METHOD FOR MONITORING THE STOCK OF A CLEANING AGENT AND CORRESPONDING DEVICE

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to methods and devices which can particularly support the reordering of cleaning agents and can be used, for example, in the automated reordering of cleaning agents. Background of the invention

[0002] Cleaning agents are used in the home, for example, to clean various objects. For example, a cleaning agent, such as a detergent, is used in washing machines to clean textiles.

[0003] When using these automatic household washing machines for textiles, the detergent is usually dosed from a storage container. The detergent is usually added to the washing machine via a dispenser. By adding the detergent, the user simultaneously determines the dosage. The detergent is usually dosed before the start of the washing process, i.e., before water flows through the dispenser.

[0004] The detergent is stored in the storage container. The user usually has to manually monitor the supply in the container and, if necessary, purchase more detergent when the supply is depleted.

[0005] EP 2 784 205 A1 discloses not adding the detergent manually, but rather inserting a storage container into a holder on the household appliance and connecting it to the appliance. This can simplify dosing and, for example, prevent over- or underdosing.

[0006] However, in any case, it may happen that the user only realizes when the detergent is actually used up or almost used up when the detergent is actually used up, so that it cannot be used as planned.

[0007] Another problem is that you might have multiple detergents on hand. For example, you might often have a heavy-duty detergent, a color detergent, a bleaching agent, a detergent for black laundry, and / or a fabric softener in stock. This can make it difficult to keep track of them all. In addition, the user must remember precisely which type of detergent has been used up so that the correct detergent can be purchased again.

[0008] To address this problem, it is known from the prior art of WO 01 / 96645 A2 to equip a detergent storage container with a fill level sensor or weight sensor to monitor the current detergent level in the storage container. This allows an inventory module to electronically order a replacement detergent when the detergent level in the storage container reaches a predetermined level.

[0009] Document EP2434043A1 describes a method and apparatus for monitoring a property of a resource in a container, such as the type of resource or its quantity, using an optical device for measuring reflectance. Document US2007000291 A1 describes a textile drying device that can measure the amount of treatment agent in a dosing unit using a current sensor.

[0010] This means that, in the current technology, detergent supply is directly measured by a fill level measurement, and a reorder is triggered when a predefined, absolute fill level is reached. However, each storage container, especially the standard disposable detergent packaging, must be equipped with a corresponding fill level sensor. Once the storage container is used up, not only the storage container but also the corresponding fill level sensor is disposed of. This, however, leads to inefficient production in the manufacture of the detergent and its packaging. General description of some exemplary embodiments of the invention

[0011] Against the background of the prior art described, it is therefore an object of the invention to at least partially reduce or avoid the problems described, that is to say in particular to enable the user to easily reorder cleaning agents while continuing to produce economically.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the invention, a method according to claim 1 is disclosed.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the invention, an apparatus according to claim 8 is described.

[0014] While the first aspect provides that the sensor device is configured to determine quantity information, wherein the quantity information is representative of the amount of cleaning agent filled into the dispenser, the second aspect provides that quantity information is obtained that is representative of the amount of cleaning agent filled into a dispenser of a cleaning device. Based on this quantity information, it can then be checked whether a supply of cleaning agent is expected to be depleted.

[0015] A cleaning device is understood to mean, in particular, a washing machine, in particular an automatic household washing machine.

[0016] Washing machines can come in a variety of designs. A distinction is made between top-loaders, where the loading hatch is at the top, and front-loaders, which have a porthole at the front as the loading hatch. The advantage of top-loaders is that the door seal is simpler and the drum can be supported on two sides by roller bearings. A top-loader can also be installed in very tight spaces where there is not enough room to open a front door. A front-loader, on the other hand, offers space on top for things like a tumble dryer or a work surface and is therefore sometimes installed in a kitchen unit instead of a base cabinet. Top-loaders have the disadvantage that they require more water to clean laundry than front-loaders.

[0017] American top-loaders always have a rotating drum and mixing elements (agitator or discs), with the mixing elements being able to move with or against the direction of drum rotation. The machines can be equipped with lye circulation and spray devices for the lye. A basic distinction is made between deep-fill and HE top-loaders. Deep-fill top-loaders operate with preset water levels and therefore have no load detection. HE machines generally have load detection and control the water volume accordingly. These machines generally do not have a built-in heater, but are connected to a hot water supply.

[0018] A flushing device is, in particular, a part of a cleaning device that is flushed with a liquid, for example, water, in order to at least partially or completely feed a cleaning agent contained therein to the cleaning process. For example, a mixture of water and cleaning agent is fed into the cleaning process by means of the flushing device.

