Washing configurator

Abstract

Washing program generation unit (R) intended for generating washing programs for an automatic washing system (WA) for vehicles, namely for a portal washing system, comprising: - An input interface (41) for reading in a placement data set representing the current placement of machine components in the washing system; - A processor unit (42) for determining function blocks from a set of function blocks (FuB) that can be activated on the basis of the assembly data set read in via the input interface (41); wherein a function block (FuB) is a digital object in which the correspondingly required machine components are assigned for its functionality; - A user interface (43) designed to output the set of activatable function blocks determined by the processor unit and designed to capture a selection of the output activatable function blocks; wherein the processor unit (42) is further designed to automatically generate a washing program based on the selection of output activatable function blocks captured on the user interface (43) for operating the washing system (WA).

Description

[0001] The present innovation lies in the field of automatic car washes and relates in particular to a wash program generation unit and a car wash.

[0002] It is known in the prior art to preconfigure a set of standard washing programs and then deliver the washing system to an operator with these pre-configured programs. Before commissioning the system, the operator can select a specific program from this set.

[0003] Car washes comprise a variety of electrically controlled mechanical components, such as pumps, valves, drives, etc., which can be installed in different configurations within the wash system. Furthermore, each operator has specific requirements (e.g., local water supply pressure, typical level of vehicle soiling, etc.).

[0004] To meet these requirements, existing systems allow the operator to select a suitable program from approximately 250 different standard wash programs. They can then adjust the program to suit specific circumstances through appropriate parameter settings.

[0005] However, this creates the problem that the operator is limited to selecting standard washing programs. This proves to be a disadvantage.

[0006] Another problem lies in the maintenance intensity of the systems. After delivery and commissioning of a system, adjustments for its operation could previously only be carried out by a service technician in a very labor-intensive manner and at the machine component level.

[0007] After delivery of the system, it has not been possible to change the system's performance capabilities through simple, quick measures.

[0008] The generic DE 10 2016 101481 A 1 discloses a method for generating a washing program for operating an automatic washing system.

[0009] Building upon this state of the art, the present innovation aims to improve the operation of automatic vehicle wash systems and, in particular, to reduce operating costs. Furthermore, the operation of the wash system should be more flexibly adaptable to specific requirements after delivery. In addition, the generation of executable wash programs should be tailored to the currently recorded system configuration.

[0010] This problem is solved by the subject matter according to the accompanying, interrelated patent claims.

[0011] The innovation concerns a wash program generation unit for operating an automatic vehicle wash system and a vehicle wash system with such a wash program generation unit. Wash programs should be able to be generated locally on the delivered wash system, and these programs should be executable with the current configuration and setup of the wash system. The operator should also be able to determine the scope of the wash program.

[0012] According to a first aspect, the washing program generation unit is designed to execute a procedure with the following steps: - Reading in a component placement data set that represents the current configuration of the washing system with machine components; - Determining activatable function blocks based on the imported assembly data set and providing or outputting them, in particular on a user interface for selection by the user; - Recording a selection by the user (operator) of the provided activatable function blocks; - Automatic generation of the washing program with a calculated sequence of selected activatable function blocks for operating the washing system.

[0013] The following is a definition of the terms used in this application.

[0014] The component configuration data set is a digital data set representing the equipment of machine components in the washing system. The configuration data set can, for example, identify the installation of software and / or hardware, or the current configuration of the machine from several equipment variants.

[0015] Depending on the machine, different operating units such as pumps, valves, drive units, etc. may be installed.

[0016] The existing equipment and / or the installed machine components are represented in the assembly data set.

[0017] The component placement data record thus includes, in particular, a data record element that represents the "installation" situation of machine components or operating units in the washing system. This also includes information on which component is installed at which position in the washing system and in which version and configuration. This information can be stored and represented in a position element of the component placement data record.

[0018] The component data set preferably comprises a variable or dynamic operating configuration data set and a fixed component, namely the configuration data set. Both components relate exclusively to the machine components installed in the washing system. The fixed component (configuration data set) refers to the (delivered) equipment and configuration of the washing system's machine components (installation situation). It typically remains fixed after delivery of the system. The variable component (operating configuration data set) relates to changes in operating conditions for the washing system's machine components, such as changes in water pressure. It can also relate to changes in the machine components themselves (e.g., in the event of a malfunction or component failure). The variable component of the component data set is preferably continuously read or recorded in updated form.This is preferably done in a period after delivery of the system and during operation.

