Device for identifying a group of substances in a fluid within a domestic appliance, domestic appliance and method

Abstract

An apparatus (1) for detecting a group of substances in a fluid within a household appliance (100) includes an emission device (2) for emitting a first electromagnetic radiation (11) characterized by an emission spectrum into a test volume (3) containing a fluid, a first measuring device (4) for detecting a first spectrum of a second electromagnetic radiation (12) derived from the test volume (3) containing a fluid, and an evaluation device (5) for providing and designing to evaluate the first spectrum so as to identify the group of substances by using a reference spectrum, wherein the emission spectrum includes wavelength ranges of visible and infrared radiation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for detecting substances in a fluid within a household appliance. Furthermore, this invention relates to household appliances including such an apparatus, related methods for identifying substances in the fluid within the household appliance, and methods for adapting cleaning processes for water-conducting household appliances using such an apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Such household appliances can be, for example, refrigerators, dryers, and water-conducting household appliances such as dishwashers or washing machines or similar appliances.

[0003] These household appliances share at least one thing in common: fluid is directed within the appliance, for example, in various container units, at inlets and outlets, or in bypasses. The container unit of a washing machine or dishwasher is analogous to a soap container for holding items to be washed. Furthermore, the container unit could be the drying chamber of a dryer or the cooling zone in a refrigerator for holding items to be cooled.

[0004] This fluid can be in liquid or gas form. Specifically, the main component of liquid fluids is water, primarily tap water. Gaseous fluids are mainly air.

[0005] Besides the main components water or air, other groups of substances may exist in a fluid. These groups of substances may be dissolved or mixed in the fluid, or exist in the fluid as suspended or emulsified particles or as aerosol particles.

[0006] There are several reasons why it's desirable to detect different groups of substances in a fluid. Determining the type and extent of dirt in a dishwasher or washing machine allows for measures to be taken to remove it from items in the best possible way. However, it's also advisable to test the detergent in the water to determine whether it has been removed from the items at the end of the cleaning process.

[0007] Sometimes refrigerators contain perishable items, especially fruits, vegetables, or animal products. If these products begin to spoil, they will release these substances into the air. Therefore, it is advisable to test the types of substances in the air inside the refrigerator to take appropriate measures.

[0008] For water-conducting household appliances, there are already devices that detect impurities in the water. However, in most cases, detecting turbidity does not identify the substances present in the water. This prevents proper adjustment or further intervention. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, a household appliance, and a method for detecting a group of substances in a fluid within a household appliance.

[0010] According to the present invention, an apparatus is provided for identifying a group of substances in a fluid within a household appliance. The apparatus includes at least one transmitting device, a measuring device, and an evaluation device.

[0011] The device's emission system provides for emitting first electromagnetic radiation into a test volume containing a fluid in which a group of substances is found. The first electromagnetic radiation is characterized by its emission spectrum. According to the invention, the emission spectrum includes wavelengths of visible and infrared radiation.

[0012] Visible light is electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye. The wavelength range of visible light extends from approximately 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0013] Infrared radiation is in the wavelength range of 780 nm to 1 mm, and is further subdivided into the near-infrared range of 780 nm to 3 μm, the mid-infrared range of 3 μm to 50 μm, and the far-infrared range of 50 μm to 1 mm.

[0014] Preferably, the emission spectrum substantially includes all wavelengths within the visible and infrared radiation range, as this range is particularly suitable for identifying groups of substances. The emission spectrum preferably includes the dominant wavelength required for detecting a group of substances, or a wavelength range within the visible and infrared range. More preferably, the emission spectrum includes wavelengths in the range from 360 nm to 2500 nm. Alternatively, the emission spectrum includes wavelengths in the range from 360 nm to 1600 nm. Alternatively, the emission spectrum includes wavelengths in the ranges from 400 nm to 800 nm and from 900 nm to 2500 nm. Alternatively, the emission spectrum includes wavelengths in the range from 360 nm to 1050 nm. Alternatively, the emission spectrum includes wavelengths in the range from 600 nm to 1050 nm. Preferably, any combination of the mentioned wavelength ranges is contemplated.

[0015] Within the meaning of this invention, a spectrum is a composite of different frequencies of electromagnetic radiation, and preferably, a spectrum with spectral parameter values ​​assigned to each frequency. Spectral information preferably includes spectral parameter values ​​as a function of wavelength.

[0016] A first measuring device is provided and designed to detect second electromagnetic radiation emitted from a test volume. The measuring device is preferably capable of detecting almost all wavelengths from the visible and infrared radiation wavelength range. The first measuring device is preferably capable of detecting those wavelength ranges suitable for identifying groups of substances. More preferably, the measuring device can also detect wavelengths or wavelength ranges in the ultraviolet range suitable for identifying groups of substances.

[0017] The second electromagnetic radiation preferably corresponds substantially to the first electromagnetic radiation plus and / or minus at least a portion of each wavelength or a portion of the wavelength range. The first electromagnetic radiation is preferably emitted substantially along the direction of travel or along the direction of propagation, wherein the electromagnetic radiation is considered as a beam. If the direction of propagation of the beam changes, for example due to deflection or reflection, the direction of travel will also change in the same manner. The second electromagnetic radiation is preferably detected in the direction of travel.

