second conveying track. The first conveyor track is assigned to an individual dish (2), and the at least one second conveyor track is assigned to the remaining dishes (2), wherein the first conveyor track is designed to output the dishes (2) that have been conveyed from the first conveyor track through the single processing area (3) of the washing machine (1) in a spatially separate manner from the dishes (2) that have been conveyed from the at least one second conveyor track through the single processing area (3) of the washing machine (1).

4. The washing machine (1) according to claim 1. The washing machine (1) is designed to individually output each dish (2) that is input into the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1) and processed in the single processing area (3) of the washing machine (1) in the take-out area (5) of the washing machine (1) in such a way that the dish (2) processed in the single processing area (3) can be explicitly assigned to an individual in the take-out area (5).

5. The washing machine (1) according to claim 4. The washing machine (1) has a system (7) for identifying dishes in or at the inlet area (4), wherein the system (7) for identifying dishes is designed to assign an identifier to each dish (2) in or at the inlet area (4), the identifier allowing the dish (2) fed into the inlet area (4) to be clearly identified in the take-out area (5) of the washing machine (1).

6. The washing machine (1) according to claim 5, The system (7) for identifying wash dishes includes an RFID device for automatically and contactlessly identifying each wash dish (2) in the introduction area (4) of the washing machine (1); and / or The system (7) for identifying washers includes a barcode reader for automatically and non-contactly identifying each washer (2) in the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1); and / or The system (7) for identifying washers includes a laser scanner device for automatically detecting at least one surface-specific feature characterizing the washer (2) and thus for non-contact identification of each washer (2) in the introduction area (4) of the washing machine (1); and / or The system (7) for identifying washers includes a QR code reader for automatically and contactlessly identifying each washer (2) in the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1); and / or The system (7) for identifying washers has a YUV color model-based identification device for automatically and non-contactly identifying each washer (2) in the introduction area (4) of the washing machine (1).

7. The washing machine (1) according to claim 5, The system (7) for identifying washers is designed to automatically or selectively detect at least one feature of each washer (2) fed into the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1), and the system (7) for identifying washers is also designed to identify the corresponding washer (2) in the outlet area (5) of the washing machine (1) by means of the at least one feature detected in the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1), and to mark it appropriately, or to make it personalized, eye-catching or different from other washers (2) in the outlet area (5).

8. The washing machine (1) according to claim 1, The individual processing zone (3) is equipped with a suction device for extracting water vapor; and / or The individual processing zone (3) is provided with a splash guard (9) to prevent water vapor and / or liquid from escaping from the individual processing zone (3).

9. The washing machine (1) according to claim 1. The washing machine (1) has an additional conveying device (6) for automatically and selectively conveying the washed dishes (2) from the take-out area (5) of the washing machine (1) to a dispenser for cold or hot drinks for a beverage or coffee machine, wherein the washing machine (1) also has means for positioning and / or orienting the dishes (2) relative to the dispenser; and / or The washing machine (1) is provided with a storage system to return each dish (2) that has been introduced or is to be introduced into the introduction area (4) of the washing machine (1) to the operator of the washing machine (1), or to reuse the dish (2) that has been introduced or is to be introduced into the introduction area (4) of the washing machine (1).

10. The washing machine according to claim 1, The washing machine is implemented as an under-counter machine or an over-counter machine and has a size adapted to the counter size, wherein the coverage area of ​​the washing machine (1) has a maximum size of 700 mm × 1,000 mm.

11. The washing machine according to claim 1, The washing machine has a door (8) in the form of a movable screen door to close the entrance to the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1) as needed, the entrance having a maximum height of 300 mm and a maximum width of 500 mm, the washing machine having a first door (8) in the form of a movable screen door to close the entrance to the inlet area (4) of the washing machine (1) as needed; and also having a second door (8) in the form of a movable screen door to close the entrance to the outlet area (5) of the washing machine (1) as needed.

12. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The turntable conveyor includes a rotating disk.

13. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: A cylindrical housing, wherein the individual processing area and the conveying device are located within the cylindrical housing, wherein the cylindrical housing has a total height between 285 mm and 485 mm, a diameter between 300 mm and 650 mm, and wherein the base of the cylindrical housing is located below the conveying device and has a height between 100 mm and 250 mm; or A cylindrical housing having a first opening and a second opening, the first opening leading to the inlet area and the second opening leading to the outlet area, wherein the second opening rotates together with the first opening.

14. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet area (4) and the outlet area (5) of the washing machine (1) are located on opposite sides of the housing of the washing machine (1).

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