WASHING SYSTEM FOR CLEANING GOODS

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a washing system for cleaning items to be cleaned, in particular for use in a cleaning device, and furthermore to a cleaning device comprising the washing system. The washing system can be used in particular as a washing arm, for example as a rotatable, fixedly mounted or pivoting washing arm, for example as a nozzle arm. The invention furthermore relates to a method for maintaining the washing system. The devices and methods according to the present invention can be used in particular in commercial dishwashing technology and / or in commercial kitchens. Thus, devices and methods of the type mentioned can be used, for example, in communal catering facilities, such as in particular in restaurants, company canteens, canteens in schools, government offices, hospitals or care facilities.The cleaning device can be used in particular for cleaning items to be cleaned in the form of washware, which is used directly or indirectly for the preparation, storage, or serving of food and beverages. In particular, this can be dishes and / or trays. Other areas of application for the present invention are also conceivable in principle, in particular areas involving basically any washware, for example, medical devices or care utensils. Technical background

[0002] A variety of cleaning devices, also referred to as cleaning appliances, are known from the prior art, which can clean and / or disinfect items to be cleaned. The invention hereinafter refers primarily to commercial dishwashing technology, for example, commercial dishwashing technology, without limiting other possible areas of application. In addition to program dishwashers with a static cleaning process, conveyor dishwashers or conveyor-type dishwashers are also known, in which the items to be cleaned are transported through one or more cleaning chambers by means of a conveyor device.Program dishwashers, also known as program machines, designed for commercial use typically have two circuits for rinsing fluid. In addition to the actual fluid tank located in the cleaning chamber, which provides circulation, they also have at least one rinse tank for separate preparation of rinse fluid or final rinse fluid, for example, with a boiler or instantaneous water heater. Other configurations are also possible.

[0003] In particular, cleaning devices utilize washing systems such as washing arms, which are typically part of a loading device for applying a cleaning fluid, such as water or a water-containing cleaning fluid, to the items to be cleaned. These washing systems can be designed, for example, as washing arms, particularly as nozzle arms.

[0004] Maintaining the operational capability of such washing systems is a particular challenge. For example, in dishwashers, it frequently happens that dirt particles from the circulating cleaning fluid, such as the recirculated rinse liquid, become trapped in the nozzle opening of a wash arm. Although dishwashers are generally equipped with a filter system for the recirculated rinse liquid, this malfunction must be regularly monitored and rectified as part of maintenance procedures. The dirt particles impair the spray pattern of the nozzle, or the nozzle becomes completely blocked. Such blockages usually need to be removed to ensure proper cleaning results in the dishwasher. To clean the nozzles, the wash arm is therefore often removed from the cleaning device.The contaminant can then be removed from the nozzle opening using a thin object, such as a wire. However, this particle usually falls into the interior of the wash arm. Typically, this wash arm is then filled with water through its inlet opening, for example, from a faucet, and an attempt is made to flush out the dirt particles by emptying the arm through the inlet opening. Alternatively, or additionally, the wash arm can also be disassembled and cleaned.

[0005] To simplify the described process and to facilitate rinsing, wash arms are also known from the prior art. These wash arms have a further opening in addition to the inlet opening, also referred to as a cleaning opening. This cleaning opening can be closed, for example, by a screw cap, a rubber stopper, or similar closures, which can be secured against loss, for example, by clips or in some other way.

[0006] LU 92 894 B1 discloses a spray device for a dishwasher with a structure for cleaning the spray nozzles. A resealable opening is formed in the wall of the spray device, which is closed with a cover that can be removed or attached to a spray arm. Contaminants, fibrous and grainy food residues, are easily rinsed out of the spray device through this opening.

[0007] Furthermore, DE 10 2011 081 246 B4 discloses a dishwasher designed as a programmable automatic dishwasher with a treatment chamber or as a conveyor dishwasher with at least one treatment zone, and having a washing system associated with the treatment chamber or the at least one treatment zone. The washing system comprises a wash tank for holding washing liquid, a plurality of spray nozzles formed in at least one wash pipe for spraying washing liquid onto the items to be cleaned, and a wash pump connected to the at least one wash pipe via a conduit system for supplying washing liquid from the wash tank to the spray nozzles formed in the at least one wash pipe.It is provided that the at least one washing pipe has a central cleaning opening which is designed such that, during a cleaning operation of the dishwasher, at least a part of the washing liquid supplied from the washing pump to the washing pipe flows back into the washing tank via the central cleaning opening.

[0008] The devices known from the prior art exhibit several disadvantages and technical challenges. For example, the known devices are generally designed in such a way that the cleaning openings could inadvertently remain open after cleaning, allowing the wash arm to be reinserted into the dishwasher. This would result in unsatisfactory cleaning results, which could potentially go unnoticed for some time. Furthermore, in some cases, a closure of the cleaning opening could be lost, rendering the dishwasher inoperable. Furthermore, the handling of the known devices is comparatively complex in practice and usually requires several handling steps by trained personnel. Object of the invention

[0009] It would therefore be desirable to provide a washing system and a cleaning device, as well as a corresponding method for maintaining the same, that at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of the type mentioned. In particular, a washing system that is simple and user-friendly to operate would be desirable. Disclosure of the invention

[0010] This problem is addressed by a washing system, a cleaning device, and a method for maintaining the washing system, having the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are presented in the dependent claims.

