Washing method and dishwasher with discontinuous dispensing of washing liquid

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for operating a dishwasher (1), said dishwasher having a washing container (2) for receiving items to be washed, at least one spray device (19, 20, 21) arranged in / or on the washing container in order to dispense washing liquid onto the items to be washed, a circulation pump (17) arranged in / on the washing container, and a control device (22) arranged in / on the washing container in order to control the circulation pump (17). The invention relates to a method for cleaning articles to be cleaned by means of a circulating pump, which is designed to convey the cleaning liquid from a pump sump (15) of the cleaning container to the spray device, comprising a digestion phase (S5) controlled by the control device for digesting dirt adhering to the articles to be cleaned by means of the cleaning liquid, during the digestion phase, the circulating pump is designed to convey the cleaning liquid from the pump sump (15) of the cleaning container to the spray device. Operating the circulation pump to discontinuously distribute the washing liquid from the at least one spray device; and a rinsing phase (S7) for rinsing the dirt, in which at least 75% of the scrubbing liquid from the digestion phase is reused during the rinsing phase.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a dishwasher, also to a computer program product and finally to a dishwasher. Background Art

[0002] EP 1 362 545 B1 discloses a method for operating a dishwasher, which method has a first program section using heated washing liquid and a subsequent second program section using cold washing liquid. In the second program section, the circulation is interrupted several times by repeatedly switching a circulating pump on and off.

[0003] EP 0 659 381 A1 discloses a method for operating a dishwasher, the method having a rinsing phase and / or a washing phase. In each of the phases, water is allowed to enter the sump of the dishwasher until a static level is reached. A pump has a suction opening below the static level and is operable to spray water from a spray nozzle. The pump is repeatedly switched on until the liquid level in the sump drops to the level of the suction opening of the pump and is switched off. After each of the phases, the drain pump is then switched on to drain water from the sump. In this way, the amount of water required for each phase can be reduced to, for example, 3 liters. Thus, a reduced amount of detergent can be added to the water. Summary of the invention

[0004] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved method for operating a dishwasher and / or a dishwasher designed to carry out the improved method. Particular attention is paid to increasing the efficiency of the method.

[0005] Therefore, a method for operating a dishwasher, in particular a domestic dishwasher, is proposed. The dishwasher has a washing container for receiving washing items, at least one spray device, a circulation pump and a control device. The spray device is arranged in the washing container and / or on the washing container to distribute washing liquid to the washing items. The circulation pump is designed to transport washing liquid from a pump sump of the washing container to the at least one spray device. The method has at least one digestion phase and one rinse phase. The digestion phase and / or the rinse phase are controlled by the control device. The digestion phase is suitable for digesting dirt attached to the washing items with the help of washing liquid. During the digestion phase, the circulation pump is operated to discontinuously distribute washing liquid from the at least one spray device. The rinse phase is suitable for washing away dirt. At least 75% of the washing liquid from the digestion phase is reused during the rinse phase.

[0006] The method proposed above comprises a digestion phase. During the digestion phase, the washing liquid is dispensed discontinuously onto the washing items. Thus, the detergent contained in the washing liquid is applied to the dirt attached to the washing items. As a result, swelling and digestion of the dirt occurs. Subsequently, in the rinsing phase, the digested dirt can be washed away using a small amount of energy. As a result, the desired cleaning result is achieved by an effective method.

[0007] A large part of the washing liquid from the digestion phase is reused during the rinse phase. This reduces the water consumption of the entire washing process and improves the efficiency of the process.

[0008] It is preferably provided that all the washing liquid from the digestion phase is reused during the rinsing phase. This again increases the efficiency of the method.

[0009] A washing program can, for example, comprise different subprogram steps, such as, for example, pre-washing, cleaning or main washing, rinsing and / or drying. Different washing programs differ, for example, in the order and / or type of subprogram steps and in different operating parameters, such as, for example, the duration of one or more subprogram steps and / or the washing liquid temperature.

[0010] According to a further embodiment, it can be provided that the digestion phase is a pre-wash or part of the pre-wash, and the rinsing phase is a cleaning or part of the cleaning. In contrast to the usual pre-washing with water, in the proposed method a washing liquid is already used. This prolongs the duration of the action of the cleaning agent on the dirt, thereby improving the efficiency of the proposed method.

[0011] In particular, it can be provided that the rinsing phase, preferably the non-final part of the rinsing phase, is suitable for continuous degradation of dirt. Due to the repeated use of the washing liquid, dirt still adhering to the wash items can continue to swell and / or be degraded.

[0012] In order to simultaneously save water consumption and provide a highly concentrated washing liquid, it can be provided that the washing liquid contains 0.5 L (liters) to 2.0 L of water during the digestion phase, preferably 1.2 L to 1.8 L of water and more preferably 1.5 L of water.

[0013] In order to provide a highly concentrated washing liquid, provision can in particular be made that all cleaning agents provided for and / or used for a washing program are contained and preferably dissolved in the washing liquid of the digestion phase.