[0019] In principle, it is conceivable for the dispenser to be designed as a movable or immovable part of the cleaning device. For example, the dispenser is or comprises a dispenser chamber. For example, the dispenser is or comprises a drawer. For example, the dispenser has different compartments, which can be provided for different cleaning agents. For example, a dispenser has a compartment for a pre-wash detergent, a compartment for a main wash detergent, and / or a compartment for a fabric softener.

[0020] A dispensing device is understood, in particular, to be a part of a cleaning device that can be permanently integrated into the cleaning device. In other words, it is not normally expected that a dispensing device will be replaced during use of the cleaning device, although this is of course possible. In principle, however, it is also conceivable that the dispensing device could also be provided in the form of a disposable or reusable dispensing device, for example, a cartridge.

[0021] The sensor device is also designed to be permanently integrated into the cleaning device. For example, the sensor device or a part thereof is integrated into a part of the cleaning device that is not expected to be replaced during use.

[0022] A sensor device may, for example, comprise one or more sensors and optionally electronics.

[0023] A cleaning agent can, for example, be a detergent. However, a cleaning agent should also be understood to include cleaning aids or cleaning additives, such as a bleaching additive, fabric softener, or laundry starch. A cleaning agent can also be a liquid, a dispersed system, for example, a gel or foam, or a solid, in particular a tablet, powder, or granulate.

[0024] A cleaning agent may, for example, comprise one or more components from the group of components comprising surfactants, alkalis, builders, graying inhibitors, optical brighteners, enzymes, bleaching agents, soil-release polymers, fillers, plasticizers, fragrances, dyes, care substances, acids, starch, isomalt, sugar, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, carboxymethylcellulose, polyetherimide, silicone derivatives and / or polymethylimines.

[0025] A cleaning agent may further comprise one or more other ingredients. These ingredients include, but are not limited to, bleach activators, complexing agents, builders, electrolytes, non-aqueous solvents, pH adjusters, perfume carriers, fluorescers, hydrotropes, silicone oils, bentonites, anti-redeposition agents, shrinkage inhibitors, crease inhibitors, dye transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial agents, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, bittering agents, ironing aids, phobic or waterproofing agents, swelling or slip-resistant agents, and / or UV absorbers.

[0026] A piece of quantitative information representative of the amount of a cleaning agent can, for example, be information from which the amount of cleaning agent can be derived, possibly with the addition of further information. Such further information includes, for example, a conversion factor or other previously known information, such as information about the dispenser, such as its size or geometry. Likewise, the quantitative information can directly indicate the amount of cleaning agent in a corresponding unit (e.g., a volume unit such as liters or cubic centimeters, or a weight unit such as grams). For example, the quantitative information is stored as a date or data, such as a data record.

[0027] The quantity information can be obtained from a part of the sensor device.

[0028] A supply of cleaning agent is, for example, a supply in a storage container. Checking whether a supply of cleaning agent is expected to be used up can, in particular, comprise an estimation or a forecast, for example with regard to future consumption of the cleaning agent. For example, it can be expected that a supply of cleaning agent is expected to be used up if it is determined that the supply of cleaning agent will be used up in no more or less than a predetermined time. For example, it can be expected that a supply of cleaning agent is expected to be used up if it is determined that the supply of cleaning agent (in a predetermined time) will fall below a threshold value, has already reached this threshold value, or has already fallen below this threshold value.

[0029] To check whether a supply of cleaning agent is expected to be depleted, additional information can be used. For example, information representative of the initial or original amount of cleaning agent in the supply can be obtained. For example, by obtaining quantity information representative of a quantity of cleaning agent filled into a dispenser of a cleaning device, the quantity of cleaning agent in the supply can then be deduced by calculating the difference between the current quantity and the filled quantity.

[0030] As a result, it can be achieved that every single external storage container for cleaning agent, from which the cleaning agent must first be filled into the induction device, no longer needs to be equipped with a sensor. Instead, quantitative information representative of the amount of cleaning agent introduced into the cleaning device via the induction device can be determined. The amount of cleaning agent thus corresponds in particular to the amount used for a cleaning process. Advantageously, in particular, it is not necessary to directly consider the remaining amount of cleaning agent in a supply of cleaning agent, but rather the amount taken from a supply, i.e. the amount of cleaning agent used for a cleaning process, is used.

[0031] A device according to the first aspect can, for example, be the dispensing device (with integrated sensor device). A device according to the first aspect can also be the cleaning device.