[0019] The assembly data set is usually delivered directly with the system and is stored and available in local memory or on a memory card on the system.

[0020] Alternatively, it can also be accessed via an interface (e.g., an HTTP-based interface).

[0021] The component selection data set is therefore preferably read from an internal local memory of the washing system.

[0022] Preferably, the component selection data set can also include a configuration or parameterization of the machine components, such as the length and / or diameter of a hose, the maximum pumping capacity of a metering pump, the size of storage containers, and / or maximum or minimum drive speeds, etc. This allows the generation of the washing program to be even more specific and dedicated to the respective configuration of the machine components.

[0023] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the component placement data set includes a position element. This element identifies the position of the machine component within the washing system. This allows multiple machine components of the same type within the washing system to be addressed specifically. For example, several identical brushes can be arranged at different positions within the washing system. In this embodiment, the washing program to be generated can advantageously be based on the respective position of the brush and control its activation time.

[0024] A single machine component or a group of machine components is designed to execute a specific functional block of the washing program. The washing program can comprise a sequence of steps, requiring different functional blocks. For example, a group of machine components, such as a water pump, a metering pump, water valves, brush rotation drives, and possibly additional lifting and travel drives, may be required to execute the "brush wash" functional block (or module). Thus, a single machine component or a group of machine components is required to execute each step of the washing program.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the washing program comprises a sequence of steps that are performed on identical and / or different machine components.

[0026] The machine components include, for example, operating units of the washing system or its sub-units. These machine components are preferably electronically controllable and therefore have electronic interfaces for data exchange.

[0027] Function blocks are overarching functions that the car wash is designed to perform. A function block is a modular component of the wash program. It is therefore a module or step within the wash program. For example, a function block could include "rim cleaning," "brush wash," "pre-cleaning," and / or "intensive drying." New function blocks can be defined at any time.

[0028] Based on currently recorded parameters, it can be determined which function blocks should be combined to create a washing program adapted to the local and current conditions. The function blocks do not describe the functions or actions to be performed by the washing system at a component level (i.e., not based on the machine component level, such as "Valve 1 open," "Switch 2 close," "Dosing pump on"), but rather at a higher-level functional level, identifying the functions from the operator's or user's perspective. A function block thus refers to a section of the washing program.

[0029] However, a functional block has specific requirements at the component level. For example, a brush cleaning process requires the machine component "brush". The technical requirements, particularly at the component level, associated with a specific functional block are defined and hard-coded within that block.

[0030] A function block also includes information about permissible interconnections with other function blocks in the process flow. For example, it can be defined – schematically described – that block 1 requires the execution of blocks a and b, followed by block d. It can also be defined that a "wash" must always precede "drying," or that a cleaning agent must be applied before the "intensive cleaning" step.

[0031] Furthermore, certain other function blocks can be stored in a whitelist, which may be combined with the respective function block, and in a blacklist, which may not be combined with a wash program. Each function block can be assigned both a whitelist and a blacklist. A function block is uniquely identifiable by its identification number.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the wiring information and thus the permissible combination possibilities of function blocks for a washing program are stored directly in the function block as a wiring data object.

[0033] In one variant, it is also possible to store the wiring information indirectly, for example in a central database. For this purpose, the identification number of the functional block is used, and the functionality data object and / or the component data object and / or the wiring data object are stored in the database for each identification number.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least three data sets or parameters are stored in a function block, namely relating to: 1. Speed. This includes all speed adjustments or changes, such as portal speed, lifting speed, and the delivery speed of individual units. Speeds can vary depending on the selected quality level. 2. Chemical concentration (e.g., target range for pre-cleaner 1-15%) and 3. Process variant (the same functionality, e.g. wheel washing, can be achieved with different process variants, such as wheel washing brush rotation with a single change of direction of rotation or multiple changes of direction of rotation with simultaneous extension of the processing time).

[0035] After delivery of the car wash system, each functional block can be modified or manipulated to varying degrees by the operator.