[0014] According to a further embodiment, it can be provided that the amount of washing liquid during the digestion phase is measured so that during the discontinuous distribution, washing liquid is distributed from at least one spray device in time intervals. The discontinuous distribution preferably comprises a pause period and an actual distribution period, which are repeated alternately with each other. During this pause period, the circulation pump is operated or not operated, so that washing liquid is not distributed from at least one spray device. During the distribution period, the circulation pump is operated so that washing liquid is distributed from at least one spray device. The distribution over the time period achieves: rapid and uniform wetting of the washing items and attachments that are distributed in an irregular manner in the washing container.

[0015] It would therefore make sense to distinguish between allocation in the narrow sense of outflow and allocation in the broad sense of the methodological stage.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, it can be provided that the amount of washing liquid during the digestion phase is measured so that during the discontinuous operation of the digestion phase, the washing liquid is dispensed in the form of a spray from at least one spray device. This has the advantage that the washing liquid at the respective deposits is not replaced, whereby the deposits are digested in an improved manner. Furthermore, the cleaning agent in the washing liquid can be made more concentrated.

[0017] Preferably, the amount of washing liquid during the digestion phase is measured so that during the discontinuous operation of the digestion phase, washing liquid is only dispensed in an intrusive manner from the at least one spray device. This embodiment requires a smaller amount of washing liquid than dispensing washing liquid over a period of time. Thus, starting with a uniform amount of detergent, the concentration of detergent in the washing liquid can be further increased. Thus, deposits can be digested or released during the digestion phase, which otherwise would only be digested or released with a very high consumption of time, energy for generating pressure, energy for heating and / or water, i.e., with lower efficiency.

[0018] It can be provided that during discontinuous dispensing, washing liquid is dispensed from a portion of the plurality of spray devices. For example, the dishwasher has a valve device which is designed and connected in such a way that the control device can predetermine the supply of washing liquid to one of the plurality of spray devices or to a portion of the plurality of spray devices. As a result, the filling level of the supply line between the circulation pump and the plurality of spray devices can be reduced.

[0019] Preferably, the amount of washing liquid during the digestion phase is measured and / or the circulating pump is operated during the discontinuous distribution, so that the amount of washing liquid used or only measured for wetting the washing items is distributed from the measurement of at least one spray device. Preferably, the digestion phase is carried out for wetting the washing items only. "Wetting" the washing items including attachments is understood to mean that a very small amount of washing liquid is applied by volume. As a result, the share of water in the washing liquid will appear to be correspondingly small, so that the final high concentration of detergent produces an effective digestion of dirt.

[0020] The above-mentioned embodiment relates to the amount of washing liquid that realizes different discontinuous distribution. In the case of predetermined amount of detergent, less washing liquid is equivalent to saving water. Here, "measurement" can preferably be replaced by "dosing" or "limitation".

[0021] When measuring the amount of washing liquid, the delayed return flow of washing liquid dispensed from the spray device or devices into the pump sump is preferably taken into account.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the method provides that: for discontinuous dispensing of washing liquid, the circulation pump is operated in interval operation. Therefore, the circulation pump is temporarily not driven, so that electrical energy is saved.

[0023] Preferably, the circulation pump is operated in a time-controlled manner for discontinuous dispensing of washing liquid. The switching-on time of the circulation pump lasts in particular from 1 s to 10 s. Additionally or alternatively, the switching-off time of the circulation pump lasts in particular from 1 s to 10 s. Experiments have shown that the dishwasher can be operated particularly efficiently with this duration.

[0024] Preferably, the control device is designed and connected so as to detect the flow consumption of the circulation pump. For example, a sensor can be designed and connected for this purpose. For example, the circulation pump itself can be designed and connected accordingly. In addition, it can be proposed that the circulation pump is operated for discontinuous distribution of washing liquid according to the detected flow consumption of the circulation pump. In particular, it can be proposed that the circulation pump is cut off according to the flow consumption. The option is based on the following recognition: the idling of the pump pool is potentially related to the reduction of the flow consumption per unit time for the circulation pump. This realizes the operation of the circulation pump to be controlled. For example, the backflow of the allocated washing liquid varies according to the type, amount and arrangement of the washing items in the washing container. It is possible to react to this more or less unpredictable change by the above-mentioned control so as to allow the proposed method to operate effectively. It can be proposed in an improved way that the circulation pump is cut off when the flow consumption changes, and the change indicates the transition from high-load operation to partial-load operation. This variant can be operated in a particularly robust manner.

[0025] According to a further embodiment, the digestion phase is transitioned into the rinsing phase by supplying water to the washing liquid. Due to the increased amount of washing liquid, rinsing is improved by means of flow effects. Due to the transition from the digestion phase to the rinsing phase, the duration of the washing program is kept as short as possible.

[0026] According to a further embodiment, during the rinsing phase the washing liquid contains 2 to 4 liters of water, preferably 2.7 to 3.5 liters of water and more preferably at least 3 liters of water. Experiments have shown that a particularly effective rinsing action is achieved with this amount of water or a corresponding amount of washing liquid.

