Cleaning system for cleaning stackable washware items

Abstract

A cleaning system (114) for cleaning washware (112) comprising stackable washware items is proposed. The cleaning system (114) comprises: - at least one separating module (118) for separating at least one stack of wash ware (120) into individual wash ware parts (122), comprising at least one stack holder (124) for guiding and predefined alignment of the wash ware stack (120) and at least one separating device (126) for sequentially separating the respective wash ware parts (122) arranged at a lower, open end of the wash ware stack (120) from the wash ware stack (120); - at least one cleaning chamber (128) and at least one application device (130) arranged in the cleaning chamber (128) for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed (112) in the cleaning chamber (128); and - at least one transport device (132) for transporting the separated items to be washed (122) from the separating module (118) to the cleaning chamber (128) and through the cleaning chamber (128), wherein the separating module (118) is arranged in such a way as to load the transport device (132) with the separated items to be washed (122). Furthermore, a cleaning set (110) for cleaning washware (112) comprising stackable washware items, a method for cleaning washware (112) comprising stackable washware items and a use of the cleaning system (114) are proposed.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable items, and to a cleaning set comprising the cleaning system. The invention further relates to a method for cleaning washware comprising stackable items, and to a use of the cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable items. Systems, sets, methods, and uses of the type mentioned can be used, for example, in the field of dishwashing technology, in particular in the field of commercial dishwashing technology. The invention can thus be used in particular in commercial kitchens in which washware comprising stackable items, in particular washware comprising nestable items, for example stackable drinking vessels, for example cups, drinking mugs, bowls, containers, and glasses, have to be cleaned in large quantities. However, other areas of application are also conceivable in principle. Technical background

[0002] A variety of cleaning systems, also referred to as cleaning devices and / or cleaning appliances, are known from the prior art, which can clean and / or disinfect stackable items of washware. The design of these cleaning systems depends heavily on the various boundary conditions, such as the level of soiling, throughput, or similar conditions. Examples include cleaning systems described in DE 10 2004 003 797 A1 or DE 102014202818 A1.

[0003] Despite the advantages achieved with the systems described, numerous technical and organizational challenges remain. For example, in fast-food chains and / or at large events, such as concerts or football stadiums, large quantities of stackable washware, such as beverage cups, are regularly generated within a short period of time. These items are usually delivered to a washing station in stacks packed in crates for space reasons. The stacked washware is usually removed from the crates by staff, manually unstacked, and (usually due to the use of deposit systems) also counted, documented, and classified. The stacked washware is then manually placed onto a transport device, such as a conveyor belt, of the cleaning system, before being automatically transported through at least one cleaning chamber.The conveyor belt is usually divided into several individual conveyor belts, for example, connected in series, or it can be continuous. Depending on the volume of contaminated washware, a varying number of operators is required to handle and process it, often under extremely unfavorable ergonomic conditions. Counting, classifying, documenting, and pre-sorting the washware in particular regularly require a significant amount of time and personnel, but due to the trend toward deposit return systems, this is usually indispensable.

[0004] Each operator must be trained beforehand and integrated into the existing operational processes. Furthermore, with a large number of operators, it is often difficult to provide sufficient space for each person to move around. Furthermore, the work described above is usually cognitively unchallenging for the operators after a short period of time, while at the same time being physically demanding due to the generally unfavorable ergonomic conditions. Due to the general shortage of personnel, finding sufficient operators is often a challenge. Object of the invention

[0005] It would therefore be desirable to provide a cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, a cleaning set comprising the cleaning system, a method for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, and a use of the cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, which at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known systems, sets, methods, and uses of the type described above. In particular, the systems, sets, methods, and uses should be suitable for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items. The systems, sets, methods, and uses should, on the one hand, ensure a high throughput of washware comprising stackable washware items and, on the other hand, ensure flexible, at least partially automated handling of the washware comprising stackable washware items to be cleaned. General description of the invention

[0006] This problem is addressed by a cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, a cleaning set comprising the cleaning system, a method for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, and a use of the cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, having the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are presented in the dependent claims.

[0007] In the following, the terms "have", "have", "comprise", or "include", or any grammatical variations thereof, are used non-exclusively. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, apart from the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B", "A has B", "A comprises B", or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no further element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, for example, element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0008] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be provided singly or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. When the feature or element is subsequently mentioned again, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element may be provided singly or multiple times.

[0009] Furthermore, the terms “preferably”, “in particular”, “for example” or similar terms are used hereinafter in connection with optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and these features are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by “in one embodiment of the invention” or by “in an embodiment of the invention” are understood as optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave untouched all possibilities of combining the features introduced thereby with other features, whether optional or non-optional.

[0010] In a first aspect of the present invention, a cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable items is proposed. In particular, the cleaning system can be configured for cleaning washware comprising nestable items. For example, for cleaning washware from at least one stack of washware, in particular a stack of stackable washware. Thus, the cleaning system can be configured in particular to clean washware selected from the group consisting of: cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses and pots or similar objects. The cleaning system comprises at least one separating module for separating at least one stack of washware into individual washware items.The singling module comprises at least one stack holder for guiding and predefined alignment of the stack of washware and at least one separating device for sequentially separating the respective washware items arranged at a lower, open end of the stack of washware from the stack of washware. The cleaning system further comprises at least one cleaning chamber and at least one loading device arranged in the cleaning chamber for loading the washware in the cleaning chamber with at least one cleaning fluid. Furthermore, the cleaning system comprises at least one transport device for transporting the separated washware from the singling module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber. The singling module is arranged in such a way that the transport device is loaded with the separated washware items.

[0011] The term “cleaning system,” as used here, is a broad term which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any multi-part system, for example to a unit composed of at least two components which is designed to clean washware, in particular washware comprising stackable washware items, for example at least one stack of washware. The components of the cleaning system can in particular be mechanically and / or electrically connected to one another, for example reversibly, in order to bring about the cleaning of washware, in particular washware comprising stackable washware items, for example at least one stack of washware, through their interaction.In particular, the cleaning system can be configured to automatically unstack and separate dirty stacks of wash ware, for example dirty stacks of reusable cups, and then automatically place and / or load the separated wash ware, for example the reusable cups, onto the transport device, for example onto the conveyor belt of a conveyor dishwasher, for example onto belt fingers of the conveyor belt, in order to subject them to cleaning in the cleaning chamber.

[0012] The term “washware” as used here is a broad term which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any objects with at least one hollow space. In particular, these can be objects which are used directly or indirectly for the preparation, storage or presentation of food and drinks. For example, washware can be stackable objects, i.e. stackable washware. In the following, the term “washware item” is intended to refer to an individual item of the washware. In particular, the washware can be selected from the group consisting of: cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses and pots or similar objects.The items to be washed may, for example, have a curved collar on at least one edge, for example a shoulder and / or edge that protrudes inwards or outwards.

[0013] The term “stackable,” as used here, is a broad term that should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. This is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a function of the wash ware, for example individual wash ware items, being able to be inserted into one another, for example to save space and / or for easier transport. In particular, stacking, for example by joining several individual wash ware items together, can create a wash ware stack, for example consisting of at least 10, in particular at least 20, in particular at least 30, individual stacked wash ware items. This wash ware stack can then be separated again into its individual wash ware items by the separating module.

[0014] The term “separation module,” as used here, is a broad term that should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a unit that is designed to separate, in particular separate and / or divide, a stack of washware into individual washware pieces. The term “separation” can in particular refer to a separation process, for example, detachment, and preferably comprise separating an individual washware piece from a stack of washware. The separation can take place, for example, by means of the separation device. The separation module can also be referred to, for example, as a “separation cassette.”In particular, the separating module can be adapted to a specific item size and / or item shape, for example, to a item size within a predetermined size range. For example, the separating module can be configured for items with a diameter within a predetermined range, for example, between a minimum diameter and a maximum diameter.

[0015] The term “separating device” as used here is a broad term which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The separating device can refer in particular to any device, for example to a mechanically and / or electrically and / or pneumatically driven or acting device which, alone or together with other devices, for example by interacting with the stack holder, is designed to enable sequential separation of wash ware items from the wash ware stack, for example by acting on the at least one wash ware stack in such a way that the wash ware item located at the lower, open end of the wash ware stack detaches and / or separates from the wash ware stack, in particular from the other wash ware items in the wash ware stack.