[0018] An evaluation device is provided and designed to evaluate a first spectrum. The evaluation is preferably performed using artificial intelligence and / or machine learning. The evaluation device is at least signal-connected to a measuring device, so that at least the detected first spectrum can be transmitted from the measuring device to the evaluation device. Preferably, the spectral measurements of the first spectrum are evaluated. The essence of this principle is that the group of substances to be identified in the fluid produces typical spectral measurements in the first spectrum, i.e., a so-called fingerprint. The first spectrum is preferably the transmission spectrum of the fluid in which the group of substances is present. Alternatively, the first spectrum may also be a reflectance spectrum.

[0019] Therefore, each group of substances can be identified using a reference spectrum. In addition to the corresponding group of substances, it is preferable to also identify the concentration, density, or amount of the substance in the fluid.

[0020] Preferably, for each group of substances to be detected and / or a combination of different groups of substances, a reference spectrum is pre-generated at different temperatures and / or concentrations of the group of substances in the fluid. For each group of substances and / or for a combination of different groups of substances, a reference spectrum containing substance-specific information is preferably available, thus allowing a typical reference spectrum to be assigned to each group of substances, and vice versa. The substance-specific information preferably includes variations in the first spectrum or reference spectrum compared to the emission spectrum, particularly the "peaks" of spectral parameters at wavelengths (so-called peak wavelengths), variations throughout the spectrum, the magnitude of rises at band edges, the ratio of peak wavelengths, the shift of peak wavelengths, wavelength absorption and emission, etc. Reference spectra that substantially contain information about the absorption behavior of the group of substances to be detected, and reference spectra that substantially contain information about the scattering radiation behavior of the group of substances to be detected, are preferred. This also applies to luminescence behavior.

[0021] The first spectrum is evaluated using a reference spectrum. Preferably, at least in the evaluation sub-step, the first spectrum, the modified or converted first spectrum, or the first spectrum corrected by the method, is compared with the reference spectrum, and as a result, the group of substances to be identified is preferably identified through this comparison.

[0022] According to the present invention, the wavelength range of the emission spectrum of visible and infrared radiation has the advantage of being able to identify all major groups of substances, including dirt, detergents, and biodegradation products, in fluids. Therefore, specific measures targeting these substance groups can be taken to improve cleaning effectiveness or freshness.

[0023] Identifying dirt and grime is advantageous because it allows for customized cleaning of objects based on the detected composition, thus optimizing the process. This significantly reduces the consumption of electricity, water, and cleaning agents, protecting the environment.

[0024] Identifying the composition of cleaning agents is advantageous because it reduces the amount of water needed to rinse objects that require cleaning, as it reliably determines when the cleaning agent has been removed from the object.

[0025] Identifying biodegradation products is advantageous because it allows for the detection of subsequent biodegradation processes even before food spoils and needs to be disposed of.

[0026] All groups of substances to be detected possess fingerprints across the entire wavelength range of visible and infrared radiation. Therefore, when using a more limited wavelength range than that of this invention, it will be impossible to identify all the groups of substances to be identified, thus failing to conserve valuable resources in an optimal manner.

[0027] The material groups are preferably grouped according to their compounds and identified by the device. Identifiable dirt material groups include organic molecules such as fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and their decomposition products. Compounds such as inorganic carbon black, lime, minerals, and metal compounds, as well as detergents that include, for example, at least anionic and nonionic surfactants, water softeners, bleach, enzymes, dirt carriers, salts, core soaps, and silicones, are considered inorganic dirt. The device emits first electromagnetic radiation in the emission spectra of visible and infrared light, and in particular, can measure and evaluate all combinations of the material groups to be identified.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the emission spectrum includes the wavelength range of ultraviolet radiation (UV radiation). UV radiation is in the wavelength range of 10 nm to 380 nm, wherein, for the emission spectrum, preferably, the wavelength range greater than 200 nm is essential for identifying groups of substances. Therefore, the emission spectrum includes the wavelength range of visible and infrared radiation, and preferably includes wavelengths in the wavelength range greater than 200 nm up to 380 nm. Alternatively, the emission spectrum preferably also includes wavelengths in the wavelength range from 200 nm to 300 nm.

[0029] Therefore, the transmitting device preferably emits the first electromagnetic radiation simultaneously in the visible, IR, and UV ranges. Alternatively, the transmitting device emits the first electromagnetic radiation in the visible, IR, and UV ranges in an interleaved and / or continuous manner.

[0030] Particularly preferably, the emitting device can selectively add wavelengths or wavelength ranges to or switch them out of the emission spectrum, particularly the wavelength range of UV radiation. This has the advantage that, for example, the wavelengths in the first spectrum produced by the fluorescence of the added UV radiation can be clearly determined, thereby improving the identification of material groups.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the first spectrum and a plurality of reference spectra contain spectral information about a substance’s specific absorption behavior, reflection behavior, scattering radiation behavior, or luminescence behavior, or any combination thereof.