[0027] Preferably, the proposed method has a preparation phase before the digestion phase, during which a washing liquid containing water and a detergent is prepared. During the digestion phase, the washing liquid is distributed onto the wash items. Due to the preparation of the washing liquid before the digestion phase, a concentration of the detergent in the washing liquid that is as uniform as possible is achieved, and ultimately a uniform distribution of the detergent onto the wash items is achieved.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the washing liquid has a heating device. As an option, it is proposed to heat the washing liquid by means of the heating device during the digestion phase. This improves the digestibility of certain dirt, in particular fat. The smaller the amount of washing liquid that is not reused after the digestion phase, the more efficient the heating of the washing liquid is, even during the digestion phase.

[0029] Furthermore, a computer program product is proposed, the computer program comprising instructions, which, when a computer executes the program, cause the computer to perform the method according to the above. A computer program product, such as, for example, a computer program tool, can be provided or delivered, for example, as a storage medium, such as, for example, a memory card, a USB stick, a CD-ROM, a DVD, or can even be provided or delivered in the form of a file that can be downloaded from a server in a network. This can be done, for example, in a wireless communication network by transmitting the corresponding file with the computer program product or the computer program tool.

[0030] According to another aspect, a dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher is in particular a domestic dishwasher. The dishwasher comprises a washing container for receiving the washing items, at least one spray device, a circulation pump and a control device. The spray device is arranged in and / or on the washing container to distribute the washing liquid onto the washing items. The circulation pump is designed to transport the washing liquid from the pump sump of the washing container to the at least one spray device.

[0031] The exemplary embodiments and features described for the proposed method apply correspondingly to the proposed dishwasher.

[0032] Other possible embodiments of the present invention also include combinations of features or embodiments described above and below with respect to exemplary embodiments not explicitly mentioned. Those skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or supplements to the corresponding basic form of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Further advantageous embodiments and aspects of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the invention described below. The invention is explained in more detail below based on preferred exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a domestic dishwasher;

[0035] Figure 2 Show according to Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a household dishwasher comprising a circulation pump and a plurality of spray devices;

[0036] Figure 3 A flow chart showing an exemplary embodiment of a method for operating a dishwasher, the method comprising: Figure 1 The control equipment of domestic dishwashers is implemented;

[0037] Figure 4 Shown is a schematic diagram for illustrating Figure 3 Volume-time diagram of the amount of washing liquid during the process of the method shown in;

[0038] Figure 5 Shown in Figure 3 A flow intensity-time diagram of the flow consumption of the circulation pump during interval operation during a part of the process flow of the schematically shown method;

[0039] Figure 6 Show Figure 5 A filling level-time diagram of the filling level of the pump sump during interval operation, schematically shown in FIG.

[0040] Figure 7 Shown in Figure 3 a flow intensity-time diagram of the flow consumption of the circulation pump during interval operation during a portion of the schematically shown method sequence; and

[0041] Figure 8 Show Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the filling level of the pump sump over time during the interval operation shown schematically in FIG.

[0042] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols unless otherwise indicated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system with a domestic dishwasher 1 is shown. The domestic dishwasher 1 comprises a washing container 2 which can be closed, in particular in a watertight manner, by a door 3. For this purpose, a sealing device (not shown) can be provided between the door 3 and the washing container 2. The washing container 2 is preferably cuboidal. The washing container 2 can be arranged in the housing of the domestic dishwasher 1. The washing container 2 and the door 3 can form a washing chamber 4 for washing wash items.

[0044] Door 3 in Figure 13 is shown in the open position of the door. The door 3 can be opened or closed by pivoting about a pivot axis 5 arranged at the lower end of the door 3. The filling opening 6 of the washing container 2 can be closed or opened by means of the door 3. The washing container 2 has a bottom 7, a top 8 arranged opposite the bottom 7, a rear wall 9 arranged opposite the closed door 3, and two side walls 10, 11 arranged opposite each other. The bottom 7, the top 8, the rear wall 9 and the side walls 10, 11 can be made of stainless steel sheet, for example. Alternatively, for example, the bottom 7 can be made of a plastic material.

[0045] The domestic dishwasher 1 also has at least one washing item receiving section 12, 13, 14. Preferably, a plurality of, for example, three washing item receiving sections 12, 13, 14 can be provided, wherein the washing item receiving section 12 can be a lower washing item receiving section or a lower basket, the washing item receiving section 13 can be an upper washing item receiving section or an upper basket, and the washing item receiving section 14 can be a cutlery drawer. Figure 1 1 and 2. It is also shown that the washing article receiving sections 12, 13, 14 are arranged one above the other in the washing container 2. Each washing article receiving section 12, 13, 14 can be selectively displaced into or out of the washing container 2. In particular, each washing article receiving section 12, 13, 14 can be inserted into the washing container 2 in an insertion direction E and can be pulled out of the washing container 2 in a pulling direction A opposite to the insertion direction E.

[0046] Figure 2 A highly schematic section through a domestic dishwasher 1 is shown. For the sake of simplicity, for example, the washware holders 12, 13, 14 are not shown in the section.

