Cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a cleaning device, a cleaning system, and a method for cleaning items, particularly items with at least one cavity. In particular, the cleaning device, the cleaning system, and the method can be used for cleaning containers, especially bottles. The invention can be used in the field of dishwashing technology, particularly in the field of commercial dishwashing technology. Thus, the invention can be used in large kitchens where items, such as trays, dishes, and cutlery, need to be cleaned in large quantities. In particular, the invention can be used to clean bottles, for example, bottles for table water in restaurants, or other bottle-like objects such as wine carafes, soda jugs, or similar items with at least one cavity.Alternatively, the invention can also be used for other types of items to be cleaned, in particular for other types of containers, such as pots. Alternatively or additionally, the invention can also be used for items not used for the preparation, serving, or storage of food, such as personal protective equipment like respirators. Other areas of application are also conceivable in principle. Technical background

[0002] Numerous cleaning devices, also known as cleaning equipment, are known from the prior art for cleaning and / or disinfecting items. The design of these cleaning devices depends heavily on various boundary conditions, such as the type of item to be cleaned, the degree of soiling, the throughput, and similar factors. Examples of such cleaning devices can be found in DE 10 2004 056 052 A1 and DE 10 2007 025 263 A1.

[0003] Particular technical challenges arise when the items to be cleaned have one or more cavities. In this case, it is essential to ensure that the inner walls of the cavities are sufficiently saturated with cleaning fluid to guarantee reliable cleaning and sanitizing. This problem is especially relevant when cleaning bottles, particularly reusable bottles, which typically have a narrow neck followed by a widened cavity. To reliably clean such items, dishwasher baskets are available that can be used in dishwashers and feature a nozzle system for attaching the bottles. An example of such a basket is the one manufactured by Dishmachines (www.cmadishmachines.com) from Garden Grove, CA 92841, USA. Further examples are described in DE 10 2016 114 589 B3 and WO 2018 / 024772 A1.This document describes a bottle washing basket device for a commercial dishwasher with two separate washing systems, comprising a basket carrier and a washing basket for holding bottles to be cleaned. The basket carrier includes a docking device with at least two separate feed channels, and the washing basket includes a distribution system with a distribution flange that can be connected to the docking device of the basket carrier. Furthermore, a dispensing pipe for dispensing liquid onto bottles to be cleaned is provided, which is connected to a common distribution channel of a distribution system, and liquids from each of the two washing systems can be supplied to this dispensing pipe via the common distribution channel.

[0004] DE 103 00 501 A1 describes a dishwasher, which can be used in particular for cleaning endoscopes. It comprises a washing chamber and a water coupling for connecting a rinsing fluid line and a spray device of a trolley that can be inserted into the washing chamber. The water coupling has a pipe fitting on the trolley and a receptacle in the washing chamber, which is fluid-connected to the rinsing fluid line. When the trolley is inserted into the washing chamber, the receptacle is positioned opposite the pipe fitting and, when coupled, seals the pipe fitting in a liquid-tight manner. To ensure that the pipe fitting can be coupled into the receptacle with minimal effort when the trolley is inserted into the washing chamber, the water coupling includes a sealing hose connected to the receptacle, which seals around the coupled pipe fitting.

[0005] EP 1 946 692 A2 and DE 10 2007 003 894 A1 describe a dishwasher for tubular items, with a wash chamber for receiving at least one item carrier and with a coupling device for introducing rinsing and / or disinfection fluid and / or drying air into a connection piece arranged on the item carrier. To allow for flexibility in choosing the coupling point and to ensure a simple yet secure connection, the dishwasher is equipped with a pulling device for moving the coupled connection piece towards the coupling device. The invention also relates to an item carrier for insertion into the wash chamber of a dishwasher, with a connection piece for linking to a coupling device of the dishwasher for introducing rinsing and / or disinfection fluid and / or drying air.The dishwashing tray has a connecting piece which is movable relative to its mounting area on the dishwashing tray.

[0006] DE 10 2011 051 241 A1 describes a method for cleaning and disinfecting items in a washer-disinfector. The method comprises at least one cleaning program section and one disinfection program section. The washer-disinfector contains a rinsing chamber in which rinsing fluid is distributed onto and / or into the items via rinsing devices. To achieve a satisfactory disinfection effect while simultaneously saving energy and water, it is proposed that the rinsing fluid be delivered at a lower flow rate in the disinfection program section than in the cleaning program section.

[0007] US 2018 / 0 168 426 A1 discloses a method and a dishwasher which use a spray basket containing a container body that defines a compartment for holding utensils and several sets of nozzles, some of which are configured to direct a liquid spray mist into the compartment, and others of which are configured to direct a liquid spray outside the container body. Spraying liquid outside the container body can be used, for example, to provide a power wash zone next to the spray basket to assist in cleaning other utensils in the dishwasher. The dishwasher has a wash tub with an upper and a lower spray arm, and an upper and lower basket.The upper basket includes, for example, a distributor through which liquid can be directed to various additional spray devices, such as the aforementioned nozzles, which can be connected to corresponding ports on the distributor. The dishwasher can then detect whether a spray device is connected to a port on the distributor.

[0008] US 2019 / 0000300 A1 discloses a bottle washing rack assembly comprising a mounting hub for mounting on a lower washing and liquid supply system of a dishwasher and multiple interconnected washing arms and rinse arms to which washing liquid and rinsing liquid, respectively, are supplied from the mounting hub. Multiple upward-projecting wash supply tubes are provided, each with at least one wash spray nozzle. Multiple upward-projecting rinse supply tubes are provided, each with at least one rinse spray nozzle. The wash supply tubes and rinse supply tubes are arranged in a plurality of adjacent pairs such that each pair can project upward within an inverted bottle placed on each pair. A dishwasher incorporating the bottle washing rack assembly is also described.

[0009] DE 10 2013 219700 A1 discloses a dishwasher comprising a cleaning chamber for receiving items to be washed. The dishwasher is configured to expose the items in the cleaning chamber to at least one wash liquid and at least one rinse liquid. The dishwasher has a control system configured to execute at least one cleaning program. The cleaning program comprises at least one wash cycle in which the items are exposed to the wash liquid and at least one rinse cycle in which the items are exposed to the rinse liquid. The dishwasher has at least one user-operated control element. The control system is configured such that the rinse cycle can be executed at least once by actuating the control element after completion of at least one wash cycle of the cleaning program.

[0010] US 2011 / 126861 A1 discloses a descaling arrangement for a dishwasher and an associated device. The dishwasher has a tub section designed to hold dishes and a fluid circulation system configured to circulate dishwashing fluid around the dishes within the tub section. A descaling system is in fluid communication with the fluid circulation system. The descaling system is configured to selectively introduce a descaling agent into dishwashing fluid circulating within the fluid circulation system, such that the descaling agent is distributed to at least one of the tub sections and the fluid circulation system for descaling. An associated method is also provided.

[0011] SE 536 907 C2 discloses a spray device module unit for a kitchen dishwasher for batch washing of bottled water, comprising a spray device for bottled water, wherein this device includes a dishwasher bushing for connecting the spray device to a suitable lower spray arm bushing on the kitchen dishwasher; a plurality of spray nozzle means in fluid connection with the dishwasher bushing for receiving detergent from the dishwasher, wherein the spray nozzle means are arranged to be installed in the dishwasher, spray upwards and, viewed from above, are distributed in both dimensions of a first two-dimensional pattern; and a rotation lock arranged to prevent the spray device from rotating relative to a dish rack.

[0012] EP 1 882 439 A1 discloses a pull-out basket dishwasher with at least one basket defined by a drawer in a wash chamber and by a handle attached to the drawer for manually pushing the basket into and out of the wash chamber of the dishwasher; and a detergent holder and dispensing device, which in turn comprise a detergent compartment formed in the body of the basket's handle, a detergent release line connecting the detergent compartment; to the outside, a water supply line connecting the detergent compartment to a pressurized water source, and a controlled on / off valve for opening / closing to regulate the liquid flow to the detergent compartment.

[0013] US 2013 / 228202 A1 discloses a multi-compartment dishwasher with a door consisting of several parts that can be connected for cooperative movement in a first mode and not connected for independent movement in a second mode. A mode selector, operationally coupled to a transformation link that converts the door between the first and second modes, allows the user to select the door mode and can be assigned to a door handle.