[0036] In one approach, a change can only be implemented uniformly for all function blocks and all wash programs of a car wash. All wash programs and all their function blocks are uniformly optimized, for example, for short process times.

[0037] In a second variant, changes to the function blocks can be implemented differently for each system, but only uniformly for one wash program. For example, wash program 1 and all its function blocks are optimized for short process times, while wash program 2 and all its function blocks are optimized for maximum cleaning and drying.

[0038] In a third option, all function blocks can be modified individually for each wash program of the system, and even for each function block individually. For example, a wash program can be set to have maximum cleaning in the pre-wash, but with time-optimized brush washing and maximum drying results. Furthermore, the pre-cleaner concentration in the function block can be individually adjusted for each program. Thus, a first function block can even be set or modified differently and individually than a second function block in the same wash program.

[0039] Furthermore, a washing program is divided into four phases: 1. Pre-wash, 2. Brush washing 3. Preservation / Care 4. Drying.

[0040] A function block can be assigned to one of these four phases or categories. If multiple function blocks can be activated within this category / phase, a priority is configured for the function block, which is also stored as a data record within the function block. For example, if several function blocks from the same wash phase are used in a wash program, the priority determines which function block is processed first and which are processed subsequently. This allows, for example, the system to control whether insect removal is performed with a higher priority and therefore before foam application.

[0041] A function block therefore refers to a section of the washing program, such as "wheel wash".

[0042] A function block can be operated in different sequence variants. These sequence variants may require different machine components or operating units. In the example of wheel washing, for instance, in one sequence variant the wheel washing brush is moved to / from the wheel, which requires the operation of a feeder motor. In a second sequence variant, the wheel washing can be performed using only high pressure. In this case, the high-pressure nozzle is activated, and movement of the wheel washing brush or motor operation is not required. If, for example, the feeder motor is identified as missing or defective in the machine's detected state, the "wheel washing" function block can still be offered in the second sequence variant and executed without errors.

[0043] A functional block thus has specific requirements at the component level. For example, a brush cleaning process requires the machine component "brush". The technical requirements, particularly at the component level, associated with a specific functional block are defined and hard-coded within that block.

[0044] A function block thus contains information about permissible interconnections with other function blocks in the process flow. For example, it can be defined—schematically speaking—that for block 1, blocks a and b must necessarily be executed before its execution, followed by block d. For instance, it can be defined that a "wash" must always have taken place before "drying." Or, before the "intensive cleaning" step, a cleaning agent must have been applied. Furthermore, certain other function blocks can be stored in a whitelist, which indicates that they may be interconnected with the respective function block. Similarly, certain other function blocks can be stored in a blacklist, which indicates that they may not be interconnected with a wash program and therefore may not be combined.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the wiring information and thus the permissible combination possibilities of function blocks for a washing program are stored directly in the function block.

[0046] The determination of activatable function blocks is performed in response to the read assembly data set. This determination is carried out automatically by a functionality algorithm.

[0047] The operator is offered a range of function blocks. These are either directly available for selection on the system or can be read in via an interface from a server or database.

[0048] From this set of function blocks, only those that can be activated on the respective system are offered for selection by the operator to generate wash programs. This is generally only a selection from the total number of function blocks. In principle, only those function blocks for which the necessary machine components are installed in the system can be activated. For example, the "rim cleaning" function block can only be activated if the two "rim brushes" are installed on both sides of the vehicle in the system. This has the advantage that the operator can select only those function blocks that they can actually execute on their specific system with the available equipment. The other function blocks are not even offered to them.

[0049] From the set of available function blocks, the operator selects specific ones. Based on their input (their selection) and the information in the selected function blocks regarding their interconnection, a program sequence for a washing program is then automatically calculated and generated. This has the advantage that new function blocks can be defined, made available, and interconnected to form a washing program at any time without requiring any changes to the machine control system.

[0050] Depending on the currently recorded conditions and requirements represented in the component data set, the available and activatable function blocks for the specific case are determined and displayed for selection by the user – for example, on a (graphical) user interface. The user, particularly the operator or service technician, can then select specific function blocks that they wish to offer to their customers on the machine. A key advantage is that the user does not need specific knowledge of the washing system's technical design. They are automatically presented with only those function blocks that are executable under the recorded operating conditions (represented in the component data set), thus typically representing only a selection.