[0047] The washing container 2 has a pump sump 15 which, in the installed position, is formed at a level below the bottom 7 .

[0048] For example, the pipeline 16 leads from the pump sump 15 to the circulation pump 17. The pipeline 16 is functionally part of the pump sump 15. The pump sump 15 is connected to the suction port of the circulation pump 17 via the pipeline 16. Alternatively, it can be provided that, for example, the circulation pump 17 is at least partially arranged directly on the pump sump and / or in the pump sump 15. The pump sump 15 is connected upstream of the circulation pump 17.

[0049] In addition to the circulation pump 17, for example, a drain pump (not shown) is provided in the domestic dishwasher 1, which is preferably also connected to the pump sump 15. In contrast to the circulation pump 17, for example, a drain line is connected downstream of the drain pump in order to convey water, washing liquid, food residues and / or the like out of the domestic dishwasher 1.

[0050] The pressure connection of the circulation pump 17 designed for distributing the fluid is connected to a symbolically indicated line network 18. The line network 18 is connected downstream of the circulation pump 17.

[0051] A pipeline network 18 fluidly connects the circulation pump 17 with a plurality of spray devices 19, 20, 21. The spray device 19 is configured as a first spray arm arranged at the bottom 7 of the washing container 2. The spray device 20 is configured as a second spray arm, which is arranged on the side wall 11 of the washing container 2. The spray device 21 is configured as a third spray arm, which is arranged at the top 8 of the washing container 2. This is a preferred example; more or less than three spray devices 19, 20, 21 can be provided; one or more or all spray devices cannot be configured as spray arms.

[0052] The circulation pump 17 is designed to load the spraying devices 19, 20, 21 with washing liquid F (see Figure 2 ), wherein the washing liquid F is transported through a pipeline network 18.

[0053] Furthermore, a control unit 22 is shown, which is arranged, for example, on the door 3 of the domestic dishwasher 1. The control unit 22 is designed in particular to operate the domestic dishwasher 1, for example by executing at least one washing program via the control unit 22.

[0054] In order to compare with the proposed method described later, an exemplary traditional cleaning method is briefly described below. It starts with: a small amount of detergent is arranged on the inner side of the door, and the remaining detergent is arranged in an addition compartment not shown. For example, 3g (gram) detergent is arranged on the inner side and 19g detergent is arranged in the addition compartment. Then start the washing program. Next, a specific amount of water is filled into the washing container by, for example, a control device. The amount of this water is usually enough to enable a circulating pump to achieve continuous circulation. Technically speaking, the amount filled is greater than the circulation amount. For example, 3.1 liters of water are injected. Then pre-washing begins. The water is circulated continuously, wherein the detergent arranged on the inner side dissolves in the water and forms a washing liquid. Preferably, the circulation is carried out on an alternating washing liquid surface. In the next step, at least a portion of the washing liquid is pumped out and removed from the domestic dishwasher by means of a drain pump to remove large particles mixed into the washing liquid. For example, at least 0.4 liters of washing liquid are pumped out. In the next step, another amount of water is added to the washing liquid. For example, at least 0.7 liters of water are additionally added. Preferably, the water added is more than the water that has been pumped out in the previous step. In the next step, the detergent that has not been added previously is added to the washing liquid from the addition compartment, and the washing liquid now contains, for example, 22g of detergent and 3.4 liters of water. Next, cleaning is carried out. During cleaning, the washing liquid is continuously circulated by means of a circulation pump. At the beginning of cleaning, the washing liquid is usually heated to the target temperature, which is accompanied by heating the washing items and the washing container to the same target temperature. For example, the target temperature is 53°C (degrees Celsius). Preferably, cleaning is carried out on the alternating washing liquid surface. At the end of cleaning, all washing liquids (including food residues or dirt contained therein) are pumped out and removed by means of a drain pump. For example, pre-washing lasts 18 minutes, and cleaning lasts, for example, 83 minutes. Preferably, this is followed by a rinse and dry washing program section, which is not discussed in further detail here.

[0055] The exemplary sequence of the proposed method 100 for operating a domestic dishwasher 1 , which is executed by the control device 22 of the proposed domestic dishwasher 1 , differs from the above. Figure 3 Shown in.

[0056] In the first step S1, a cleaning amount is provided. The cleaning amount preferably contains all the cleaning agent, and the input or use of the cleaning agent is provided until the cleaning is completed. For example, 22g of cleaning agent is provided.

[0057] In the next step S2, water is introduced into the washing container 2. This amount of water is preferably measured so that the circulation pump 17 cannot be operated continuously.

[0058] The amount of water introduced is preferably measured such that washing liquid F is or can be dispensed from the at least one spray device 19 , 20 , 21 during discontinuous dosing, ie over a period of time but discontinuously.

[0059] According to a preferred option, even less water is introduced. The amount of water introduced can therefore be particularly preferably measured such that during discontinuous dosing, washing liquid F is or can be dispensed discontinuously from the at least one spray device 19, 20, 21, albeit in bursts.