[0011] In the following, the terms "have," "have," "comprise," or "include," or any grammatical variations thereof, are used non-exclusively. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, besides the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B," "A has B," "A comprises B," or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no further element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, for example, element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0012] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be provided singly or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. Upon subsequent re-mention of the feature or element, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element may be provided singly or multiple times.

[0013] Furthermore, the terms "preferably," "in particular," "for example," or similar terms are used below in connection with optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and these features are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or "in an embodiment of the invention" are understood as optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave untouched all possibilities of combining the features introduced thereby with other features, whether optional or non-optional.

[0014] In a first aspect, a washing system for cleaning items to be cleaned is proposed. The washing system comprises: at least one housing with at least one inlet for supplying the washing system with cleaning fluid and at least one nozzle opening formed in the housing and fluidically connected to the inlet; at least one cleaning opening formed in the housing, and at least one self-closing closure element for closing the cleaning opening.

[0015] The washing system can be designed, in particular, for use in a cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned, in particular a dishwasher. Possible embodiments are described in more detail below.

[0016] Accordingly, a second aspect proposes a cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned. The cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning chamber for receiving the items to be cleaned. Furthermore, the cleaning device comprises at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned. The application device comprises at least one washing system according to the invention, for example, according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below.

[0017] The term "washing system," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device by means of which cleaning fluid, for example a cleaning liquid, can be applied to the item to be cleaned or the item to be cleaned, for example by spraying, squirting, dripping, or blasting. The washing system can, in particular, as explained above, be part of an application device for applying the cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned, which, in addition to the at least one washing system, can comprise, for example, one or more other elements, for example selected from the group consisting of: a tank; a piping system; and a pump.The washing system can be designed in particular as a nozzle arm or nozzle tube, with one nozzle opening or a plurality of nozzle openings.

[0018] The term "cleaning device" as used here is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device designed to at least partially free items to be cleaned of adhering contaminants and / or germs. The cleaning device can, for example, be a dishwasher, in particular a commercial dishwasher, for example a single-chamber dishwasher and / or a program dishwasher. However, the inventive concept can also be used in conveyor dishwashers.Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning device can also be designed entirely or partially as a cleaning and disinfection device, for example as a cleaning device designed to clean containers for holding human excreta. In this regard, reference can generally be made, for example, to the cleaning devices described in DE 10 2004 056 052 A1 and / or DE 10 2007 025 263 A1. The cleaning device can also be a dishwasher, such as can be used to clean containers in the food production and / or food processing environment. Furthermore, the cleaning device can be a disinfection dishwasher, for example a dishwasher for cleaning and disinfecting breathing masks. However, other designs are also conceivable in principle.In the following, the invention is described particularly in connection with commercially usable single-chamber dishwashers or programmable automatic dishwashers, which, in addition to the actual wash tank or container, which is usually located in the floor of the cleaning chamber, have a separate rinse container in which rinse liquid can be prepared during a wash cycle. However, other configurations are also possible in principle.

[0019] The term "cleaning item" as used herein is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to objects or goods that can be subjected to cleaning or a cleaning process. Without limiting further possible embodiments, reference is made hereinafter to cleaning items in the form of wash items. Wash items are intended to include any items intended for the preparation, presentation, or storage of food and beverages. Examples include tableware such as cups, plates, glasses, bowls, or dishes. Also included are pots, trays, cutlery, warming devices, or similar devices.However, it is expressly pointed out that other types of cleaning materials can also be cleaned, such as industrial general cargo, bulk cargo, containers or other types of cleaning materials.

[0020] "Cleaning" can be understood, without limitation, as the removal of adhering dirt or other contaminants from the items being cleaned, as well as a germ-reducing and / or germ-killing effect or even a disinfecting effect. Sanitization is generally understood as the removal of germs, in particular a germ-reducing and / or germ-killing or even a disinfecting effect, as well as the removal of substances such as chemicals, for example, residues from additives of the at least one cleaning fluid.

[0021] The term "cleaning chamber," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a chamber in which the above-described cleaning process of the items to be cleaned is carried out completely or partially. In particular, the cleaning fluid or one of several cleaning fluids can be applied in a cleaning chamber. The chamber is preferably completely or partially enclosed by a housing.As explained above, the cleaning device can in particular be a single-chamber cleaning device, i.e. a cleaning device which has precisely one chamber for receiving the items to be cleaned, in particular for stationary reception, which chamber is preferably completely surrounded by walls of the cleaning chamber. A closable opening, for example a flap, a door or a slider, can be provided in at least one wall of the cleaning chamber. Alternatively or additionally, however, at least a part of at least one wall of the cleaning chamber can also be designed to be movable in order to enable items to be cleaned to be received in the cleaning chamber. For example, the cleaning chamber described can also have at least one hood or be completely or partially closed off by at least one hood.

[0022] The cleaning fluid can, for example, be a cleaning liquid and / or a gaseous cleaning fluid. For example, this cleaning fluid can comprise a cleaning liquid, for example an aqueous cleaning liquid, for example water in the form of fresh water and / or with one or more additives, for example with one or more cleaning concentrates and / or one or more rinse aid concentrates and / or one or more disinfectants. For example, the cleaning fluid can have one or more additives, for example at least one additive selected from the group consisting of a cleaning concentrate, a rinse aid, and a disinfectant. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning fluid can comprise steam, for example. However, other embodiments are also conceivable in principle.The at least one cleaning fluid can, in principle, comprise at least one cleaning liquid, in particular at least one aqueous cleaning liquid. Other types of cleaning fluids can also be used in principle. A "cleaning fluid" can thus be understood, without limiting further possible embodiments, as any fluid, in particular a liquid, that can exert a cleaning effect on the item being cleaned.

