Dispensing unit, water-containing household appliance and method

Abstract

This invention relates to a dispensing unit (18, 118, 218) for an automatic dispensing system for water-containing household appliances (particularly dishwashers or washing machines), the dispensing unit being configured to dispense at least one detergent tablet from a plurality of detergent tablets stored in storage containers (30, 130, 230), the dispensing unit including dispensing devices (20, 120, 220) configured to pick up the at least one detergent tablet from the plurality of detergent tablets and release the at least one detergent tablet by temporarily switching from an off state to a released state according to a predefined switching mechanism, wherein the dispensing devices (20, 120, 220) include safety parts (24, 124, 224) for preventing unwanted switching. Furthermore, water-containing household appliances including the dispensing unit and dispensing methods are also disclosed.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a dosing unit for an automated dosing system for a water-containing household appliance, a water-containing household appliance, in particular a dishwasher or a washing machine, a method for dosing at least one detergent tablet using such a dosing unit and a method for operating a water-containing household appliance.

[0002] Known household appliances, such as dishwashers or washing machines, usually have a dosing system consisting of a chamber for storing a single dose of detergent. The user of the dishwasher has to fill the chamber with detergent each time before starting a wash cycle. This is inconvenient for the user. In addition, such a system carries the risk that the user does not fill in the correct amount of detergent or forgets to fill in the detergent at all. This may lead to poor or undesirable cleaning results. It is desirable to have an automatic dosing system that automatically dispenses the correct amount of detergent at the correct timing during the wash cycle.

[0003] Detergents used in aqueous household appliances can be irritating or harmful, particularly if they come into contact with the user's skin or eyes. In particular, detergents used in automatic dispensing devices may have specific chemical formulations that allow for greater efficiency, such as by increasing the concentration of active agents. In order to protect users of automatic dispensing devices, it is desirable to prevent easy access to the interior of the dispensing unit.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved dispensing unit.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a dispensing unit of an automatic dispensing system for a water-containing household appliance, in particular a dishwasher or a washing machine, is proposed, the dispensing unit being configured to dispense at least one detergent tablet from a plurality of detergent tablets stored in a storage box. The dispensing unit comprises a dispensing device configured to pick up the at least one detergent tablet from the plurality of detergent tablets and to release the at least one detergent tablet by temporarily switching from a closed state to a released state according to a predefined switching mechanism. A safety part of the dispensing device is configured to prevent undesired switching.

[0006] The advantage of this dispensing unit is that the dispensing device cannot be switched from the closed state as the normal state to a released state, in which the detergent tablets can be released and the interior of the dispensing unit can be accessed, by using bare hands and / or simple tools. Simple tools are, for example, tools that can be bought in ordinary hardware stores. These tools include, for example, screwdrivers, knives, scissors, spanners and / or pliers. Therefore, the dispensing unit is safe for the user to manipulate. In particular, even if a child finds this dispensing unit and plays with it, it is ensured that the child cannot accidentally open the dispensing unit, that is, cannot switch it from the closed state to the released state and cannot access the stored detergent tablets.

[0007] In addition to the dispensing device and the storage box, the dispensing unit may also include more elements. Preferably, the elements of the dispensing unit are made of a plastic material that can be processed by injection molding. However, some parts or elements of the dispensing device may be made of metal, ceramic and / or composite materials.

[0008] The dispensing device has the function of sealing the storage box to isolate the environment, preferably making it impossible for moisture to enter the storage box, because this will cause the detergent tablets stored therein to degrade. In addition, the dispensing device has the function of selectively releasing a predetermined number of detergent tablets (preferably, a single detergent tablet) each time the dispensing unit is actuated. For this reason, the dispensing device can include a plurality of interacting mechanical elements that allow at least one detergent tablet to be picked up from the storage box and released from the dispensing unit. The dispensing device is preferably attached to the storage box so that it cannot be removed without destroying the dispensing unit.

[0009] In order to discharge at least one detergent tablet, the dispensing device has at least two different states, and the at least two different states can be defined by a certain arrangement of the mechanical elements of the dispensing device relative to each other. The at least two different states are referred to as a closed state and a released state. In the closed state, the dispensing unit is closed to the environment, preferably, it is sealed in the closed state, thereby being impermeable to all types of fluids. The dispensing unit may include a sealing portion, for example, a rubber seal. In the released state, at least one detergent tablet is released from the dispensing unit. When the dispensing device is in the released state, there may be a path from the environment to the inside of the dispensing unit. Below, when the dispensing device is in the closed state, the dispensing unit is referred to as being in the closed state, and when the dispensing device is in the released state, the dispensing unit is referred to as being in the released state.