[0016] The term “stack receptacle” as used here is a broad term which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The stack receptacle can in particular refer to any holder and / or shape which is configured to hold and / or guide the stack of wash items in at least one position. For example, the stack receptacle can be designed as a shaft, in particular as a filling shaft. In particular, the stack receptacle can be configured to align the stack of wash items along at least one alignment axis and, for example, to feed it to the separating device.

[0017] For example, the stack of wash items can be fed to the stack holder automatically, for example by at least one additional handling device, for example a handling device included in the cleaning system, and / or manually, for example by operating personnel, with at least one opening facing downwards. In particular, the stack of wash items can be fed into the loading chute of the stack holder.

[0018] The term “cleaning chamber,” as used here, is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and customary meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a completely or partially closed chamber within which a cleaning process can be carried out in whole or in part. The cleaning chamber can in particular have at least one housing which completely or partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A single cleaning chamber can be provided, or in principle several cleaning chambers can be provided, for example sequentially. The cleaning chamber can, for example, have at least one opening for loading the cleaning chamber with the items to be cleaned, which opening can also be referred to as an inlet.Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning chamber can be designed entirely or partially as a tunnel, for example, a tunnel with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, also referred to as an outlet. Other designs are also possible in principle.

[0019] The term "application device" as used here is a broad term, which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any device by means of which the items to be cleaned within the cleaning chamber can be applied with the cleaning fluid, in particular with at least one cleaning liquid.

[0020] The term "cleaning fluid," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can refer, without limitation, in particular to a fluid, and in particular a liquid, which, upon contact with the item to be cleaned, can exert a cleaning action. In particular, the cleaning fluid can comprise an aqueous liquid, for example water and / or water with one or more additives, for example with one or more cleaning concentrates and / or rinse aids and / or disinfectants.

[0021] The term "transport device" as used herein is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning should be given, as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device configured to transport at least one other device or at least one other element, in particular washware, and / or to drive a movement of the other device or element. The transport device can in particular comprise at least one drive element, for example at least one drive element circulating through a gaming machine.In particular, the transport device, for example the drive element, can comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a conveyor belt; transport rollers, in particular driven transport rollers; a link chain; and a ratchet transport system. The transport device can preferably comprise a plurality of transport fingers, alternatively also referred to as belt fingers, on which the washware can be received, in particular with an upwardly facing base. For example, the washware item can be plugged onto at least one transport finger in such a way that cleaning fluid penetrating a cavity in the washware item during cleaning can flow and / or drip out of the cavity under the effect of gravity. In particular, the washware can, for example, be plugged onto at least one transport finger during the entire transport on the transport device.The transport device can, in particular, comprise a plurality of transport segments, for example, for the sequential transport of the washware on a plurality of transport segments connected in series. For example, the transport device can be configured such that the washware is transferred between the transport segments, for example, from transport fingers of one transport segment to transport fingers of the other transport segment.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, the transport device can also comprise at least one basket, in particular a rinsing basket, for example a rinsing basket of a rack conveyor dishwasher, in which the items to be washed can be received, similarly to the belt fingers.

[0023] The cleaning system may further comprise at least one conveyor dishwasher, wherein the cleaning chamber and at least one part of the transport device, in particular at least one transport segment of the transport device, are, for example, components of the conveyor dishwasher.

[0024] The term “conveyor dishwasher” as used here is a broad term which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a dishwasher, for example a dishwashing machine, which is designed to clean items to be washed which are designed for the preparation, presentation, reception or storage of food or drinks and which comprises at least one transport device. In particular, the conveyor dishwasher can have at least one cleaning chamber, for example at least one cleaning tunnel, in which the items to be washed, for example one or more items of crockery, are subjected to the at least one cleaning fluid, in particular by means of the application device.The transport device can be configured to transport the items to be cleaned through the cleaning chamber.

[0025] For example, the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher can be the transport device of the cleaning system. For example, the transport device of the cleaning system can be a component of the conveyor dishwasher. Alternatively, the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher can also be merely a part of the transport device of the cleaning system, for example, a transport segment of the transport device of the cleaning system. For example, the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher, in particular a transport segment of the transport device of the cleaning system encompassed by the conveyor dishwasher, can be arranged behind the transport device of the cleaning system, onto which the singulation module loads the singulated items of washware, in the transport direction.Alternatively, the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher can also be a separate transport device from the transport device loaded by the singling module. In particular, however, the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher can also be an additional transport device, for example at least a second transport device in addition to the transport device loaded with singulated washware items. In particular, the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher can be arranged in the transport direction behind the transport device onto which the singling module loads the singulated washware items. Other devices arranged between the two described transport devices, for example further transport devices, are also possible and can be part of the cleaning system.

[0026] The separating device can, for example, comprise at least two rotating rollers, wherein the rotational axes of the rotating rollers can be arranged parallel to one another. In particular, the separating device can comprise at least three rotating rollers, wherein the rotational axes of the rotating rollers can also be arranged parallel to one another.

[0027] The rollers can, for example, have a cylindrical geometry. In particular, the rollers can have a smaller height compared to their circumference, i.e., they can have a shape similar to a round disk, for example, a thick disk.

[0028] Each of the rollers can have at least one threaded groove. The threaded groove can, for example, be configured to engage with an edge of the respective wash ware items arranged at the lower, open end of the wash ware stack and to move the respective wash ware items to be separated sequentially by rotation in a direction parallel to the rotation axes of the rotating rollers, thereby separating them from the wash ware stack. In this way, for example, the at least one wash ware stack can be completely separated. For example, at the end of the wash ware stack, only a single wash ware item can remain from the wash ware stack, so that the penultimate wash ware item of the wash ware stack, for example, is separated by the rollers from only a single wash ware item, for example the last wash ware item of the wash ware stack, instead of from the remaining wash ware stack.

[0029] For example, the thread groove can have a varying thread pitch. In particular, the pitch of the thread groove can vary and / or change along the rotational axes of the rollers. For example, the thread groove can have a different pitch in different sections of the roller. In particular, a transition between different thread pitches of the thread groove can be continuous.

[0030] In particular, the thread groove can have a higher thread pitch in a lower section of the rollers than in an upper section of the rollers. For example, in order to accelerate a downward separation movement of the item of washware. For example, by having a higher thread pitch in the lower section of the rollers than the thread pitch in the upper section of the rollers, the contact time with the lower section of the rollers can be shorter than with the upper section of the rollers and in this way the separation can be accelerated. For example, the thread pitch of the thread groove can increase and / or grow as it runs from the upper end of the rollers to the lower end of the rollers, in particular it can transition continuously, i.e. without a kink, from a lower pitch to a higher pitch.

[0031] At least one of the at least two rotating rollers can have a shoulder to retain the stack of washware, in particular the remaining stacked items. Thus, at least one of the rollers can retain at least one remaining item of the stack of washware by means of the shoulder, for example, by means of a projection and / or edge, in particular such that it remains at least partially in the stack holder and, for example, for a predetermined limited time, for example, for one or more revolutions of the rollers.

[0032] The rotation of the at least two rotating rollers can be synchronized. In particular, synchronization of the at least two rollers can be achieved, for example, by means of at least one gear and / or at least two synchronized drives. Thus, the cleaning system can further comprise at least one gear and / or at least two synchronized drives, in particular for synchronizing the rotational movement of the rotating rollers.

[0033] The separating device can further comprise at least one anti-rotation device. The anti-rotation device can be configured, in particular, to prevent non-synchronous rotation of the at least two rollers. Such anti-rotation devices are generally known. For example, the anti-rotation device can comprise a spring plate that can be unlocked by a release element, such as a bolt, and automatically engages, for example, when the separating device is removed from a predetermined position and / or arrangement. Other anti-rotation devices are also conceivable.