[0023] The term "application device" as used here is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any device or combination of devices by means of which the cleaning items can be exposed to the cleaning fluid, for example, by spraying, irradiating, or dripping the cleaning fluid onto the items. The application device comprises the proposed washing system. For example, the application device can have at least one washing system in the form of at least one nozzle system. For example, one or more washing systems can be provided in the cleaning chamber above and / or below the items to be cleaned and / or also to the side of the items to be cleaned.For example, the washing systems may comprise one or more spray arms above the items to be cleaned and / or one or more spray arms below the items to be cleaned, in particular rotatable spray arms.

[0024] The term "housing," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device, an element, or a combination of elements that encloses at least one further element and / or at least one space and completely or partially seals it off from the outside. In particular, the housing as a whole can be a structure with mechanical stability, in particular dimensional stability. For example, the housing can be made entirely or partially from plastic and / or a metallic material such as sheet metal. For example, the housing can be formed in one piece or in multiple pieces.For example, the housing can be composed of one, two, or more shells, for example, plastic and / or sheet metal shells formed by deep-drawing or blow-molding. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can also comprise one or more tubes. In particular, the housing can be designed as an elongated housing, for example, with a longitudinal extension that exceeds a lateral dimension by at least a factor of 2, preferably at least a factor of 3, or even at least a factor of 5. For example, the housing can be designed entirely or partially as an arm and / or tube.

[0025] The term "inlet," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a connection of the housing through which an interior of the housing, which is completely or partially enclosed by the housing, can be supplied with cleaning fluid. The inlet can, for example, have at least one inlet nozzle, for example a smooth inlet nozzle or an inlet nozzle with grooves or an inlet nozzle with a thread, each for connection, for example, to at least one inlet element.For example, the inlet nozzle can be connected to at least one inlet element selected from the group consisting of: a hose; an inlet pipe; an inlet opening, for example an opening in a flat support surface, an opening that is integrated in a fastening for the washing system, for example the nozzle arm or washing arm; an opening that is integrated in a bearing for the washing system, for example the nozzle arm or washing arm; an opening that is integrated in a hydraulic coupling, for example for connecting the washing system.

[0026] The term "nozzle opening," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to an opening in the housing, which is formed on at least one side of the housing facing the item to be cleaned, for example, an underside and / or a top side of the housing. The item to be cleaned can be sprayed, irradiated, or dripped with the cleaning fluid through the nozzle opening. The nozzle opening can, for example, have a round, oval, slit-shaped, or even polygonal shape. The nozzle opening can, for example, have a diameter or equivalent diameter that does not exceed 10 mm, for example, and preferably does not exceed 5 mm.The nozzle opening can in particular be designed to be smaller in its diameter or equivalent diameter than a diameter or equivalent diameter of the cleaning opening, for example by at least a factor of 1.5, preferably by at least a factor of 2 or even by at least a factor of 3. The at least one nozzle opening and the cleaning opening can, for example, be arranged on opposite sides of the housing.

[0027] The term "cleaning opening," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to an opening in the housing through which cleaning fluid or other liquid can be flushed out of the housing during maintenance or a cleaning operation. The cleaning opening is preferably closed by the closure element during operation of the cleaning device, whereas the at least one nozzle opening preferably does not have such a closure element.

[0028] The term "closure element," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and customary meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to a device, a single element, or a group of elements configured to close one or more other devices, elements, or openings. For example, the closure element may be an element that is pressed into the cleaning opening from the outside or inside, or pressed onto a rim of the housing around the cleaning opening to close it.In particular, the housing can be designed to be smooth and preferably substantially flat around the cleaning opening, so that the closure element can, for example, cooperate with a smooth edge around the cleaning opening as closure surfaces in order to close the cleaning opening.

[0029] Furthermore, the term "self-closing," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a property of a device or element to close another device, element, or opening without the application of external forces. For example, the self-closing closure element may be configured such that, without the application of external forces, it is in a closed state or in a closed position in which the closure element closes the cleaning opening.Appropriate forces, in particular external forces, may then be required to open the closure element and the cleaning opening and / or to hold the closure element in an open position. As will be explained below, the closure element can, for example, have at least one spring and / or can be flexible and, in particular, resilient, so that the closure element is pressed, due to a spring force, for example, against an edge of the housing around the cleaning opening and / or is pressed into the cleaning opening in order to keep it closed due to the spring force. In particular, the closure element as a whole can be resilient, so that an intrinsic spring force is provided which holds the closure element in the closed state and against which a force must be applied in order to bring the closure element into an open position.

[0030] The closure element can be designed, in particular, as a captive and self-closing closure element for the cleaning opening in the washing system, especially in a cleaning device, in particular a dishwasher. "Captive" refers to a closure element that cannot be removed from the washing system without causing damage and thus cannot be lost.