[0032] Each group of matter in the fluid exhibits specific behavior due to its interaction with the first electromagnetic radiation. As part of absorption, at least some particles or molecules absorb at least partially one or more wavelengths or wavelength ranges, such that these wavelengths are at least partially filtered out from the first electromagnetic radiation and thus appear at least less frequently in the second electromagnetic radiation. Similarly, at least some particles or molecules reflect at least partially one or more wavelengths or wavelength ranges during reflection.

[0033] During the first electromagnetic radiation scattering, one or more wavelengths or wavelength ranges are at least partially deflected in their directions by at least a portion of the particles. The behavior of the scattered radiation depends in particular on the particle size of the group of matter to be identified relative to the corresponding wavelength. When the diameter of the particle approximately corresponds to the wavelength, this is called Mie scattering. In the case of Rayleigh scattering, the diameter of the particle is smaller compared to the wavelength. Therefore, it is advantageous to infer at least the particle size from the detected scattering behavior, thereby inferring the group of matter.

[0034] When luminescence is used, at least a portion of the particles or molecules absorb at least partially one or more wavelengths or wavelength ranges and emit the supplied energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation, preferably in a wavelength range different from the emission wavelength range, and preferably in the visible range.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the transmitting device includes at least one transmitting unit. Preferably, the transmitting unit is designed and provided for emitting electromagnetic radiation, wherein a first spectrum includes the wavelength range of visible light, infrared radiation, and preferably UV radiation.

[0036] The transmitting device preferably comprises two, three, or more than three transmitting units. Preferably, each of the two, three, or more than three transmitting units has a portion of a preferred wavelength range or according to the invention, wherein wavelength ranges of visible light, infrared radiation, and preferably UV radiation can be imaged by adding the respective portions.

[0037] The emitting unit is preferably a broadband emitter. The emitting unit is preferably a broadband LED. The emitting unit is preferably a white LED with expanded emission in the IR range and / or UV range. The emitting unit is preferably a broadband laser. The emitting unit is preferably an array of emitters with different bandwidths. The emitting unit is preferably a frequency comb generator. The emitting unit is preferably an emitter with tunable wavelength or tunable wavelength range. The emitting unit is preferably a blue LED. Preferably, any combination of different types of emitting units capable of imaging wavelength ranges of visible light, infrared radiation, and preferably UV radiation can be provided in the emitting device.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, first electromagnetic radiation can be introduced into the test volume from the emitting unit via a first optical guide. Second electromagnetic radiation is preferably discharged from the test volume via a second optical guide and introduced into the first measuring device. In particular, these optical guides guide electromagnetic radiation in the wavelength range of visible light, infrared radiation, and preferably UV radiation, with no loss, and are therefore transparent for wavelengths within this range. The optical guides can be designed as fibers, tubes, rods, or combinations thereof.

[0039] The first measuring device preferably includes at least one pinhole aperture to focus the second electromagnetic radiation. Furthermore, the first measuring device includes a dispersive prism, which is preferably adjustable. Alternatively, the first measuring device preferably includes a grating, which may be flat, arched, or curved. The dispersive prism and grating are designed to fan out or separate the first spectrum according to its wavelength space. This principle is based on diffraction of electromagnetic wavelengths as a function of wavelength.

[0040] Furthermore, the first measuring device includes at least one sensor unit or detector unit. The sensor unit is preferably a single sensor. More preferably, the sensor unit includes a sensor array.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment, the first and second light guides are formed in a rod-like manner along the longitudinal direction within the test volume and are arranged parallel to each other. The rod-like shape means that the light guides are fixed or rigid, and that they are significantly longer in the longitudinal direction than in the transverse direction. The first electromagnetic radiation preferably propagates longitudinally within the first light guide.

[0042] The first electromagnetic radiation is preferably completely reflected into the test volume fluid at the first distal end of the first optical guide. Total internal reflection is preferably ensured by the fact that the first electromagnetic radiation is completely reflected from the physically relevant critical angle to the optically rarer medium at the surface of the optically denser medium, wherein the optical guide contains the optically denser medium and the fluid contains the optically rarer medium.

[0043] Due to interaction with the fluid, the first electromagnetic radiation preferably transitions to the second electromagnetic radiation along the test path within the test volume. Preferably, this interaction is characterized by the absorption, reflection, scattering, and luminescence of the fluid by the first electromagnetic radiation. Preferably, the first electromagnetic radiation interacts with particles or molecules carrying the group of substances to be detected.

[0044] The second electromagnetic radiation preferably corresponds substantially to the first electromagnetic radiation, but differs due to the interaction between the first electromagnetic radiation and the particles of the material group in the fluid.

[0045] The second electromagnetic radiation is preferably totally internally reflected in the opposite direction to the longitudinal direction at the second distal end of the second optical guide. Passing through the optically denser medium of the second optical guide to the optically less dense medium of the fluid, the second electromagnetic radiation is completely reflected at the surface, thus preferably ensuring total internal reflection. Details will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. Alternatively, the surface may be mirrored.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, the device includes at least one second measuring device for detecting at least one second spectrum of a third electromagnetic radiation that has a different direction of travel than the first or second electromagnetic radiation.