[0034] The rotation axes of the rotating rollers can, for example, be arranged parallel to the alignment axis of the stack holder. Thus, the rotation axes of the rotating rollers can be arranged, in particular, parallel to the alignment axis of the stack holder, along which the stack of washware is aligned. In particular, the rotation axes of the rotating rollers can be arranged parallel to the alignment axis along which the stack of washware is aligned by means of the stack holder.

[0035] The rotating rollers can, for example, be arranged so as to be evenly distributed around the alignment axis. In particular, the rotating rollers can be arranged around the alignment axis so that the rotating rollers are positioned equidistant from one another.

[0036] The separating device can, for example, comprise at least two compressed air nozzles. The compressed air nozzles can, in particular, be configured to sequentially deliver at least one blast of compressed air directed into a gap between the respective items of ware arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of ware and the subsequent items of ware arranged further up in the stack of ware. For example, the blast of compressed air can separate the respective item of ware arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of ware from the remaining stack of ware. In this way, for example, the at least one stack of ware can be completely separated.For example, at the end of the stack of washware, only a single item of washware may remain from the stack of washware, so that the penultimate item of washware in the stack of washware, for example, is only separated from a single item of washware, for example the last item of washware in the stack of washware, by the compressed air blast.

[0037] The separating device may further comprise at least one synchronous control for controlling a synchronous, in particular simultaneous, delivery of the compressed air pulses from the at least two compressed air nozzles.

[0038] The compressed air nozzles of the separating device can, for example, be arranged evenly distributed around the alignment axis. In particular, the compressed air nozzles can be arranged so that the compressed air jets can penetrate the gap, particularly the gap between the washware items, at equidistant points.

[0039] The design of the separating device with the at least two compressed air nozzles can be implemented, in particular, alternatively or in addition to the design of the separating device with the at least two rotating rollers. Thus, in particular, the separation of the stack of wash items can be achieved through the interaction of the separating device with the at least two rotating rollers and the separating device with the at least two compressed air nozzles, for example, in a combined design. For example, such a combined design can comprise both the at least two compressed air nozzles and the at least two rotating rollers, in particular in one or more of the designs described herein.

[0040] For example, in a combined embodiment, the at least two compressed air nozzles can be integrated into the separating device with the at least two rollers, for example in such a way that the separation of the stack of wash items by the at least two rotating rollers can be supported by emitting at least one blast of compressed air from at least one compressed air nozzle. The combined embodiment could, for example, have the advantage that the blast of compressed air could reduce the rotational force of the rollers required for separation. Furthermore, the at least one blast of compressed air emitted by the compressed air nozzles, in conjunction with the rotating rollers, could make it possible, in addition to separation, to at least partially remove and / or loosen any food residue and / or waste that may be trapped and / or stuck between the wash items.

[0041] The predefined alignment of the stack of wash ware can, for example, run orthogonally to a transport direction of the transport device. In particular, the alignment axis, in particular the alignment axis along which the stack holder is configured to align the stack of wash ware, can be perpendicular to a transport plane of the transport device. The term “orthogonal” or “perpendicular” as used here is a broad term which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to an angular alignment and / or arrangement of at least two elements and / or objects, for example to a relative alignment of the elements and / or objects, i.e. to an alignment of the elements and / or objects to one another at an angle of 90°±40°.The stack of wash items can therefore, for example, be aligned at an angle of 90°±40° relative to the transport direction of the transport device. For example, the stack of wash items can be aligned at an angle in a range of 50° to 130° relative to the transport direction of the transport device. In particular, the stack of wash items can be aligned at an angle in a range of 80° to 100° relative to the transport direction of the transport device. For example, the stack of wash items can be aligned at an angle in a range of 85° to 95° relative to the transport direction of the transport device. For example, the angle between the predefined orientation of the stack of wash items can be exactly 90° to the transport direction of the transport device.

[0042] The stack guide can in particular comprise a passive stack guide and / or an active stack guide. The passive stack guide can, for example, have a tube with a circular cross-section at least in sections. For example, the tube can be designed to receive the stack of wash items therein. For example, the alignment axis of the stack guide can be congruent with the central axis of the tube. Alternatively or additionally, the active stack guide can comprise a frictional and / or positive-locking (clamping) conveying device which is designed, for example, to feed the stack of wash items to the separating device by the action of a frictional force. The conveying device can, for example, comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a belt, in particular a flat belt, a chain, a band.

[0043] Alternative designs for the passive and / or active stack guidance are conceivable. For example, the passive stack guidance can comprise at least one rail for guiding the stack of washware. Alternative designs for the active stack guidance, for example, using pressure, are also conceivable.

[0044] The separating module can have at least one replaceable part. In particular, the replaceable part can completely encompass the stack holder. Alternatively or additionally, the replaceable part can completely or partially encompass the separating device.

[0045] The cleaning system can comprise a plurality of separation modules. In particular, the cleaning system can comprise at least two separation modules. Alternatively, the cleaning system can also comprise at least three and / or at least four separation modules. The plurality of separation modules can be arranged, for example, next to one another, in particular parallel to one another, in a direction substantially orthogonal to a transport direction of the transport device.

[0046] The cleaning system can further comprise at least one drive module. The at least one drive module can, for example, comprise at least one drive. In particular, the drive module can comprise at least one drive selected from the group consisting of: a driven drive shaft, for example, a drive shaft driven by a motor, and a compressed air supply line.

[0047] For example, the drive module can be configured to drive the plurality of separation modules, for example a plurality of separation cassettes, via the at least one drive.

[0048] The drive shaft can, for example, be configured to drive at least one separation module whose separation device has at least two rotating shafts.

[0049] The compressed air supply line can, for example, be configured to drive at least one separation module whose separation device has compressed air nozzles.

[0050] For example, the separating module can at least partially encompass the drive module. In particular, if the separating module comprises the at least one replaceable part, the drive module can be part of a fixedly mounted part of the separating module and preferably not part of the replaceable part. The drive module can, for example, be part of a part of the separating module that is fixedly mounted relative to the transport device.

[0051] For example, the replaceable part of the separation module can have at least one connection to the drive. In particular, the replaceable part of the separation module can have at least one connection selected from the group consisting of: a gear part, for example a gear, in particular for connection to a drive shaft, and a compressed air connection, in particular for connection to the compressed air supply line.

[0052] The singling module can, for example, be arranged above the transport device in such a way that the items to be washed are loaded directly from the singling module onto a part of the transport device which is a component of a conveyor dishwasher. In particular, the singling module can be arranged above the transport device in such a way that the items to be washed are loaded and / or placed directly from the singling module onto at least one transport segment of the transport device of a conveyor dishwasher. The term "direct" as used here is a broad term which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to the transfer between the singling module and the transport device without intermediate elements.For example, the direct loading of the washware items from the singling module onto a part of the transport device may include a phase of free fall of the washware items between leaving the singling module and landing and / or placing on the transport device.

[0053] The cleaning system may further comprise at least one feed device for feeding the separated washware items to the transport device. The feed device may be arranged, in particular, between the at least one separating module and the transport device.

[0054] The feed device can be at least partially configured as a chute. For example, the chute can have at least one disposal opening, whereby waste can be disposed of via the disposal opening into at least one disposal device due to its gravity. In particular, the at least one disposal device can be selected from the group consisting of: a disposal shaft and a disposal container.

[0055] The term "slide" as used here is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can refer, without limitation, in particular to an element comprising an inclined and / or sloping surface which is designed to allow at least one object to slide on its surface, for example also referred to as a sliding surface, driven by a force, for example the force of gravity. In particular, the chute can have an inclined surface, for example a sliding surface made of metal and / or ceramic and / or plastic, down which dishes can slide driven by gravity.

[0056] The transport device, in particular a transport segment of the transport device of the cleaning system, can have a plurality of transport compartments. In this case, the separating module, in particular, can be configured to transfer the washware to at least one of the transport compartments. The transport compartments can, for example, be formed at least partially by transport fingers, in particular by the transport fingers of the transport device described herein.

[0057] The transport device, in particular a transport segment of the transport device, can for example have a plurality of transport fingers, wherein in particular the separating module can be configured to transfer the respective separated washware parts to a respective transport finger, so that the washware can be and / or is picked up by the transport fingers with its open side, in particular with its usage side, facing downwards.