[0031] The closure element can, in particular, be a spring-actuated slide, for example a rotary slide or a slide with an axial movement direction. A spring-actuated flap or other designs are also conceivable. In particular, however, the closure element can be designed as a single piece and can, in particular, be self-resilient, so that preferably no additional spring element is provided. In particular, the closure element can be designed as a single-piece, resilient, flat closure element made of metal, which is permanently connected to the washing system, in particular the housing, for example the housing of the washing arm. The connection, preferably the permanent connection, can, for example, comprise a welded connection, for example a spot welded connection, as explained in more detail below.Alternatively or additionally, the connection can also comprise a riveted connection or another type of connection, for example, by forming at least one component, such as a "clinch connection." Other combinations of materials and designs that are not integrally and / or permanently connected to the washing system, in particular the washing arm, are also conceivable.

[0032] As explained in more detail below, the closure element can be designed, in particular, as a flap. In particular, the closure element can be designed as a double-eccentric flap.

[0033] As explained in more detail below, the closure element comprises at least one actuating element, in particular for opening or releasing the cleaning opening. For example, a protruding shaped element for actuating the closure element can be attached to the closure element. For actuation, this shaped element can be pressed down, for example, manually, so that the cleaning opening is released and the housing can be flushed. After the actuation is complete, the cleaning opening preferably closes automatically.

[0034] As explained above, the closure element can in particular be designed to be flexible. In particular, the closure element can be designed to be flexible in such a way that, due to its own flexibility, it is pressed against the housing in a closed position and closes the cleaning opening. Furthermore, the flexibility can be such that the closure element can be brought into at least one open position by an external force being applied, for example against an intrinsic spring force of the closure element, and thus releases the cleaning opening. The closure element can in particular be designed in such a way that, in the open position, it abuts the housing, for example against an inner wall of the housing which is opposite the cleaning opening, wherein the housing limits any further opening movement of the closure element.In this way, for example, it can be prevented that the closure element is opened excessively and thus damaged.

[0035] The closure element can have one end that is fixedly connected to the housing and one end that is freely movable. For example, the closure element can be configured as an arm or tongue, which is connected to the housing at one end, for example, on an inner side of the housing, and whose other end is freely movable and, preferably due to an intrinsic spring force, rests in a closed position on an inner wall of the housing, closing the cleaning opening.

[0036] The closure element can be designed, in particular, as a flat closure element. Accordingly, the closure element can be designed, in particular, as a substantially flat, elongated closure element, in particular, as a tongue-shaped closure element. For example, the closure element can be designed at least partially as a spring tongue or spring plate, in particular, as a profiled spring tongue.

[0037] The closure element can in particular be made at least partially from spring steel or spring sheet. Alternatively or additionally, other elastic materials, in particular other elastic metallic materials, for example non-ferrous metals, can also be used as the material for the closure element. Again alternatively or additionally, a design made entirely or partially from plastic is also possible. The closure element can, for example, have a thickness as well as a length and a width, where, for example, the length and the width exceed the thickness by at least a factor of 5, preferably at least a factor of 10. For example, the closure element can have a thickness of 0.2 mm to 2 mm, for example from 0.3 mm to 1.5 mm. For example, the closure element can have a length of 20 mm to 100 mm, in particular a length of 40 mm to 70 mm.For example, the closure element can have a width of 5 mm to 30 mm, for example 5 mm to 15 mm.

[0038] As stated above, the closure element can, in particular, be formed in one piece. For example, the closure element can be made in one piece from a spring plate or sheet metal, without the closure element additionally comprising a spring element. Alternatively, however, the closure element can also comprise a spring element that is firmly or loosely connected to other components, for example, a tongue of the closure element.

[0039] The closure element can, in particular, be manually operable. For example, the closure element can be accessible from outside the housing and manually moved into an open position from outside the housing. Accordingly, the spring force of the closure element can be designed such that it can be easily overcome with a thumb or other finger of a human hand to open the closure element.

[0040] The closure element can, in particular, be arranged at least partially within an interior space of the housing and can, for example, open inwardly into the interior space. Thus, for example, to open the cleaning opening, the closure element can be movable at least partially into the interior space of the housing, for example by bending or pivoting a free end of the closure element into the interior space.

[0041] As explained above, the closure element has at least one actuating element, in particular an actuating button. The housing has at least one actuating opening, wherein the actuating element can be actuated through the actuating opening from outside the housing. When the closure element is closed, the closure element can, for example, also close the actuating opening, so that both the cleaning opening and the actuating opening are closed by the closure element. The actuating element projects through the actuating opening to the outside of the housing. The actuating element can, for example, be designed as a profile, projection, contour, shaped element, or embossed feature in the closure element. The at least one actuating element can be fully or partially integrated into the closure element or formed in the closure element.Alternatively or additionally, the at least one actuating element can also be formed entirely or partially as a separate component and, for example, be attached to the closure element and / or connected to the closure element. In particular, the actuating element can be manually actuated from the outside, i.e., from outside the housing. The actuating element is arranged between an area in which the closure element is connected to the housing, also referred to as the connection area, and the cleaning opening. In this way, leverage can be effectively utilized.

[0042] The closure element can, in particular, have at least one closure surface that rests on the housing around the cleaning opening when the closure element is closed. This closure surface can, for example, interact with an edge, preferably a smooth edge, of the housing around the cleaning opening, thus providing a sealing surface and exerting a sealing effect. Furthermore, the closure element can optionally have at least one projection extending into the cleaning opening. The projection can, for example, have a cross-section that matches the cross-section of the cleaning opening.