[0010] Preferably, the dispensing device is switched from the closed state to the released state by using a predefined switching mechanism. For example, the predefined switching mechanism involves a plurality of manipulations performed on the dispensing device. In its intended use, the dispensing unit is placed in an automatic dispensing system of a water-containing household appliance, wherein the automatic dispensing system is configured to perform manipulations, that is, to switch the dispensing device by using the predefined switching mechanism.

[0011] Preferably, the predefined switching mechanism involves the use of a dedicated tool. The dedicated tool is specifically adapted to switch the dispensing device. In particular, the dedicated tool has features not found in ordinary tools as described above.

[0012] The dispensing unit is only temporarily switched to the release state, that is, it remains in the release state only for a predetermined, preferably short (e.g. less than 15 seconds) period. After the predetermined period, the dispensing unit returns to the closed state, for example by switching back. "Switching back" does not necessarily mean that a predefined switching mechanism is adopted, other ways are also possible. In this way, it is ensured that the interior of the dispensing unit is not overexposed to the environment. The dispensing unit can include a covering device, such as a cover, which temporarily blocks the path into the dispensing unit when the dispensing device is in the release state, so as to reduce the input of moisture during the release period.

[0013] The safety portion of the dispensing unit prohibits the easy switching of the dispensing device from the closed state to the released state by using a predefined switching mechanism. In this sense, the safety portion acts as a barrier to prevent switching. The safety portion is designed so that the dispensing device cannot be switched from the closed state to the released state by bare hands and / or with simple tools, as described above. That is, the safety portion prevents the user from accessing the interior of the dispensing unit by using a predefined switching mechanism without a special tool.

[0014] The special tool is specially prepared for switching the dispensing device from the closed state to the released state. For this purpose, the special tool has, for example, a corresponding form. Therefore, the special tool can be considered as a key for unlocking the safety part in order to switch the dispensing device to the released state.

[0015] In its intended use, the dosing unit is placed in an automatic dosing system of a water-containing household appliance. The automatic dosing system comprises a drive unit configured to actuate the dosing unit to release at least one detergent tablet. To this end, the automatic dosing system particularly comprises a special tool.

[0016] According to a first embodiment, the safety portion of the dosing unit is configured such that a force for switching the dosing device from the closed state to the released state by using the predefined switching mechanism can be applied by a dedicated tool.

[0017] In particular, the force for switching by using a predefined switching mechanism is a lower force than when the dosing device is switched by using a switching mechanism that differs from the predefined switching mechanism.

[0018] For example, a shallow groove without sharp edges does not provide the possibility to position a common tool in such a way that sufficient force or torque can be applied to the dispensing device. However, a special tool is for example formed corresponding to the shallow groove and is thus able to engage over a large area, so that the total force that can be applied by using the special tool is accumulated over the whole area and becomes sufficient for switching by using the predefined switching mechanism.

[0019] According to other embodiments, the dispensing device includes a plug, which is configured to move from a first position to a second position by rotating the plug around a rotation axis, wherein the dispensing device is in the closed state in the first position and in the released state in the second position, wherein the safety portion includes an engagement portion on the surface of the plug for engaging with the special tool, and the special tool is used to apply a torque for rotating the plug.

[0020] In this embodiment, the predefined switching mechanism specifically involves the use of a dedicated tool for turning the plug.

[0021] According to other embodiments, the engagement portion formed in the plug is realized as a helical groove and the dedicated tool comprises a corresponding helical protrusion.

[0022] The spiral preferably starts from the center of rotation of the rotating plug. By using a common tool such as a screwdriver, it is only possible to apply a force radially relative to the center of rotation, which force does not provide any torque in the direction of rotation, because the edges of the spiral grooves are substantially perpendicular to the radial direction at any position of the spiral. In addition, if the spiral has end points, there may be a small part at the end points that allows the transmission of torque on the plug. Preferably, in this case, the plug is designed so that turning the plug by applying a torque (which torque is possible only in a predefined direction) via the end points of the spiral will cause the plug to be driven towards the first position, the first position being the closed state of the dispensing device.

