METHOD FOR CALIBRATING A CONVEYING DEVICE, METHOD FOR DOSING AND DOSING DEVICE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for calibrating at least one conveying device for conveying liquid and / or air of a metering device for metering a liquid from at least one inlet to at least one outlet, in particular from at least one container to at least one induction distributor and / or at least one target device, by means of the at least one conveying device, wherein a detection area of ​​at least one detector for distinguishing between liquid and air is arranged between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for metering a liquid from at least one inlet to at least one outlet, in particular from at least one container to at least one inlet distributor and / or at least one target device, by means of at least one conveying device for conveying liquid and / or air, wherein a detection area of ​​at least one detector for distinguishing between liquid and air is arranged between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet.

[0003] From US 7 916 299 B2 and EP 0 753 721 B1, metering devices are known in which liquids are drawn into a line through an inlet by means of a pump, are detected and metered by means of detecting the transitions between air and liquid in the line, and are finally pumped back and discharged again through the inlet.

[0004] Methods for calibrating of the type mentioned above are already known from document DE 10 2016 125 928 A1. A detector for distinguishing between liquid and / or air is arranged downstream of a pump in the conveying path. The detector is used to detect an empty space within its detection range. An empty space signal can be transmitted to a controller. This allows, for example, the detection of a liquid shortage. Furthermore, after receiving an empty space signal, the controller can determine information about the pump's delivery rate. For example, the time between the start and end of the delivery of a known volume of liquid, with the end of delivery being triggered by the empty space signal, can be used to determine the pump's delivery rate. A metering device can then be calibrated using this delivery rate.

[0005] An empty space in the detector's detection range is measured by drawing in air in the section of the conveying path between the inlet and the detector and detecting this air (or more precisely: a change from liquid to air in the detection range).

[0006] As a consequence, there is an empty volume in the conveying path, extending from the inlet to the detection area.

[0007] If, after an empty level detection, for example after connecting a new container or refilling, the conveying device is started to pump the liquid, in addition to the known or desired volume of liquid, the pumping device must also pump the aspirated air out of the conveying path.

[0008] Dosing based on such a situation will therefore result in underdosing, since the pumping capacity of the pumping device must also be applied to the empty volume, and thus less liquid is pumped from the outlet than would be expected based on the specified duration or number of pump cycles.

[0009] During calibration, where the calibration interval is interrupted by the detection of a change from liquid to air, the pump runs longer (or completes more pump cycles) than it would if the known volume were being pumped alone. This is because the air must be pumped from the inlet to the detection area to detect an empty space. This leads to an underestimation of the pump's delivery capacity. Therefore, when dosing without any empty volume in the delivery path, overdosing is to be expected.

[0010] The invention aims to overcome these disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, one object of the invention is to achieve precise calibration of a conveying device and / or precise dosing by means of a dosing device.

[0011] The problem is solved by a calibration method according to claim 1, a metering method according to claim 3 and a metering device according to claim 12.

[0012] In the following, the term "counting span" refers to a time period and / or a certain number of pump cycles and / or a number of standard volume units. The term "counting point" refers to a specific point in time and / or a count of the number of pump cycles and / or a count of standard volume units.

[0013] A count interval can be determined by a control unit of the conveying device or a recording unit in any known way. For example, the interval between two counting points can be calculated, such as calculating the time span between the start and end times recorded by a clock. A conveying parameter, such as time, the number of strokes, or a standard conveying volume, can also be incremented or accumulated during conveying. Alternatively, a conveying parameter can be recorded, and a count interval can be calculated retrospectively, for example, by integration.

[0014] In a first variant, a method according to the invention for calibrating at least one conveying device comprises the following process steps: Connecting at least one, in particular interchangeable, container to the at least one inlet by means of at least one docking unit for coupling to the at least one container and / or by means of a suction lance for insertion into the at least one container, wherein the detection area of ​​the at least one detector is arranged in the docking unit and / or in or on the suction lance, starting the conveying of liquid and / or air by responding to a start counting point of the at least one conveying device, detecting a change from liquid to air in the detection area by the at least one detector to an air detection counting point, using the interval between the start counting point and the air detection counting point as a calibration counting span for calibrating the at least one conveying device.

[0015] The detection of a change from liquid to air within the detection range by the at least one detector connected to an air detection counting point occurs when the at least one container is empty. Until the change from air to liquid is detected, air must be pumped up to the detection range. This results in a delay in the detection of the change from liquid to air.