[0058] The transport device can comprise at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a conveyor belt, transport rollers, in particular driven transport rollers, a link chain and a basket, in particular a rinsing basket and / or a transport basket.

[0059] The transport device can, for example, be a multi-track transport device. Loading of the multi-track transport device can be carried out, in particular, by several separation modules. For example, loading of the multi-track transport device can be carried out by several separation modules arranged next to one another, for example, parallel to one another.

[0060] The term “multi-lane conveyor device” as used here is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a conveyor device as defined above which is divided into several lanes. The lanes of the conveyor device can, for example, each be individually designed for a type of washware. For example, one lane can be provided for glasses, one lane for bowls and one or more further lanes for different types of washware. The arrangement and design of the lanes can, in particular, be tailored to the operational requirements of the cleaning system.

[0061] The term "track," as used herein, is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and customary meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a receiving device of the transport device arranged in a line parallel to the transport direction of the transport device.A track can result directly from a physical design of the transport device, for example by arranging similar belt fingers in a continuous row on the transport device or in a non-physically predetermined manner, for example by placing similar items to be washed one after the other at the beginning of the transport device at the same point, transverse to the transport direction, on the transport device and thereby lining up the items to be washed in a line, thus forming a track.

[0062] The separating module can, for example, be arranged in such a way that the transport device is at least partially loaded with the separated washware items by the action of gravity. In particular, the separating module can be arranged above the transport device, for example, counter to the direction of gravity.

[0063] The cleaning system can further comprise at least one controller. The controller can, for example, be configured to synchronize a movement of the transport device and a separation speed of the separation device. In particular, the controller can be configured to synchronize the movement of the transport device and the separation speed of the separation device such that successively separated items of washware are loaded onto the transport device one after the other. For example, the controller can be configured to synchronize the movement of the transport device and the separation speed of the separation device such that one separated item of washware can be loaded into exactly one transport compartment of the transport device at a time. It is not mandatory that all transport compartments be occupied.For example, individual transport compartments can be kept free to improve cleaning results. Alternatively, depending on the cleaning system's capacity, all transport compartments can be occupied.

[0064] The cleaning system can further comprise at least one quality control device. For example, at least one light barrier can be provided, for example, at an outlet and / or at an inlet of the cleaning chamber and / or between the separating module and the transport device. The light barrier can be configured, for example, to count separated washware and / or to monitor the condition of the washware, for example, the degree of soiling and / or the integrity of the washware.

[0065] In a further aspect of the present invention, a cleaning set for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items is proposed. In particular, the cleaning set can be designed for cleaning washware comprising nestable washware items. For example, for cleaning washware from at least one stack of washware, in particular a stack of stackable washware. Thus, the cleaning set can be designed in particular to clean washware selected from the group consisting of: cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses and pots or similar objects. The cleaning set comprises the cleaning system according to the present invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments or forms described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments or forms described in more detail below.For definitions and explanations relating to the cleaning system, reference is therefore made to the above definitions and explanations of the cleaning system.

[0066] Furthermore, the cleaning set comprises at least one assortment of separation modules for wash ware of different sizes, for example for wash ware of different sizes and / or shapes.

[0067] The term "assortment of singulating modules" as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and customary meaning as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a plurality of singulating modules as defined above which are configured to singulate washware from stacks of washware of different sizes. For example, the assortment of singulating modules may comprise at least two singulating modules, wherein a first of the at least two singulating modules may be configured to singulate a first stack of washware into individual washware items and a second of the at least two singulating modules may be configured to singulate a second stack of washware into individual washware items.In particular, the first stack of wash ware can differ from the second stack of wash ware, for example be designed differently, for example comprise wash ware items of different sizes. For example, the first stack of wash ware can comprise stackable drinking cups, while the second stack of wash ware can comprise stackable bowls, whereby the size of the bowls can differ from the size of the drinking cups. The range of separation modules can comprise several different separation modules, for example separation modules that are designed to separate different stacks of wash ware into individual wash ware items, i.e. stacks of wash ware made up of items of different sizes and / or shapes. Alternatively or additionally, the range of separation modules can also comprise, for example, at least two identical separation modules that are designed to separate identical or similar stacks of wash ware.

[0068] For example, the assortment of separation modules can be arranged in the cleaning system such that each separation module is assigned to a lane on the transport device. For example, a number of separation modules in the assortment of separation modules can correspond to at least one number of lanes on the transport device.

[0069] For example, the cleaning set's range of separating modules can comprise a plurality of separating modules, allowing it to simultaneously clean, in particular process, an equally large number of stacks of washware. In particular, cups from eleven stacks of cups can each be simultaneously mounted on belt fingers of an assigned lane of the transport device.

[0070] In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for cleaning washware comprising stackable items is proposed. In particular, the method can be configured for cleaning washware comprising nestable items. For example, for cleaning washware from at least one stack of washware, in particular a stack of stackable items. Thus, the method can be configured, in particular, to clean washware selected from the group consisting of: cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses, and pots, or similar objects.

[0071] The method comprises the steps detailed below. These steps can be performed in the order specified. However, a different order is also conceivable. Furthermore, two or more of the specified steps can be performed simultaneously or at an overlapping time. Furthermore, one or more of the specified steps can be performed singly or repeatedly. In addition to the steps specified, the method can comprise further steps not specified.

[0072] The procedure includes the following steps: a) Providing at least one cleaning system, wherein the cleaning system has at least one separating module for separating at least one stack of washware into individual washware parts, wherein the separating module comprises at least one stack holder for guiding and predefined alignment of the washware stack and at least one separating device for sequentially separating the respective washware parts arranged at a lower, open end of the washware stack from the washware stack, wherein the cleaning system further comprises at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device arranged in the cleaning chamber for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the washware in the cleaning chamber, wherein the cleaning system further comprises at least one transport device for transporting the separated washware from the separating module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber,wherein in the cleaning system the separating module is arranged to load the transport device with the separated washware items;, b) feeding the stack of wash items to the separation module; c) guiding and predefined alignment of the stack of wash ware through the stack holder, for example along at least one alignment axis of the stack holder; d) sequentially separating the respective items of washware arranged at a lower, open end of the stack of washware from the stack of washware by the separating device; e) loading the transport device with the individual items to be washed; f) transporting the separated items of washware from the separating module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber by means of at least one transport device; g) Applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed in the cleaning chamber by means of the application device.

[0073] In particular, the method may comprise the use of the cleaning system according to the present invention, for example, according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. In particular, the cleaning system provided in step a) and used in steps b) to g) may be a cleaning system described herein. For definitions and explanations relating to the cleaning system, reference may therefore be made to the above definitions and explanations regarding the cleaning system.

[0074] The feeding in step b) can be carried out, for example, automatically or manually. Thus, the stacks of wash items, for example cup stacks, for example cup stacks comprising 10 to 30 stacked cups each, can be fed to the stack holder, for example, automatically, for example by at least one additional handling device, for example a handling device included in the cleaning system, and / or manually, for example by operating personnel, with the opening of the wash items facing downwards.

[0075] For example, in step e), the loading of the transport device with the separated washware items can be carried out at least partially by the action of gravity. In particular, step e) can involve gravity acting on the separated washware items and thereby contributing at least partially to the loading of the transport device.

[0076] In step f), for example, at least one transport segment of the transport device can transport the washware from the separating module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber. For example, step f) can include at least one transport segment of the transport device transporting the washware from the separating module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber. In particular, the stackable washware items can each be transported on at least one transport segment of the transport device configured as a transport finger to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber.

[0077] In particular, the stack of wash items can be fed to the singulating module in step b) such that an opening of the stack of wash items, for example an open edge, is oriented downwards and a closed side of the wash items, for example a bottom of the wash items or a bottom of the wash items, is oriented upwards. For example, the stack of wash items can be fed to the singulating module in step b) such that the opening of the stack of wash items is located further forward in the direction of gravity than the closed side of the stack of wash items. In particular, the edges of the respective wash items in the stack of wash items can point downwards and the bottoms of the respective wash items in the stack of wash items can point upwards when the stack of wash items is fed to the singulating module.