[0032] A device according to the first aspect is configured to carry out a method according to the second aspect or parts thereof. The at least one device according to the second aspect comprises the dispensing device, the cleaning device, and / or one or more data processing systems (in particular a mobile device and / or a server).

[0033] According to one embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises determining the quantity information representative of a quantity of cleaning agent filled into a dispenser of a cleaning device. The determination of the quantity information representative of a quantity of cleaning agent filled into a dispenser of a cleaning device is carried out by means of a sensor device according to the first aspect.

[0034] The determination can, for example, take place while the cleaning agent is introduced into the induction device, while the cleaning agent is in the induction device and / or while the cleaning agent is being rinsed out of the induction device, i.e. while it is being rinsed into the cleaning process.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the sensor device or a part thereof is integrated into the induction device. For example, the induction device and the sensor device form a structural unit. This allows, for example, a cleaning device with a conventional induction device to be retrofitted with a device according to the first aspect.

[0036] In particular, according to an embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, it is preferred if the sensor device or a part thereof forms a flow barrier of the induction device or a part thereof. Thus, no further or additional parts need to be provided in the induction device, i.e., in particular within individual compartments, which would, for example, undesirably influence the flow behavior within the induction device. Rather, a part of the induction device that is usually already present can be used to accommodate the sensor device or at least a part thereof.

[0037] A flow barrier is understood in particular to be a part of a dispensing device which reduces or prevents premature flow of a cleaning agent, in particular a liquid cleaning agent, which is filled into the dispensing device.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the dispensing device is configured to be rinsed with water in the cleaning device. For example, the dispensing device comprises a water inlet and an outlet for the mixture of water and cleaning agent, so that it can be fed into the cleaning process.

[0039] As already explained, it is also possible in principle for the flushing device to be designed as a (single or multiple use) cartridge which already contains a cleaning agent and which is then designed to be flushed with water.

[0040] Accordingly, according to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises flushing the dispenser with water. As already explained, the quantity information can be determined representatively for a quantity of cleaning agent filled into a dispenser of a cleaning device, in particular during the flushing process.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the sensor device is configured to determine quality information representative of a type of cleaning agent filled into the dispenser.

[0042] Quality information representative of a type of cleaning agent filled into the dispenser can, for example, be information from which the type of cleaning agent can be derived, possibly with the addition of further information. Such further information is, for example, previously known information, as already described, such as information about the dispenser, such as its size or geometry. The quality information can also specify one or more characteristic values ​​of the cleaning agent, for example a determined chemical or physical property (e.g. conductivity, density, color, etc.) of the cleaning agent. The quality information can also directly indicate the type of cleaning agent. For example, the quantity information is stored as a date or data, e.g. of a data record.

[0043] Accordingly, according to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises obtaining and / or determining quality information representative of a type of cleaning agent filled into the dispenser.

[0044] For example, the quantity information and the quality information are determined using the sensor device described. For example, the same sensor is used for this purpose, or different sensors are used.

[0045] As already explained in connection with the determination of the quantity information, the determination of the quality information can also take place while the cleaning agent is introduced into the induction device, while the cleaning agent is in the induction device and / or while the cleaning agent is being rinsed out of the induction device.

[0046] The quality information, which is representative of the type of cleaning agent added to the dispenser, can be used to differentiate between different cleaning agents. For example, it can be determined which of the user's several cleaning agents was added to the dispenser. The determined quantity information can then be assigned to a specific (correct) cleaning agent, and a check can be made to determine whether a corresponding supply of the corresponding cleaning agent is expected to be used up. This allows the user to use different cleaning agents, yet still reliably check the respective supply of cleaning agent.

[0047] According to the inventive embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the sensor device comprises a runtime evaluating sensor.

[0048] An optical sensor, for example, includes a photodiode and optionally an LED. For example, an optical sensor can be used to measure the (internal) space of the dispenser. For example, the (free) space of the dispenser is measured before and after the detergent is added. The difference between the two measurements can be used to determine quantity information. An optical sensor can also determine quality information about the detergent, for example, by determining the color or spectral properties of the detergent added.