[0014] US 2007 / 235063 A1 discloses a steam / water combination dishwasher that uses steam and water together, and in particular a dishwasher and dishwashing method for improving washing performance and efficiency by directly injecting steam into dishes. The dishwasher comprises a body containing a dishwashing tub, at least one dish rack arranged in the dishwashing tub and designed to hold dishes, a steam generator for generating steam by heating wash water, and steam injection nozzles for injecting the steam generated by the steam generator. The steam injection nozzles are arranged at the same level as the underside of the dish rack. The dishwashing method includes injecting steam from a number of multiple steam injection nozzles by opening a number of multiple control valves to maintain an injection pressure of the steam generated by the steam generator.

[0015] KR 2006 0115131 A discloses a dishwasher and a washing method for improving washing efficiency by rotating a rack around a rotating shaft and evenly spraying the dishes with wash water to save wash water by cleaning the dishes according to capacity or degree of soiling, and to optimize space utilization by arranging the rotating rack around a tub. A dishwasher comprises a tub for washing dishes, several racks for storing dishes, a rotating support unit that is supported by the several racks and rotatably installed in the tub, and an injector that is selectively installed in the tub to inject wash water into the rack.The injector comprises a first injector, located in the center of rotation of the rotary support unit, to inject wash water into the rack, and a second injector, installed in a lower part of the rotary support unit, to inject wash water into the rack. The first injector includes an injection arm connected to a connecting pipe that supplies the wash water, and several injection nozzles located on the outer circumference of the injection arm to inject wash water.

[0016] Despite the advantages of the current state of the art, numerous technical challenges remain, particularly those associated with cleaning items with at least one cavity. A key difficulty lies in the fact that cleaning items with at least one cavity typically requires special nozzle systems, such as nozzle systems that extend into the cavity, either by inserting nozzles into the cavity or by placing the item onto the nozzles. This means that, in many cases, different cleaning devices must be used for items without cavities and for items with cavities. This requirement significantly increases investment costs, operating costs, and space requirements.Alternatively, cleaning devices can be used in which special rinsing baskets with integrated nozzle systems can be connected to the existing fluidic system using appropriate adapters, for example, by replacing the wash arms in the cleaning device with a suitable adapter. However, this usually requires a modification of the rinsing system, depending on the items being cleaned. Such a modification is time-consuming and may require additional personnel. Object of the invention

[0017] It would therefore be desirable to provide a cleaning device and a method for cleaning items that largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of the aforementioned type. In particular, a high degree of flexibility regarding the type of item to be cleaned should be ensured, especially flexibility regarding the cleaning of items with and without cavities, while at the same time guaranteeing ease of use and low costs. General description of the invention

[0018] This task is addressed by a cleaning device, a cleaning system, and a method for cleaning items, comprising the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are described in the dependent claims.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The first aspect proposes a cleaning device for cleaning items. In particular, these items may have at least one cavity, such as bottles or pots.

[0023] The term "cleaning device," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device designed to remove adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants from items to be cleaned, or at least to partially remove such contaminants. Additionally, a disinfection effect can optionally be achieved. As will be explained in more detail below, the cleaning device can be designed, in particular, as a dishwasher, especially a dishwashing machine.The dishwasher can be designed, for example, as a single-chamber dishwasher, in particular as a commercial single-chamber dishwasher with a multi-circuit washing system, or as a hood-type dishwasher, in particular as a pass-through dishwasher.

[0024] The term "cleaning," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without restriction, it can refer in particular to a process in which items are freed from adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants and / or in which such contaminants are at least partially removed. Additionally, a disinfection effect can optionally be achieved.

[0025] Accordingly, the term "item to be cleaned," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without restriction, the term can refer in particular to any objects that can be cleaned using the cleaning device. This may involve cleaning a single object, or cleaning several objects simultaneously or sequentially. In particular, the item to be cleaned may be objects used directly or indirectly for the preparation, storage, or serving of food. In particular, as explained above, the item to be cleaned may have one or more cavities. In particular, the item to be cleaned may include one or more bottles and / or one or more pots.Alternatively or additionally, the items to be cleaned can also include, for example, personal protective equipment such as respirators. Other types of items to be cleaned are also generally possible.

[0026] The cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning chamber for receiving the items to be cleaned. The term "cleaning chamber," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a fully or partially enclosed chamber within which the cleaning process can be carried out completely or partially. The cleaning chamber can, in particular, have at least one housing that fully or partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A single cleaning chamber may be provided, or, in principle, several cleaning chambers may be provided, for example, sequentially.The cleaning chamber can, for example, have at least one opening for loading the items to be cleaned. This could be, for instance, an opening with a flap located on the front and / or top of the cleaning chamber. Alternatively, hoods can be used to close the cleaning chamber, for example, in so-called hood-type dishwashers or pass-through dishwashers. Other designs are also possible in principle.

[0027] The cleaning device further comprises at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. The application device has at least one tank for receiving the cleaning fluid and at least two nozzle units, in particular at least two nozzle arms, located in the cleaning chamber.

[0028] The term "application device," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to any device by means of which the item to be cleaned within the cleaning chamber can be exposed to the at least one cleaning fluid, in particular the at least one cleaning liquid. The application device comprises at least one nozzle system with at least two nozzle units, for example, at least two nozzle arms, which may be arranged, for example, above and below the item to be cleaned. Furthermore, the application device can comprise at least one pump and at least one piping system for supplying cleaning liquid to the nozzle system.This may include, for example, a nozzle system and a piping system for supplying cleaning fluid from a tank, as well as at least one corresponding pump. Alternatively or additionally, at least one nozzle system may be supplied directly from a supply line without requiring a pump. The cleaning device may, in particular, be designed as a cleaning device with two tanks, a wash tank and a rinse tank, as will be explained in more detail below. Accordingly, the supply device may, in particular, comprise a wash system and a rinse system, wherein, for example, the wash system may include the wash tank and a wash nozzle system, as well as a wash piping system and a wash pump, such as a circulation pump.The rinsing system can, for example, include a separate rinse tank, as well as a rinse nozzle system, a rinse line system, and optionally a rinse pump. The rinse nozzle system and the wash nozzle system can be completely or partially separate. Alternatively, these nozzle systems can be completely or partially combined, for example, in a common housing.

[0029] The cleaning device can, for example, be configured to perform at least one cleaning program by means of the application device, in which the item to be cleaned is stationary in the cleaning chamber and is successively exposed to cleaning fluid in one or more cleaning steps of the cleaning program in different ways, for example, first in at least one wash step with at least one wash fluid and in at least one rinse step with at least one rinse fluid. Furthermore, at least one drying step can be provided, which, for example, can be located in one of the cleaning chambers after the item has been stationary and exposed to the cleaning fluid. Accordingly, the cleaning device can be designed, in particular, as an automated program.

[0030] The term "tank," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a completely or partially enclosed container designed to hold at least one fluid, especially at least one liquid. As explained above, the at least one tank may, for example, comprise at least one wash tank. This at least one wash tank may, for example, be located in the base of the cleaning chamber or be fluidically connected to the base of the cleaning chamber so that cleaning fluid can flow from the cleaning chamber into the wash tank. For example, the wash tank may be separated from the cleaning chamber by at least one sieve.In addition to the at least one wash tank, the at least one tank can also include one or more further tanks. For example, the at least one tank can have at least one rinse tank, which may be separate from the wash tank. In the at least one rinse tank, at least one rinse fluid, also known as a clear rinse fluid, can be prepared, for example, heated, while a further washing step takes place in the cleaning chamber. The rinse tank can, for example, include at least one boiler.

[0031] The term "nozzle unit," as used here, is a broad term and should be interpreted according to its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. It refers to a fluidic system arranged in and connected to the cleaning chamber, which comprises one or more nozzles. Unlike the nozzle system integrated into the dishwashing basket, the nozzle unit is thus permanently or detachably connected to the cleaning chamber or a housing of the cleaning device and is integrated into the cleaning device, excluding the dishwashing basket.

[0032] For example, the nozzle unit can be designed wholly or partially as a nozzle arm, or it can comprise at least one nozzle arm. The nozzle arm can, in particular, have at least one fluid channel and a plurality of nozzle openings arranged in at least one wall of the fluid channel. As will be explained in more detail below, the nozzle arm can be mounted rigidly or movably.