[0023] In an embodiment, the helical groove is formed in a dedicated tool and the helical protrusion is formed in the plug.

[0024] According to other embodiments, the dispensing device includes a buckle, which is configured to move from a first position to a second position by laterally displacing the buckle in the pulling direction, in which the dispensing device is in the closed state, and in the second position, the dispensing device is in the released state, wherein the safety part is implemented as a surface of the buckle facing away from the storage box, the surface having a surface normal, which is at a maximum angle of 60° to the pulling direction.

[0025] In this embodiment, the predefined switching mechanism involves pulling the buckle in the pulling direction. In this case, the special geometry of the surface of the buckle forms a safety feature. The effect is that, when applying forces that can often be expected, it is impossible for the user to grasp the buckle with his hands or even with pliers and apply sufficient pulling force to move the buckle and switch the dispensing device.

[0026] In order to move the buckle in the pulling direction, a force needs to be applied in the pulling direction. When the buckle is clamped on opposite sides, the applied clamping force divides the inclined surface of the buckle into a force component perpendicular to the surface and a force component parallel to the surface and perpendicular to the normal component. When the force component parallel to the surface is greater than the adhesion between the clamping tool and the surface, this component causes the clamping tool to slip. Therefore, a force in the pulling direction cannot be applied.

[0027] Preferably, the angle between the surface normal and the pulling direction is less than 60°, for example 45° or only 30°. The smaller the angle, the greater the protection against unwanted switching. Preferably, at any position on the surface of the buckle facing away from the storage box, the angle between the surface normal and the pulling direction is less than a specified value.

[0028] For example, the buckle has a pyramid shape with a polygonal (such as a triangle) base. Preferably, the base is a regular polygon.

[0029] According to other embodiments, the buckle has a tapered shaped surface.

[0030] A tapered surface is preferred because the opposite sides of the retaining ring are symmetrically shaped according to the symmetry axis of the cone, so the force applied for clamping is uniform on both sides.

[0031] According to other embodiments, the safety portion comprises a surface having a low friction coefficient relative to metal, wood, organic matter and plastic, in particular, the low friction coefficient is less than 0.2.

[0032] The coefficient of friction can be defined as a dimensionless number that defines the relationship between the normal force applied between a first body (e.g., an element of a dispensing unit) and a second body (e.g., a tool) and the maximum adhesion force that counteracts the sliding relative motion between the bodies. The coefficient of friction can be defined according to the following formula (1).

[0033] F f =μx F N Formula (1)

[0034] In formula (1), F f represents adhesion, μ represents friction coefficient and F N Represents the normal force.

[0035] According to other embodiments, the safety portion is configured to lock the dispensing device in the closed state.

[0036] In this embodiment, the predefined switching mechanism involves unlocking the security part so that the switching can be easily performed. In particular, a dedicated tool can be implemented to unlock the security part.

[0037] According to other embodiments, the safety portion is realized as a mechanical restraint.

[0038] In particular, the safety part is arranged to form a positive closure with the dispensing device. In this embodiment, the safety part cannot be easily removed from the dispensing unit because there is no space for common tools to be positioned to act on the safety part. In particular, the safety part is realized as a lock for locking the dispensing unit in a closed state.

[0039] For example, the safety part prevents the dispensing device or an element of the dispensing device from moving according to a predefined switching mechanism. Then, in order to perform the switching, the safety part must be unlocked, for example by displacing the safety part and / or by releasing the form fit. In particular, a special tool is implemented to unlock the safety part. Preferably, the special tool unlocks the safety part when the dispensing unit is placed in the automatic dispensing system.

[0040] According to a second aspect, a method for dispensing at least one detergent tablet from a plurality of detergent tablets provided by a dispensing unit using a dispensing unit is proposed. In a first step, a drive device of a drive unit is engaged with a dispensing device of the dispensing unit. In a second step, the dispensing device is switched from a closed state to a released state by the drive unit using a predefined switching mechanism. For example, as a result, at least one detergent tablet from a plurality of detergent tablets is released from the dispensing unit.

[0041] The method is advantageously used in combination with a dosing unit according to the first aspect.The method may also comprise further steps and / or the steps may be performed in an order different from the order presented here.

[0042] In an embodiment, a dedicated tool is employed in the switching step.