[0049] A conductivity sensor, for example, comprises two (or more) electrodes. These are arranged so that they come into contact with the cleaning agent in the dispenser. The conductivity sensor can be used to determine quantity information and / or quality information. If, for example, the conductivity of the cleaning agent filled into the dispenser is determined, this corresponds to a basic conductivity. The level of conductivity can allow conclusions to be drawn about the type of cleaning agent. The quantity information can be determined, for example, as follows: After preferably determining the (basic) conductivity of the cleaning agent filled into the dispenser, the temporal change in conductivity during the dispensing of the cleaning agent is determined (for example, continuously or repeatedly at intervals).Based on the change in conductivity (for example, the speed of the change or the time until a conductivity value is exceeded), the amount of cleaning agent can be determined. This is due to the fact that the conductivity of the cleaning agent decreases faster or slower when diluted with water, depending on the amount added.

[0050] For example, the conductivity sensor comprises foil electrodes. For example, the electrodes run transversely (e.g., 90°) to the flow direction of the detergent or water during dispensing. For example, the electrodes extend at least partially along the wall of the dispensing device. As a result, the surface area of ​​the electrodes covered by the detergent increases with the amount of detergent, as the fill level of the detergent increases. The covered surface influences the conductivity according to σ = I ⋅ L / U ⋅ A , where Iis the electrical current, U is the electrical voltage, L is the electrode spacing, and A is the electrode area. The higher the detergent fill level (and thus the amount of detergent in the dispenser), the larger the occupied electrode area becomes. If the other parameters are known, the occupied electrode area, and thus the fill level and thus the amount of detergent, can be determined. Thus, in this case, the quantity information can also be determined based on a (stationary) conductivity value, for example, without having to consider a change in conductivity over time.

[0051] A time-of-flight sensor comprises a transmitter and a receiver. For example, a time-of-flight sensor could be an optical sensor, an ultrasound-based sensor, or a radar-based sensor. For example, the transmitter emits a pulse. The pulse time of flight is the time it takes for the pulse to be reflected back to the receiver. By measuring this time of flight, a distance can be determined based on the speed. Thus, the time of flight can serve as a measure of the fill level. It should be noted that the speed of light is reduced by the surrounding medium with the refractive index n. Therefore, the time of flight has a substance-dependent component. Thus, based on a time-of-flight sensor, not only quantity information but also quality information can be determined.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the device comprises a communication interface.

[0053] For example, the communication interface is configured for wired or wireless communication. For example, the communication interface is a network interface. The communication interface is preferably configured to communicate with a communication system. Examples of a communication system are a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless network (for example, according to the IEEE 802.11 standard, the Bluetooth (LE) standard, and / or the NFC standard), a wired network, a cellular network, a telephone network, and / or the Internet.

[0054] For example, the device, for example as a flushing device with integrated sensor device, can communicate with the cleaning device or with another device, for example with another data processing system such as a mobile device or a server.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the device is or comprises the cleaning device, in particular a washing machine. The cleaning device then comprises the dispenser and the sensor device. A washing machine is, in particular, an automatic household washing machine for textiles. The sensor device is preferably provided in the region of the dispenser and is, in particular, a part thereof, as already described.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises determining a consumption profile at least partially based on the received quantity information, in particular based on a plurality of received quantity information, wherein the checking as to whether a supply of the cleaning agent is expected to be used up is based at least partially on the determined consumption profile.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the consumption profile is representative of the temporal course of consumption of the cleaning agent.

[0058] A consumption profile can, for example, comprise one or more data sets, each data set comprising time information and quantity information associated with the time information. The time information is thus representative of the time of detergent consumption, which is specified by the quantity information, representative of the amount of detergent filled into the dispenser. For example, the data set can also contain quality information to assign the consumption information to a specific detergent.

[0059] The quantity information (and optionally the quality information) is thus determined multiple times (for example, for at least one part, in particular for each of the cleaning processes). Accordingly, the quantity information (and optionally the quality information) is obtained multiple times. The consumption profile therefore takes into account the user's individual consumption behavior, which can increase the accuracy of a forecast as to when a supply of the cleaning agent is expected to be used up. For example, in this case, a supply of the cleaning agent can be expected to be used up if the determined consumption profile suggests that the supply will be used up within a predefined period of time.

[0060] It is also possible that the repeated receipt and / or determination of quantity information and / or quality information is used for machine learning.

[0061] For example, the consumption profile can be determined at least partially based on machine learning. Machine learning is understood to mean that an artificial system (for example a device according to the second aspect or a system according to the third aspect) learns from examples and can generalize these after the learning phase has ended. This means that the examples are not simply learned by heart, but patterns and regularities in the learning data are recognized. Different approaches can be pursued for this. For example, supervised learning, semi-supervised learning, unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning and / or active learning can be used. Supervised learning can, for example, be carried out using an artificial neural network (such as a recurrent neural network) or a support vector machine.Unsupervised learning can also be achieved using an artificial neural network (e.g., an autoencoder). The learning data then consists, for example, of repeatedly received and / or determined quantitative and / or qualitative information.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the received and / or determined quantity information and / or quality information is associated with further information, for example with the number and / or the respective age of the persons in a household to create a personal consumption profile or, for example, with the season to create a seasonal consumption profile.