[0033] For example, the nozzle unit can have at least one fluid channel and at least one nozzle opening through which cleaning fluid can exit and act on the item being cleaned, for example in the form of jets or droplets. The optional at least one nozzle arm of the nozzle unit can, in particular, have at least one elongated hollow body, wherein a plurality of nozzle openings or nozzles are provided in at least one longitudinal wall or side wall of the elongated hollow body, through which cleaning fluid can exit the hollow body, in particular in the form of jets or droplets. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzle unit can also include at least one rigid nozzle which is fixedly mounted in the cleaning chamber, for example in at least one side wall of the cleaning chamber and / or in at least one floor and / or in at least one ceiling of the cleaning chamber.The nozzle units can be mounted rigidly or flexibly within the cleaning chamber. For example, the nozzle units can be designed entirely or partially as rotatable nozzle arms, which may extend fully or partially into the cleaning chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzle units can also be designed entirely or partially as rigid units, such as nozzles permanently integrated into at least one wall of the cleaning chamber. Hybrid configurations are also possible, for example, where at least one movable, e.g., rotatable, nozzle arm is located below the item being cleaned, and at least one fixed nozzle unit with at least one nozzle is located above the item being cleaned, e.g., integrated into a wall and / or ceiling of the cleaning chamber.As explained in more detail below, the at least two nozzle units can, for example, comprise at least one nozzle arm arranged below the dish rack, for instance below a dish rack holder, and at least one nozzle arm arranged above the dish rack, for example above a dish rack holder, or another type of nozzle unit. Separate nozzle units can be used for a washing system and a rinsing system, or nozzle units that are wholly or partially combined can be used.

[0034] The cleaning device has at least one basket receptacle in the cleaning chamber for receiving at least one basket. As described in more detail below, the basket may optionally have at least one integrated nozzle system. The term "nozzle system," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device having one or more nozzles, whereby "nozzles" can generally be understood as devices by means of which at least one fluid medium, for example, cleaning fluid, can be sprayed or dripped.For example, the nozzles may include nozzle openings through which the cleaning fluid can exit a housing or fluid supply.

[0035] For example, the dishwashing basket can have a nozzle system with multiple nozzles extending directly or indirectly upwards from the basket base, allowing items such as bottles or other hollow objects to be placed on the nozzles. Optionally, however, the dishwashing basket can also be designed without such an integrated nozzle system, as will be explained in more detail below. This allows the cleaning device, and in particular the dishwashing basket holder, to be configured to accommodate either a dishwashing basket with an integrated nozzle system or one without.

[0036] The term "dishwashing basket holder," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to an area within the cleaning device, especially within the cleaning chamber, in which at least one dishwashing basket can be accommodated. The dishwashing basket holder can have at least one retaining device for holding the at least one dishwashing basket. For example, the at least one retaining device can have at least one rail into which the dishwashing basket can be inserted in order to be inserted into the cleaning chamber, or by means of which the dishwashing basket can be pushed through the cleaning chamber. Other types of retaining devices are also possible.

[0037] The cleaning device further comprises at least one fluid connection arranged in the cleaning chamber for the fluidic coupling of the nozzle system of the rinsing basket to the actuation device when the rinsing basket is inserted into the cleaning chamber.

[0038] The term "fluid connection," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a coupling device by means of which at least two fluidic elements can be coupled together. Thus, the fluid connection can, in particular, have at least one opening in a wall of the cleaning chamber or in another element accessible from the interior of the cleaning chamber, which is fluidically connected within the cleaning device to the application device, for example, by at least one supply line.The fluid connection can, in particular, have at least one socket in a wall of the cleaning chamber into which a coupling piece of the cleaning basket can be inserted for fluidic coupling of the cleaning basket to the application device. An inverse configuration is also possible, with a socket in the cleaning basket and a coupling piece on the wall of the cleaning chamber. When fluidically coupling the nozzle system of the cleaning basket to the application device, the nozzle system of the cleaning basket can, for example, be connected to or integrated into a washing system of the application device and / or can be connected to or integrated into a rinsing system of the application device. In this way, the nozzle system can, for example, be supplied with washing fluid from the washing tank and / or optionally with rinsing fluid from the rinsing tank.

[0039] The nozzle system of the cleaning basket is coupled to the spraying device when the basket is inserted into the cleaning chamber. This means that, for example, when the cleaning basket is inserted into the cleaning chamber, the nozzle system is fluidically coupled to the spraying device. The closing of the cleaning chamber can also be considered part of this insertion process. The cleaning device can, for example, have at least one opening device, such as a flap, a hood, a door, a slide, or another type of opening device, or a combination of opening devices, that can open or close the cleaning chamber.A closing action can also be involved in the fluidic coupling between the application device and the nozzle system, for example, by the opening device pressing the spray basket against the fluid connection or vice versa, and / or by the fluid connection being wholly or partially integrated into the opening device and being pressed against the spray basket when the opening device closes. Other types of coupling are also fundamentally possible, so that, for example, a force-fit and / or a positive-fit connection can be used to enable the fluidic coupling.

[0040] The cleaning device also includes at least one control unit. This control unit is configured, for example, by programming, to automatically switch between at least two application modes. In at least one application mode, only the nozzle units are supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank. In at least one second application mode, at least the nozzle system of the rinsing basket is supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank. Additional application modes may also exist, such as combinations of the aforementioned application modes.

[0041] The term "control system," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a single-part or multi-part device of the cleaning system, which is configured to fully or partially control and / or regulate the operation of the cleaning system. In particular, the control system can be configured to change, in particular to control and / or regulate, one or more operating parameters of the cleaning system, for example, at least one temperature, at least one pressure, at least one pump output, at least one valve position, at least one heating output, or a combination of two or more of the aforementioned operating parameters.The control system can, in particular, comprise at least one data processing device, for example, at least one processor. The control system can, in particular, be configured programmatically, for example, to control or execute at least one cleaning program of the cleaning device. Accordingly, the control system can be implemented partly by hardware and / or, alternatively or additionally, completely or partially by software. Furthermore, the control system can comprise at least one volatile and / or non-volatile data storage device. The control system can also comprise at least one interface, for example, a human-machine interface for inputting commands and / or outputting information, and / or a wireless or wired interface for the unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and / or commands between the dishwasher and at least one other device.The control system can, in particular, comprise at least one computer and / or at least one processor. The control system can, in particular, be a centralized or decentralized machine control system for the cleaning device.

[0042] The term "programmatically configured," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a feature or configuration of the control system in which the control system is configured by a software program permanently implemented in the control system and / or by a software program stored in a volatile or non-volatile data storage device connected to the control system in order to carry out certain process steps.

[0043] The term "application mode," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a specific way of distributing the at least one cleaning fluid onto the nozzle system of the cleaning device, wherein the nozzle system of the cleaning device comprises the nozzle units as well as the optional nozzle system of the rinsing basket. The terms "first" and "second," as well as variations thereof, are to be understood purely as nomenclature, without defining any order or hierarchy. Furthermore, other application modes may exist.

[0044] Possible configurations for switching between the operating modes are explained in more detail below. For example, the switching can be accomplished by at least one fluidic switching element and / or at least one pump. This at least one switching element and / or the at least one pump can be controlled directly or indirectly by the controller.

[0045] The application device can, in particular, have at least three fluid supply lines. These fluid supply lines can be used, for example, to separately control and / or supply cleaning fluid to the nozzle units and the fluid connection. For instance, the nozzle units can each be supplied with cleaning fluid via at least one nozzle unit fluid supply line, and the fluid connection can be supplied with cleaning fluid via at least one fluid connection fluid supply line. The control system can be configured to control the supply of cleaning fluid to the fluid supply lines.

[0046] The control system is configured to supply cleaning fluid exclusively to the nozzle unit fluid supply lines in the first operating mode, while the fluid connection fluid supply line remains unaffected. This first operating mode, as explained in more detail below, is used when it is detected that a wash basket without an integrated nozzle system has been inserted into the cleaning chamber. Furthermore, the control system can be configured to supply cleaning fluid to one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines in the second operating mode—for example, a nozzle unit fluid supply line that feeds a nozzle unit located above the wash basket—while the other nozzle unit fluid supply line remains unaffected. Additionally, the fluid connection fluid supply line can also be supplied with cleaning fluid in the second operating mode.This second application mode, as will be explained in more detail below, is used when it is detected that the rinsing basket placed in the cleaning chamber has an integrated nozzle system.