[0078] In a further aspect of the present invention, a use of the cleaning system, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below, is proposed for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, in particular washware comprising nestable washware items, in particular for cleaning washware of at least one stack of washware, in particular a stack of stackable washware, in particular stackable cups and bowls, in particular stackable drinking cups, in particular washware selected from the group consisting of cups, drinking cups, bowls, containers and glasses.

[0079] The proposed cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable items, the proposed cleaning set, the proposed method for cleaning washware comprising stackable items, and the proposed use of the cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable items offer numerous advantages over known systems, sets, methods, and uses of the type mentioned. In particular, downtimes, congestion, and / or idle times during the cleaning of washware comprising stackable items can be reduced or even completely eliminated, since the proposed systems, sets, methods, and uses enable continuous feeding of the washware into the cleaning chamber.

[0080] By precisely coordinating or synchronizing the separation of the wash ware, for example a separation movement, by the separation module, also referred to as a stacking device, with a movement of the transport device, for example the movement or position of the machine belt, it is possible, for example, to place and / or position the wash ware, for example the reusable cups, on a belt finger of the conveyor belt at exactly the right moment and then to feed them automatically to the cleaning chamber.

[0081] Automated feeding can further reduce the personnel requirements in the dishwashing area and also reduce the workload for the operating staff.

[0082] Furthermore, tool-free replacement of the separating modules can enable high flexibility and rapid adaptation to different wash ware, especially stacks of wash ware of different sizes. The proposed systems, sets, methods, and uses can therefore ensure improved adaptation to different wash ware.

[0083] In addition, by counting the wash items, particularly by means of at least one light barrier, for example, before entering and leaving the cleaning chamber, an automated evaluation of inputs and outputs can be performed. Automated evaluation can, for example, facilitate the creation of invoices for individual wash cycles.

[0084] Through quality control, for example, using at least one image recognition system, after the dishwashing process, damaged and / or incompletely cleaned ware, such as cups that are damaged or improperly cleaned, can be sorted out. The proposed systems, sets, methods, and uses can therefore ensure, for example, that only properly cleaned and undamaged ware is made available for reuse.

[0085] In summary, without limiting further possible embodiments, the following embodiments are proposed: Embodiment 1. Cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, in particular washware comprising interlocking washware items, in particular for cleaning washware of at least one washware stack, in particular a stack of stackable washware, in particular stackable cups and bowls, in particular stackable drinking cups, comprising: - at least one separating module for separating at least one stack of wash ware into individual wash ware parts, comprising at least one stack holder for guiding and predefined alignment of the wash ware stack and at least one separating device for sequentially separating the respective wash ware parts arranged at a lower, open end of the wash ware stack from the wash ware stack; - at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device arranged in the cleaning chamber for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed in the cleaning chamber; and - at least one transport device for transporting the separated items to be washed from the separating module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber, wherein the separating module is arranged in such a way as to load the transport device with the separated items to be washed. Embodiment 2. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, further comprising at least one conveyor dishwasher, wherein the cleaning chamber and at least one part of the transport device, in particular at least one transport segment of the transport device, are components of the conveyor dishwasher. Embodiment 3. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separating device comprises at least two rotating rollers, in particular at least three rotating rollers, wherein the axes of rotation of the rotating rollers are arranged parallel to one another. Embodiment 4. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein each of the rollers has at least one threaded groove, wherein the threaded groove is configured to engage with an edge of the respective washware items arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware and to sequentially move the respective washware items to be separated by rotation in a direction parallel to the axes of rotation and thereby separate them from the stack of washware. Embodiment 5. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the thread groove has a varying thread pitch. Embodiment 6. Cleaning system according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the thread groove in a lower portion of the rollers has a higher thread pitch than in an upper portion of the rollers. Embodiment 7. Cleaning system according to one of the four preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the at least two rotating rollers has a shoulder to retain the stack of washware, in particular the remaining stacked washware parts. Embodiment 8. Cleaning system according to one of the five preceding embodiments, wherein the rotation of the at least two rotating rollers is synchronized, in particular via at least one gear and / or via at least two synchronized drives. Embodiment 9. Cleaning system according to one of the six preceding embodiments, wherein the separating device further comprises at least one anti-rotation device, in particular to prevent non-synchronous rotation of the at least two rollers relative to one another. Embodiment 10. Cleaning system according to one of the seven preceding embodiments, wherein the rotation axes of the rotating rollers are arranged parallel to an alignment axis of the stack holder, in particular to the alignment axis along which the stack of wash items is aligned by means of the stack holder. Embodiment 11. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the rotating rollers are arranged uniformly distributed around the alignment axis, in particular such that the rotating rollers are positioned equidistant from one another. Embodiment 12. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separating device comprises at least two compressed air nozzles, wherein the compressed air nozzles are configured to sequentially deliver at least one blast of compressed air directed into a gap between the respective items of washware arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware and the subsequent items of washware arranged further up in the stack of washware, in particular in order to thereby separate the respective item of washware arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware from the remaining stack of washware. Embodiment 13. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the separating device further comprises at least one synchronous control for controlling a synchronous, in particular simultaneous, delivery of the compressed air pulses from the at least two compressed air nozzles. Embodiment 14. Cleaning system according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the compressed air nozzles are arranged uniformly distributed around the alignment axis, in particular such that the compressed air pulses penetrate into the gap at mutually equidistant points. Embodiment 15. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the predefined alignment of the stack of wash items runs orthogonally to a transport direction of the transport device, in particular the alignment axis along which the stack holder is configured to align the stack of wash items is perpendicular to the transport plane of the transport device. Embodiment 16. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the stack guide comprises a passive stack guide and / or an active stack guide. Embodiment 17. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the passive stack guide has a tube with at least partially circular cross-section. Embodiment 18. Cleaning system according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the active stack guide comprises a frictional and / or positive (clamping) conveying device which is configured to feed the stack of washware to the separating device by the action of a frictional force. Embodiment 19. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the conveying device comprises at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a belt, in particular a flat belt, a chain, a band. Embodiment 20. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the singulation module has at least one replaceable part. Embodiment 21. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the replaceable part completely encompasses the stack holder. Embodiment 22. Cleaning system according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the replaceable part comprises the separating device in whole or in part. Embodiment 23. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the cleaning system comprises a plurality of separation modules, in particular at least two, in particular at least three, in particular at least four. Embodiment 24. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the plurality of singling modules are arranged next to one another, in particular parallel next to one another, in a direction substantially orthogonal to a transport direction of the transport device. Embodiment 25. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the cleaning system further comprises at least one drive module. Embodiment 26. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the at least one drive module comprises at least one drive selected from the group consisting of a driven drive shaft, for example a drive shaft driven by a motor, and a compressed air supply line. Embodiment 27. Cleaning system according to one of the two preceding embodiments, as well as embodiments 21 and / or 22, wherein the drive module is configured to drive the plurality of separation modules via the at least one drive. Embodiment 28. Cleaning system according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the drive shaft is configured to drive at least one singulation module whose separation device comprises at least two rotating shafts according to one of the embodiments 3-9. Embodiment 29. Cleaning system according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the compressed air supply line is configured to drive at least one singulation module whose separation device comprises compressed air nozzles according to embodiment 10. Embodiment 30. Cleaning system according to one of the five preceding embodiments, wherein the singulation module at least partially comprises the drive module. Embodiment 31. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the drive module is part of a part of the separating module that is fixedly mounted relative to the transport device, in particular is not part of the replaceable part according to one of the embodiments 18-20. Embodiment 32. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment and one of embodiments 18-20, wherein the replaceable part of the separating module has at least one connection to the drive, in particular a connection selected from the group consisting of a gear part, for example a gearwheel, in particular for connection to a drive shaft according to embodiment 24, and a compressed air connection, in particular for connection to the compressed air supply line according to embodiment 24. Embodiment 33. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separating module is arranged above the transport device in such a way that the items to be washed are loaded, in particular placed, directly from the separating module onto a part of the transport device, in particular onto at least one transport segment of the transport device, which is a component of a conveyor dishwasher. Embodiment 34. Cleaning system according to one of embodiments 1 to 32, wherein the cleaning system further comprises at least one feeding device for feeding the separated washware items to the transport device, wherein the feeding device is arranged between the at least one separating module and the transport device. Embodiment 35. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the feed device is at least partially designed as a chute. Embodiment 36. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the chute has at least one disposal opening, wherein waste can be disposed of due to its gravity via the disposal opening into at least one disposal device, in particular into at least one disposal device selected from the group consisting of a disposal shaft and a disposal container. Embodiment 37. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the transport device, in particular a transport segment of the transport device, has a plurality of transport compartments, wherein the singling module is configured to transfer the wash items into at least one of the transport compartments. Embodiment 38. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the transport compartments are at least partially formed by transport fingers. Embodiment 39. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the transport device, in particular a transport segment of the transport device, has a plurality of transport fingers, wherein the separating module is configured to transfer the respective separated washware parts to a respective transport finger, so that the washware is picked up by the transport fingers with its open side, in particular its usage side, facing downwards. Embodiment 40. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the transport device comprises at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a conveyor belt, transport rollers, in particular driven transport rollers, a link chain and a basket, in particular a rinsing basket and / or a transport basket. Embodiment 41. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the transport device is a multi-lane transport device, wherein the loading of the multi-lane transport device is carried out in particular by a plurality of singulation modules according to one of the embodiments 21 and 22. Embodiment 42. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the separating module is arranged in such a way as to load the transport device with the separated washware items at least partially by the action of gravity. Embodiment 43. Cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the cleaning system comprises at least one controller, wherein the controller is configured to synchronize a movement of the transport device and a separation speed of the separation device, in particular such that successively separated items of wash ware are loaded one after the other onto the transport device, in particular such that a separated item of wash ware is loaded into exactly one transport compartment of the transport device. Embodiment 44. Cleaning set for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, in particular washware comprising nestable washware items, in particular for cleaning washware of at least one stack of washware, in particular a stack of stackable washware, in particular stackable cups and bowls, in particular stackable drinking cups, comprising at least one cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments and an assortment of separating modules for washware of different sizes. Embodiment 45. Method for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, in particular washware comprising interlocking washware items, in particular for cleaning washware of at least one washware stack, in particular a stack of stackable washware, in particular stackable cups and bowls, in particular stackable drinking cups, in a cleaning system, the method comprising the following steps: a) Providing at least one cleaning system, wherein the cleaning system has at least one separating module for separating at least one stack of washware into individual washware parts, wherein the separating module comprises at least one stack holder for guiding and predefined alignment of the washware stack and at least one separating device for sequentially separating the respective washware parts arranged at a lower, open end of the washware stack from the washware stack, wherein the cleaning system further comprises at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device arranged in the cleaning chamber for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the washware in the cleaning chamber, wherein the cleaning system further comprises at least one transport device for transporting the separated washware from the separating module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber,wherein in the cleaning system the separating module is arranged to load the transport device with the separated washware items;, b) feeding the stack of wash items to the separation module; c) guiding and predefined alignment of the stack of wash ware through the stack holder, for example along at least one alignment axis of the stack holder; d) sequentially separating the respective items of washware arranged at a lower, open end of the stack of washware from the stack of washware by the separating device; e) loading the transport device with the individual items to be washed; f) transporting the separated items of washware from the separating module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber by means of at least one transport device; g) Applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed in the cleaning chamber by means of the application device. Embodiment 46. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the cleaning system is a cleaning system according to any one of the preceding embodiments relating to a cleaning system. Embodiment 47. Method according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein in step e) the loading of the transport device with the separated items to be washed is carried out at least partially by the action of gravity. Embodiment 48. Method according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein in step f) at least two transport segments of the transport device, in particular arranged in series, transport the items to be washed from the singling module to the cleaning chamber and through the cleaning chamber. Embodiment 49. Method according to one of the four preceding embodiments, wherein the stack of washware is fed to the singling module in step b) in such a way that an opening of the washware, for example an open edge of the washware, is oriented downwards, whereas a closed side of the washware, for example a washware underside or a washware base, is oriented upwards, in particular in such a way that the opening is located further forward in the direction of gravity than the closed side. Embodiment 50. Use of the cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items, in particular washware comprising nestable washware items, in particular for cleaning washware of at least one stack of washware, in particular a stack of stackable washware, in particular stackable cups and bowls, in particular stackable drinking cups, in particular washware selected from the group consisting of cups, drinking cups, bowls, containers and glasses. Short description of the characters