[0063] These measures can increase the reliability of checking whether a supply of cleaning agent is expected to be used up.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises ordering or initiating an ordering of a supply of the cleaning agent if the checking shows that a supply of the cleaning agent is expected to be used up.

[0065] The method can thus be viewed, in particular, as a method for the automated reordering of a cleaning agent. For example, ordering or initiating the order involves sending information that uniquely identifies a product, such as an article number, a product label, a product name, and / or a quantity. The user then neither has to worry about monitoring the inventory nor about reordering the cleaning agent to replenish the inventory.

[0066] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises outputting or triggering outputting of an indication to a user that a supply of the cleaning agent is expected to be used up if the check shows that a supply of the cleaning agent is expected to be used up.

[0067] For example, a notification can be provided on the cleaning device (e.g., on a display element of the cleaning device) and / or on the user's mobile device. For example, the notification includes a visual, acoustic, and / or haptic signal for the user. This can inform the consumer that a supply of the cleaning agent is expected to be depleted. In this case, the user can manually order a supply of the cleaning agent.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises outputting or triggering output of an indication to a user regarding the amount of cleaning agent filled into a dispenser of a cleaning device.

[0069] For example, the user is shown how much (e.g. in milliliters) of cleaning agent has been filled into the dispenser. For example, the user is shown when too little, sufficient, and / or too much cleaning agent has been filled into the dispenser. For example, a message can be displayed on the cleaning device (e.g. on a display element of the cleaning device) and / or on a user's mobile device. For example, the message includes a visual, acoustic, and / or haptic signal for the user. This enables precise dosing, for example, even when no dosing aid is used.

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, the method further comprises determining that the cleaning agent has been flushed out of the dispenser. Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the method according to the second aspect, flushing of the dispenser is preferably terminated when it is determined that the cleaning agent has been flushed out of the dispenser.

[0071] In particular, the described sensor device can be used to determine when the cleaning agent has been flushed out of the dispenser. The determination is therefore preferably based on a signal from the sensor device. As already described, the conductivity of the cleaning agent changes when diluted with water. This makes it possible, for example, to determine whether the dispenser has been flushed out using a conductivity sensor (for example, when the conductivity falls below a predetermined threshold or when the conductivity is essentially the same as that of water).

[0072] This is advantageous, for example, if a small liquor ratio (ratio of objects to be cleaned to liquor) is to be set, i.e., only a small amount of water is to be used, but it is to be ensured that the cleaning agent is completely rinsed out of the dispenser. This can be advantageous, for example, with certain cleaning agents (such as microemulsions). However, it may also be generally desirable to set the smallest possible liquor ratio, for example, to save energy and / or water.

[0073] According to the second aspect of the invention, a device is also described which is configured or comprises corresponding means to carry out and / or control a method according to the second aspect.

[0074] According to the second aspect of the invention, a device is also described, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory with computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to execute and / or control at least one method according to the second aspect with the at least one processor. A processor is understood to mean, for example, a control unit, a microprocessor, a microcontrol unit such as a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0075] For example, an exemplary device further comprises means for storing information, such as a program memory and / or a main memory. For example, an exemplary device according to the invention further comprises means for receiving and / or transmitting information via a network, such as a network interface. For example, exemplary devices according to the invention are connected and / or connectable to one another via one or more networks.

[0076] An exemplary device according to the second aspect is or includes, for example, a data processing system configured in software and / or hardware to be able to execute the respective steps of an exemplary method according to the second aspect. Examples of a data processing system are a computer, a desktop computer, a server, a thin client, and / or a portable computer (mobile device), such as a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a wearable device, a personal digital assistant, or a smartphone.

[0077] This means that individual method steps of the method according to the second aspect (for example, obtaining or determining information, checking for impending use-up and / or determining a consumption profile) can be carried out using the device which also has the sensor device. Likewise, individual method steps (for example, obtaining information, checking for impending use-up and / or determining a consumption profile), which do not necessarily have to be carried out using the sensor device, can be carried out by a further device which is connected to the device which has the sensor device, in particular via a communication system. Such a further device can, for example, be a server and, for example, be a part orA component of a so-called computer cloud, which dynamically provides data processing resources to various users in a communications system. A computer cloud is specifically understood as a data processing infrastructure according to the definition of "cloud computing" by the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST). An example of a computer cloud is a Microsoft Windows Azure platform.