[0047] If, in addition to at least one wash tank, at least one rinse tank is also provided, as is the case, for example, with many commercial dishwashers, this configuration can be duplicated so that one wash system is configured accordingly and, optionally, a rinse system can also be configured accordingly. The application device can thus include the wash system and the rinse system, with each system having at least three fluid supply lines: at least two nozzle unit fluid supply lines and at least one fluid connection fluid supply line. The control system can be configured to execute at least one cleaning program with at least one wash step and at least one rinse step. The wash system is used in the wash step, and the rinse system is used in the rinse step.The at least two application modes can each consist of the washing step and the rinsing step. For example, the control system can be configured so that, in the first application mode, only the nozzle unit fluid supply lines of the washing system are supplied with washing fluid from the wash tank during the washing step, while the fluid connection fluid supply line of the washing system is not supplied with cleaning fluid. Furthermore, the control system can be configured so that, in the first application mode, only the nozzle unit fluid supply lines of the rinsing system are supplied with washing fluid from the wash tank during the rinsing step, while the fluid connection fluid supply line of the rinsing system is not supplied with cleaning fluid.As explained above, this first application mode is preferably used when it is detected that the rinsing basket placed in the cleaning chamber does not have an integrated nozzle system.

[0048] Furthermore, the control system can be configured to supply one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines of the washing system with washing fluid from the wash tank during a wash cycle in the second operating mode. For example, one nozzle unit fluid supply line of the washing system that supplies a nozzle unit located above the wash basket with washing fluid, while the other nozzle unit fluid supply line of the washing system, for example, a supply line for a nozzle unit below the wash basket, is not supplied with cleaning fluid. Additionally, in the second operating mode, the fluid connection fluid supply line of the washing system can also be supplied with washing fluid from the wash tank during the wash cycle.Furthermore, the control system can be configured to supply one of the nozzle unit fluid lines of the rinse system with rinse fluid from the rinse tank during a rinse cycle in the second operating mode. For example, one nozzle unit fluid line of the rinse system supplies a nozzle unit located above the rinse basket with rinse fluid, while the other nozzle unit fluid line of the rinse system, for example, a line for a nozzle unit below the rinse basket, is not supplied with cleaning fluid. Additionally, in the second operating mode, the fluid connection fluid line of the rinse system can also be supplied with rinse fluid during the rinse cycle. As described above, the second operating mode is selected when it is detected that the rinse basket inserted into the cleaning chamber has an integrated nozzle system.

[0049] If at least three fluid supply lines are provided, whether in a cleaning device with only one wash tank or a cleaning device with one wash tank and additional tanks such as a rinse tank, one or more fluidic switching elements may be provided. Accordingly, the cleaning device may, for example, have at least one fluidic switching element to control the distribution of cleaning fluid between the fluid supply lines.

[0050] The term "fluidic switching element," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device designed to direct fluid flows and, for example, to distribute them selectively to fluidic piping structures. In particular, as will be explained in more detail below, the fluidic switching element can comprise at least one valve, wherein, in addition to simple switching valves that can switch between two or more states, valves can also be used that can establish intermediate states between limiting states. In this way, for example, fluid flows with variable proportions can be distributed to different fluidic piping structures.

[0051] The fluidic switching element can, in particular, have at least one 3-way valve, especially a 3 / 2-way valve. In particular, the 3 / 2-way valve can have at least one poppet valve. For example, the poppet valve can have three or more ports, as well as at least one movable actuator having a poppet structure. Depending on the position of the movable actuator, one or more poppets of the poppet structure can close one or more of the ports, while one or more other ports remain open.

[0052] A first port of the 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to the tank, for example, the wash tank or the rinse tank, and a second port of the 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines. A third port of the 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to the at least one fluid supply line of the fluid connection. In this way, a flow of wash fluid from the wash tank or a flow of rinse fluid from the rinse tank can be selectively directed, depending on the position of the 3-way valve, to the nozzle unit fluid supply line or to the fluid supply lines of the fluid connection, with the first option being implemented, for example, in the first application mode, and the second option, for example, in the second application mode.

[0053] Alternatively or in addition to switching between the application modes using at least one fluidic switching element, the fluid flows, and thus the switching between the application modes, can also be controlled in other ways. For example, the cleaning device can have at least two fluid pumps, which can also simply be referred to as pumps. At least one of the fluid pumps can be connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines, and at least one of the fluid pumps can be connected to the at least one fluid connection fluid supply line. For example, the second fluid pump can be switched on in the second application mode to selectively supply the nozzle system of the rinsing basket with cleaning fluid.If multiple tanks are provided, for example, if at least one additional rinse tank is provided alongside the at least one wash tank, then the pumps can also be provided multiple times. For example, the washing system of the application device can have at least two pumps, just as the rinse system of the application device can have at least two pumps.

[0054] As explained, the cleaning device can therefore have at least two tanks, wherein the at least two tanks can be at least one wash tank and at least one rinse tank. The fluid supply lines can include nozzle unit fluid supply lines for supplying the nozzle units with wash fluid from the wash tank and nozzle unit fluid supply lines for supplying the nozzle units with rinse fluid from the rinse tank. The fluid supply lines can further include at least one fluid connection fluid supply line for supplying the fluid connection with wash fluid from the wash tank and at least one fluid connection fluid supply line for supplying the fluid connection with wash fluid from the rinse tank. If the application device has a wash system and a rinse system separate from the wash system, the nozzle systems of these systems can be designed separately.For example, separate nozzle units can be provided for the washing system and the rinsing system, with at least one nozzle unit above and at least one below the wash basket. Similarly, separate lines for the washing fluid and the rinsing fluid can optionally be provided within the wash basket, and the nozzle system of the wash basket can also have separate lines for the washing fluid and the rinsing fluid. Alternatively, the lines for the washing fluid and the rinsing fluid can be wholly or partially combined, and the washing system and the rinsing system can also be partially integrated, so that, for example, the same lines can be used sequentially for the washing fluid and the rinsing fluid.

[0055] In the cleaning device with at least two tanks, the cleaning device, as described above, can have at least one fluidic switching element to control the distribution of cleaning fluid from at least one of the tanks between the fluid supply lines. The fluidic switching element can have at least two 3-way valves, in particular at least two 3 / 2-way valves. The at least two 3 / 2-way valves can, in particular, be poppet valves. A first port of a first 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to the wash tank, and a second port of the first 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines. A third port of the first 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to the fluid supply line of the at least one fluid connection. Similarly, a first port of a second 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to the rinse tank.A second port of the second 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines. A third port of the second 3-way valve can be fluidically connected to the fluid supply line of at least one fluid connection. For the possible circuit configurations in the machining modes, please refer to the description above.

[0056] The cleaning device may, in particular, have at least three fluid pumps. Of these three fluid pumps, at least one first fluid pump may, in particular, be configured to pump washing fluid from the wash tank into at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines. At least one second fluid pump may be configured to pump washing fluid from the wash tank into at least one fluid connection fluid supply line, i.e., in particular, to supply the nozzle system of the rinsing basket with washing fluid from the wash tank, if necessary in the second application mode. At least one third fluid pump may be configured to pump rinsing fluid from the rinsing tank into at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines and into at least one fluid connection fluid supply line.The fluidic switching element can be configured to switch between supplying at least one of the nozzle unit fluid lines and at least one fluid connection fluid line with rinse fluid. For example, the fluidic switching element can be connected between the third fluid pump and at least one nozzle unit fluid line and at least one fluid connection fluid line, so that when the third fluid pump is operating, the switching position of the fluidic switching element determines whether the nozzle unit fluid line or the fluid connection fluid line is supplied with rinse fluid. The switching can be implemented as an either / or circuit, or one or more intermediate stages can be provided in which the supply is distributed between the two options with an adjustable ratio.Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "first", "second", "third" or "fourth" are generally used in connection with fluid pumps, for example, as a purely nomenclatural term, without implying any ranking or necessity for the existence of further elements.