[0060] Preferably, when measuring the amount of water introduced or to be introduced, the method 100 or the control device 22 takes into account the remaining amount of water or washing liquid that was not or will not be pumped out by the drain pump during the previous pumping out. For example, it is possible that the drain pump cannot pump out below the liquid level in the working space of the drain pump.

[0061] Preferably, the method 100 or the control device 22 takes into account the volume expansion of the washing liquid F caused by the heating of the washing liquid when measuring the amount of water introduced or to be introduced.

[0062] According to a variant, 1.5 litres of water are introduced into the washing container 2 during step S2 .

[0063] According to a preferred variant, during step S2 , water is introduced into the washing container 2 , for example, up to a filling level corresponding to a total volume of 1.5 litres.

[0064] According to a further preferred variant, at least 0.5 liters and at most 2 liters of water are introduced into the washing container 2 during step S2 .

[0065] According to a further preferred variant, during step S2 , water is introduced into the washing container 2 , for example, up to a filling level corresponding to a total volume of at least 0.5 liters and at most 2 liters.

[0066] In the next step S3 , a washing liquid F is prepared. For this purpose, for example, the water introduced into the washing container 2 is mixed with the provided cleaning agent so that the cleaning agent is dissolved in the water.

[0067] Steps S1 to S3 can also be performed in an alternative sequence of S2, S1, S3, or the steps can be replaced by at least one step in which the washing liquid F is provided in another manner.

[0068] In the optional next step S4, the washing liquid F and / or the washing container 2 are heated to a target temperature. For example, the washing liquid F and the washing container 2 are each heated to a target temperature between 40°C and 80°C, preferably each between 45°C and 60°C and for example 53°C.

[0069] In the next step S5 , the control device 22 controls the circulation pump so that the washing liquid F is distributed discontinuously through the spraying devices 19 , 20 , 21 .

[0070] “Discontinuous allocation” is understood in particular to mean a repeated and interrupted allocation, ie in the sequence of allocation-non-allocation-allocation. Preferably, step S5 includes a plurality of changes between allocation and non-allocation.

[0071] Step S5 therefore represents a degradation phase which is controlled by the control device 22. The degradation phase is suitable for releasing or degrading dirt adhering to the wash items in the washing container 2 by means of the washing liquid F.

[0072] During the digestion phase or step S5 , the circulation pump 17 is operated in the manner described below. This operating mode is suitable for discontinuous dosing of washing liquid F from at least one spray device 19 , 20 , 21 .

[0073] Step S4 can be omitted, or it can be performed before step S5 and / or during step S5 including at the end of step S5.

[0074] In the next step S6, additional water is introduced into the washing container 2. In the present example, 1.6 liters of water are introduced into the washing container 2, for example.

[0075] According to a variant of the first embodiment, alternatively in step S6, firstly, for example, by means of a drain pump, at most 25% of the washing liquid F (corresponding to, for example, 375 ml), preferably at most 20% of the washing liquid F (corresponding to, for example, 300 ml), more preferably at most 10% of the washing liquid F (corresponding to, for example, 150 ml), and more preferably at most 7% of the washing liquid F (corresponding to, for example, 100 ml) are pumped out. As a result, coarse contamination can be removed from the washing container 2 to facilitate subsequent method steps. Then, additional water is introduced into the washing container 2. In the present example, the amount introduced can correspond to 1.6 liters plus the pumped volume, so that, for example, 1.975 liters of water, preferably 1.9 liters of water, more preferably 1.75 liters of water and more preferably 1.7 liters of water are introduced into the washing container 2.

[0076] Since in step S6 no washing liquid F or at most 25% of the washing liquid F of step S5 is pumped out by means of, for example, a drain pump, the corresponding amount or the remaining amount of cleaning agent continues to be available for completely releasing any still adhering dirt from the wash items during subsequent method steps.

[0077] In the next step S7, the circulation pump 17 is operated in a manner controlled by the control device 22 to wash away the dirt. For this purpose, the circulation pump 17 is operated in continuous operation, for example. The circulation pump is thus operated in a manner suitable for flushing away the dirt. Therefore, step S7 corresponds to a flushing phase.

[0078] The terms "discontinuous dispensing over a time period" during the digestion phase or during step S5 and "continuous operation" during the rinsing phase or during step S7 can differ in terms of time or quantity. For example, it can be provided that the "time period" of dispensing in the rinsing phase is at most 10 s (seconds), while the "continuous operation" is designed to be at least 20 s.

[0079] Preferably, "discontinuous dispensing in time periods" and "continuous operation" differ with respect to the amount of washing liquid F in the washing container 2, in particular in the pump sump 15 and in the pipeline 16. During discontinuous dispensing, the total amount of washing liquid F in the washing container 2 and in particular in the pump sump 15 preferably does not allow a free selection of the duration of the time period. Instead, the structural parameters and / or operating parameters of the domestic dishwasher 1 preferably predetermine the maximum duration of the dispensing time period during discontinuous dispensing. The structural parameters and / or operating parameters predetermining the maximum duration include, for example, the total amount of washing liquid 2 and / or the flow rate of the circulation pump 17 and / or the dimensions of the pump sump 15 and the pipeline 16 and / or the dimensions of the pipeline network and / or in particular a combination thereof. On the other hand, during the rinsing phase or during step S7, the continuous operation of the pump can be maintained for any length of time during the rinsing phase. The duration of the or each continuous operation of the circulation pump 2 is preferably predetermined by the targeted rinsing effect and is freely selectable in this regard.