[0047] The aforementioned at least one second measuring device preferably includes a pinhole aperture, a grating or a dispersive prism, and a sensor unit. The aforementioned at least one second measuring device is preferably equipped, individually or in combination with each other, with all the features already described in the context of the first measuring device.

[0048] The aforementioned at least one second measuring device preferably detects at least a portion of the third electromagnetic radiation at an angle to the direction of travel, such angle being, for example, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, 120° or any angle greater than 0° and less than 180°.

[0049] More preferably, there is more than one second measuring device, each of which is preferably capable of detecting the second spectrum of the third electromagnetic radiation at different angles in each case. For example, three second measuring devices can detect the second spectra of the third electromagnetic radiation at angles of 30°, 90°, and 120°. By detecting more than one second spectrum, information about the geometric distribution of the transverse scattered radiation can also be advantageously obtained. Understanding the geometric distribution of the transverse scattered radiation is advantageous because it allows for the derivation of conclusions about the particle size of the material group, thereby aiding in the identification of the corresponding material group.

[0050] The third electromagnetic radiation is preferably generated by scattering the first electromagnetic radiation at the mass of matter to be identified. The third electromagnetic radiation departing from the direction of travel corresponds to the transverse scattered radiation produced by the scattering of the first electromagnetic radiation by particles of the mass of matter in the fluid. The transverse scattered radiation depends on various factors, particularly the wavelength of the emitted first electromagnetic radiation and the particle size of the mass of matter, as well as their concentration in the fluid.

[0051] Preferably, an evaluation apparatus is provided and designed to evaluate a first spectrum and at least one second spectrum, which enables the identification of a group of substances using a reference spectrum. Accordingly, there is a reference spectrum for the first spectrum, and in each case, a reference spectrum for the group of substances with a corresponding second spectrum at a corresponding angle relative to the direction of travel.

[0052] Advantageously, the combination of assessments from the first and second spectra allows for better identification of matter groups. More advantageously, the combination of assessments from the first spectrum with more than one second spectrum further improves the identification of matter groups, since the geometric distribution of transverse scattered radiation can also be used to identify matter groups.

[0053] Additionally, the device may include filters, wavelength-dependent optical filters, tunable filters, and / or polarizers, which are preferably part of the first and / or second measuring apparatus.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the evaluation of the first spectrum is performed only in the IR range. The evaluation is performed by an evaluation device that has received the first spectrum from a first and / or at least one second measuring device. According to another preferred embodiment, the evaluation is performed only in the visible range, and according to another preferred embodiment, only in the UV range. The first spectrum is preferably evaluated from a combination of the IR, visible, and UV ranges. It is preferable that the evaluation of the first spectrum occurs in a wavelength range from 200 nm to 10000 nm.

[0055] Advantageously, for example, at the beginning of a cleaning cycle in a washing machine or dishwasher, after the first rinse cycle without detergent, the first spectrum is evaluated only within the wavelength range where dirt molecules (e.g., carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and their breakdown products) and inorganic dirt molecules can be detected. Furthermore, it is advantageous, for example, to evaluate the first spectrum at the end of the cleaning cycle, particularly within the wavelength range where detergent can be detected.

[0056] According to the present invention, a household appliance is provided, including a device and at least one control device, wherein the control device is signaled to an evaluation device, and wherein the control device controls other devices of the household appliance based on a detected group of substances.

[0057] Household appliances include washing machines, dishwashers, dryers, refrigerators, or other similar household appliances.

[0058] The control device is preferably a separate device within a household appliance. More preferably, the control device is integrated into a higher-level control device.

[0059] Preferably, a data connection exists between the control device and the evaluation device, with the evaluation device transmitting data to the control device regarding the concentrations of each detection group and each detected substance. The measurements to be performed by the control device are preferably pre-programmed for each detected substance group, and preferably for each combination of detected substance groups. According to the invention, the control of other devices within the household appliance corresponds to these measurements.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment, the evaluation device is capable of retrieving a reference spectrum from a storage unit. Alternatively or cumulatively, a server can retrieve the reference spectrum via a wireless connection; this server is preferably not part of a household appliance. Accordingly, the household appliance has an interface for communicating with the server.

[0061] According to a preferred embodiment, the main component of the fluid is air. This household appliance is preferably a dryer or a refrigerator.

[0062] Based on the detected material groups, the control device is preferably an air filtration device. For example, biodegradation products that occur during ripening, wilting, or decomposition are found in the air within the refrigerator's cooling compartment. The detected material groups are assessed by an evaluation device and sent to the control device. The control device then activates the air filtration device. The advantage of this is that, based on the detected material groups, they can be filtered out of the air, thus not affecting other perishable foods.

[0063] Alternatively and cumulatively, the control device can control the air handling unit. For example, it can regulate the air in a dryer.

[0064] Alternatively and cumulatively, the control device can control a communication device that can send information to the user. The communication device could be, for example, a display on a household appliance (such as a refrigerator), or even a unit that sends messages to the user's device. For instance, if a decaying process is occurring, the user can be notified via the communication device.

[0065] According to an alternative preferred embodiment, the main component of the fluid is water. This household appliance is preferably a washing machine or dishwasher. In addition to the main component water, the fluid contains, in particular, detergents and impurities or dirt.