[0078] According to the second aspect of the invention, a computer program product is also described, comprising program instructions that cause a processor to execute and / or control a method according to the second aspect when the computer program is running on the processor. An exemplary program may be stored in or on a computer-readable storage medium containing one or more programs.

[0079] A computer-readable storage medium containing a computer program according to the second aspect is also described. A computer-readable storage medium can be designed, for example, as a magnetic, electrical, electromagnetic, optical and / or other type of storage medium. Such a computer-readable storage medium is preferably tangible (i.e., "tangible"), for example, it is designed as a data storage device. Such a data storage device is, for example, portable or permanently installed in a device. Examples of such a data storage device are volatile or non-volatile random access memories (RAM), such as NOR flash memories, or sequential access memories, such as NAND flash memories, and / or read-only or read-write memories (ROM). Computer-readable should be understood, for example, to mean that the storage medium can be read by a computer orcan be read and / or written by a data processing system, for example by a processor.

[0080] A system is also described, comprising a plurality of devices, in particular comprising a device according to the first aspect, which together carry out a method according to the second aspect.

[0081] An exemplary system comprises an exemplary device according to the first aspect (i.e., for example, a flushing device with an integrated sensor device) and additionally a further device, for example a cleaning device, a mobile device, or a server for carrying out an exemplary method according to the second aspect.

[0082] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above in this specification are also to be understood as disclosed in all combinations with one another. In particular, exemplary embodiments are to be understood as disclosed with respect to the various aspects.

[0083] Further advantageous exemplary embodiments of the invention can be found in the following detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, particularly in conjunction with the figures. However, the figures are intended only for the purpose of clarification and not to determine the scope of the invention. The figures are not to scale and are intended merely to reflect the general concept of the present invention by way of example. In particular, features contained in the figures should in no way be considered a necessary part of the present invention. Short description of the characters

[0084] The drawing shows Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning device; Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of an embodiment of a dispensing device; Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a device; Fig. 4 shows two flow diagrams of an embodiment of a method; and Fig. 5 shows different embodiments of a storage medium. Detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the invention

[0085] Fig. 1shows a cleaning device 1. The cleaning device 1 can represent an embodiment of a device of the first, second or third aspect. The cleaning device 1 in this case is an automatic household washing machine for textiles, which is designed as a drum washing machine in which a laundry drum 2 rotates about a horizontal axis. In addition to the drum 2, the washing machine 1 comprises user interfaces 4 in the form of an operating element 6 and a display element 8. The operating element 6 is designed as a rotary knob and can be used to set various washing parameters, for example the washing program and the washing temperature. The display element 8 can visually display information to the user. However, the washing machine 1 can also have further user interfaces. The washing machine 1 further comprises a dispenser 10, which comprises a dispenser drawer 12.The dispensing device 10 or the dispensing drawer 12 can also be an embodiment of a device according to the first or second aspect.

[0086] Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of the dispenser drawer 12. In this case, the dispenser drawer 12 has three compartments 14, 16, 18, each of which is designed to hold a cleaning agent (not shown). The compartments 14, 16, 18 are, for example, a compartment for holding a detergent for a pre-wash cycle, a compartment for holding a detergent for the main wash cycle, and a compartment for holding a fabric softener. Each of the compartments 14, 16, 18 has a flow barrier 14a, 16a, 16a. The compartments each have a base 14b, 16b, 18b and side walls 14c, 16c, 18c.

[0087] The compartment 14 of the dispenser drawer 12 further comprises a sensor device 20 with at least one sensor. The sensor is designed as a conductivity sensor and comprises two electrodes 22, which are formed as foil electrodes along the side wall 14c of the compartment 14. The sensor device 20, or at least a part thereof, is thus integrated into the dispenser 10. It would also be conceivable to integrate the sensor device 20, or at least a respective sensor, into a corresponding flow barrier 14a, 16a, 18a, so that the sensor or the sensor device 20 can, in particular, replace the corresponding flow barrier. According to the invention, sensors that evaluate runtime are provided. Likewise, the other compartments 16, 18 can also have a corresponding or different sensor. The sensor device 20 is configured to determine quantity information and quality information.