[0016] Since, according to the invention, the detection area of ​​the at least one detector is arranged in the docking unit and / or in or on the suction lance, with the docking unit being arranged on the container, the empty volume between the inlet and the detection area is small and the detection occurs with only a slight delay.

[0017] The first embodiment of the invention solves the problem of accurately calibrating a conveying device by arranging the detector's detection area in a docking unit for coupling to a container and / or in or on a suction lance for insertion into a container. The calibration is made accurate by reducing the empty volume so that it lies within a desired tolerance and is negligible.

[0018] Another advantage of arranging the detection area in a docking unit and / or a suction lance (close to the inlet), independent of increased calibration accuracy, is that very little empty volume needs to be pumped. This saves time and energy.

[0019] When using the interval between the start counting point and the air detection counting point as the calibration counting range, the calibration counting range is compared with a known reference volume, in particular the entire contents of the container. Based on this, the dosing parameters are adjusted and the conveying device is calibrated. This step can be performed automatically, in particular in a control unit of the dosing device and / or the conveying device.

[0020] In the first embodiment of the invention, a known or measurable reference volume, in particular the entire known contents of the container, and an empty volume were preferably conveyed between the start counting point and the air detection counting point. Preferably, the empty volume is less than 5 percent, more preferably less than 2 percent, and most preferably less than 1 percent of the reference volume.

[0021] In a second embodiment of the invention, the following process steps are provided: Connecting at least one, in particular interchangeable, container to the at least one inlet, starting the conveying of liquid and / or air by responding to the at least one conveying device at a start counting point, detecting a change from air to liquid in the detection range by the at least one detector at a liquid detection counting point, detecting a change from liquid to air in the detection range by the at least one detector at an air detection counting point, using the interval between the liquid detection counting point and the air detection counting point as a calibration counting span.

[0022] As described in the first variant, the detection of a change from liquid to air within the detection range is carried out by at least one detector at an air detection counting point when at least one container is empty. Until the change from air to liquid is detected, air must be pumped up to the detection range. This results in a delay in the detection of the change from liquid to air.

[0023] Furthermore, even before the container is connected, there is typically an empty volume in the conveying path, extending from the inlet to the detection area. In particular, this empty volume exists between the inlet and the detection area if the empty state of a preceding container was detected by sensing a change from liquid to air within the detection area.

[0024] Since, according to the invention, a change from air to liquid in the detection area is detected by the at least one detector at a liquid detection counting point, it is possible to determine when (or at which counting level) the empty volume has been completely conveyed beyond the detection area.

[0025] The empty volume can be compensated for by using, according to the invention, the interval between the liquid detection counting point and the air detection counting point as the calibration counting range (and not the interval between the start counting point and the air detection counting point as in the first variant). This takes the empty volume into account and allows it to be compensated.

[0026] The location of the detection area in the conveying path is no longer decisive when using this method, although the size of the empty volume depends on the location of the detection area and an arrangement of the detection area is still preferred.

[0027] The task of achieving precise calibration of a conveying device is solved in the second variant of the invention by taking the empty volume into account and compensating for it by using the interval between the liquid detection counting point and the air detection counting point as a calibration counting range.

[0028] When using the interval between the liquid detection count point and the air detection count point as the calibration count range, the calibration count range is compared to a known reference volume, in particular the entire contents of the container. Based on this, the dosing parameters are adjusted and the conveying device is calibrated. This step can be performed automatically, particularly in a control unit of the dosing device and / or the conveying device.

[0029] A known or measurable reference volume can be pumped between the liquid detection counting point and the air detection counting point.

[0030] The following process step is particularly preferred: Stopping the conveying of liquid and / or air by activating the at least one conveying device upon detection of a change from liquid to air. By detecting this change, an empty volume in the at least one container is identified, even if possibly with a delay. To prevent the unnecessarily large amount of air from being conveyed and to keep the empty volume after a container change as small and predictable as possible, the conveying is stopped.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the following process step may be provided: Stopping the pumping of liquid and / or air by activating at least one pumping device due to the detection of a change from liquid to air.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, several separate dosing operations are performed within the calibration counting range. Preferably, the conveying by the at least one conveying device is interrupted before the detection of a change from liquid to air in the detector's detection range, at which point an air detection count point is reached. Therefore, it is not necessary to traverse the calibration counting range continuously. Instead, several dosing operations can be performed during the calibration counting range.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, it can be provided that several separate metering operations are carried out between the start counting point and the air detection counting point.