[0086] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, particularly in conjunction with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments.

[0087] The exemplary embodiments are illustrated schematically in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures denote identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions.

[0088] In detail: Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 different embodiments of a cleaning set comprising a cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items in perspective views; Fig. 3 to 5 show various embodiments of a part of a cleaning system for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items in sectional views; and Fig. 6 a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for cleaning washware comprising stackable washware items. Description of the embodiments

[0089] In the Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows various embodiments of a cleaning set 110 for cleaning washware 112 comprising stackable washware items in perspective views. The cleaning set 110 comprises at least one cleaning system 114 and an assortment 116 of separating modules 118 for washware 112 of different sizes.

[0090] The cleaning system 114 for cleaning washware 112 comprising stackable washware items comprises at least one separating module 118 for separating at least one stack of washware 120 into individual washware items 122. The separating module 118 comprises at least one stack holder 124 for guiding and predefined alignment of the washware stack 120 and at least one separating device 126 for sequentially separating the respective washware items 122 arranged at a lower, open end of the washware stack from the washware stack 120.

[0091] The cleaning system 114 further comprises at least one cleaning chamber 128 and at least one application device 130 arranged in the cleaning chamber 128 for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed 112, in particular the individual items to be washed 122, in the cleaning chamber 128.

[0092] Furthermore, the cleaning system 114 comprises at least one transport device 132 for transporting the separated wash ware 112, in particular the separated wash ware parts 122, from the separating module 118 to the cleaning chamber 128 and through the cleaning chamber 128.

[0093] The separating module 118 is arranged such that it can load the transport device 132 with the separated washware items 122. For example, the loading can be carried out at least partially by the action of gravity, as shown by way of example in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Alternatively or additionally, however, loading can also be carried out by means of a feed device not shown here, which can be arranged, for example, between the separating module 118 and the transport device 132.

[0094] For example, the singulation module 118 can be arranged such that the stack holder 124 is arranged above the separating device 126 and an output opening of the separating device 126 is positioned above the transport device 132.

[0095] The transport device 132 can, for example, have transport fingers 134, wherein the separating module 118 can transfer the washware 112 with its open side facing downwards onto the transport fingers 134 of the transport device 132.

[0096] The cleaning system 114 can further comprise at least one drive module 136, for example, comprising at least one motor 138. The drive module 136, in particular the at least one motor 138, can be configured, for example, to drive a plurality of separating modules 118, for example, a plurality of separating modules 118 from the range 116 of separating modules 118. The separating modules 118 can be arranged, in particular, next to one another, for example, parallel to one another and orthogonal to a transport direction 140 of the transport device 132.

[0097] For example, the number of separation modules 118 of the assortment 116 can be adapted to a width of the cleaning chamber 128, in particular a passage width and / or machine width. For this purpose, for example, in a multi-track design of the transport device 132, each track of the transport device 132 can be assigned its own separation module 118. Alternatively, at least some of the tracks of the transport device 132 can be loaded with wash ware 112 manually, for example by operating personnel. Fig. The machine width shown in Figure 1 can be 1220mm, for example. Furthermore, the dimensions shown in Fig. 1, the wash ware parts 122 have an outer diameter of 90mm at their open end.

[0098] For example, as in Fig. 2, the transport device 132 may have eight tracks. In the example shown here, only four separating modules 118 are illustrated. However, eight separating modules 118 are also conceivable in order to load each of the eight tracks of the transport device 132 with its own separating module 118. In particular, in this way, for example, eight stacks of wash ware 120 can be processed simultaneously, and the separated wash ware items 122 can each be placed on a belt finger 134, for example, on a belt finger 134 of a track of the transport device 132 assigned to the respective separating module 118.