[0080] The circulation pump 17 is operated during the rinsing phase in a manner suitable for rinsing dirt from the laundry items. The same applies to further controllable devices of the domestic dishwasher 1, such as devices for purposefully controlling and / or selectively interrupting the flow through the line network 18, and / or for example for additional spraying devices, such as particularly controllable intensive spraying devices.

[0081] If the circulation pump 17 is operated during the rinsing phase to rinse dirt from the wash items, for example, it does not exclude that during this period the deposits continue to be digested by the washing liquid F. The reuse of at least 75% of the washing liquid F from the digestion phase during the rinsing phase includes, but is not limited to, the advantage that the contained cleaning agent has already acted in a digesting manner during the digestion phase and continues to act in a digesting manner during the rinsing phase.

[0082] Step S5 or the digestion phase preferably forms a pre-wash or preferably replaces the previously described pre-wash. Thus, step S7 or the rinsing phase preferably forms a cleaning or preferably replaces the previously described cleaning.

[0083] Below, the digestion phase is contrasted with pre-washing and the rinsing phase is contrasted with cleaning.

[0084] During the digestion phase, significantly less water or a smaller amount of washing liquid F is used than during the rinsing phase. In this respect, the digestion phase and the rinsing phase correspond to pre-washing and cleaning.

[0085] During the digestion phase, a high concentration of washing liquid F is used, while during the rinsing phase, a medium concentration of washing liquid F is used. For example, the washing liquid F of the digestion phase contains 22 g of detergent dissolved in 1.5 liters of water, while the washing liquid F of the rinsing phase contains 16.5 g to 22 g of detergent dissolved in 3.1 liters of water. In this respect, the digestion phase and the rinsing phase are improvements over known pre-washing (for example using 3 g of detergent dissolved in 3.1 liters of water) and known cleaning or cleaning using, for example, 21.6 g of detergent dissolved in 3.4 liters of water. Although this figure relates to specific test conditions in doubtful cases, it shows that the proposed method leads to a higher concentration of detergent, whereby the dirt can be digested more effectively.

[0086] During the digestion phase, heating of the washing liquid F and thus an early digestion of greasy dirt can be provided, whereas heating is only provided previously for efficiency reasons after the washing liquid for the main cleaning has been changed.

[0087] The digestion phase according to the proposed method is intended to make the highly concentrated washing liquid F act on the dirt as early as possible. Therefore, the digestion phase is mainly designed to chemically digest the dirt. The known pre-wash is designed to release the coarse dirt with the help of water jets or washing liquid jets and then remove it from the washing container 2 as quickly as possible. The previously known pre-wash is therefore mainly designed to release the dirt mechanically. The small amount of detergent in the washing liquid F in the known method is measured, for example, to prevent the coarse dirt that has been rinsed from adhering again, and in this case is mainly used for the smooth operation of the machine with a long service life, instead of cleaning the items to be washed early and quickly.

[0088] It should not be overlooked that the proposed method results in a time saving. Since the cleaning agent is already contained in the washing liquid F during the digestion phase, the duration of the rinsing phase can be shortened relative to the duration of the cleaning phase in order to achieve the same action time of the cleaning agent on the dirt.

[0089] Finally, step S8 follows. In step S8, the washing liquid F including the released or floating dirt is pumped out of the domestic dishwasher 1 by means of a drain pump.

[0090] In a subsequent step S9 , rinsing, drying and / or the like can take place.

[0091] Figure 3A quantity-time diagram of the proposed method 100 is shown. Along the x-axis marked with "t" the progressive time is plotted and along the y-axis marked with "V" the quantity of washing liquid F in the washing container 2 is plotted. The quantity is preferably a volume. The quantity is preferably a unit that can be detected via a sensor.

[0092] During steps S1, S2, S3, the control device 22 increases the amount of washing liquid F from 0 or close to 0 or a structurally predetermined residual amount to an amount V1. The amount V1 corresponds, for example, to 1.5 liters. The amount V1 allows washing liquid F to be dispensed only discontinuously.

[0093] During steps S4, S5, the control device 22 performs a heating and digestion phase. In order to illustrate the discontinuous dispensing of washing liquid F during the digestion phase, the amount in this area is shown as a sawtooth line. However, the amount of washing liquid F in the washing container 2 does not change due to the discontinuous dispensing.

[0094] The steps S1 , S2 , S3 , S4 and S5 together last for a duration T1 , for example 18 minutes.

[0095] Subsequently, during a step S6 , the control device 22 again increases the volume of washing liquid F from the amount V1 to the amount V2 . The amount V2 allows a continuous dispensing of washing liquid F. The amount V2 corresponds, for example, to 3.1 liters.