[0057] As also explained above, in a system with at least two tanks, the control of fluid flows can be achieved using pumps, either as an alternative or in addition to control by means of one or more fluidic switching elements. For example, the cleaning device can have at least four fluid pumps, wherein at least one first fluid pump is configured to pump washing fluid from the washing tank into at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines, wherein at least one second fluid pump is configured to pump washing fluid from the washing tank into at least one fluid connection fluid supply line, wherein at least one third fluid pump is configured to pump rinsing fluid from the rinsing tank into at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines, and wherein at least one fourth fluid pump is configured to pump rinsing fluid from the rinsing tank into at least one fluid connection fluid supply line.However, other distributions are also possible in principle.

[0058] The cleaning device is configured to automatically detect whether a dishwashing basket placed in the cleaning chamber has an integrated nozzle system. Accordingly, the cleaning device can also be configured to automatically select a suitable spray mode that takes into account whether the dishwashing basket has an integrated nozzle system or not. Therefore, according to the invention, the first spray mode is automatically selected when it is detected that the dishwashing basket in the cleaning chamber does not have an integrated nozzle system, and the second spray mode is automatically selected when it is detected that the dishwashing basket in the cleaning chamber does have an integrated nozzle system.

[0059] The cleaning device further comprises at least one dish rack detection device. This device is designed to detect whether a dish rack held in the rack has an integrated nozzle system. The term "dish rack detection device," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to any device designed to detect a type of dish rack, especially whether the dish rack has an integrated nozzle system. In principle, any sensors or detectors can be used for this purpose.For example, the dishwashing basket detection device can be configured to identify at least one dishwashing basket identifier on the dishwashing basket. This dishwashing basket identifier can, for example, have any recognition feature that is integrated into and / or arranged on the dishwashing basket. For example, the dishwashing basket detection device can have at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of: a mechanical sensor; an electrical sensor; a magnetic sensor; an inductive sensor; an acoustic sensor, in particular an ultrasonic sensor; an optical sensor; an RFID sensor; a reed sensor.

[0060] The control system is configured to select one of the spray modes based on the detected dish rack. Specifically, if the system detects that the dish rack has an integrated nozzle system, the second spray mode is automatically selected, and if it detects that the dish rack does not have an integrated nozzle system, the first spray mode is automatically selected. As mentioned above, intermediate stages are also possible, allowing for the inclusion of additional spray modes.

[0061] In the second application mode, at least the nozzle system of the dish rack is generally supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank. Additionally, in this second application mode, at least one of the nozzle units can be supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank. Thus, in this second application mode, for example, at least one of the nozzle units and the nozzle system of the dish rack are supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank. For instance, in this second application mode, in addition to the nozzle system of the dish rack, at least one upper nozzle unit, located above the items being cleaned, can be supplied with cleaning fluid, while at least one lower nozzle unit, located below the items being cleaned, remains unsupplied with cleaning fluid.This allows, for example, bottles to be cleaned internally via the nozzle system of the dish rack, and from above and outside via the upper nozzle unit. The bottles can, for instance, be placed upside down onto the nozzles of the dish rack's nozzle system and, in the second application mode, sprayed with cleaning fluid from the inside via the nozzles, while cleaning fluid can be applied externally via the upper nozzle unit. In the first application mode, for example, cleaning fluid can be applied from above and below via the nozzle units.

[0062] As explained above, the nozzle units can, in particular, comprise at least one nozzle unit arranged below the rinsing basket holder, for example, at least one nozzle arm and / or rigid nozzle arranged below the rinsing basket holder, and at least one nozzle unit arranged above the rinsing basket holder, for example, at least one nozzle arm and / or at least one rigid nozzle. If the cleaning device has a washing system and a rinsing system that is at least partially separate from the washing system, then at least one nozzle unit of the washing system and at least one nozzle unit of the rinsing system can be arranged above the rinsing basket holder and at least one nozzle unit of the rinsing system, respectively.Alternatively, the nozzle units can also be combined wholly or partially, so that, for example, the same nozzle units are used above and below the dish rack for the washing system and the rinsing system, and / or that the nozzle units of the washing system and the rinsing system are combined wholly or partially in a common housing.

[0063] In the second application mode, as described above, at least one nozzle unit above the rinsing basket holder and the nozzle system of the rinsing basket can be supplied with cleaning fluid from the tank. In this way, the items to be cleaned, including the at least one cavity, such as bottles, can be supplied with cleaning fluid from both the inside and the outside simultaneously.

[0064] The cleaning device may further comprise at least one positioning device for positioning the dishwashing basket in the dishwashing basket holder. The term "positioning device," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, shall be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term may refer in particular to a device that holds or fixes the dishwashing basket in a specific position within the dishwashing basket holder. In particular, the positioning device may comprise at least one spring element that, for example, presses the dishwashing basket into a specific position.Alternatively or additionally, the positioning device can also comprise, for example, at least one first element located on the dishwashing basket and at least one second element located in the dishwashing basket holder or the cleaning chamber, wherein the elements interact and effect positioning. For example, the positioning can be achieved according to the key-lock principle. In particular, the positioning device can comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a centering tip; a recess for receiving a centering tip; a centering wedge; a recess for receiving a centering wedge. One or more spring elements can also be arranged on the dishwashing basket and / or on the cleaning device.For example, at least one spring element can be arranged on the dishwashing basket, wherein, for example, a locking device of the cleaning device presses on the spring element and presses the dishwashing basket, for example with a fluid connection integrated in the dishwashing basket which is fluidically connected to the nozzle system of the dishwashing basket, against the fluid connection of the cleaning device, so that a fluidically tight connection is created.

[0065] In a further aspect of the present invention, a cleaning system is proposed. The term "cleaning system," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood to have its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to an arrangement of two or more components or devices that interact together and are designed to remove adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants from items to be cleaned, or at least to partially remove such contaminants. Additionally, a disinfection effect can optionally be achieved.The cleaning system comprises at least one cleaning device according to the present invention, in particular according to one or more of the embodiments proposed above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. Furthermore, the cleaning system comprises at least one rinsing basket with at least one nozzle system integrated into the rinsing basket and / or at least one rinsing basket without a nozzle system integrated into the rinsing basket. The cleaning system can, for example, be configured as a kit or as a set, with the cleaning device and at least one rinsing basket, wherein, for example, either the rinsing basket with the integrated nozzle system or the rinsing basket without the integrated nozzle system can be selectively inserted into the rinsing basket receptacle in the cleaning chamber.

[0066] For possible designs of the dishwashing basket, reference can generally be made to the prior art. In particular, the dishwashing basket can have at least one basket base, and the nozzle system of the dishwashing basket can, in particular, have a plurality of nozzles extending from the basket base, for example, a plurality of nozzles extending substantially vertically upwards from the basket base. "Substantially" in this context can also include, for example, slight deviations from the vertical, such as no more than 30°, in particular no more than 20°, or even no more than 10°.

[0067] The nozzle system of the dishwashing basket can, in particular, have separate lines for the wash fluid and the rinse fluid. However, dishwashing baskets with a common line system for both are also possible. The dishwashing basket can, in particular, have a substantially flat base. A fluid connection of the dishwashing basket, for the fluidic coupling of the nozzle system, can, for example, be located on an end face of the dishwashing basket, such as on a rear end face, where the end face can be, for example, substantially perpendicular to the base. The fluid connection of the cleaning device can, for example, be located in a rear wall of the cleaning chamber, so that when the dishwashing basket is inserted into the cleaning chamber, the fluid connection of the dishwashing basket is pressed against the fluid connection of the cleaning device.Alternatively, the fluid connection of the cleaning device can also be arranged in another way, for example in a closing device of the cleaning device, whereby when the closing device, for example the door or flap, is closed, the fluid connection of the cleaning device can be pressed against the fluid connection of the washing basket.

[0068] If the dishwashing basket is designed without such a nozzle system, the fluid connection of the cleaning device will not find a corresponding counterpart in the form of a fluid connection on the dishwashing basket side, or will only have a blank fluid connection. As explained above, the cleaning device can be specifically designed to detect such a lack of a nozzle system in the inserted dishwashing basket and accordingly not to use the second application mode.