[0066] The control device preferably controls the metering device for the cleaning agent based on the detected substance groups, and the metering device can add a cleaning agent, a cleaning agent component, and / or a certain amount of cleaning agent to the water. Specifically, the cleaning agent is adjusted to eliminate the detected impurities in the best possible way. In particular, the cleaning agent consists of multiple components, each of which can eliminate a specific substance group, such as fats, proteins, carbohydrates, or inorganic contaminants. For example, if the fluid mainly contains fat, then components that can remove fat from the object to be cleaned are also mainly added to the cleaning agent.

[0067] Alternatively and cumulatively, the control device can control the supply device to supply a certain amount of water to the cleaning process at specific times or during specific time periods. For example, if the assessment device identifies a low concentration of dirt particles, it is advantageous to save a certain amount of water. Further opportunities to save water arise at the end of the cleaning or rinsing process. The aim here is to remove detergent from the object to be cleaned by rinsing it with fresh water. In the prior art, this amount of fresh water is excessive because, without identifying detergent, it must be ensured that the object to be cleaned is substantially free of detergent. Therefore, the advantage of this preferred embodiment is that the supply of fresh water can be limited as long as the fluid is detected to be substantially free of detergent.

[0068] Alternatively and cumulatively, the control device can control the regulating device, which can select and set cleaning programs from multiple cleaning programs. The cleaning programs preferably vary depending on the cleaning duration, cleaning temperature, and cleaning cycle (e.g., pre-wash cycle, main wash cycle, post-wash cycle, etc.). By selecting a cleaning program based on detected material groups, valuable resources such as energy and time can be advantageously saved, in addition to water and detergent.

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment, the test volume of the device is located within the casing of a washing machine or dishwasher. Alternatively, the test volume is located in a fluid-separable bypass.

[0070] This objective is further achieved by a method. The method may be equipped, individually or in combination with each other, with all the features already described in the context of devices and household appliances, and vice versa.

[0071] According to the present invention, a method for detecting a group of substances in a fluid inside a household appliance is provided, the method comprising the following steps: a. Using a transmitting device, emit first electromagnetic radiation characterized by its emission spectrum into a fluid-filled test volume; b. Detect the first spectrum of the second electromagnetic radiation originating from the test volume using the first measuring device; c. Evaluate the first spectrum using evaluation equipment to obtain the absorption spectrum, and thus obtain the scattering spectrum; d. Using evaluation equipment, detect the material group from scattering and / or absorption spectra using multiple reference spectra. The emission spectrum includes the visible light wavelength range and the infrared radiation wavelength range.

[0072] The first spectrum preferably displays the spectral parameters for each wavelength. The spectral parameters preferably correspond to intensity or beam density, and thus, any other spectral parameters indicating at least how many observed wavelengths are detected or emitted are also possible.

[0073] The first spectrum of the second electromagnetic radiation is preferably detected in the direction of propagation of the first electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, the first spectrum contains at least information about the interaction between the first electromagnetic radiation and the mass of matter in the fluid, which essentially corresponds to absorption and scattering. All the interactions already mentioned are preferably also considered in the evaluation.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, the evaluation of the first spectrum according to method step c includes the following method steps: i. Normalize the first spectrum to obtain the normalized spectrum of the material group; ii. Determine the combined absorption and scattering spectra from the normalized spectra; iii. Separate the combined absorption and scattering spectra to obtain the absorption spectrum and scattering spectrum.

[0075] The first spectrum is preferably normalized using a reference spectrum. The reference spectrum is preferably the transmission spectrum of the fluid, into which the emission spectrum is emitted and the fluid is substantially free of detergents, impurities, or contaminants. The transmission spectrum is preferably that of pure water, fresh water, tap water, or fresh air. This reference spectrum is already present in the method because it is pre-detected and recorded, for example, in a laboratory. The first spectrum preferably corresponds substantially to the transmission spectrum of the fluid in which the group of substances to be detected is present. Alternatively, the first spectrum and the reference spectrum can be reflectance spectra.

[0076] The first spectrum is preferably normalized by dividing the spectral parameters of the corresponding wavelength of the first spectrum by the spectral parameters of the same wavelength of the reference spectrum.

[0077] The combined absorption and scattering spectra are preferably obtained by subtracting one from the spectral parameters of the corresponding wavelengths in the normalized spectra. The combined absorption and scattering spectra essentially contain spectral information about the specific absorption and scattering behavior of a substance, which is initially indistinguishable.

[0078] For separation, it is preferable to apply a suitable fitting function to the spectral lines of the combined absorption and scattering spectra within a wavelength range, in which it can be assumed that little or no absorption of electromagnetic radiation occurs by the particles in the mass group. This wavelength range corresponds, for example, to the range from 500 nm to 1000 nm.

[0079] A particularly preferred fit function is one provided by the following formula. f :

[0080] The parameter λ corresponds to the wavelength, which is an operating parameter of the function. The value λ0 preferably corresponds to the lower limit of the wavelength range, where absorption is assumed to be minimal or nonexistent, for example, λ0 = 500 nm. The value λ0 can also be defined otherwise. f 0, a, and b are the fitting parameters that must be determined for the absorption and scattering spectra of each combination. Preferably, parameters a and b are less than 1. The fitting function for each wavelength... f The corresponding values ​​correspond to the respective spectral parameters.