[0051] Alternatively, the selection can be determined not by user input, but based on presets / factory settings, or read in via an interface from separate electronic modules.

[0052] One advantage of this innovation is that the user does not need to consider a specific sequence when selecting function blocks. The sequence of functions in a wash program is automatically determined by the connection rules and is calculated automatically according to the invention. For example, the user can select function block C, then A, and then B. However, due to the stored connection rules, the resulting wash program will have the sequence A, B, and C.

[0053] Preferably, all steps of the procedure described above are executed automatically; in particular, the determination of activatable function blocks and the generation of a washing program are performed automatically. This increases the efficiency of system commissioning and avoids sources of error due to incorrect or suboptimal manual configurations.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the generation of the washing program is carried out, in particular, before or during the commissioning of the car wash. This has the advantage that the car wash can be operated in a less error-prone manner, as its operation can be adapted to the current operating conditions and the car wash's equipment.

[0055] Alternatively, the generated washing program can also be adapted and / or optimized during operation based on dynamically recorded operating conditions. This can reduce maintenance costs.

[0056] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the assembly data set includes the equipment of the system for selecting activatable functional blocks.

[0057] The configuration data set can also include external operating conditions of the washing system, such as water supply pressure, detergent quality, ambient temperature, etc. These parameters are taken into account when generating the washing programs. This has the advantage that the generation of the washing programs can be adaptively adjusted to the current conditions and operating environment. This consequently leads to significant cost savings.

[0058] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the car wash is operated with the generated wash program only after a verification signal has been received. This increases the safety of the system operation by performing a plausibility check. The system operator or an externally connected technician can then release or activate the generated wash program. It is also possible to compare the generated wash program with a set of reference programs stored in a database or to automatically check for certain frequently occurring error patterns.

[0059] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the generated washing program is subjected to an automatic plausibility check in order to issue an error message in case of a fault. The error message can include an automatically generated correction suggestion and / or can include information on the technical consequences of a malfunctioning washing system. For example, if the metering pump is set to an excessively high flow rate due to currently detected operating conditions, the system can indicate the increased consumption of dosing agent and the associated increased costs.

[0060] The procedure described above can be implemented as a computer program. Another solution to the problem thus involves a computer program to carry out all the steps of the procedure described in more detail above, provided the computer program is executed on a computer, an electronic device, or a component. It is also possible for the computer program to be stored on a medium readable by the computer, electronic device, or component.

[0061] The washing program generation unit, which is designed to execute the process, will preferably be implemented as a platform-independent, web-based application. This has the advantage that no further installation is required on the part of the operator. The user accesses a server, on which the computer program for executing the process is installed, via a preferably IP-based interface.

[0062] Another solution involves a computer program that is loaded or loadable into the memory of a computer or electronic device. This program performs the procedure described above when executed on the computer or electronic device. The electronic device could be a control computer for the car wash, integrated into the car wash as a switching and control unit, or connected as a separate module via an interface.

[0063] According to another aspect, the innovation concerns a wash program generation unit designed to generate a set of wash programs for an automatic vehicle wash system. The wash program generation unit comprises: - An input interface for reading in a component placement data set that represents the current placement of machine components in the washing system; - A processor unit for calculating a set of activatable function blocks based on the assembly data set read in via the input interface; - A user interface designed to output the set of activatable function blocks calculated by the processor unit and designed to capture a selection of the output activatable function blocks; - the processor unit is also designed to calculate or generate a washing program based on the selected, activatable function blocks that have been detected. The washing system is then operated with the generated washing programs.

[0064] Preferably, the washing program generation unit or program configurator includes a (graphical) user interface through which it is controlled and operated.

[0065] The washing program generation unit preferably includes a slider designed to capture a user input of a quality parameter as a function of a time parameter. The user can set the desired laundry quality. Since the quality depends on the duration of the washing program, the duration is automatically adjusted accordingly. Alternatively, the user can also set the time. In this case, a quality parameter is automatically determined based on the specified duration of the washing program.

[0066] In another aspect, the innovation relates to a car wash with such a wash program generation unit. However, the wash program generation unit can also be located as a separate module, external to the car wash.