[0034] A counter reading can be stored, for example in the control unit, which continues to increment after the interruption. The counter can, for example, increment the dosing time or the number of pump cycles.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided that a dosing program with instructions for carrying out dosing operations is executed, whereby the conveying of the liquid for calibration takes place during the execution of the dosing program, especially if liquid would be conveyed in operation anyway.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, it can be provided that a dosing program with instructions for carrying out dosing operations is executed, wherein the conveying of the liquid for calibration takes place during the execution of the dosing program, in particular if liquid would be conveyed anyway during the operation of the dosing device.

[0037] This allows calibration to be performed during dosing operation. For the initial operation without calibration, a slight overdose can be selected to ensure sufficient liquid delivery even with an incorrectly preset pump.

[0038] A method according to the invention for dispensing a liquid comprises the following process steps: Connecting at least one, in particular interchangeable, container to the at least one inlet, starting the conveying of liquid and / or air by responding to the at least one conveying device at a start counting point, detecting a change from air to liquid in the detection range by the at least one detector at a liquid detection counting point, stopping the conveying of liquid and / or air by responding to the at least one conveying device, whereby the liquid detection counting point is taken into account to determine the counting point of the stop.

[0039] As described in the second variant of the calibration procedure, the detection of a change from liquid to air within the detection range is carried out by at least one detector at an air detection counting point when at least one container is empty. Until the change from air to liquid is detected, air must be pumped up to the detection range. This results in a delay in the detection of a change from liquid to air.

[0040] Furthermore, even before the container is connected, there is typically an empty volume in the conveying path, extending from the inlet to the detection area. In particular, this empty volume exists between the inlet and the detection area if the empty state of a preceding container was detected by sensing a change from liquid to air within the detection area.

[0041] Since, according to the invention, a change from air to liquid in the detection area is detected by the at least one detector at a liquid detection counting point, it is possible to determine when (or at which counting level) the empty volume has been completely conveyed beyond the detection area.

[0042] Therefore, the empty volume can be compensated by taking into account, according to the invention, the liquid detection counting point for determining the counting point of the stop.

[0043] The location of the detection area in the conveying path is no longer decisive when using this method, although the size of the empty volume depends on the location of the detection area and an arrangement of the detection area is still preferred.

[0044] The task of achieving precise dosing using a dosing device is solved by determining a liquid detection counting point and taking this liquid detection point into account to determine the counting point of the stop.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid counting point is taken into account as follows: The pumping of liquid and / or air is stopped by the activation of at least one pumping device after the expiry of a regular metering counting period specified by a control unit, counted from the liquid detection counting point.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the following process step may be provided: The pumping of liquid and / or air is stopped by activating at least one pumping device after the expiry of a regular dosing counting period specified by a control unit, counted from the liquid detection counting point.

[0047] After the detection of a change from air to liquid, i.e., after the empty volume has been pumped beyond the detection range, pumping can continue for as long (or for as many pump cycles) as would normally be required for the desired liquid volume. The counting interval between the start of the pumping device and the liquid detection counting point, corresponding to the empty pumping counting interval for pumping the empty volume, thus prevents any distortion of the dosing.

[0048] In an alternative embodiment, the following process steps may be provided: Calculation of an empty delivery counting interval as the interval between the start counting point and the liquid detection counting point, adjustment of the regular dosing counting interval by the empty delivery counting interval, in particular calculation of a corrected dosing counting interval from an addition of the regular dosing counting interval and the empty delivery counting interval, stopping the delivery of liquid and / or air by activating the at least one delivery device after the elapsed corrected dosing counting interval counted from the start counting point.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the following process steps may be provided: Calculation of an empty delivery counting interval as the interval between the start counting point and the liquid detection counting point, adjustment of the regular dosing counting interval by the empty delivery counting interval, in particular calculation of a corrected dosing counting interval from an addition of the regular dosing counting interval and the empty delivery counting interval, stopping the delivery of liquid and / or air by activating the at least one delivery device after the elapsed corrected dosing counting interval counted from the start counting point.