[0081] The fitting function is preferably calculated over the entire wavelength range of the absorption and scattering spectra.

[0082] The fitting function preferably corresponds to the scattering spectrum of the material group to be identified.

[0083] The absorption spectrum is preferably obtained by subtracting the value of the fitting function for the corresponding wavelength from the values ​​of the spectral parameters for the same wavelength in the combined absorption and scattering spectra.

[0084] The group of substances is preferably detected according to method step d by comparing the absorption spectrum with multiple absorption reference spectra. Alternatively or cumulatively, the group of substances is identified by comparing the scattering spectrum with multiple scattering reference spectra using an evaluation device. Combinations of comparisons are particularly advantageous.

[0085] Furthermore, a method for claiming protection is proposed to address this problem. This method may be equipped, individually or in combination with each other, with all the features already described in the context of the apparatus, household appliance, and method, and vice versa.

[0086] According to the present invention, a method for adjusting the cleaning process of a water-conducting household appliance based on a group of substances detected in the water of the household appliance includes method steps, and at least one of the following method steps: e. Controlling a cleaning agent metering device with a control device, the metering device being able to supply a cleaning agent, a cleaning agent ingredient and / or a certain amount of cleaning agent into water; f. The supply equipment is controlled by a control device, which can supply a certain amount of water; g. Controlling the adjustment equipment via a control device that can set a cleaning program selected from multiple cleaning programs.

[0087] Further advantages, objects, and features of the invention will be explained with reference to the following description of the accompanying drawings. In various embodiments, similar components may have the same reference numerals. Attached Figure Description

[0088] In the attached image: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to one embodiment; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a device with a dispersive prism; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a device according to a preferred embodiment with a grating is shown; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of an apparatus with a transmitter having an adjustable wavelength is shown; Figure 5 This is an illustration of an apparatus according to one embodiment with components; Figure 6 This is an illustration of a household appliance according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0089] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of apparatus 1 according to one embodiment. The emitting device 2 emits a first electromagnetic radiation 11 along a forward direction X into a test volume 3, wherein the first electromagnetic radiation 11 is characterized by an emission spectrum. A fluid exists in the test volume 3, which contains a group of substances recognizable by apparatus 1. Due to the interaction between the first electromagnetic radiation 11 and the particles of the group of substances, the first electromagnetic radiation 12 transitions to a second electromagnetic radiation 12.

[0090] The second electromagnetic radiation 12, which is guided along the forward direction X and leads to the test volume 3, is detected by the first measuring device 4. The second electromagnetic radiation 12 is characterized by being a first spectrum. Figure 1 The basic structure of the device shown corresponds to the basic structure of absorption or transmission spectra. However, reflection spectra can also be envisioned.

[0091] In addition to the direction of travel X, the third electromagnetic radiation 13 can be detected by at least one second emitting device 9, wherein the third electromagnetic radiation 13 appears in the fluid 11 containing particles of matter due to the lateral scattering of the first electromagnetic radiation 11. Therefore, by means of the second measuring device 9, the second spectrum of the third electromagnetic radiation 13 and information relating to the geometry of the scattered radiation, preferably the size characteristics of the particles of matter, can be detected.

[0092] Evaluation equipment 5 ( Figure 1(Not shown) Signaling connection to a first measuring device 4 and at least one second measuring device 9, wherein the first measuring device 4 and / or the second measuring device 9 transmit the detected spectrum to the evaluation device 5.

[0093] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a device 1 with a dispersive prism 31 according to a preferred embodiment. The emitting device 2 includes at least one emitting unit 2a, which emits first electromagnetic radiation 11 into the test volume 3 via a first light guide 20. Second electromagnetic radiation 12 is emitted from the test volume 3 via a second light guide 23. For optical focusing purposes, the second electromagnetic radiation 12 passes through a pinhole aperture 30 and is then optically fanned out by the dispersive prism 31. The sensor unit 33 of the first measuring device 4 detects the corresponding wavelength of the optically fanned-out third electromagnetic radiation 12.

[0094] The first optical guide 20 and the second optical guide 23 are formed at least partially in a rod-like manner along the longitudinal direction X1 and are arranged parallel to each other. Optical guides 20 and 23 each have distal ends 21 and 24, wherein surfaces 22 and 25 of the distal ends 21 and 24 are each inclined at 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal direction X1. A first electromagnetic radiation 11 propagating along the longitudinal direction X1 in the first optical guide 20 is deflected by total internal reflection at the first surface 22 of the first distal end 21 of the first optical guide 20, preferably by 90 degrees. The deflected first electromagnetic radiation 11 then passes perpendicularly through the side of the first optical guide 20 into the fluid in the test volume 3. The first electromagnetic radiation 11 transitions along the test path 26 in the test volume 3 to a second electromagnetic radiation 12.

[0095] The second electromagnetic radiation 12 enters perpendicularly through the side surface of the second distal end 24 of the second optical guide 23, deflects 90 degrees at the second surface along the opposite direction X2 relative to the longitudinal direction X1, and then exits the test volume 3.