[0096] During step S7 , the control device 22 carries out a main cleaning or rinsing phase.

[0097] Step S6 and step S7 together last for a duration T2, for example shorter than 83 minutes, such as for example between 65 minutes and 83 minutes.

[0098] During a step S8 , the control device 22 pumps out the washer fluid by means of the drain pump, so that the amount of washer fluid decreases from V2 back to 0 or close to 0 or a structurally predetermined minimum amount.

[0099] The control strategy is described below.

[0100] Figure 5 A flow rate consumption-time diagram is shown for illustrating the interval operation of the circulation pump 17 . Figure 6 The fill level-time diagram shows the time profile of the fill level H of the washing liquid F in the pump sump 15 .

[0101] Interval operation occurs repeatedly during the digestion phase. Figure 5 , Figure 6 It is not necessary to show the beginning or end of the digestion phase.

[0102] Until the time t0, the pump sump 15 is filled with washing liquid F up to the upper filling level HO. Before the time t0, the circulation pump 17 is controlled by the control device 22 so as not to be switched on. Therefore, the flow consumption I of the circulation pump 17 is at a low level I0.

[0103] At time t0, the circulation pump 17 is switched on by the control device 22. The flow consumption I by the circulation pump 17 increases to a level I1.

[0104] The circulation pump 17 conveys the washing liquid F from the pump sump 15 into the pipeline network 18. At the increasing level of washing liquid F in the pipeline network 18, the counterpressure that the circulation pump 17 has to overcome increases. As a result, the circulation pump 17 transitions to full-load operation and the flow consumption increases to a maximum value I4. During this period, the filling level H drops to the low filling level HU.

[0105] In this embodiment, the amount V of washing liquid F in the washing container 2 is precisely measured so that washing liquid F can only be dispensed in bursts from the spray nozzles 19, 20, 21. This moment t1 is called a spray burst 23 or in technical terms a "spray burst".

[0106] The filling level H has dropped to the low filling level HU and the circulation pump 17 therefore no longer receives a volume flow of washing liquid F corresponding to the flow rate from the pump sump 15. The circulation pump 17 therefore transitions to partial load operation at this time t1 and the flow consumption drops from the high level I4 to the low level I3.

[0107] This drop in flow consumption I is detected by the circulation pump 17 or a sensor and communicated to the control device 22 .

[0108] While the filling level H continues to remain at the value of the low filling level HU and the flow consumption I continues to drop from the level I3 back to the level N2 , the control device 22 stops the operation of the circulation pump 17 .

[0109] As a result, at time t2, the circulation pump 17 is switched off, and the flow consumption I drops from the level I2 to the initial level I0.

[0110] Since the circulation pump 22 is switched off, it does not deliver any washing liquid F into the line network 18. As a result, the filling level H in the pump sump 15 rises back to the high filling level HO.

[0111] Because the control device 22 detects via the filling level sensor or assumes according to the program that the filling level has increased again due to waiting for a predetermined period of time, the control device 22 switches the circulation pump 17 on again at time t3. The described cycle starts again. The time t3 of the previous cycle is preferably the time t0 of the next cycle.

[0112] The time period Z1 from t0 to t2 lasts, for example, 5 seconds, and the time period Z2 from t2 to t3 lasts, for example, 2 seconds. Therefore, the cycle time lasts, for example, 7 seconds.

[0113] The repetition of the cycle from t0 to t3 is referred to as the interval operation of the circulation pump 17 .

[0114] The interval operation described in the scope of the present embodiment is a preferred example of the interval operation.

[0115] In a modification of the second exemplary embodiment, the time periods Z1 and / or Z2 can also be predetermined individually. In this respect, corresponding sensors can be dispensed with, and the control device 22 carries out the time control of the interval operation.

[0116] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The control is again in Figure 7 , Figure 8 However, a greater amount V1 of washing liquid F is provided in the washing container 2. This has the effect that, before the filling level H drops to the low filling level HU, instead of the spray burst 23, washing liquid F can be dispensed from the spray devices 19, 20, 21 for a period of time Z3. As a result, Figure 7 , Figure 8 In the case shown, this even results in the circulating pump 17 being switched to partial load operation and thus showing a lower flow consumption and being switched off by the control device 22. In other words: even in Figure 7 , Figure 8 In this case, the washing liquid F is also distributed discontinuously and the circulation pump 17 is operated in interval operation.

[0117] According to a further embodiment not shown in the figures, the circulation pump 17 is not switched off by the control device 22 in partial load operation, but the circulation pump 17 continues to be operated by the control device 22 in partial load operation. As a result, the pipeline network 18 remains partially filled. If the circulation pump 17 is then operated in full load operation by the control device 22, the washing liquid F can be dispensed more quickly from the spray devices 19, 20, 21. As a result, the time period Z1 can be shortened.

[0118] Although the invention has been described with reference to illustrative embodiments, it can be modified in many ways.