[0043] The closure element can, in particular, be mounted in at least one connecting region so as to be fixedly rotatable or pivotable about the connecting region. The closure element can, in particular in an open state, form a ramp in an interior of the housing, via which cleaning fluid can be guided to the cleaning opening.

[0044] Furthermore, at least one flushing channel can be formed in the closure element between the connecting area and the cleaning opening. A "flushing channel" is generally understood to mean a channel that is preferably open toward a wall of the housing on which the closure element rests, and through which dirt particles trapped between the closure element and the housing wall can be flushed out. In particular, such a flushing channel can easily be formed by at least one fold or bead in the closure element.

[0045] As explained above, the closure element can in particular be connected to the housing, for example to an inner wall of the housing. This connection can in particular be non-detachable, i.e. cannot be released without deformation of the material or destruction of the washing system. In particular, the closure element can have a free end and an end connected to the housing. In particular, the closure element can be connected to the housing by at least one connection selected from the group consisting of: a positive connection; a material connection; a force-fit connection; a riveted connection; a connection by forming; a welded connection, in particular a spot welded connection; and a screwed connection.

[0046] The closure element can extend, in particular in a closed state, substantially parallel to an inner wall of the housing.

[0047] The closure element can generally be selected in particular from the group consisting of: a flap; a slide, in particular a spring-loaded slide; a rotary slide, in particular a spring-loaded rotary slide. As explained above, however, a one-piece design is preferred overall, for example as an elongated, flat, spring-loaded closure element which is connected to an inner wall of the housing at one fixed end and which is freely movable at an opposite, free end and which, due to its own spring force, is pressed against an inner wall of the housing and thus closes the cleaning opening in a closed position. Accordingly, the closure element can be designed in particular as a flap, for example as a double-eccentric flap.

[0048] The inlet can, in particular, have at least one inlet nozzle. This inlet nozzle can, for example, be connectable to a faucet or a water hose to perform a rinsing process. The inlet and the cleaning opening can, in particular, be arranged at a distance from one another, with the nozzle opening or a plurality of nozzle openings being arranged on a fluidic path between the inlet and the cleaning opening.

[0049] As explained above, the washing system can, in particular, be designed entirely or partially as a washing arm. The washing arm can, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of: a fixedly mountable washing arm; a pivotably mounted washing arm; a rotatably mounted washing arm, in particular a rotatably mounted washing arm configured substantially symmetrically about a rotation axis; a washing tube; a nozzle tube; and a nozzle arm.

[0050] The housing can in particular, as explained above, have an underside, in particular an underside facing the item to be cleaned, wherein the at least one nozzle opening is, for example, arranged entirely or partially in the underside. Furthermore, the housing can have an upper side arranged opposite the underside, wherein the cleaning opening is arranged in the upper side. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one nozzle opening can also be formed entirely or partially in the upper side, for example in the same side as the at least one cleaning opening. Furthermore, the housing can also have at least one nozzle opening in the underside and at least one nozzle opening in the upper side.The latter configuration can be useful, for example, if the washing system, such as the washing arm, is located entirely or partially within the workpiece, for example, by placing the washing system between two workpiece baskets. Furthermore, one or more nozzle openings can also be located laterally in the housing.

[0051] The housing can be designed in one piece or in two parts, so that the underside and the top side can be components of one and the same housing element or components of different housing elements, for example a lower shell and an upper shell.

[0052] In particular, at least one elongated channel can be formed in the housing. The inlet can be fluidically connected to the at least one nozzle opening via this channel. For example, the housing can enclose an elongated interior space that forms the channel. The at least one channel can extend from the inlet in one direction or in multiple directions, for example, symmetrically in both directions.

[0053] The cleaning device can, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of: a dishwasher; a single-chamber dishwasher, in particular a commercial single-chamber dishwasher; a conveyor dishwasher, in particular a belt-type or rack-type dishwasher. As explained above, however, other configurations are also possible, for example, configurations as cleaning and disinfection devices, for example for cleaning care utensils.

[0054] In a further aspect, a method for servicing at least one washing system of a cleaning device according to the invention is proposed, for example, according to one or more of the embodiments described above or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. The method comprises the following method steps, which are preferably carried out in the order mentioned. A different order is also possible. Furthermore, a complete or partial simultaneous execution of the method steps is also possible. The method may further comprise additional steps. The method steps are: a) Opening the cleaning opening by opening the closure element; and b) applying cleaning fluid, in particular water, to the inlet and flushing the cleaning fluid out through the cleaning opening.

[0055] The method may also include, for example, particularly before process step a), cleaning one or more individual nozzle openings, for example by using a pointed or elongated object to displace contaminants such as particles from the at least one nozzle opening into the interior of the housing. These can then be flushed out of the housing by the flushing process.

[0056] The devices and methods proposed here have numerous advantages over known devices and methods, as already partially described above. In particular, the closure element can be manufactured in one piece, allowing for a very cost-effective design. Furthermore, the closure element can be designed to be very light and small, which means that, particularly in washing systems in the form of rotating wash arms, no noticeable imbalance is caused by the additional closure element. Furthermore, the closure element can be designed to be resilient and can rest against an inner contour of the housing upon opening, effectively preventing unintentional overstretching during actuation.