[0067] The following detailed description of the figures discusses exemplary embodiments, which are not to be understood as restrictive, along with their features and further advantages, using the drawing as an example. Brief description of the characters Fig. 1. A schematic overview of control variables for generating the washing program; Fig. 2 a structural overview of a washing program generation unit according to a preferred embodiment of the invention and Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a washing system with a washing program generation unit according to a preferred embodiment of the invention and Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a functional block according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of the new feature

[0068] The innovation will be explained below with reference to the figures and using examples of its implementation.

[0069] The innovation aims at the flexible creation of washing programs.

[0070] Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows an automatic car wash WA, which is delivered to an operator fully assembled. To put it into operation, specifications must be defined and the wash programs must be specified. According to the invention, the possibilities for generating wash programs for the operator are to be expanded.

[0071] For this purpose, an electronic unit is provided, which serves to generate washing programs locally, so to speak, at the operator's location: the washing program generator. The washing program generator can be integrated into a switching and control center of the washing system or connected as a separate computer via an interface.

[0072] The washing program generator comprises a washing program generation unit R. The washing program generation unit R is used to generate washing programs that are offered and executable on the washing system WA. The washing program is thus generated based on rules. These rules refer to the configuration data set, which specifies which machine components the washing system WA is equipped with, and to user input that defines the system's scope of operation. A washing program is automatically generated from these parameters using program logic.

[0073] The washing program generation unit R comprises an input interface 41, which serves to read the assembly data record representing the current assembly of machine components in the washing system. It further comprises a processor unit 42 for calculating a set of activatable function blocks based on the assembly data record read in via the input interface 41, and a user interface 43, which is intended for outputting the set of activatable function blocks calculated by the processor unit 42 and for recording a selection of the output activatable function blocks. The processor unit 42 is also intended to calculate a washing program based on the recorded selected activatable function blocks for operating the washing system WA.

[0074] Preferably, the washing program generation unit R comprises a further UI (user interface), a control user interface 44 (in particular a graphical GUI), via which it is controlled and operated by the operator or technician on site in the context of the plant WA. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, which is described in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the washing program generation unit R can additionally include an additional processor P, which is intended for the execution of further calculation processes.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the washing program generation unit R comprises a slider 45. This slider can be designed as a mechanical-electronic component (in the sense of a switch). The slider 45 can also be virtual. In this case, it is displayed as an element on a graphical user interface 44 and has buttons for operation. The slider serves to simultaneously set a quality parameter and a time parameter or target for the washing process. Since both factors are interdependent (proportionally dependent: the higher the desired quality, the more time the washing takes, and vice versa), the slider 45 is implemented such that when one of the two factors is entered or changed, the other factor changes automatically and accordingly. This also serves to directly inform the user that they can only enter values ​​that are feasible.

[0076] The washing program generation unit can be configured to execute a procedure described below. After startup, the first step involves reading the machine configuration data. This is done automatically. It can be read from a stored file or requested from the machine manufacturer via a network interface.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment of the innovation, the locally imported assembly data set can be verified by comparing it for conformity with a reference assembly data set that is imported from the server via the network interface. In a further step, a set of activatable function blocks is automatically calculated based on the imported assembly data set. This has the advantage that, in a subsequent step, the user is only offered and displayed those function blocks as activatable that can actually be executed on the current WA system in the current configuration or assembly. In a further step, the user's selection is then recorded. The user can thus choose which scope of functions they wish to implement on the WA system.With this information, a washing program can then be automatically generated, taking into account the control variables (such as the current machine / system configuration and potentially other configurations of machine components, the type of machine component installed (hose length, pump capacity, etc.)) and the user's input for selecting desired function blocks and specifying the scope of services to be implemented on the system. In one step, the washing program generator can thus be operated rule-based with the aforementioned and other control variables, enabling the controlled and automatic generation of a washing program specifically tailored to the respective requirements and technical conditions. The process can then either end or be executed iteratively, for example, to modify inputs.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a verification signal can be acquired in an optional step. This serves to increase safety. Here, the user and / or the manufacturer of the washing system (WA) (who may be connected via a network interface (Internet)) has the option, before commissioning the washing system, to check with the generated and automatically configured program whether all settings are correct and whether the washing program is coherent. It can be preset that the washing system can only be put into operation if the verification signal has been acquired.