[0043] In other embodiments, the method comprises unlocking a safety feature of the dosing device for preventing unwanted switching.

[0044] In particular, a special tool is used to unlock the secure part.

[0045] According to a third aspect, a water-containing household appliance is proposed, the water-containing household appliance is particularly a dishwasher or a washing machine, and the water-containing household appliance has an automatic dispensing system for automatically dispensing at least one detergent tablet provided by a dispensing unit into a washing liquid for washing articles. The dispensing unit is implemented according to the first aspect. The automatic dispensing system includes a receiving portion and a drive unit. The receiving portion is configured to receive the dispensing unit in a removable manner. The drive unit is configured to switch the dispensing device from a closed state to a released state to dispense at least one detergent tablet by using a predefined switching mechanism.

[0046] The advantage of this aqueous household appliance is that multiple washing cycles can be performed without the user having to (re)fill the detergent for each cycle. In addition, the appropriate amount of detergent can be provided automatically, that is, when the items to be washed, such as dishes or clothes, are relatively clean, a small amount (e.g., a single detergent tablet) may be sufficient, while when the items are relatively dirty, more amounts, e.g., three detergent tablets, may be necessary to obtain a good cleaning result. This may be convenient for the user. When the storage box runs out of detergent tablets, the user can simply replace the storage box or the entire dispensing unit.

[0047] The features and advantages of the dispensing unit according to the first aspect are also correspondingly applicable to the proposed water-containing household appliance. In particular, the automatic dispensing system is configured to operate in combination with any one embodiment of the dispensing unit according to the first aspect. It is to be understood that the descriptions and definitions provided with respect to the first or second aspect apply correspondingly to the third aspect.

[0048] The receiving part of the automatic dispensing system is arranged in the water-containing household appliance so that when the water-containing household appliance is set up for use as intended, the dispensing unit will be oriented according to the preferred orientation. In particular, when the dispensing unit is arranged in the receiving part, the relative orientation relative to the gravity vector is predetermined.

[0049] In particular, in embodiments where the predefined switching mechanism involves employing a dedicated tool, the dedicated tool is a part of the drive unit such that the drive unit can perform the switching by using the predefined switching mechanism.

[0050] In an embodiment, the dosing unit is arranged in a receiving part of the automatic dosing system.For example, the water-containing household appliance and the dosing unit are provided as one entity.

[0051] In particular, in an embodiment in which the safety part of the dispensing unit is configured to lock the dispensing device in a closed state, the predefined switching mechanism involves unlocking the safety part so that the switching can be easily performed. Here, in particular, the special tool is part of the automatic dispensing system and can be implemented to unlock the safety part. For example, when the dispensing unit is arranged in the receiving part of the automatic dispensing system, the special tool engages with the dispensing unit and unlocks the safety part.

[0052] According to a fourth aspect, a method for operating a water-containing household appliance (specifically a dishwasher or a washing machine) is proposed. The water-containing household appliance includes an automatic dispensing system for automatically dispensing a detergent tablet provided by a dispensing unit into a washing liquid for washing articles. In a first step, the dispensing unit is installed in the automatic dispensing system. This can involve both user interaction and the automatic drive arrangement interaction between the automatic dispensing system and the dispensing unit. In a second step, the drive device of the drive unit is engaged with the dispensing device of the dispensing unit. In a third step, the dispensing device is switched from a closed state to a released state by the drive unit using a predefined switching mechanism. For example, as a result, at least one detergent tablet in a plurality of detergent tablets is released from the dispensing unit, so it is dispensed into, for example, washing liquid.

[0053] The method is preferably performed with a water-containing household appliance according to the third aspect.The method may also comprise other steps and / or the steps may be performed in an order different from the order presented here.

[0054] In an embodiment, a dedicated tool is employed in the switching step.

[0055] In other embodiments, the method comprises unlocking a safety feature of the dosing device for preventing unwanted switching.

[0056] In particular, a special tool is used to unlock the secure part.

[0057] The features and embodiments described in conjunction with the proposed dosing unit or the proposed water-containing domestic appliance apply correspondingly to the proposed method.