[0057] Furthermore, the closure element can also positively influence the flow characteristics during rinsing. For example, as explained above, the closure element can form a ramp when open, along which any dirt particles present can be guided directly to the cleaning opening during rinsing. This results in particularly efficient and simple rinsing. Furthermore, as explained above, the closure element can have at least one rinsing channel. Dirt particles that are not guided to the cleaning opening and discharged via the ramp and that get between the wash arm and the closure element can thus be rinsed out, for example, via the rinsing channel. This can prevent the closure element from closing incompletely due to dirt particles.

[0058] Furthermore, the invention is applicable to very different types of washing systems. In principle, washing systems can generally be divided into two groups: washing systems that are stationary during operation and washing systems that move during operation, for example rotating or pivoting washing systems. In the case of stationary systems, any cleaning opening that may be present can be closed simply by installing them in the functional position. In the case of moving systems, rotating systems are generally the most common design. In these systems, two or more washing arms, each with at least one nozzle opening, move around a rotational axis that is generally perpendicular to the arm extension. In moving systems, it is considerably more difficult than in the case of stationary systems to create a captive closure for a cleaning opening.It is generally even more difficult to create a closure that automatically closes in a functional position. The proposed self-closing closure element effectively addresses this problem, especially when the closure element is firmly connected to the housing, which offers particular advantages, especially for movable washing systems such as rotating wash arms.

[0059] In particular, the closure element can be designed not only to be self-closing but also to be captive, so that even in the event of incorrect operation, there is no risk of loss and the functionality of the washing system is not impaired. After the rinsing process, no further action by the operating personnel is generally required to close the cleaning opening again.

[0060] The locking element can be manufactured cost-effectively. By choosing the right material, especially spring steel or spring sheet, the locking element can be made very robust and durable. It can also be constructed in a single piece, making it particularly susceptible to failure. Short description of the characters

[0061] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, particularly in conjunction with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments are illustrated schematically in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures designate identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions.

[0062] In detail: Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a cleaning device according to the invention with several washing systems in a sectional view; Figure 2 shows an embodiment of a washing system with a closure element in the closed position in a perspective view; Figure 3 shows a sectional view of an outer end of the washing system according to Figure 2; Figure 4 the washing system of the Figures 2 and 3 in one to Figure 1 analog representation with open closure element; Figure 5 the washing system of the Figures 2 to 4 in one to Figure 3 analog sectional view with the closure element open; and Figures 6A and 6B an embodiment of the closure element with a flushing channel. Description of the embodiments

[0063] In Figure 1A possible embodiment of a cleaning device 110 according to the invention for cleaning items 112 is shown, which has a plurality of washing systems 111 according to the invention in one possible embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning device 110 is designed as a single-chamber dishwasher 114, in particular for commercial use, and particularly preferably as a programmable dishwasher 116. It should be noted, however, that the invention can also be used in other types of cleaning devices, for example, in conveyor dishwashers or other dishwashers.

[0064] The cleaning device 110 comprises a cleaning chamber 118, in whose interior 120 the items to be cleaned 112 can be accommodated, for example, by means of one or more baskets 122. In the cleaning chamber 118, the items to be cleaned 112 can be subjected to cleaning fluid via at least one application device 124, for example, via a rinsing nozzle system 126 and / or via a rinsing nozzle system 128. The rinsing nozzle system 126 can be fed in circulation mode, for example, via a rinsing line 130 and a circulation pump 132 from a cleaning tank or rinsing tank 134, which can be heated via a radiator 136 or another type of heater. The rinsing nozzle system 128 can be fed with rinsing fluid, for example, fresh water, from a rinsing tank 142 via at least one rinsing line 138 and a rinsing pump 140.For example, a further heating device 144 can be provided in the rinse tank 142, so that the rinse tank 142 can be designed, for example, as a boiler and / or as a continuous-flow heater.

[0065] As in Figure 1As shown, both the rinsing nozzle system 126 and the rinsing nozzle system 128 in the illustrated embodiment each have a washing system 111 above the items to be cleaned 112 and a washing system 111 below the items to be cleaned 112, so that in both systems the items to be cleaned 112 are acted upon from above and below. The washing systems 111 in the rinsing nozzle system 126 and in the rinsing nozzle system 128 can be designed identically or differently. In particular, the washing systems can be designed as rotatably mounted washing arms 146, which are, for example, centrally mounted for rotation. The washing arms 146 each have an inlet 148, via which the washing arms 146 can be fed with cleaning fluid from the rinsing tank 134 or from the rinsing tank 142.Furthermore, the washing arms 146 each have, for example at least one outer end, at least one cleaning opening 150 and at least one closure element 152 closing the cleaning opening 150, which in . Figure 1 are not shown in detail and which are shown as examples in the following figures and described in more detail below.

[0066] Furthermore, a drain 154 is provided in the bottom of the rinsing tank 134, through which cleaning fluid can be conveyed into a drain 158 by means of a drain pump 146. The cleaning chamber 118 can have at least one door 160 and / or at least one other device for opening the cleaning chamber 118. For example, this door 160 can be arranged in a front wall of the cleaning chamber 118 facing the user.

[0067] The cleaning device 110 preferably further comprises a controller 162, by means of which a program sequence in the cleaning device 110 can be controlled. The controller 162 can, for example, comprise at least one computer and / or at least one processor, as well as, for example, at least one user interface. The controller 162 can, for example, control the pumps 132, 140, 156 and / or other components of the cleaning device 110, such as valves not described in detail. Furthermore, the controller 162 can access sensor data, for example, data from at least one optional temperature sensor and / or at least one optional level sensor.The cleaning device 110, in particular the controller 162, can be configured to run at least one rinsing program or cleaning program in the cleaning device 110, which can, for example, comprise at least one cleaning step and at least one drying step. While the at least one cleaning step can, for example, sequentially comprise applying rinsing liquid via the rinsing nozzle system 126 and subsequently applying rinsing liquid via the rinsing nozzle system 128, the drying step comprises drying the items to be cleaned 112.