[0050] This explicitly calculates the empty feed count margin and uses it to adjust the regular dosing count margin. The calculated empty feed count margin can also be used in other ways. The calculation can be performed in the control unit of the feeder.

[0051] In one embodiment, the following process step is also provided: Detection of a change from liquid to air in the detection area by the at least one detector to an air detection counting point and stopping of the conveying by responding to the at least one conveying device.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the following process step may be provided: Detection of a change from liquid to air in the detection area by the at least one detector to an air detection counting point and stopping of the conveying by responding to the at least one conveying device.

[0053] In this way, an empty space can also be detected in the context of the dosing process if air is drawn in. The conveying process can then be stopped.

[0054] Preferably, the dosing method can be expanded into a calibration method with a pre-defined, selected calibration counting range and a reference volume measured after conveying that is not pre-defined.

[0055] The following additional procedural steps are planned: Stopping the conveying of liquid and / or air by activating the at least one conveying device after the expiry of a selected calibration counting period counted from the start counting point, using the interval between the liquid detection counting point and the counting point at the expiry of the selected calibration counting period as a corrected calibration counting period for calibrating the at least one conveying device.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the following process steps may be provided: Stopping the conveying of liquid and / or air by activating the at least one conveying device after the expiry of a selected calibration counting period counted from the start counting point, using the interval between the liquid detection counting point and the counting point at the expiry of the selected calibration counting period as a corrected calibration counting period for calibrating the at least one conveying device.

[0057] In one embodiment, the detection area of ​​the detector is arranged in the conveying path between the at least one inlet and the at least one conveying device, i.e. upstream of the conveying device.

[0058] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the detection range of the at least one detector between the at least one inlet and the at least one conveying device in the conveying path between inlet and outlet, and / or in the quarter, preferably eighth and particularly preferably tenth of the conveying path between inlet and outlet adjacent to the at least one inlet, and / or less than 150 centimeters, preferably less than 100 centimeters, particularly preferably less than 50 centimeters away from the at least one inlet in the conveying path.

[0059] In one embodiment, the detection area is arranged in the half, preferably a quarter, particularly preferably an eighth, of the conveying path between the inlet and outlet adjacent to the at least one inlet.

[0060] In one embodiment, the detection area is arranged less than 150 centimeters, preferably less than 100 centimeters, and particularly preferably less than 50 centimeters away from the at least one inlet in the conveying path.

[0061] The conveying path can be longer than one meter, preferably longer than three meters, and particularly preferably longer than six meters. In particular, the outlet can be located in a different space than the inlet, for example, if the liquid containers are located in a different space than a target device, such as a washing machine.

[0062] This keeps the empty volume relatively small, especially relative to the remaining volume in the conveying path or relative to a container volume, thus saving conveying time and energy.

[0063] Preferably, the at least one inlet is arranged in or on the at least one container, preferably wherein the at least one container is brought into a liquid-conducting connection with the at least one conveying device. This connects the at least one container to the metering device.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the at least one inlet is arranged in or on the at least one container, preferably wherein the at least one container is brought into liquid-conducting connection with the at least one conveying device.

[0065] In one embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one container contains an initial volume.

[0066] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the at least one container contains an initial volume, wherein the entire initial volume is conveyed to perform a calibration, wherein the initial volume is used as a reference volume, and / or the initial volume is read from a data carrier, preferably arranged on the at least one container or on an insert in the container, in particular an RFID tag, and transmitted to the dosing device, and / or the initial volume is entered by the operator, and / or the initial volume corresponds to a standard volume and is pre-stored.

[0067] It is preferred that the entire initial volume be conveyed for calibration purposes. The initial volume serves as a reference volume for calibration. The detector can detect the "beginning" and "end" of the initial volume within the detection range. The calibration count interval between these points can then be calculated together with the initial volume to obtain a calibration value for the conveying device.

[0068] It may be provided that the initial volume is read from a data carrier, preferably arranged on at least one container or on an insert in the container, in particular an RFID tag, and transferred to the dosing device.

[0069] An advantage of using a data carrier on the container is that different initial volumes can be stored on the data carrier depending on the container type and / or fill level of a respective container, so that the correct reference volume can always be provided for calibration.

[0070] The initial volume can be recorded when the container is filled or removed from the dosing device. It can also be continuously updated on the data carrier, for example, after each dosing.