[0096] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of device 1 according to a preferred embodiment, which includes a grating 32 instead of... Figure 2 The dispersive prism 31 is shown. The second electromagnetic radiation 12, which is in contact with the grating 32, is reflected to the sensor unit 33 at a corresponding angle based on the corresponding wavelength.

[0097] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of device 1 according to a preferred embodiment, which includes an emitter with an adjustable wavelength as an emission unit 2a. Since the various wavelengths within the wavelength range according to the invention are emitted sequentially, the dispersive prism 31 or grating 32 can be omitted.

[0098] Figure 5This is an illustration of a device 1 according to one embodiment. Component 10 includes a transmitting device 2 and a first measuring device 4, the first measuring device 4 comprising, in sequence, a pinhole aperture 30, a dispersive prism 31 or a grating 32, and a sensor unit 33. Furthermore, the component may include a first light guide 20 and a second light guide 23. Additionally, the component 10 may include an evaluation device 5. The component 10 preferably includes a housing that accommodates the aforementioned components. An advantage of the component 10 is that it can be easily connected to the test volume 3 as a compact unit.

[0099] Figure 6 This is a view of a household appliance 100 according to one embodiment. The household appliance 100 includes at least a device 1, which sequentially includes a transmitting device 2, a test volume 3, a first measuring device 4, and an evaluation device 5. Furthermore, the household appliance 100 includes a control device 6 and a storage unit 7. The control device 6 and / or the storage unit 7 may also be part of the device 1. The washing machine 100 also includes other devices 8, such as a metering device 8a, a supply device 8b, and a regulating device 8c.

[0100] All features disclosed in this application are essential to the present invention, provided that such features, individually or in combination, are novel relative to the prior art.

[0101] List of reference numerals 1 device 2 Launching equipment 2a transmission unit 3. Test volume 4. First measuring equipment 5. Evaluation equipment 6 Control Equipment 7 storage units 8 Other equipment 8a Metering Equipment 8b supply equipment 8C regulating equipment 9. Second measuring equipment 10 components 11 First Electromagnetic Radiation 12 Second Electromagnetic Radiation 13 Third Electromagnetic Radiation 20 First Optical Guide 21 First remote end 22 First Surface 23 Second optical guide 24 Second distal end 25 Second Surface 26 test paths 30 pinhole aperture 31 Dispersion Prism 32 gratings 33 sensor units 100 Home Appliances X is the direction of forward movement and the direction of propagation. X1 Vertical X2 in reverse.

Claims

1. A device (1) for identifying a group of substances in a fluid within a household appliance (100), comprising: The emitting device (2) emits a first electromagnetic radiation (11) characterized by an emission spectrum into a test volume (3) containing a fluid, and further includes... A first measuring device (4) detects a first spectrum of second electromagnetic radiation (12) derived from the test volume (3) containing fluid, and also includes... Evaluation device (5), said evaluation device (5) being provided and designed for evaluating the first spectrum, enabling the identification of a group of substances by using a reference spectrum, The emission spectrum includes a visible light wavelength range and an infrared radiation wavelength range. The reference spectrum is retrieved from a storage unit (7) and / or from a server by the evaluation device (5). The reference spectrum is pre-generated for each group of substances to be tested and / or from a combination of different groups of substances, and a reference spectrum is assigned to each group of substances and / or the combination of different groups of substances. The device (1) further includes at least one second measuring device (9) for detecting at least one second spectrum of a third electromagnetic radiation (13) with a direction different from the first electromagnetic radiation (11) and the second electromagnetic radiation (12). The third electromagnetic radiation (13) is generated by the scattering of the first electromagnetic radiation (11) on the group of substances to be identified. The evaluation device (5) is provided and designed to evaluate the first spectrum and at least one second spectrum, thereby identifying the group of substances by combining the evaluation of the first spectrum with at least one second spectrum.

2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1. Its features are, The emission spectrum also includes a range of ultraviolet radiation wavelengths, which can be turned on or off.

3. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1. Its features are, The first spectrum and multiple reference spectra contain spectral information about the specific absorption, reflection, scattering radiation, or luminescence behavior of a group of matter, or any combination thereof.

4. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1. Its features are, The transmitting device (2) includes at least one transmitting unit (2a), the transmitting unit (2a) being selected from the group consisting of: broadband transmitters, broadband lasers, transmitter series with different bandwidths, frequency comb generators, or transmitters with tunable wavelengths or tunable wavelength ranges.

5. The apparatus (1) according to claim 4, wherein the broadband transmitter is a broadband LED.

6. The apparatus (1) according to claim 4, wherein the broadband transmitter is a white LED with extended emission in the IR range or the UV range.

7. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1. Its features are, The first electromagnetic radiation (11) can be introduced into the test volume (3) from the transmitting device (2) through the first light guide (20), wherein the second electromagnetic radiation (12) can be discharged from the test volume (3) through the second light guide (23) and introduced into the first measuring device (4), wherein the first measuring device (4) includes at least one pinhole aperture (30), a dispersive prism (31) or grating (32) for spatially fanning out the first spectrum, and at least one sensor unit (33).