[0069] In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for cleaning items is proposed. The method comprises the steps described in more detail below. The described steps can be carried out in the sequence mentioned. However, a different sequence is also possible in principle, in particular a sequence in which two or more of the method steps are carried out in parallel or overlapping time. Furthermore, one or more or all of the method steps can be carried out once or repeatedly. The method can also include further method steps beyond those mentioned.

[0070] The process includes the following steps: i) Providing at least one cleaning device according to the present invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below; ii) Placing at least one washing basket with items to be cleaned into the cleaning chamber; and iii) Applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber.

[0071] The process can be carried out, in particular, using the cleaning system as described above. Accordingly, for example, in step i), at least one cleaning system according to the present invention can be provided, for example, according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. Accordingly, in process step ii), either a rinsing basket with an integrated cleaning system can be placed in the cleaning chamber, in particular in the rinsing basket receptacle of the cleaning device, or a rinsing basket without an integrated nozzle system can be placed.Accordingly, the application of spray in process step iii) can optionally be carried out using the integrated nozzle system if the spray basket has one, and without using such an integrated nozzle system if the spray basket does not have one. In particular, if the spray basket has an integrated nozzle system, the application in process step iii) can be carried out using the second application mode, and if the spray basket does not have an integrated nozzle system, using the first application mode.

[0072] The selection of the spray mode can be automated. The procedure can, in particular, further include the following step: iv) Detecting whether the dishwashing basket is equipped with a nozzle system integrated into the basket.

[0073] The procedure can be carried out in such a way that, if it is detected in step iv) that the dishwashing basket has an integrated nozzle system, the spraying in step iii) takes place at least partially in the second spraying mode. The selection of the spraying mode can therefore be carried out automatically, for example by the control system.

[0074] The cleaning device, cleaning system, and method offer numerous advantages over known devices and methods of this type. In particular, the fluid connection allows a rinsing basket to be automatically coupled to the application device fluidically when it is inserted into the cleaning chamber and / or when the cleaning chamber is closed. For example, the fluid connection can be located near the rear wall of the cleaning chamber as an additional connection for washing fluid and / or rinsing fluid. The rinsing basket can be coded, enabling the cleaning device to automatically recognize the basket and thus determine whether or not it has an integrated nozzle system. This coding can be achieved through an identifier or by the shape of the rinsing basket itself.Various types of sensors, including RFID, reed switches, mechanical switches, optical sensors, and cameras, can be used to detect the cleaning basket. The cleaning device's control system can select an application mode tailored to the type of bottle cleaning basket detected, taking into account, in particular, whether the basket has an integrated nozzle system. The application mode can be controlled, for example, by one or more fluidic switching elements and / or by one or more pumps. For instance, in an application mode that includes the nozzle system integrated into the cleaning basket, one of the nozzle units, such as the lower nozzle unit, can be hydraulically decoupled, and fluid flows can be partially diverted into the nozzle system of the cleaning basket.For cleaning devices that include two or more tanks, this principle can be implemented, for example, for both a washing system and a rinsing system.

[0075] The cleaning device, for example, the dishwasher, can, for instance, clean items without cavities and items with at least one cavity, such as dishes or bottles, in direct succession and preferably without any additional effort in the form of modifications. For this purpose, suitable dish racks without or with an integrated nozzle system can be used. If a nozzle system is integrated into the dish rack, it can automatically connect to the spray system, creating a fluidic connection, and the cleaning device can, for example, automatically use a corresponding spray mode that incorporates the integrated nozzle system.This approach avoids the need for modifications, reduces personnel costs, and increases overall throughput, even with frequent changes in the types of items being cleaned, compared to conventional equipment and methods. Furthermore, special cleaning baskets can be used, adapted to the specific type of item being cleaned, for example, by adjusting an integrated nozzle system. This allows, for instance, the automated cleaning of special items with cavities, such as decanters, without requiring any modifications to the cleaning equipment itself. This, in turn, saves time and personnel costs.

[0076] For example, bottle washing baskets can be used. Alternatively, other types of washing baskets can be used, which can also be custom-designed for cleaning specific items with at least one cavity. For instance, washing baskets can be designed for washing large-volume carafes, vases, or other narrow-necked hollow objects. The basket can also have at least one flexible holding device to secure the item. Furthermore, the nozzle system can be designed to be flexible, for example, by having swiveling elements integrated into the basket or by making the entire system swivel. Washing baskets are also available for other items that require targeted water jets for optimal cleaning results.As an alternative to the bottle washing basket or special basket, regular glass and dish baskets can also be washed in the cleaning device without restrictions, although, for example, the additional function of using an integrated nozzle system remains inactive.

[0077] The cleaning system according to the invention thus makes it possible to adapt only the type of dishwashing basket to the items being cleaned, while preferably the cleaning device itself remains unchanged and does not require any modification. Preferably, the cleaning device automatically recognizes the type of dishwashing basket and selects the appropriate spray mode. This design offers the significant advantage over, for example, cleaning devices with adapters and the need for modifications, that the time required for alternating the washing of items with and without cavities, such as alternating between bottles and glasses or dishes, is considerably reduced. Such frequent changes in items are common in the catering industry. Therefore, intermediate storage and collection of larger quantities of items, such as bottles, is unnecessary, which significantly simplifies handling.Furthermore, the need for user adjustments or modifications to the cleaning system is largely eliminated. For example, the cleaning system can be configured so that an opening mechanism can only be closed when the dish rack is correctly inserted into its holder. The elimination of modifications also significantly simplifies handling and prevents operating errors. In particular, preparatory measures such as modifying adapters and nozzle arms are no longer necessary. Brief description of the characters

[0078] 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.

[0079] In detail: Figure 1 shows a cleaning device for cleaning items in an open state, in a front view; Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a cleaning chamber and an application device; Figure 3 shows a flowchart of a control process of the cleaning device; Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of the cleaning chamber and the application device; Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of the cleaning chamber and the application device; Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of the cleaning chamber and the application device; and Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a disc valve. Description of the embodiments

[0080] In Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a cleaning device 110 according to the invention for cleaning items 112. Figure 1The cleaning device 110 is shown in the open state with a view into the cleaning chamber 114. Figure 1 Figure 1 further shows a dishwashing basket 118 inserted into a dishwashing basket holder 116 of the cleaning device 110, which is equipped, by way of example, with plates 120 as items to be cleaned 112. Other forms of items to be cleaned 112 are also possible. In particular, the items to be cleaned 112 can be items with at least one cavity, especially containers and especially bottles 121, as for example in the Figures 2 , 4 , 5 and 6 The dishwashing basket 118 optionally features an integrated nozzle system 122. The dishwashing basket 118 without the optional nozzle system 122 is shown. Figure 1Figures 2, 4, 5 and 6 show the rinsing basket 118 with the optional nozzle system 122. The cleaning device 110 has at least one fluid connection 124 arranged in the cleaning chamber 114 for the fluidic coupling of the nozzle system 122, which is optionally integrated into the rinsing basket 118, to a Figure 1 The not shown actuation device 126 of the cleaning device 110 on... Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the cleaning device 110 with two fluid connections 124. The application device 126 serves to apply at least one cleaning fluid 127 to the item to be cleaned 112 in the cleaning chamber 114 and comprises at least one tank 128 for receiving the cleaning fluid 127 as well as at least two nozzle units 130, for example nozzle arms, located in the cleaning chamber. The application device 126 is, for example, in the Figures 2 , 4 , 5 and 6 to see.

[0081] As in Figure 1 As shown, the cleaning device 110 further comprises a control unit 132, the control unit being configured to automatically switch between at least two application modes. In at least one first application mode, only the nozzle units 130 are supplied with cleaning fluid 127 from the tank 128. In at least one second application mode, at least the nozzle system 122 of the spray basket is supplied with cleaning fluid 127 from the tank 128. The cleaning device 110 further comprises at least one spray basket detection device 134, as shown in Figure 1The dishwashing basket detection device 134 is configured to detect whether a dishwashing basket 118 held in the dishwashing basket holder 116 has the integrated nozzle system 122 or not. In particular, the dishwashing basket detection device 134 can be configured to identify at least one dishwashing basket identifier on the dishwashing basket 118. The dishwashing basket detection device 134 can, in particular, have at least one sensor 136 selected from the group consisting of: a mechanical sensor; an electrical sensor; a magnetic sensor; an inductive sensor; an acoustic sensor, in particular an ultrasonic sensor; an optical sensor; an RFID sensor; a reed sensor. The controller 132 is configured to select one of the application modes according to the detected dishwashing basket.In particular, the control unit 132 can be configured such that, if it is detected that the dishwashing basket 118 has an integrated nozzle system 122, the second spray mode is automatically selected, and if it is detected that the dishwashing basket 118 does not have an integrated nozzle system, which corresponds to the situation in . Figure 1 This means that the first application mode is automatically selected.