[0071] Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that the initial volume is entered by the operator, so that the dosing device is aware of the initial volume.

[0072] Additionally or alternatively, the initial volume can be set to a standard volume, pre-programmed into the dosing device, for example, at the factory. This is sufficient if the same container type with the same fill level is always used.

[0073] The liquid, especially a chemical product such as detergent, bleach, or rinse aid, can be provided in an exchangeable container. When a container is empty, it can be replaced with a new, full one.

[0074] In one embodiment, the calibration method is used for calibration after the insertion of each, preferably every, additional container. After the last dispensing from the preceding container, in which an empty volume was detected, there is an empty volume in the conveying path. The calibration method compensates for this empty volume, ensuring that the calibration is not distorted.

[0075] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the method is used for calibration and / or dosing after the insertion of one, preferably each, further container, particularly preferably wherein a counter value of the control unit is reset before calibration and / or dosing.

[0076] It is preferable to reset the counter value of the control unit before recalibration. For example, a calibration time or a number of pump cycles can be reset.

[0077] In one embodiment, the at least one detection area of ​​the at least one detector, and in particular the at least one detector itself, is arranged in a docking unit, wherein the at least one container can be detachably coupled to the docking unit, in particular via an opening in the at least one container. Preferably, an insert with a suction tube is arranged in the at least one container, the end of the suction tube forming the at least one inlet. However, a suction tube can also be arranged on the docking unit itself. This allows a container to be flexibly exchanged and coupled to the dosing device.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the at least one detection area of ​​the at least one detector is arranged in a docking unit, wherein the at least one container can be detachably coupled to the docking unit, in particular with an opening of the at least one container, preferably wherein an insert with a suction pipe is arranged in the at least one container, wherein the end of the suction pipe forms the at least one inlet of the conveying path.

[0079] Because the detection area is located within the docking unit, it is positioned close to at least one inlet, resulting in a relatively small empty volume. From a structural point of view, a docking unit is the optimal location for the detector, as it eliminates the need for an additional connection to a liquid line.

[0080] In an alternative embodiment, the at least one detection area of ​​the at least one detector, and in particular the at least one detector itself, can be arranged in or on a suction lance or on a liquid line of the conveying path.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one conveying device can be designed as a controllable pump, in particular a peristaltic pump, diaphragm pump, piston pump, gear pump or progressive cavity pump.

[0082] The pump can be controlled by a control unit, which specifies the number of pump cycles, in particular revolutions or strokes, per unit of time. This allows the flow rate per unit of time to be adjusted.

[0083] Alternatively, at least one of the conveying devices can be designed as a controllable valve, with the fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet by gravity. The valve can be opened more or less by means of a control unit, thus allowing the flow rate to be adjusted.

[0084] The at least one detector can be designed in any way. It only needs to be capable of distinguishing the presence of liquid in the detection area from the presence of air, especially air bubbles.

[0085] The at least one detector can be designed as an optical sensor. Liquid and air, or liquid-air mixtures, have different optical properties, such as transmittance, reflectivity, or refractive index, and can therefore be distinguished by sending light from a light source into the detection area and detecting the reflected or transmitted light by the optical sensor.

[0086] For example, a translucent liquid channel of the docking unit or a translucent hose can be illuminated by light.

[0087] Similarly, the detector can also be designed as an ultrasonic sensor or a sensor for electromagnetic waves, which allow differentiation between liquid, air and / or liquid-air mixture.

[0088] Alternatively, the at least one detector can be designed as a float with a switch. The switch is preferably contactless, in particular designed as a reed switch.

[0089] It is also conceivable that at least one detector is designed in a different way, suitable for distinguishing between liquid and air, for example as a conductivity sensor.

[0090] Preferably, the at least one conveying device is controlled by at least one control unit, preferably wherein the at least one control unit is designed as a central control unit which controls at least one conveying device and / or at least one target device and / or at least one valve.

[0091] The detector can be configured to send a signal to the control unit when a change from liquid to air, or vice versa, is detected. Using this signal, the control unit can determine, store, and / or further process the detection count point, such as the detection time and / or a counter reading of the conveying device, for the corresponding event.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, the detection of a change from liquid to air or from air to liquid occurs when an average value of a detector signal, in particular a light intensity in an optical detector, exceeds or falls below a certain threshold value over a certain detection period.