[0068] In the Figures 2 to 5 By way of example, a washing system 111 in the form of a rotatable washing arm 146 is shown, which can be used, for example, in the loading device 124 of the cleaning device 110 according to Figure 1 can be used. These figures are explained together below.

[0069] The washing system 111 comprises a housing 164 in which the inlet 148 is formed. The housing 164 can, for example, be made entirely or partially from a metallic material such as sheet metal, for example by means of a deep-drawing process. Other materials such as plastic and other manufacturing processes such as injection molding are also conceivable. The housing 164 can, for example, be made from several parts and can, for example, form an upper shell 166 and a lower shell 168, which each define an upper side 170 and a lower side 172. The definition can be seen, for example, in such a way that the lower side always faces the item 112 to be cleaned. Accordingly, in the housing 164, for example on the lower side 172 and / or in the lower shell 168 and / or in the upper side 170 orin the upper shell 166, one or more nozzle openings 174 are formed, through which cleaning fluid can be sprayed, jetted or dripped onto the item to be cleaned 112.

[0070] In an interior space 176 of the housing 164, for example, between the upper shell 166 and the lower shell 168, a channel 178 is formed, which fluidically connects the inlet 148 to the at least one nozzle opening 174. The inlet 148 can, for example, have an inlet nozzle 180 and optionally at least one flange 182 for rotatable mounting. By means of the inlet nozzle 180, the wash arm 146 can be connected, for example, to the rinse line 130 or to the final rinse line 138.

[0071] Furthermore, the washing system 111 comprises, for example at least one outer end 184, the above-mentioned at least one cleaning opening 150 and the at least one closure element 152, which is designed as a self-closing closure element 152. Figure 2 the washing system 111 with the closure element 152 in the closed position in a perspective view, Figure 3 shows a sectional view of the outer end 184 according to Figure 2 through the housing 164, Figure 4 shows the washing system 111 in a Figure 2 analog representation with open closure element 152, and Figure 5 shows the washing system 111 in a Figure 3 analog sectional view with open closure element 152.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the closure element 152 is designed to be resilient or flexible, for example made of spring steel sheet, and forms, for example, an elongated spring element in the form of a spring tongue extending along a longitudinal axis of the washing arm 146. The closure element 152 has, as shown in the Figures 3 and 5 As can be seen, a fixed end 186, to which the closure element 152 is fixed to the housing 164, for example by means of a rivet connection 188 and / or a welded connection, for example a spot weld. The opposite end of the closure element 152 is designed as a free end 190 and can be used to open the closure element 152, as can be seen from the comparison of the Figures 3 and 5 visible, move into the interior 176. In its open position, as in Figure 5As can be seen, the free end 190 can, for example, abut against the housing 164, for example the lower shell 168, so that a further opening movement and thus, for example, damage due to overstretching, can be prevented.

[0073] The closure element 152 is pressed by its intrinsic spring force in its rest position against an inner wall 192, as in Figure 3 To open, the spring force must be overcome, i.e. to move the locking element 152 into the Figure 5 As soon as the force applied for opening is no longer applied, the closure element 152 moves back into the position shown in Figure 3shown closed position, so that the closure element 152 is designed as a self-closing closure element. Due to the fixation of the fixed end 186 to the housing 164, the closure element 152 is also designed to be captive or non-losable, especially since the closure element 152 is preferably arranged in the interior space 176 of the housing 164.

[0074] In the Figure 3In the closed position shown, the closure element 152 is pressed by its own spring force with its upper side, which forms a closure surface 194, against the inner wall 192 around the edge of the cleaning opening 150, so that the inner wall 192 and the closure surface 194 form sealing surfaces. To further increase the sealing effect, as can be seen in the figures, the closure element 152 can further comprise at least one projection 196, which projects into the cleaning opening 150. This projection 196 can, for example, be formed in the form of an embossing or in some other way in the sheet metal of the closure element 152. For example, the shape of the projection 196 can correspond to the shape of the cleaning opening 150, so that the cleaning opening 150 is filled by the projection 196 in the closed state, as shown, for example, in the Figures 1 and 3The shape of the cleaning opening 150 as well as the shape of the projection 196 can basically be chosen arbitrarily, for example oval, as in Figure 3 shown to utilize the elongated nature of the wash arm 146 and to provide the largest possible opening.

[0075] To clean the washing arm 146, a user, for example maintenance personnel, can disassemble the washing arm 146 and, for example using a pointed object, first free the at least one nozzle opening 174 from contaminants adhering there, such as particles or lime, by pressing these contaminants into the interior 176. The user can then open the closure element 152 by pressing the free end 190 into the interior 176 and into the Figures 4 and 5, shown position. The washing arm 146 is then supplied with rinsing liquid, for example fresh water, via the inlet 148, and the contaminants are rinsed out through the cleaning opening 150. An advantage of the illustrated embodiment is particularly evident in Figure 5 Due to the design of the closure element 152 with the fixed end 186 and the free end 190, the closure element 152 can form a ramp in the open state, via which rinsing liquid, for example, fresh water, along with the contaminants, is directed to the cleaning opening 150. After rinsing, no further force is exerted on the closure element 152, so that it closes itself again due to its spring force and closes the cleaning opening 150. The wash arm 146 can then be reassembled.