[0082] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the cleaning chamber 114 and the actuation device 126. As in Figure 2As can be seen, the application device 126 can, in particular, have a nozzle unit 130 arranged below the rinsing basket holder 116 and at least one nozzle unit 130 arranged above the rinsing basket holder 116. In the second application mode, at least the nozzle unit 130 above the rinsing basket holder 116 and the nozzle system 122 of the rinsing basket 118 can be supplied with cleaning fluid 127 from the tank 128. When inserted into the cleaning chamber, the [device] is shown Figure 2 The dishwashing basket 118 with the optional nozzle system 122 integrated into the dishwashing basket 118, which in the second application mode is supplied with the cleaning fluid 127 from the tank 128. The dishwashing basket 118 with integrated nozzle system 122 can be part of a cleaning system 137 together with the cleaning device 110. As in Figure 2The application device 126 can also have at least three fluid supply lines 138, wherein the nozzle units 130 can each be supplied with cleaning fluid 127 via at least one nozzle unit fluid supply line 140 and wherein the fluid connection 124 can be supplied with cleaning fluid 127 via at least one fluid connection fluid supply line 142, wherein the control 132 is set up to control the supply of cleaning fluid 127 to the fluid supply lines 138. Figure 2further shows that the cleaning device 110 can in particular have at least two tanks 128, wherein the at least two tanks 128 can have at least one wash tank 144 and at least one rinse tank 146. The rinse tank 146 can in particular be designed as a boiler. The fluid supply lines 138 can have nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140 for supplying the nozzle units 130 with wash fluid 148 from the wash tank 144 and nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140 for supplying the nozzle units 130 with rinse fluid 150 from the rinse tank 146, as shown in Figure 2 to be seen. Furthermore, the fluid supply lines 140 can also have at least one fluid connection fluid supply line 142 for supplying the fluid connection 124 with washing fluid 148 from the washing tank 144 and at least one fluid connection fluid supply line 142 for supplying the fluid connection 124 with rinsing fluid 150 from the rinsing tank 146.

[0083] Figure 2further shows that the cleaning device 110 can have at least one fluidic switching element 152 to control the distribution of cleaning fluid 127 from at least one of the tanks 128 between the fluid supply lines 138. For example, the fluidic switching element 152 can control the distribution of rinse fluid 150 from the rinse tank 146 between the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140 and the fluid connection fluid supply line 142, as shown in Figure 2 depicted. Other variations, such as those shown in the Figures 4 and 5 The fluidic switching element 152 can have at least one 3-way valve 154, in particular a 3 / 2-way valve. In particular, the 3 / 2-way valve can have at least one poppet valve 156, as shown in Figure 7shown. A first port 158 ​​of the 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to the rinse tank 146. A second port 158 ​​of the 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140. A third port 162 of the 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to the at least one fluid connection fluid supply line 142. Furthermore, the cleaning device 110 can have at least two fluid pumps 164, wherein at least one of the fluid pumps 164 is connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140 and wherein at least one of the fluid pumps 164 is connected to the at least one fluid connection fluid supply line 142. In Figure 2 An embodiment of a cleaning device 110 with three fluid pumps 164 is shown.

[0084] Figure 3A flowchart illustrates an example of a section of a control process for the cleaning device 110. The dishwashing basket 118 can send signals to the control unit 132, for example via magnets and reed switches, indicating that the dishwashing basket 118 is inserted. Furthermore, the control unit 132 can output signals from a program sequence relating to one or more fluid pumps 164, whereby, for example, one of the fluid pumps 164 can be used to pump 164 of washing fluid 148 and one of the other fluid pumps 164 can be used to pump 164 of rinse fluid 150.Alternatively or additionally, the control unit 132 can also contain at least one integrated control unit, for example, at least one fully integrated control unit, which can, for example, independently control at least one fluid pump 164 and / or at least one fluidic switching element 152, for example, at least one valve, and / or which can, for example, vary further parameters such as pump pressure and / or pump run times based on the detection of the type of dishwashing basket 118. The control unit 132 can, for example, control another fluid pump 164 for pumping washing fluid 148 or the fluidic switching element 152 based on commands from a program sequence and / or received signals.

[0085] The Figures 4 , 5 and 6Figure 1 shows schematic representations of further embodiments of the cleaning chamber 114 and the application device 126 of the cleaning device 110, as well as the rinsing basket 118 inserted into the cleaning chamber 110 with the optional nozzle system 122 integrated into the rinsing basket 118. The rinsing basket 118 with integrated nozzle system 122 can be part of the cleaning system 137 together with the cleaning device 110. Figures 4 , 5 and 6 They are thus similar in the form of representation as well as in a number of depicted features of the Figure 2 Therefore, the following discussion will primarily focus on the differences between the Figures 4 , 5 and 6 depicted embodiments.

[0086] The fluidic switching element 152 can in particular have at least two 3-way valves 154, in particular at least two 3 / 2-way valves. Figure 4Figure 154 shows an embodiment with two 3-way valves. As in Figure 4 As can be seen, a first port 158 ​​of a first 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to the wash tank 144. A second port 160 of the first 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140. A third port 162 of the first 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to the at least one fluid connection fluid supply line 142. A first port 158 ​​of a second 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to the rinse tank 146. A second port 160 of the second 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140. A third port 162 of the second 3-way valve 154 can be fluidically connected to the at least one fluid port fluid supply line 142. The 3 / 2-way valves can, in particular, have poppet valves 156, which are in Figure 7are shown.

[0087] Figure 5 Figure 1 shows an embodiment with three fluid pumps 164 and the fluidic switching element 152 comprising the 3-way valve 154. One of the fluid pumps 164 can be configured to pump rinse fluid 150 from the rinse tank 146 into at least one, in particular both, of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140, as shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 to be seen. One of the other three fluid pumps 164 can be configured to pump rinse fluid 150 from the rinse tank 146 into the fluid connection fluid supply line 142. The other three fluid pumps 164 can be configured to pump wash fluid 148 from the wash tank 144 into at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140. The fluidic switching element 152 of the in Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, a distribution of washing fluid 148 between the nozzle unit fluid supply line 140 of the lower nozzle unit and the fluid connection fluid supply line 142 can be controlled.

[0088] The cleaning device 110 can further comprise at least four fluid pumps 164, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 6 As shown. At least one first fluid pump 164 can be configured to pump washing fluid 148 from the washing tank 144 into at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140. At least one second fluid pump 164 can be configured to pump washing fluid 148 from the washing tank 144 into at least one of the fluid connection fluid supply lines 142. At least one third fluid pump 164 can be configured to pump rinsing fluid 150 from the rinsing tank 146 into at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines 140. At least one fourth fluid pump 164 can be configured to pump rinsing fluid 150 from the rinsing tank 146 into at least one of the fluid connection fluid supply lines 142.

[0089] Figure 7Figure 1 shows a disc valve 156, which can be used, for example, as a fluidic switching element 152 of the cleaning device 110. The disc valve 156 can comprise an actuator 166 and a pin 168, wherein the pin 168 can be moved into two different positions by means of the actuator 166, which are described in Figure 7 are marked with G and F. The disc valve 156 can further comprise two disc-shaped disk elements 170 attached to the pin 168, which may differ in size, in particular in their circular diameter. In particular, the disk element 170 furthest from the actuator may have a smaller circular diameter than the disk element 170 closest to the actuator, as shown in Figure 7As can be seen, a reverse configuration is also possible with a corresponding design of the cross-section of the fluid supply line 138, which can be closed off by the disc element 170. The actuator 166 can, for example, comprise a solenoid coil and a spring (not shown in the figures). Other configurations of the actuator are possible. The poppet valve 156 can, in particular, be used as a 3-way valve to change or control a fluid flow in the fluid supply lines 138. For example, the poppet valve 156 can be configured to direct the fluid flow from the incoming fluid supply line 138 into a first outgoing fluid supply line 138 in position F, while simultaneously closing off a second outgoing fluid supply line 138, and in position G to direct it into the second outgoing fluid supply line 138 while simultaneously closing off the first outgoing fluid supply line 138.For example, the first outgoing fluid supply line 138 may be the nozzle unit fluid supply line 140 and the second outgoing fluid supply line 138 may be the fluid connection fluid supply line 142, as shown in . Figure 7 to be seen. Other configurations, for example a reverse configuration, are possible.