[0088] Fig. 3shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a device 100, which can, in particular, carry out an exemplary method according to the second aspect. The device 100 is, for example, a device according to the second aspect. However, individual or all of the illustrated components can also be implemented in a device according to the first aspect, for example, in the dispensing device 10 or in the cleaning device 1.

[0089] The device 100 can, for example, be a computer, a desktop computer, a server, a thin client, or a portable computer (mobile device), such as a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a smartphone. The device can, for example, fulfill the function of a server or a client.

[0090] Processor 110 of device 100 is designed in particular as a microprocessor, microcontrol unit, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0091] Processor 110 executes program instructions stored in program memory 112 and stores, for example, intermediate results or the like in working or main memory 111. For example, program memory 112 is a non-volatile memory such as flash memory, magnetic memory, EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), and / or optical memory. Main memory 111 is, for example, a volatile or non-volatile memory, in particular a random access memory (RAM) such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM), and / or magnetic random access memory (MRAM).

[0092] Program memory 112 is preferably a local data storage device permanently connected to device 100. Data storage devices permanently connected to device 100 are, for example, hard drives that are built into device 100. Alternatively, the data storage device can also be, for example, a data storage device that can be detachably connected to device 100, such as a memory stick, a removable data storage device, a portable hard drive, a CD, a DVD, and / or a floppy disk. Program memory 112 contains, for example, the operating system of device 100, which is at least partially loaded into main memory 111 and executed by processor 110 when device 100 is started. In particular, when device 100 is started, at least part of the core of the operating system is loaded into main memory 111 and executed by processor 110. The operating system of device 100 is, for example, a Windows, UNIX, Linux, Android, Apple iOS, and / or MAC operating system.

[0093] The operating system enables, in particular, the use of device 100 for data processing. For example, it manages resources such as main memory 111 and program memory 112, network interface 113, and input and output device 114, provides basic functions to other programs through programming interfaces, among other things, and controls the execution of programs.

[0094] Processor 110 controls the communication interface 113, which can be a network interface, for example, and can be designed as a network card, network module, and / or modem. The communication interface 113 is configured, in particular, to establish a connection between the device 100 and other devices, in particular via a (wireless) communication system, for example a network, and to communicate with them. The communication interface 113 can, for example, receive data (via the communication system) and forward it to processor 110 and / or receive data from processor 110 and send it (via the communication system). Examples of a communication system are a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless network (for example, according to IEEE 802.11a).11 standard, the Bluetooth (LE) standard and / or the NFC standard), a wired network, a cellular network, a telephone network and / or the Internet.

[0095] Furthermore, processor 110 can control at least one input / output device 114. Input / output device 114 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a display unit, a microphone, a touch-sensitive display unit, a speaker, a reader, a drive, and / or a camera. Input / output device 114 can, for example, receive inputs from a user and forward them to processor 110 and / or receive and output information for the user from processor 110.

[0096] Fig.4now shows two flowcharts of an embodiment of a method according to the second aspect, which is carried out by the cleaning device 1 (flowchart 300) and another device, for example a mobile device (flowchart 400). In principle, however, the actions of flowchart 400 can also be carried out by the device 1.

[0097] First, quantity information representative of the amount of cleaning agent poured into the dispenser 10 of the cleaning device 1 is determined (action 310). This is done using the electrodes 22 of the sensor device 10. At the same time, quality information representative of the type of cleaning agent poured into the dispenser 10 is determined by the sensor device 10 using the same or a different sensor (action 320). This allows both the type of cleaning agent used and the amount of cleaning agent used to be determined.

[0098] This information is provided, for example, via a communication device of the dispenser 10 or the cleaning device 1 to another device 100, such as a mobile device. This device receives the quantity information and the quality information (action 410). The device 100 directly issues a notification to the user, informing them of the amount of cleaning agent poured into a dispenser 10 of the cleaning device 1.

[0099] In addition, the device 100 checks, at least in part based on the determined quantity information, whether a supply of the cleaning agent is expected to be depleted (action 430). For example, the device has access to information regarding the quantity of the current supply of the cleaning agent. For example, the initial supply quantity was entered manually. By repeatedly updating the supply quantity each time the cleaning agent is used, the information regarding the supply quantity can be kept up to date. If the check shows that a depletion of the supply of the cleaning agent is expected, a supply of the cleaning agent is ordered (action 440).

[0100] Independently of the actions of flowchart 400, the actions of flowchart 300 can continue to be executed. After the cleaning agent has been poured into the dispenser 10, the cleaning process is started. The dispenser 10 is rinsed with water. Based on the change in the conductivity measured by the sensor, it can be determined that the cleaning agent has been rinsed out of the dispenser 10 (action 340). The rinsing of the dispenser 10 can then be terminated (action 350). This can enable the setting of a small liquor ratio and also reduce water and energy consumption.