[0079] Preferably, as an optional step, the generated washing program can be subjected to an automatic plausibility check. If an error occurs, an error message can be displayed.

[0080] The process steps are preferably carried out in the specified order. However, this does not have to happen in immediate succession. For example, it is possible that the generation of the washing program is only carried out after a certain period of time has elapsed.

[0081] All process steps of the procedure can be implemented by electronic devices (circuits, e.g., on a printed circuit board, PCB) that are suitable for executing the respective process step. Conversely, all functions performed by physical features can be a process step of a procedure. For example, the process step "reading a component placement data set" can be implemented by an input interface that has the corresponding functionality for reading the data.

[0082] In Fig. Figure 1 shows the parameters used for automatic wash program generation. These parameters comprise the machine configuration data set, which includes a dynamic and a static component. The dynamic component (operating configuration data set) preferably contains data on the current operating conditions and data for selecting activatable function blocks to specify the desired performance scope. These parameters are typically read by different units via different interfaces. The wash program generation unit R then generates the wash program.

[0083] The data set used to calculate the washing program according to a preferred embodiment of the invention comprises the component data set 31 with a (dynamic) operating configuration data set 32, which identifies the current operating conditions (e.g., water supply pressure, etc.), the (static) configuration data set, and a selection data set for defining the selection of functional blocks (scope of services) and – optionally – a position element 34, which specifies the position at which a particular machine component is installed in the washing system WA. For example, the location of the metering pump(s) in the washing system WA regularly makes a difference. Depending on their position and thus their distance from the operating units they supply (e.g., the brushes), different hose lengths may be required.To avoid dead times, the dosing pumps can now be controlled in a modified way to adapt the pressure build-up times to the washing process.

[0084] The same applies to the overall height of the car wash (WA) (e.g., if the system is designed for commercial vehicles rather than passenger cars and therefore has a greater height). This can also result in different hose lengths and necessitate adjusted settings for operating units or machine components.

[0085] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic-structural view of the washing program generation unit R in operation. In a first step, the component data set and, if applicable, other information relevant for washing program generation are read via interface 41 from, for example, a memory card. This can be done, as shown in Fig. 2 shown in the top left corner, by accessing an SD memory card.

[0086] A set of fundamentally available function blocks FuB can be stored in a memory of the washing program generation unit R (in Fig. 2 not shown) or via an interface to a server S, as in Fig. The data shown in Figure 2 above is read in. The processor unit 42 is designed to determine, from the set of fundamentally available function blocks (FuB), those that can be activated based on the equipment of the washing system (WA) (equipment data set, configuration data set). These are displayed on the graphical user interface 43. The operator can then select specific activatable function blocks from the displayed list to determine the scope of the washing program to be generated. Fig. 2. The function blocks selected by the user are shown with a bold border; in this example, these are the function blocks FuB1, FuB3 and FuB4.

[0087] This selection is forwarded to processor unit 42 along with a selection data set. Using this data, processor unit 42 can automatically and locally generate a washing program on the system, which is then forwarded to the washing system WA for execution.

[0088] Fig. Figure 4 schematically illustrates the structure of a function block FuB. This is stored and processed as a digital object. It comprises a functionality object, FO, which represents the respective functionality of the function block FuB. Furthermore, it includes a component data object, BO, which specifies the machine components required for its functionality, and a wiring object, VO, in which permissible wiring information is stored.

[0089] This can, for example, include a rule data set that accesses a blacklist (BL) containing prohibited connections or prohibited connection rules and a whitelist containing permitted connections or permitted connection rules. The blacklist (BL) and the whitelist (WL) can be retrieved in updated form via a server connection.

[0090] Alternatively or cumulatively, the wiring rules can be stored centrally in a rule database and also accessed via a network interface. This has the advantage that the rules, or the list of permitted and impermissible function block connections, can also be changed centrally without requiring any modifications to the system. This is intended to be implemented in Fig. 4 is indicated by the three arrows arranged below.