[0099] In particular, the separation modules 118 can be designed to be fully or partially replaceable, preferably simply, for example without the need for tools, for example tool-free. In particular, the stack holder 124, which can be designed as a shaft, for example, can be replaceable. Alternatively or additionally, the separating device 126 can be designed to be replaceable. Such interchangeability can, for example, enable the separation module 118 to be quickly and / or easily adapted to changing, different washware sizes, for example cup diameters and / or cup sizes. In particular, separation modules 118 for different washware sizes can be used for different lanes of the transport device 132. For example, in order to be able to clean different washware 112 in the cleaning system 114, in particular washware 112 of the same size in each lane.

[0100] The Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 show an embodiment of the cleaning system 114, wherein in particular the separating device 126 comprises at least two rotating rollers 142. Fig. 3 shows a side sectional view and Fig. 4 shows a sectional view from above. The rotation axes 144 of the rotating rollers 142 are arranged parallel to one another, for example. Thus, the at least two rollers 142 are arranged parallel to one another, for example, and in the longitudinal direction of the stack holder 124, which is designed, for example, as a shaft. A distance between the rollers 142 can be determined, for example, by the diameter of the items 122 to be processed, for example, the cup diameter.

[0101] Each of the rollers 142 can have at least one threaded groove 146, which can be configured, in particular, to engage with an edge 148 of the items to be washed 122, for example, to grip it. Thus, the at least two parallel rollers 142 can, for example, form-fit the edge 148 of the respective item 122 arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of items 120, at least at two points, preferably simultaneously. By rotating the at least two rollers 142, the item 122 can then be separated from the remaining stack of items 120 parallel to the rotation axes 144 and deposited downwards, for example, onto the transport device 132. The threaded groove 146 can be helical, for example, on the outer surface of the roller 142.By means of the respective threaded groove 146 of the at least two rollers 142, the item 122 to be separated, for example the cup, can be gripped and conveyed downwards by the rotational movement. For example, the pitch of the threaded groove allows the item 122 arranged at the lower end of the stack of items 120, for example the lowest cup, to be first gripped and then pulled off the stack. The pitch of the threaded groove can, for example, increase per revolution, so that the item 122 is pulled off downwards at an accelerated rate. The threaded groove 146 of the rollers 142 can, for example, be designed such that the items 122 are pulled off by a constant direction of rotation of the rollers 142. Alternatively, a design of the threaded groove 146 is also possible such that the rollers 142 reverse the direction of rotation, at least for a limited time, to pull off the next item 122.In order to remove the item of washware 122, it may be necessary for the rotational movement of the at least two rollers 142 to be opposite to one another.

[0102] In particular, the movement of the item 122 to be washed, which engages with the threaded groove 146 and is arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware 120, driven by the rollers 142, can be parallel to an alignment axis 150 of the stack holder 124, along which the stack holder 124 is configured to erect the stack of washware 120. For example, one or more openings 152 can be provided in the stack holder 124 to enable easy checking of a fill level, in particular a height, of the stack of washware 120 received in the stack holder 124. To retain the remaining stack of washware 120 received in the stack holder 124, at least one of the rollers 142 can have a shoulder 154.

[0103] For example, the rollers 142 can be configured such that, for each rotation of the rollers 142, exactly one item of wash ware 122, for example a cup, is removed from the stack of wash ware 120 and placed on a transport finger 134 of the transport device. For example, through an electrical coupling and / or synchronization between the transport device 132, for example a machine belt, and the singling module 118, also referred to as a destacker, the singulated item of wash ware 122, for example a cup, can be dispensed at the right moment to land on the transport finger, for example due to the effect of gravity. In particular, the cleaning system 114 can be configured such that the faster the transport device moves, for example the machine belt runs, the more frequently an item of wash ware 122 is destacked.

[0104] The rollers 142 can be set in rotation, in particular, via the drive module 136 of the cleaning system 114, for example, via at least one gear and / or via at least two synchronized drives. In particular, if the cleaning system 114 has several separation modules 118, the rollers can be driven, for example, by a common drive shaft 156. This embodiment is shown by way of example in Fig. 4. A configuration with multiple drive shafts 156 is also possible. This configuration is shown as an example in Fig. 3. For example, the rollers 142 can be driven by the motor 138, also referred to as a drive motor, and the transmission, for example, an associated gear transmission. In particular, the transmission can be designed and constructed such that each of the rotating rollers 142 rotates in the opposite direction to each other but at the same speed. All components of the separation module 118 can, for example, be installed in a housing permanently mounted above a machine inlet.

[0105] For example, the singulation module 118 can be fully or partially replaceable. Thus, the singulation module 118 can have at least one replaceable part 158. The replaceable part 158 ​​can, for example, either completely encompass the stack holder 124 and / or completely or partially encompass the separating device 126. In addition, the singulation module 118 can also have a non-replaceable part 160, for example, a part that is fixedly mounted with respect to the transport device 132. In particular, the drive shaft 156 can, for example, be arranged in the non-replaceable part 160.

[0106] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of the cleaning system 114, wherein, in particular, the separating device 126 comprises at least two compressed air nozzles 162. The compressed air nozzles 162 are configured, for example, to sequentially deliver at least one blast of compressed air directed into a gap 164 between the respective items 122 to be washed arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware 120 and the subsequent items 122 of the stack of washware 120 arranged further up. The compressed air nozzles 162 can be switched on and / or operated, in particular, by a common or separate compressed air supply line(s) 163, for example, as part of the drive module 136. In particular, the respective item 122 to be washed arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware 120 can be separated from the remaining stack of washware 120 by the blast of compressed air.For example, the compressed air blast delivered into the gap 164 can penetrate into a cavity 166 between the items to be washed 122, for example between the lower item to be washed 122 and the item to be washed 122 above it of the stack of items 120, and, due to the pressure exerted by the compressed air blast, push the lower item to be washed 122 downward from the stack of items 120, in particular separate it. In particular, the excess pressure exerted by the compressed air blast, which is found in particular between the outer surfaces of the stacked cups, can separate the item to be washed 122 arranged at the lower end of the stack of items 120 from the stack of items 120, for example, the cups are pushed apart. The separated item to be washed 120, for example the separated cup, then falls downwards, for example due to the effect of gravity.An upward pushing of the remaining stack of wash items 120 can be prevented, for example, either due to gravity or by appropriate design of the stack guide 124.

[0107] For example, the stack guide 124 can be an active stack guide and have at least one purely force-locking and / or solely or additionally a form-locking conveying device 168. For example, a conveying device 168 which actively moves the stack of wash ware 120 in the direction of the separating device 126, for example, towards the compressed air nozzles 162. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the conveyor device 168 is designed as a flat belt. Other configurations, such as using at least one chain or belt, are also possible.

[0108] Alternatively, the stack guide 124 can be designed as a passive stack guide, for example as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. For example, the stack guide 124 can comprise a tube with a circular cross-section, at least in sections. However, a simple design with at least two, for example three, limiting elements, such as rails, is also possible.

[0109] By pulsed control of the compressed air nozzles 162, for example, by switching on the compressed air nozzles 162 not continuously but in pulses, the speed of the destacking process can be adjusted to the speed of the transport device. For example, the two speeds—the destacking speed and the running speed of the transport device—can be synchronized by controlling the compressed air pulses emitted by the compressed air nozzles.

[0110] In Fig. 6 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for cleaning washware 112 comprising stackable washware items. The method comprises the steps detailed below. These steps can be performed in the order mentioned. However, a different order is also possible in principle. Furthermore, two or more of the mentioned method steps can be performed simultaneously or overlappingly. Furthermore, one or more of the mentioned method steps can be performed singly or repeatedly. In addition to the mentioned steps, the method can comprise further method steps which are not mentioned.