[0101] Fig.5Finally, FIG. 1 shows different embodiments of storage media on which an embodiment of a computer program according to the invention can be stored. The storage medium can be, for example, a magnetic, electrical, optical and / or other type of storage medium. The storage medium can, for example, be part of a processor (e.g., processor 110 of the Fig. 3 ), for example, a (non-volatile or volatile) program memory of the processor or a part thereof (such as program memory 112 in Fig. 3 ). Embodiments of a storage medium are a flash memory 510, an SSD hard drive 511, a magnetic hard drive 512, a memory card 513, a memory stick 514 (e.g., a USB stick), a CD-ROM or DVD 515, or a floppy disk 516.

Claims

1. A method carried out by an apparatus comprising: - a dispensing device (10) and - a sensor device (20), wherein the dispensing device (10) is designed to receive a cleaning agent or contains such a cleaning agent, wherein the dispensing device (10) and the sensor device (20) can be integrated in a cleaning apparatus (1), and wherein the sensor device (20) is designed to determine quantity information which is representative of the amount of a cleaning agent which has been poured into the dispensing device (10); wherein the sensor device comprises a sensor which evaluates transit times and comprises a transmitter and a receiver, wherein a pulse is emitted by the transmitter, and the time it takes for the pulse to be reflected to the receiver is measured, the method comprising: - obtaining, by means of the sensor which evaluates transit times, quantity information which is representative of an amount of a cleaning agent which has been poured into a dispensing device (10) of a cleaning apparatus (1); and - checking, based at least in part on the determined quantity information, whether a supply of the cleaning agent is likely to be used up.

2. The method according to claim 1, the method further comprising: - determining the quantity information which is representative of an amount of a cleaning agent which has been poured into a dispensing device (10) of a cleaning apparatus (1).

3. The method according to one of claims 1 or 2, the method further comprising: - obtaining and / or determining quality information which is representative of a type of the cleaning agent which has been poured into the dispensing device (10).

4. The method according to one of claims 1 to 3, the method further comprising: - determining a consumption profile based at least in part on the obtained quantity information, in particular based on a plurality of obtained items of quantity information, - wherein the check as to whether a supply of the cleaning agent is likely to be used up is based at least in part on the determined consumption profile.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the consumption profile is representative of the time curve of the cleaning agent.

6. The method according to one of claims 1 to 5, the method further comprising: - outputting or triggering an output of a notice to a user that a supply of the cleaning agent is likely to be used up if the check indicates that a supply of the cleaning agent is likely to be used up.

7. The method according to one of claims 1 to 6, the method further comprising: - ending a process of flushing water through the dispensing device (10) when it is established that the cleaning agent has been flushed out of the dispensing device (10).

8. An apparatus comprising a dispensing device (10) and - a sensor device (20), wherein the dispensing device (10) is designed to receive a cleaning agent or contains such a cleaning agent, wherein the dispensing device (10) and the sensor device (20) can be integrated in a cleaning apparatus (1), and wherein the sensor device (20) is designed to determine quantity information which is representative of the amount of a cleaning agent which has been poured into the dispensing device (10), characterized in that the sensor device comprises a sensor which evaluates transit times and comprises a transmitter and a receiver, wherein a pulse is emitted by the transmitter, and the time it takes for the pulse to be reflected to the receiver is measured, wherein the apparatus further comprises at least one processor (110) and at least one memory (111, 112) comprising computer program code, wherein the at least one memory (111, 112) and the computer program code are designed to execute and / or control at least one method according to one of claims 1 to 7 using the at least one processor (110).

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the sensor device (20) or a part thereof is integrated in the dispensing device (10).

10. The apparatus according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the sensor device (20) or a part thereof forms a flow barrier (14a, 16a, 18a) of the dispensing device (10) or a part thereof.

11. The apparatus according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the dispensing device (10) is designed to be flushed through with water in the cleaning apparatus (1).

12. The apparatus according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the sensor device (20) is designed to determine quality information which is representative of a type of the cleaning agent which has been poured into the dispensing device (10).

13. The apparatus according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the sensor device (20) of the apparatus comprises an optical sensor or a conductivity sensor.

14. A computer program product comprising program instructions which prompt a processor (110) to execute and / or control a method according to one of claims 1 to 7 on an apparatus according to claim 8 when the computer program runs on the processor (110).