[0058] The present invention has been described according to different embodiments. It is to be understood that one or more features of any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any embodiment may constitute an additional embodiment. Other embodiments or aspects of the present invention are subject to the dependent claims and the examples described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first example of a dosing unit is shown;

[0060] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing a second example of a dosing unit;

[0061] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing a third example of a dosing unit;

[0062] Figure 4 A schematic block diagram showing an example of a method of using a dosing unit;

[0063] Figure 5A schematic diagram showing an example of a water-containing household appliance; and

[0064] Figure 6 A schematic block diagram of an example of a method of operating a water containing household appliance is shown.

[0065] In the drawings, similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals unless otherwise specified.

[0066] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first example of a dosing unit 18 is shown, the dosing unit 18 comprising a dosing device 20 and a storage box 30. In this example, the dosing unit 18 has an elongated cylindrical shape. The dosing unit 18 is configured to release detergent tablets (not shown) provided by the storage box 30 by rotating about an axis of rotation X, which in this example is the axis of symmetry of the cylinder.

[0067] In particular, the dispensing device 20 has an internal design (not shown) that allows the detergent tablets to be picked up from the storage box 30 and placed in a release chamber (not shown) inside the dispensing device 20, which is arranged above the outlet 26, which is arranged on the side wall of the dispensing device 20 and is located at the outlet 26. Figure 1 The dosing unit 18 is shown in a closed state, wherein the outlet 26 is blocked by the plug 22 .

[0068] The plug 22 is arranged in the dispensing device 20 so that it can be rotated relative to the periphery of the dispensing device 20 about the axis X. For example, the plug 20 comprises a threaded portion on at least one section of the outer surface of the plug 20, which threaded portion engages with a corresponding threaded portion formed in the dispensing device 20. By rotating the plug 20, the plug 20 will be driven along the axis X. Therefore, by rotating the plug 20, when the outlet 26 is not blocked by the plug 22, the detergent tablet placed in the internal release chamber will be released.

[0069] On the front face of the plug 22, the safety portion 24 is formed as a spiral groove. The spiral groove 24 starts in the center, where the rotation axis X crosses the front face of the plug 20. The spiral groove 24 ends at the end point 25. The spiral structure does not allow torque to be transmitted to the plug 22 in a direction that can drive the plug 22 out of the dispensing device 20 by a simple tool. In particular, when a tangential force is applied to the end point 25, a torque is generated on the plug 22, which drives the plug 22 further into the dispensing device 20. Therefore, this does not cause the dispensing device 20 to switch from the closed state to the released state, in which the detergent tablet is released via the outlet 26.

[0070] A special tool 40 (see Figure 5) - in particular a tool with a corresponding spiral shape - allows to apply a torque in the correct direction of rotation to switch the dosing device 20 from the closed state to the released state. When the dosing unit 18 is intended to be used with an automatic dosing system 15 (see for example in a dishwasher or washing machine) Figure 5 ) is used in combination with the dedicated tool 40, which is preferably a drive unit 17 of the automatic dispensing system 15 (see Figure 5 ) part.

[0071] In this example, the predefined switching mechanism involves turning the plug 22 by using a special tool 40 having a corresponding shape for engaging with a safety portion 24 formed on a surface of the plug 22 .

[0072] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a second example of a dispensing unit 118 is shown, which includes a dispensing device 120 and a storage box 130. The dispensing device 120 includes a pre-dispensing element 121 and a buckle 122. In particular, the pre-dispensing element 121 is configured to pick up a detergent tablet provided by the storage box 130. By pulling the dispensing device 120 in the direction indicated by the arrow P, the dispensing device 120 is switched from a closed state to a released state, that is, the detergent tablet picked up by the pre-dispensing element 121 is released.

[0073] In this example, the safety portion 124 is provided by a buckle 122 having a surface that does not allow the buckle 122 to be clamped. In particular, the surface 124 is implemented so that it does not allow a force to be applied in the direction of the arrow P by clamping due to its orientation. Specifically, the surface normal N of the surface 124 of the buckle 122 that faces away from the storage box 130 is at an angle A of less than 60° (preferably less than 45°) with the pulling direction P. The smaller the angle A, the more difficult it is to clamp the buckle 122. Preferably, the surface 124 has a smooth finish so that the surface roughness is low and it is difficult to achieve a firm clamping of the surface 124.