[0076] In order to facilitate the opening of the closure element 152 during this cleaning process, the closure element 152 can have at least one actuating element 198, by means of which the closure element 152 can be opened. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating element 198 can, for example, comprise an actuating button 200 or a projection, which protrude outwards through an actuating opening 202 in the housing 164, so that a user can press the closure element 152 with his finger into the Figure 5 For example, the actuating button 200 can protrude so far outwards that when the closure element 152 is fully opened and in the position shown in Figure 5 shown position, is flush with the housing 164.

[0077] During the rinsing process described above, the problem may arise that dirt particles become lodged between the closure element 152 and the housing 164 and impede the self-closing effect of the closure element 152. For example, these dirt particles may impede complete closure due to the inherent spring force of the closure element 152. To reduce this problem, the closure element 152 may have a rinsing channel 204. This configuration, which is also evident in the embodiment according to the Figures 2 to 5 can be implemented, is exemplified by the Figures 6A and 6B shown. Figure 6A a sectional view through the outer end 184 of the washing arm 146, with the closure element 152 once in the closed position (shown in dashed lines) and in the open position (shown in solid lines). Figure 6Bshows a detailed view of the flushing channel 204. As can be seen, the flushing channel 204 can be provided, for example, between the fastening of the closure element 152 to the housing 164, for example, the rivet connection 188, and the actuating element 198. The flushing channel 204 can be designed, for example, in the form of a bead 206 formed transversely to the longitudinal direction of the closure element 152 or as a fold. However, other designs are also possible. List of reference symbols

[0078] 110Cleaning device 111Washing system 112Items to be cleaned 114Single-chamber dishwasher 116Programmable dishwasher 118Cleaning chamber 120Interior 122Basket 124Pressure device 126Rinse nozzle system 128Rinse nozzle system 130Rinse line 132Circulation pump 134Rinse tank 136Radiator 138Rinse line 140Rinse pump 142Rinse tank 144Heater 146Wash arm 148Inlet 150Cleaning opening 152Closing element 154Drain 156Drain pump 158Drain 160Door 162Control system 164Housing 166Upper shell 168Lower shell 170Top 172Bottom 174 Nozzle opening 176 Interior 178 Channel 180 Inlet nozzle 182 Flange 184 Outer end 186 Fixed end 188 Rivet connection 190 Free end 192 Inner wall 194 Closing surface 196 Projection 198 Actuating element 200 Actuating button 202 Actuating opening 204 Flushing channel 206 Bead

Claims

1. Washing system (111) for cleaning items to be cleaned (112), comprising: - at least one housing (164) having at least one inlet (148), for impinging the washing system (111) with cleaning fluid, and at least one nozzle opening (174) which is formed in the housing (164) and fluidically connected to the inlet (148); - at least one cleaning opening (150) which is formed in the housing (164); and - at least one self-closing closure element (152) for closing the cleaning opening (150); wherein the closure element (152) has at least one activation element (198); wherein the housing (164) has at least one activation opening (202); wherein the activation element (198) by way of the activation opening (202) is able to be activated from outside the housing (164); wherein the activation element (198) protrudes through the activation opening (202) towards the outside of the housing (164); wherein the activation element (198) is disposed between a connecting region of the closure element (152) to the housing (164) and the cleaning opening (150).

2. Washing system (111) according to the preceding claim, wherein the closure element (152) is of a flexible design.

3. Washing system (111) according to the preceding claim, wherein the closure element (152), in a closed position, by virtue of its flexibility is pressed against the housing (164) and closes the cleaning opening (150); wherein the closure element (152), by being impinged with an external force, is able to be brought to at least one opened position and releases the cleaning opening (150).

4. Washing system (111) according to the preceding claim, wherein the closure element (152) in the opened position strikes against the housing (164); wherein the housing (164) delimits any further opening movement of the closure element (152).

5. Washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (152) has an end (186) which is fixedly connected to the housing (164) and a freely movable end (190).

6. Washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (152) is designed as a substantially flat elongate closure element (152) .

7. Washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (152) is at least in part made of spring steel.

8. Washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (152) is of an integral design.

9. Washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (152) is disposed at least in part in an interior space (176) of the housing (164).

10. Washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (152) has at least one closure face (194), which in a closed state of the closure element (152) bears on the housing (164) about the cleaning opening (150), and at least one projection (196) that protrudes into the cleaning opening (150) .

11. Washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one rinsing duct (204) is formed in the closure element (152).

12. Cleaning device (110) for cleaning items to be cleaned (112), comprising at least one cleaning chamber (118) for receiving the items to be cleaned (112), furthermore comprising at least one impingement device (124) for impinging the items to be cleaned (112) with at least one cleaning fluid, wherein the impingement device (124) comprises at least one washing system (111) according to one of the preceding claims.

13. Method for servicing at least one washing system (111) of a cleaning device (110) according to Claim 12, comprising the following method steps: a) opening the cleaning opening (150) by opening the closure element (152); and b) impinging the inlet (148) with cleaning fluid and rinsing out the cleaning fluid through the cleaning opening (150).