[0091] Finally, it should be noted that the description of the invention and the exemplary embodiments are not to be understood as limiting with regard to a specific physical implementation of the invention. All features explained and shown in connection with individual embodiments of the invention can be provided in different combinations in the invention to simultaneously achieve their advantageous effects. Thus, the invention can be applied to different types of automatic car washes, such as gantry car washes, etc. Furthermore, it is also within the scope of the invention, for example, to provide other operating or control elements as an interface for inputting the selection of function blocks, either as an alternative or in addition to the graphical user interface.For an expert, it is particularly obvious that the innovation can be applied not only to certain configurations of car washes, but also to car washes equipped with different machine components or with machine components that are configured differently (e.g., different performance range of a pump, etc.).

[0092] Furthermore, the components of the washing program generator and / or the washing program generation unit R can be distributed across several physical products. They then exchange data via appropriate interfaces. This increases the modularity of the system.

[0093] The scope of protection of the present innovation is defined by the claims and is not limited by the features explained in the description or shown in the figures. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] DE 10 2016 101481 A

[0008]

Claims

[1] Washing program generation unit (R) intended for generating washing programs for an automatic car wash (WA), namely for a gantry car wash, comprising: - An input interface (41) for reading in a placement data set representing the current placement of machine components in the washing system; - A processor unit (42) for determining function blocks from a set of function blocks (FuB) that can be activated on the basis of the assembly data set read in via the input interface (41); wherein a function block (FuB) is a digital object in which the correspondingly required machine components are assigned for its functionality; - A user interface (43) designed to output the set of activatable function blocks determined by the processor unit and designed to capture a selection of the output activatable function blocks; wherein the processor unit (42) is further designed to automatically generate a washing program based on the selection of output activatable function blocks captured on the user interface (43) for operating the washing system (WA). [2] Washing program generation unit (R) according to claim 1, which is equipped with a control user interface (44). [3] Washing program generation unit (R) according to claim 1 or 2, which is designed with a slider (45) which is intended for detecting an input of a quality indicator as a function of a time indicator. [4] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, which is configured to carry out a method for generating a washing program for operating an automatic car wash (WA) for vehicles, comprising the following method steps: - Reading in a component placement data set that represents the current configuration of the washing system with machine components; - Determining activatable function blocks from a stored set of function blocks (FB) based on the read-in assembly data set and making them available for selection; wherein a function block (FB) is a digital object in which the correspondingly required machine components are assigned for its functionality; - Capturing a selection of the provided activatable function blocks; - Automatic generation of the washing program with a calculated sequence of selected activatable function blocks for operating the washing system (WA). [5] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the generation of the washing program is carried out before or at the time of commissioning the washing system (WA). [6] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component data set comprises an unchanging configuration data set representing a configuration of the machine components installed in the washing system (WA) and a variable operating constellation data set representing the currently recorded operating conditions for the machine components. [7] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the load data set is read in via an interface or stored in a memory of the washing system (WA). [8] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component data set comprises a position element (34) that identifies a position of the respective machine component in the washing system (WA). [9] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a function block (FuB) comprises a white list (WL) and / or a black list (BL) that defines a permissible and / or impermissible interconnection of the respective function block with other function blocks. [10] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a function block (FuB) comprises a wiring data object, such that wiring information and thus permissible combination possibilities of function blocks for a washing program are stored directly in the function block as a wiring data object. [11] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the generated washing program can also be dynamically extended by additional function blocks (FuB) after delivery of the washing system (WA). [12] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operation of the washing system with the generated washing program only takes place after detection of a verification signal. [13] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the generated washing program is subjected to an automatic plausibility check and an error message is issued in case of an error. [14] Washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims, in which at least three data sets are stored in a functional block, namely relating to - a speed, in particular a portal speed, a lifting speed, a delivery speed of individual units - a chemical concentration and - a process variant of the functional block with the different machine components or operating units required for each. [15] Washing system (WA), namely portal washing system, comprising a washing program generation unit (R) according to one of the preceding claims relating to the washing program generation unit and a machine control. [16] Washing system (WA) according to claim 15, wherein an “installation” situation of machine components or operating units in the washing system is represented in a data set element of the assembly data set, with information on which component is installed at which position in the washing system and in which version and configuration, wherein optionally this information is stored and represented in a position element of the assembly data set. [17] Washing system (WA) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the washing system (WA) is designed with different installation heights and / or differently adapted operating unit or machine component settings for passenger vehicles or for commercial vehicles.

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