[0074] A special tool 40 (see Figure 5 ) pull the dispensing device 120 in direction P in order to release the detergent tablet. For example, the dedicated tool can use a suction portion that is attached to the surface 124 of the buckle 122 and thus allows the dispensing device 120 to be pulled. When the dispensing unit 18 is intended to be used with an automatic dispensing system 15 (see, for example, in a dishwasher or washing machine Figure 5 ) is used in combination with the dedicated tool 40, which is preferably a drive unit 17 of the automatic dispensing system 15 (see Figure 5 ) part.

[0075] The predefined switching mechanism specifically comprises pulling the dosing device 120 in the direction P, wherein the total force applied to the dosing device 120 via the buckle 122 is substantially equal to the resultant force in the pulling direction P. For example, the total force is twice as large as the resultant pulling force. That is, if one applies a strong force to the dosing unit 118 or the dosing device 120 that is strong enough to actually switch the dosing device 120 from the closed state to the released state (the strong force includes a force component in the pulling direction P acting on the dosing device 120), this is not considered to be switched by using the predefined switching mechanism.

[0076] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a third example of a dosing unit 218 is shown, comprising a dosing device 220 and a magazine 230. The dosing device 220 is implemented such that a predefined switching mechanism can combine both lateral and angular misalignment of elements.

[0077] In particular, the dispensing device 220 comprises a pre-dispensing element 222 which is implemented to pick up a single detergent tablet from the storage box 230 and transport it to a receiving chamber 227 formed in a release element 226. The release element 227 is, for example, arranged in the dispensing device 220 so that it can move in the direction indicated by the arrow P, which is also referred to as the pulling direction. Figure 3 In the figure, the dispensing unit 218 is shown in the closed state. In order to switch the dispensing device 220 to the released state, the release element 226 must be moved or pulled in the pulling direction P. Then, the detergent tablets stored in the receiving chamber 227 will slide out of the inclined surface of the receiving chamber 227 due to gravity, so that the detergent tablets are released.

[0078] The safety portion 224 is arranged between the fixed portion 228 and the release element 226 of the dispensing device 220. Specifically, the safety portion 224 engages both the fixed portion 228 and the release element 226, thereby locking the release element 226 in the closed position, such as Figure 3 In order to move the release portion 226, the safety portion 224 must be unlocked, that is, the engagement with either the fixed portion 228 or the release element 226 must be released.

[0079] For example, the safety portion 224 includes a clamping portion made of plastic that allows flexible bending (not shown). The clamping portion engages with a corresponding portion on the release element 226 and / or the fixing portion 228. For example, the clamping portion is covered from the outside by the fixing portion 228 and can only be opened with a special tool 40 (see Figure 5 ) is accessible. The clamping part can then be pushed aside so that the engagement is released by the special tool 40. In particular, the special tool can be formed in the automatic dispensing system 15 (see Figure 5) (the dispensing unit 218 is placed in the automatic dispensing system 15 according to its intended use), so that the dispensing unit 218 is in an unlocked state when placed in the automatic dispensing system 15 and is locked when taken out of the automatic dispensing system 15,

[0080] Figure 4 The use of the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 (see Figures 1 to 3 )(For example, combined with Figures 1 to 3 18, 118, 218) is a schematic block diagram of an example of a method for dispensing at least one of a plurality of detergent tablets provided by a dispensing unit 18, 118, 218. In a first step S1, a drive unit 17 (see Figure 5 ) and the dispensing devices 20, 120, 220 of the dispensing units 18, 118, 218 (see Figures 1 to 3 ) connection. For example, the drive unit 17 can be implemented in the water-containing household appliance 1 (see Figure 5 ) of the automatic dispensing system 15 (see Figure 5 In a second step S2, the dispensing device 20, 120, 220 is switched from the closed state to the released state by the drive unit 17 using a predefined switching mechanism. For example, as a result of the second step S2, at least one detergent tablet is released from the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218.

[0081] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an example of a water-containing household appliance 1 implemented as a household dishwasher is shown. The household dishwasher 1 comprises a housing 2, which can be closed by a door 3. Preferably, the door 3 seals the housing 2 so that it is watertight, for example by using a door seal between the door 3 and the housing 2. Preferably, the housing 2 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 2 and the door 3 can form a washing chamber 4 for washing dishes.