[0090] In particular, it may be possible to enable large flow cross-sections in the poppet valve 156 with a small working stroke of the actuator 166 through the two spaced disc elements 170. The larger circular diameter of the disc element 170 closest to the actuator may reduce flow resistance in position F. Specifically, the larger circular diameter of the disc element 170 closest to the actuator may allow for a larger cross-section of the fluid supply line 138 that can be closed off by this disc element 170. Figure 7the nozzle unit fluid supply line 140. The larger cross-section of the first, outgoing fluid supply line 138 can at least partially compensate for flow losses caused by the double deflection of the cleaning fluid 127 between the incoming fluid supply line 138 and the first, outgoing fluid supply line 138.

[0091] Furthermore, it is possible that the disc valve 156, and in particular a specific design of the disc valve 156, may provide a sealing effect for the pin 168 at the corresponding points in a valve housing through fluid pressure. Unlike a float valve, a disc valve 156 may function independently of its orientation, which offers greater flexibility in choosing the installation location and can reduce pipe lengths.

[0092] The use of other valves, in particular other switching valves, for example water diverters, rotary slide valves, ball valves, butterfly valves, as fluidic switching elements 152 is also possible. These can be actuated electrically, for example by an electric motor, thermally, for example by an expansion element, mechanically or by fluid pressure. Reference symbol list

[0093] 110 Cleaning device 112 Item to be cleaned 114 Cleaning chamber 116 Dishwasher basket holder 118 Dishwasher basket 120 Plate 121 Bottle 122 Nozzle system 124 Fluid connection 126 Spray device 127 Cleaning fluid 128 Tank 130 Nozzle unit 132 Control 134 Dishwasher basket detection device 136 Sensor 137 Cleaning system 138 Fluid supply line 140 Nozzle unit - fluid supply line 142 Fluid connection - fluid supply line 144 Wash tank 146 Rinse tank 148 Wash fluid 150 Rinse fluid 152 Fluidic switching element 154 3-way valve 156 Disc valve 158 First connection 160 Second connection 162 Third connection 164 Fluid pump 166 Actuator 168 Pin 170 Disc element

Claims

1. Cleaning device (110) for cleaning items to be cleaned (112), in particular items to be cleaned (112) having at least one cavity, in particular vessels and in particular bottles (121), comprising at least one cleaning chamber (114) for receiving the items to be cleaned (112), and at least one application device (126) for impinging the items to be cleaned (112) with at least one cleaning fluid (127) in the cleaning chamber (114), wherein the application device (126) has at least one tank (128) for receiving cleaning fluid (127), and at least two nozzle units (130) which are received in the cleaning chamber (114), wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least one washing rack receptacle (116) for receiving at least one washing rack (118) having optionally a nozzle system (122) integrated in the washing rack (118) in the cleaning chamber (114), wherein each of the two nozzle units (130) comprises a fluidic system which is disposed in the cleaning chamber (114) and connected to the cleaning chamber (114) and has one or a plurality of nozzles, wherein, in contrast to the nozzle system (122) integrated in the washing rack (118), the nozzle unit (130) is fixedly or releasably connected to the cleaning chamber (114) or a housing of the cleaning device (110) and is integrated in the cleaning device (110), with the exception of the washing rack (118), wherein the cleaning device (110) furthermore has at least one fluid connector (124), which is disposed in the cleaning chamber (114) for fluidically coupling the nozzle system (122) of the washing rack (118) to the application device (126) when introducing the washing rack (118) into the cleaning chamber (114), wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least one controller (132), wherein the controller (132) is specified to automatically switch between at least two impingement modes, wherein in at least a first impingement mode the nozzle units (130) are exclusively impinged with cleaning fluid (127) from the tank (128), and wherein in at least a second impingement mode at least the nozzle system (122) of the washing rack (118) is impinged with cleaning fluid (127) from the tank (128); furthermore comprising at least one washing rack identification device (134), wherein the washing rack identification device (134) is specified to identify whether or not a washing rack (118) received in the washing rack receptacle (116) has the integrated nozzle system (122), wherein the controller (132) is specified to select one of the impingement modes so as to correspond to the identified washing rack (118), wherein the controller (132) is specified in such a manner that the second impingement mode is automatically selected if the washing rack (118) is identified as having an integrated nozzle system (122), and that the first impingement mode is automatically selected if the washing rack (118) is identified as not having an integrated nozzle system (122).

2. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the application device (126) has at least three fluid supply lines (138), wherein the nozzle units (130) are in each case able to be impinged with cleaning fluid (127) by way of at least one nozzle unit fluid supply line (140), and wherein the fluid connector (124) is able to be impinged with cleaning fluid (127) by way of at least one fluid connector fluid supply line (140), wherein the controller (132) is specified to control an impingement of the fluid supply lines (138) with cleaning fluid (127).

3. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least one fluidic switching element (152) in order to control a distribution of cleaning fluid (127) amongst the fluid supply lines (138).

4. Cleaning device according to the preceding claim, wherein the fluidic switching element (152) has at least one 3-way valve (154).

5. Cleaning device according to the preceding claim, wherein the 3-way valve (154) has at least one 3 / 2-way valve, wherein the 3 / 2-way valve has at least one poppet valve (156).

6. Cleaning device according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein a first connector (158) of the 3-way valve (154) is fluidically connected to the tank (128), wherein a second connector (160) of the 3-way valve (154) is fluidically connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines (140), and wherein a third connector (162) of the 3-way valve (154) is fluidically connected to the at least one fluid connector fluid supply line (142).

7. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the five preceding claims, wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least two fluid pumps (164), wherein at least one of the fluid pumps (164) is connected to at least one of the nozzle unit fluid supply lines (140), and wherein at least one of the fluid pumps (164) is connected to the at least one fluid connector fluid supply line (142).

8. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the six preceding claims, wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least two tanks (128), wherein the at least two tanks (128) have at least one washing tank (144) and at least one rinsing tank (146), wherein the fluid supply lines (138) have nozzle unit fluid supply lines (140) for impinging the nozzle units (130) with washing fluid (148) from the washing tank (144), and nozzle unit fluid supply lines (140) for impinging the nozzle units (130) with rinsing fluid (150) from the rinsing tank (146), and wherein the fluid supply lines (138) furthermore have at least one fluid connector fluid supply line (142) for impinging the fluid connector (124) with washing fluid (148) from the washing tank (144), and at least one fluid connector fluid supply line (142) for impinging the fluid connector (124) with rinsing fluid (150) from the rinsing tank (146).

9. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least one fluidic switching element (152) in order to control a distribution of cleaning fluid (127) from at least one of the tanks (128) amongst the fluid supply lines (124).

10. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in the second impingement mode at least one of the nozzle units (130) and the nozzle system (122) of the washing rack (118) are impinged with cleaning fluid (127) from the tank (128).

11. Cleaning system (137), comprising at least one cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, furthermore comprising at least one washing rack (118), wherein the washing rack (118) is selected from the group comprising: - a washing rack (118) having at least one nozzle system (122) integrated in the washing rack (118); - a washing rack (118) without a nozzle system (122) integrated in the washing rack (118).

12. Method for cleaning items to be cleaned (112), comprising the following steps: i) providing at least one cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims relating to a cleaning device (110); ii) introducing at least one washing rack (118) with items to be cleaned (112) into the cleaning chamber (114); and iii) impinging the items to be cleaned (112) with at least one cleaning fluid (127) in the cleaning chamber (114).

13. Method according to the preceding claim, furthermore comprising the following step: iv) identifying whether the washing rack (118) is equipped with a nozzle system (122) integrated in the washing rack (118).

14. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein if it is identified in step iv) that the washing rack (118) has an integrated nozzle system (122), the impingement in step iii) is at least partially performed in the second impingement mode.