[0119] Reference numerals list

[0120] 1Household dishwasher

[0121] 2 washing container

[0122] 3 doors

[0123] 4 Washing room

[0124] 5 Pivot axis

[0125] 6 Filling opening

[0126] 7Bottom

[0127] 8 Top

[0128] 9 Back Wall

[0129] 10 Sidewall

[0130] 11Sidewall

[0131] 12. Washing items storage area

[0132] 13. Washing items storage area

[0133] 14. Washing items storage area

[0134] 15 Pump Pool

[0135] 16 Pipeline

[0136] 17 Circulation pump

[0137] 18 Pipeline Network

[0138] 19 Spraying equipment

[0139] 20 Spraying equipment

[0140] 21 Spraying equipment

[0141] 22 Control Equipment

[0142] 23 Spraying Burst

[0143] 100 Methods

[0144] AStretching direction

[0145] EInsert direction

[0146] F washing liquid

[0147] HFilling level

[0148] HO High fill level

[0149] HU low fill level

[0150] IFlow Consumption

[0151] I1 Level

[0152] I2 Level

[0153] I3 Level

[0154] I4 Level

[0155] t time

[0156] T1 duration

[0157] T2 duration

[0158] t0 time point

[0159] t1 time point

[0160] t2 time point

[0161] t3 time point

[0162] V

[0163] V1 volume

[0164] V2 Volume

[0165] Z1 time period

[0166] Z2 time period

[0167] Z3 time period.

Claims

1. A method (100) for operating a dishwasher (1), in particular a domestic dishwasher (1), wherein: The dishwasher (1) comprises a washing container (2) for receiving wash items, at least one spray device (19, 20, 21), a circulation pump (17) and a control device (22), wherein at least one of the spray devices (19, 20, 21) is arranged in or on the washing container (2) for dispensing washing liquid (F) onto the wash items, and wherein the circulation pump (17) is designed to convey washing liquid (F) from a pump sump (15, 16) of the washing container (2) to at least one of the spray devices (19, 20, 21), The method (100) comprises: a digestion phase (S5) controlled by the control device (22), the digestion phase being used to digest dirt adhering to the laundry items with the aid of the washing liquid (F), wherein during the digestion phase (S5), the circulation pump (17) is operated to discontinuously dispense the washing liquid (F) from at least one of the spray devices (19, 20, 21), and A rinsing phase (S7) for rinsing the dirt, wherein at least 75% of the washing liquid (F) from the digestion phase (S5) is reused during the rinsing phase (S7).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that All of the washing liquid (F) from the digestion stage (S5) is reused during the rinsing stage (S7).

3. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The digestion phase (S5) is a pre-wash or a part of a pre-wash, and the rinsing phase (S7) is a wash or a part of a wash.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The amount (V1) of the washing liquid (F) is measured during the digestion phase (S5) so that the washing liquid (F) is dispensed from at least one of the spray devices (19, 20, 21) over a period of time (Z3) during discontinuous dispensing.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The amount (V1) of the washing liquid (F) is measured during the digestion phase (S5) so that the washing liquid (F) is dispensed in the form of spray bursts (23) from at least one of the spray devices (19, 20, 21) during discontinuous dispensing.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The amount (V1) of the washing liquid (F) is measured during the digestion phase (S5) and / or the circulation pump (17) is operated during discontinuous dispensing so that a measured amount of washing liquid (F) for wetting the wash items is dispensed from at least one of the spray devices (19, 20, 21).

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that In order to dispense the washing liquid (F) discontinuously, the circulation pump (17) is operated in interval operation.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that In order to dispense the washing liquid discontinuously, the circulation pump (17) is operated in a time-controlled manner, wherein the switch-on time (Z1, Z3) of the circulation pump (17) lasts in particular from 1 second to 10 seconds and / or wherein the switch-off time (Z2) of the circulation pump (17) lasts in particular from 1 second to 10 seconds.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The control device (22) detects the flow consumption (I) of the circulation pump (17) and operates the circulation pump (17) in accordance with the detected flow consumption (I) of the circulation pump (17) in order to dispense the washing liquid (F) discontinuously.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that The circulation pump (17) is switched off when there is a change in the flow consumption (I), the change indicating a transition from high-load operation to partial-load operation.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that By supplying ( S6 ) water to the washing liquid (F), the digestion phase ( S5 ) transitions to the rinsing phase ( S7 ).

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Prior to the digestion phase (S5), the method (100) has a preparation phase (S3), during which the washing liquid (F) containing water and a cleaning agent is prepared.

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The dishwasher (1) has a heating device and the washing liquid (F) is heated (S4) by means of the heating device during the digestion phase (S5).

14. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when a computer executes the program, cause the computer to perform the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A dishwasher (1), in particular a domestic dishwasher (1), comprising a washing container (2) for receiving wash items, at least one spray device (19, 20, 21), a circulation pump (17) and a control device (22), wherein: The spray device (19, 20, 21) is arranged in and / or on the washing container (2) for distributing washing liquid (F) onto the washing items, and the circulating pump (17) is designed to pump the washing liquid (F) from the pump sump (15, 16) is transported to at least one of the spraying devices (19, 20, 21), characterized in that the control device (22) is designed to perform the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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