[0082] exist Figure 5 , the door 3 is shown in an open position. The door 3 can be opened or closed by rotating around an axis 5 at the lower edge of the door 3. With the door 3, an opening 6 of the box 2 for inserting dishes into the washing chamber 4 can be opened or closed. The box 2 includes a lower cover 7, an upper cover 8 facing the lower cover 7, a rear cover 9 facing the closed door 3, and two side covers 10, 11 facing each other. For example, the lower cover 7, the upper cover 8, the rear cover 9 and the two side covers 10, 11 can be made of stainless steel sheets. Alternatively, at least one of the covers (e.g., the lower cover 7) can be made of a polymer material such as plastic.

[0083] The domestic dishwasher 1 also has at least one rack 12, 13, 14 on which dishes to be washed can be placed. Preferably, more than one rack 12, 13, 14 is used, wherein rack 12 can be a lower rack, rack 13 can be an upper rack and rack 14 can be a rack specifically for cutlery. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the brackets 12 to 14 are arranged one above the other in the box 2. Each bracket 12, 13, 14 can be pulled out of the box 2 in a first direction O or pushed into the box 2 in a second direction I.

[0084] Figure 5 Also shown is an automatic dispensing system 15 arranged in the door 3 of the domestic dishwasher 1. The automatic dispensing system 15 comprises a receiving portion 16 which is arranged to receive a dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 (see Figures 1 to 3 ), for example, combined with Figures 1 to 3 In addition, the automatic dispensing system 15 has a driving unit 17, which is configured to drive the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 to automatically dispense the storage box 30, 130, 230 stored in the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 (see Figures 1 to 3 ) in detergent tablets.

[0085] The receiving portion 16 is arranged so that when the door 3 is in the closed position and the domestic dishwasher 1 is set up for use as expected, the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 is oriented according to a predetermined alignment relative to the gravity vector. In particular, this orientation makes it possible to utilize the gravity acting on each detergent tablet during dispensing. For example, when the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 is switched from the closed state to the released state, the detergent tablet will fall from the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 due to gravity. The receiving portion 16 may include a receiving chamber (not shown) for mounting the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218, which can be accessed through a door (not shown) to separate it from the washing chamber 4.

[0086] The drive unit 17 preferably comprises a drive device (not shown) for engaging with the dosing unit 18, 118, 218, which allows the dosing unit 18, 118, 218 to be switched by using a predefined switching mechanism. Figures 1 to 3 An example of this switching is described.

[0087] It is noted that the automatic dosing system 15 may be advantageously used in conjunction with a washing machine as another example of a water-containing household appliance.

[0088] Figure 6 The operation of a water-containing household appliance 1 (e.g. Figure 5Schematic block diagram of an example of a method for a household dishwasher or washing machine (not shown) shown in FIG. 1 . In a first step S1, a dosing unit 18, 118, 218 (see Figures 1 to 3 ) is installed in the automatic dispensing system 15 of the water-containing household appliance 1 (see Figure 5 ). This may involve both user interaction and automatic drive arrangement interaction between the automatic dispensing system 15 and the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218. Specifically, according to the combination Figure 5 The water-containing household appliance described realizes the water-containing household appliance 1, and according to the combination Figures 1 to 3 One of the described dispensing units implements the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218. In a second step S2, the drive unit 17 (see Figure 5 ) and the dispensing devices 20, 120, 220 of the dispensing units 18, 118, 218 (see Figures 1 to 3 ) is engaged. In a third step S3, the dispensing device 20, 120, 220 is switched from the closed state to the released state by the drive unit 17 using a predefined switching mechanism. For example, as a result of the third step S3, at least one detergent tablet is released from the dispensing unit 18, 118, 218 and is thus dispensed into, for example, the washing liquid.

[0089] While the present technology has been described in conjunction with several practical examples, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the disclosed examples, but on the contrary is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the technology.