[0111] The procedure includes the following steps: a) (identified by reference numeral 170) Providing at least one cleaning system 114, wherein the cleaning system 114 has at least one separating module 118 for separating at least one stack of wash ware 120 into individual wash ware parts 122, wherein the separating module 118 comprises at least one stack holder 124 for guiding and predefined alignment of the wash ware stack 120 and at least one separating device 126 for sequentially separating the respective wash ware parts 122 arranged at a lower, open end of the wash ware stack 120 from the wash ware stack 120, wherein the cleaning system 114 further comprises at least one cleaning chamber 128 and at least one application device 130 arranged in the cleaning chamber 128 for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the wash ware 112 in the cleaning chamber 128,wherein the cleaning system 114 further comprises at least one transport device 132 for transporting the separated wash ware 122 from the separating module 118 to the cleaning chamber 128 and through the cleaning chamber 128, wherein in the cleaning system 114 the separating module 118 is arranged in such a way as to load the transport device 132 with the separated wash ware parts 122;, b) (identified by reference numeral 172) feeding the stack of wash ware 120 to the singling module 118; c) (identified by reference numeral 174) guiding and predefined alignment of the stack of wash ware 120 through the stack holder 124, for example along at least one alignment axis 150 of the stack holder 124; d) (identified by reference numeral 176) sequentially separating the respective items of washware 122 arranged at a lower, open end of the stack of washware 120 from the stack of washware 120 by the separating device 126; e) (identified by reference numeral 178) loading the transport device 132 with the separated items of washware 122; f) (identified by reference numeral 180) transporting the separated items of wash ware 122 from the separating module 118 to the cleaning chamber 128 and through the cleaning chamber 128 by means of the at least one transport device 132; g) (identified by reference numeral 182) Applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed 112, 122 in the cleaning chamber 128 by the application device 130.

[0112] The method may in particular comprise the use of at least one cleaning system 114 according to the present invention, for example according to one or more of the Fig. 1 to 5 shown and described embodiments. List of reference symbols 110 Cleaning set 112 items to be washed 114 Cleaning system 116 range of separation modules 118 Separation module 120 stacks of dishes 122 items to be washed 124 Stack holder 126 Separator 128 Cleaning chamber 130 loading device 132 Transport device 134 transport fingers 136 drive module 138 engine 140 Transport direction of the transport device 142 roller 144 Rotation axis of the roller 146 thread groove 148 Rand 150 Alignment axis 152 Opening 154 Shoulder 156 drive shaft 158 replaceable part 160 non-replaceable part 162 compressed air nozzles 163 Compressed air supply line 164 gap 166 cavity 168 Conveyor device 170 Step a) 172 Step b) 174 Step c) 176 Step d) 178 Step e) 180 Step f) 182 Step g) QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2004 003 797 A1

[0002] DE 102014202818 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Cleaning system (114) for cleaning washware (112) comprising stackable washware items, comprising: - at least one separating module (118) for separating at least one stack of wash ware (120) into individual wash ware parts (122), comprising at least one stack holder (124) for guiding and predefined alignment of the wash ware stack (120) and at least one separating device (126) for sequentially separating the respective wash ware parts (122) arranged at a lower, open end of the wash ware stack (120) from the wash ware stack (120); - at least one cleaning chamber (128) and at least one application device (130) arranged in the cleaning chamber (128) for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed (112) in the cleaning chamber (128); and - at least one transport device (132) for transporting the separated items to be washed (122) from the separating module (118) to the cleaning chamber (128) and through the cleaning chamber (128), wherein the separating module (118) is arranged in such a way as to load the transport device (132) with the separated items to be washed (122). [2] Cleaning system (114) according to the preceding claim, wherein the separating device (126) comprises at least two rotating rollers (142), wherein the axes of rotation (144) of the rotating rollers (142) are arranged parallel to one another, wherein each of the rollers (142) has at least one threaded groove (146), wherein the threaded groove (146) is adapted to engage with an edge (148) of the respective items of washware (122) arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware (120) and to move the respective items of washware (122) to be separated sequentially by rotation in a direction parallel to the axes of rotation (144) and thereby separate them from the stack of washware (120). [3] Cleaning system (114) according to the preceding claim, wherein the thread groove (146) has a varying thread pitch. [4] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the thread groove (146) has a higher thread pitch in a lower portion of the rollers (142) than in an upper portion of the rollers (142). [5] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein at least one of the at least two rotating rollers (142) has a shoulder (154) to retain the stack of wash ware (120). [6] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the four preceding claims, wherein the rotation axes (144) of the rotating rollers (142) are arranged parallel to an alignment axis (148) of the stack holder (124). [7] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the separating device (126) comprises at least two compressed air nozzles (162), wherein the compressed air nozzles (162) are arranged to sequentially deliver at least one compressed air blast directed into a gap (164) between the respective items of washware (122) arranged at the lower, open end of the stack of washware (120) and the subsequent items of washware (122) of the stack of washware (120) arranged further up. [8] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the predefined orientation of the stack of washware (120) is orthogonal to a transport direction (140) of the transport device (132). [9] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stack guide (124) comprises a passive stack guide and / or an active stack guide, wherein the passive stack guide has a tube with at least partially circular cross-section, wherein the active stack guide comprises a frictional and / or positive-locking conveying device (168) which is configured to feed the stack of washware (120) to the separating device (126) by the action of a frictional force. [10] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the separating module (118) has at least one replaceable part (158), wherein the replaceable part (158) either completely encompasses the stack holder (124) and / or completely or partially encompasses the separating device (126). [11] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning system (114) comprises a plurality of singling modules (118), wherein the plurality of singling modules (118) are arranged next to one another in a direction substantially orthogonal to a transport direction (140) of the transport device (132). [12] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning system (114) further comprises at least one drive module (136), wherein the at least one drive module (136) comprises at least one drive selected from the group consisting of a driven drive shaft (156) and a compressed air supply line (163). [13] Cleaning system (114) according to the two preceding claims, wherein the drive module (136) is configured to drive the plurality of separating modules (118) via the at least one drive. [14] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the singling module (118) at least partially comprises the drive module (136), wherein the drive module (136) is part of a part (160) of the singling module (118) that is fixedly mounted relative to the transport device (132). [15] Cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the separating module (118) is arranged above the transport device (132) in such a way that the items to be washed are loaded directly from the separating module (118) onto a part of the transport device (132) which is a component of a conveyor dishwasher. [16] Cleaning set (110) for cleaning wash ware (112) comprising stackable wash ware items, comprising at least one cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims and an assortment (116) of separating modules (118) for wash ware (112) of different sizes. [17] Method for cleaning washware (112) comprising stackable washware items, the method comprising the following steps: a) Providing at least one cleaning system (114), wherein the cleaning system (114) has at least one separating module (118) for separating at least one stack of wash ware (120) into individual wash ware parts (122), wherein the separating module (118) comprises at least one stack holder (124) for guiding and predefined alignment of the wash ware stack (120) and at least one separating device (126) for sequentially separating the respective wash ware parts (122) arranged at a lower, open end of the wash ware stack (120) from the wash ware stack (120), wherein the cleaning system (114) further comprises at least one cleaning chamber (128) and at least one loading device (130) arranged in the cleaning chamber (128) for loading the wash ware (112) in the cleaning chamber (128) with at least one cleaning fluid,wherein the cleaning system (114) further comprises at least one transport device (132) for transporting the separated items of washware (122) from the separating module (118) to the cleaning chamber (128) and through the cleaning chamber (128), wherein in the cleaning system (114) the separating module (118) is arranged in such a way as to load the transport device (132) with the separated items of washware (122);, b) feeding the stack of wash ware (120) to the separating module (118); c) guiding and predefined alignment of the stack of wash ware (120) by the stack holder (124); d) sequentially separating the respective items of wash ware (122) arranged at a lower, open end of the stack of wash ware (120) from the stack of wash ware (120) by the separating device (126); e) loading the transport device (132) with the separated items to be washed (122); f) transporting the separated washware items (122) from the separating module (118) to the cleaning chamber (128) and through the cleaning chamber (128) by means of the at least one transport device (132); g) applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed (112, 122) in the cleaning chamber (128) by means of the application device (130). [18] Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the stack of wash ware (120) in step b) is fed to the separating module (118) such that an opening of the wash ware (112) is oriented downwards and a closed side of the wash ware (112) is oriented upwards. [19] Use of the cleaning system (114) according to one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning system (114) for cleaning wash ware (112) comprising stackable wash ware parts.

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