8. The apparatus (1) according to claim 7. Its features are, The first light guide (20) and the second light guide (23) are formed in a rod-like manner along the longitudinal direction (X1) at least in the test volume (3) and are arranged parallel to each other, wherein the first electromagnetic radiation (11) is completely reflected into the fluid in the test volume (3) at the first distal end (21) of the first light guide (20), wherein the first electromagnetic radiation (11) transitions into the second electromagnetic radiation (12) along the test path (26) in the test volume (3) due to the interaction with the fluid, wherein the second electromagnetic radiation (12) is totally reflected in the opposite direction (X2) relative to the longitudinal direction at the second distal end (24) of the second light guide (23).

9. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1-8. Its features are, The first spectrum was evaluated only in the IR range and / or the visible range and / or the UV range.

10. Household appliance (100) comprising the device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-9, and at least one control device (6) being signaling connected to the evaluation device (5), wherein, The control device (6) controls other devices of the household appliance (100) based on the identified group of substances, the other devices being selected from the metering device (8a), the supply device (8b), and the regulating device (8c).

11. The household appliance (100) according to claim 10, wherein the main component of the fluid is air. Its features are, Based on the identified group of substances, the control device (6) Control air filtration devices and / or air handling devices, and / or Control the communication devices that can send information to users.

12. The household appliance (100) according to claim 10, wherein the household appliance (100) is a washing machine or a dishwasher, and wherein the main component of the fluid is water. Its features are, Based on the identified group of substances, the control device (6) A metering device (8a) for controlling the addition of a cleaning agent, the metering device (8a) being capable of adding a cleaning agent, a cleaning agent ingredient, and / or a certain amount of cleaning agent to water; and / or Control the supply device (8b), which is capable of supplying a certain amount of water; and / or A control and adjustment device (8c) is provided, which can set a cleaning program selected from a plurality of cleaning programs.

13. The household appliance (100) according to claim 12. Its features are, The test volume (3) of the device (1) is in a chassis or in a fluid-separable bypass.

14. A method for identifying groups of substances in a fluid within a household appliance, comprising: a. Using a transmitting device (2), emit first electromagnetic radiation (11) characterized by an emission spectrum into a fluid-filled test volume (3); b. Using the first measuring device (4), detect the first spectrum of the second electromagnetic radiation (12) derived from the test volume (3); c. Detecting at least one second spectrum of a third electromagnetic radiation (13) with a direction different from the first electromagnetic radiation (11) and the second electromagnetic radiation (12) by means of at least one second measuring device (9), wherein the third electromagnetic radiation (13) is generated by the scattering of the first electromagnetic radiation (11) in the group of matter to be identified; d. Using evaluation equipment (5), evaluate the first spectrum and at least one second spectrum to obtain an absorption spectrum and a scattering spectrum, thereby identifying a group of substances by combining the evaluation of the first spectrum with that of at least one second spectrum; e. Using the evaluation device (5), a group of substances is identified from scattering and / or absorption spectra using multiple reference spectra, wherein the reference spectra are retrieved from the storage unit (7) and / or from the server by the evaluation device (5), and the reference spectra are pre-generated for each group of substances to be tested and / or from a combination of different groups of substances, and a reference spectrum is assigned to each group of substances and / or the combination of different groups of substances. The emission spectrum includes the visible light wavelength range and the infrared radiation wavelength range.

15. The method according to claim 14, Its features are, The evaluation of the first spectrum includes the following method steps: i. Normalize the first spectrum to obtain the normalized spectrum of the material group; ii. Determine the combined absorption and scattering spectra from the normalized spectra; iii. Separate the combined absorption and scattering spectra to obtain the absorption spectrum and scattering spectrum.

16. A method for adjusting the cleaning process of a household appliance (100) according to claim 13 based on a group of substances identified in the water of the household appliance (100), comprising the method steps of identifying a group of substances in the fluid within the household appliance: a. Using a transmitting device (2), emit first electromagnetic radiation (11) characterized by an emission spectrum into a fluid-filled test volume (3); b. Using the first measuring device (4), detect the first spectrum of the second electromagnetic radiation (12) derived from the test volume (3); c. Detecting at least one second spectrum of a third electromagnetic radiation (13) with a direction different from the first electromagnetic radiation (11) and the second electromagnetic radiation (12) by means of at least one second measuring device (9), wherein the third electromagnetic radiation (13) is generated by the scattering of the first electromagnetic radiation (11) in the group of matter to be identified; d. Using evaluation equipment (5), evaluate the first spectrum and at least one of the second spectra to obtain an absorption spectrum and a scattering spectrum; e. Using the evaluation device (5), identify groups of substances from scattering and / or absorption spectra using multiple reference spectra. The emission spectrum includes the visible light wavelength range and the infrared radiation wavelength range; as well as At least one of the following method steps: f. A metering device (8a) for controlling a cleaning agent by means of a control device, said metering device being able to supply a cleaning agent, a cleaning agent component and / or a certain amount of cleaning agent into water; g. Controlling the supply equipment (8b) via a control device, said supply equipment being able to supply a certain amount of water; h. Controlling the regulating device (8c) via a control device, the regulating device being able to set a cleaning program selected from a plurality of cleaning programs.

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