[0090] Reference Numbers

[0091] 1 Water-containing household appliances

[0092] 2 Cabinet

[0093] 3 doors

[0094] 4 Washing room

[0095] 5 Axis

[0096] 6 Opening

[0097] 7 Lower cover

[0098] 8 Upper cover

[0099] 9 Back cover

[0100] 10 Side cover

[0101] 11 Side cover

[0102] 12 Bracket

[0103] 13 Bracket

[0104] 14 Bracket

[0105] 15 Automatic dispensing system

[0106] 16 Acceptance section

[0107] 17 Drivers

[0108] 18 Distribution Units

[0109] 20 Dispensing device

[0110] 22 Plug

[0111] 24 Security Section

[0112] 25 Endpoints

[0113] 26 Exit

[0114] 30 Storage Box

[0115] 40 Special tools

[0116] 118 Distribution Unit

[0117] 120 Dispensing device

[0118] 121 Pre-assigned components

[0119] 122 Buckle

[0120] 124 Security Section

[0121] 130 Storage Box

[0122] 218 Distribution Unit

[0123] 220 Dispensing device

[0124] 222 Pre-assigned components

[0125] 224 Security Section

[0126] 226 Release element

[0127] 227 Reception Room

[0128] 228 Fixed part

[0129] 230 Storage Box

[0130] A angle

[0131] I Inward direction

[0132] N Surface normal

[0133] O Outward direction

[0134] P Pull direction

[0135] S11 Method steps

[0136] S12 Method steps

[0137] S21 Method Steps

[0138] S22 Method Steps

[0139] S23 Method Steps

[0140] X rotation axis

Claims

1. A dispensing unit (18, 118, 218) of an automatic dispensing system for a water-containing household appliance, the dispensing unit being configured to dispense at least one detergent tablet from a plurality of detergent tablets stored in a storage box (30, 130, 230), the dispensing unit comprising a dispensing device (20, 120, 220), the dispensing device being configured to pick up the at least one detergent tablet from the plurality of detergent tablets and to release the at least one detergent tablet by temporarily switching from a closed state to a released state according to a predefined switching mechanism, wherein: The dispensing device (20, 120, 220) comprises a safety portion (24, 124, 224) for preventing undesired switching; wherein the safety portion (24, 124, 224) is configured so that a force for switching the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) from the closed state to the released state by using the predefined switching mechanism can be applied by a dedicated tool specifically adapted for switching the dispensing device; and The dispensing device (20, 120, 220) comprises a buckle (122), the buckle being configured to move from a first position to a second position by laterally displacing the buckle (122) in a pulling direction (P), wherein the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) is in the closed state in the first position, and the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) is in the released state in the second position, wherein the safety portion (24, 124, 224) is implemented as a surface of the buckle (122) facing away from the storage box (30, 130, 230), the surface having a surface normal (N), which forms an angle (A) of up to 60° with the pulling direction (P).

2. The dispensing unit according to claim 1, wherein: The buckle (122) has a tapered shaped surface.

3. The dispensing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The safety portion (24, 124, 224) is configured to lock the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) in the closed state.

4. The dispensing unit according to claim 3, wherein: The safety portion (24, 124, 224) is realized as a mechanical restraint device.

5. A method of dispensing at least one detergent tablet from a plurality of detergent tablets provided by a dispensing unit (18, 118, 218) using the dispensing unit (18, 118, 218) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the method comprising the following steps: engaging (S1) a driving device of a driving unit with a dispensing device (20, 120, 220) of the dispensing unit (18, 118, 218); and The driving unit switches (S2) the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) from a closed state to a released state by using a predefined switching mechanism, In this case, a special tool (40) specifically suitable for switching the dispensing device is used in the switching step (S2).

6. The method according to claim 5, further comprising: A safety part (24, 124, 224) of the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) is unlocked to prevent undesired switching.

7. A water-containing household appliance (1), comprising an automatic dispensing system (15) for automatically dispensing at least one detergent tablet provided by a dispensing unit (18, 118, 218) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the automatic dispensing system comprising a receiving portion (16) and a drive unit (17), the receiving portion being configured to removably receive the dispensing unit (18, 118, 218), the drive unit being configured to dispense the detergent tablet by switching the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) from the closed state to the released state by using the predefined switching mechanism.

8. A method for operating a water-containing household appliance (1), the water-containing household appliance having an automatic dosing system (15) for automatically dosing at least one detergent tablet provided by a dosing unit (18, 118, 218) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 into a washing liquid for washing items, the method comprising the following steps: installing (S1) the dispensing unit (18, 118, 218) in the automatic dispensing system (15); engaging (S2) the driving device of the driving unit (17) with the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) of the dispensing unit (18, 118, 218); and The drive unit (17) switches (S3) the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) from a closed state to a released state by using a predefined switching mechanism, in, In the switching step (S3), a special tool (40) is used which is specifically suitable for switching the dispensing device.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The special tool is used to unlock a safety part (24, 124, 224) of the dispensing device (20, 120, 220) for preventing undesired switching.

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