[0093] In practice, detecting liquid means "predominantly detecting liquid" and detecting air means "predominantly detecting air", where "predominantly" refers to a specific threshold value.

[0094] Based on this distinction, corresponding signals can be output and transmitted to a logic unit of the docking unit and / or a control unit of the conveyor.

[0095] In one embodiment, the detection of a change from liquid to air can only be taken into account after a certain start-up time, in particular counted from the start counting point, has elapsed. This means that an empty load detection and a termination of the conveying process or the calibration counting period are only considered after a start-up time after which an empty load appears realistic.

[0096] In one embodiment, the detection of a change from liquid to air can only be taken into account when the residual volume of liquid in the at least one container falls below a certain threshold volume, for example 20 percent, or more specifically 10 percent, of the initial volume. This ensures that an empty state can only be detected when it is realistically possible.

[0097] Irregularities during the start-up phase can thus be taken into account.

[0098] It can be provided that the remaining volume of liquid in the at least one container is stored in the at least one dosing device, in particular in the control unit, and / or in a data carrier of the at least one container, and updated after each dispensing cycle. This allows the remaining volume to be estimated without having to measure it directly.

[0099] If the remaining volume is stored in the data carrier of at least one container, the stored remaining volume can be used as the initial volume for a calibration procedure when reconnecting to a different or the same dosing device.

[0100] Additionally or alternatively, the remaining volume of liquid in at least one container can be measured using a sensor, for example a time-of-flight sensor.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one data carrier is designed as an electronic data carrier, in particular as an RFID transponder. RFID transponders can be easily read or written to without contact.

[0102] In an alternative implementation example, at least one data carrier can be in the form of a printed data carrier, in particular a barcode or QR code. Printed data carriers are particularly cost-effective.

[0103] It may be provided that the at least one data carrier is read by means of a reader on the dispensing device, in particular contactlessly. The reader may be designed as an RFID reader for reading RFID transponders or as an optical scanner for reading barcodes or QR codes.

[0104] It can be provided that the at least one data carrier is written to by means of at least one writing device of the dispensing device, in particular contactlessly. Preferably, the reading device is designed as a read / write device. The writing device or read / write device can in particular use RFID technology.

[0105] A dosing device according to the invention has means for carrying out the method for calibrating and / or dosing.

[0106] In one embodiment of the dosing device, the at least one inlet is arranged in at least one container.

[0107] It is preferably provided that the at least one container can be coupled to the dosing device by means of a docking unit.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that an insert is arranged in at least one container, preferably wherein a data carrier, in particular an RFID tag, is arranged on the insert. The data carrier can also be arranged directly on the container.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, the dosing device has at least one reader for reading, in particular without contact, a data carrier, preferably arranged on the container or on an insert in the container. This allows, for example, the reading of an initial volume for calibrating the conveying device.

[0110] In one embodiment, a writing device can also be provided for writing data to the data carrier, particularly without contact. Specifically, the reading device can have a writing function. For example, the current volume in the container or the fill level of the container can be written to the data carrier using the writing device.

[0111] The current volume in the container can be calculated, preferably by the control unit, from the volume already pumped. Alternatively, the fill level can be measured.

[0112] In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least two containers and at least two conveying devices are provided, with one conveying device for each container. Preferably, the liquid can be conveyed by means of the conveying device into an induction distributor, and particularly preferably, the liquid can be conveyed from the induction distributor via a flushing medium, in particular water, to the at least one target device.

[0113] The liquid is preferably a chemical solution that is particularly suitable for cleaning laundry, dishes, or other objects. Bleach or rinse aids can also be considered liquids. However, a rinsing medium, such as water, can also be considered a liquid within the meaning of this application.

[0114] Further embodiments and details can be seen in the drawings. These show: Fig. 1a Conveying path with empty volume after detection of a change from liquid to air with a detection area near the inlet, Fig. 1b Conveying path with empty volume after detection of a change from liquid to air with a detection area near the outlet, Fig. 2a Conveying path without empty volume after conveying with a detection area near the inlet, Fig. 2b Conveying path without empty volume after conveying with a detection area near the outlet, Fig. 3a Counting ranges and counting points of the dosing method in a first embodiment, Fig. 3b Counting ranges and counting points of the dosing method in a second embodiment, Fig. 4a Counting ranges and counting points of the calibration method with liquid detection in a first embodiment, Fig. 4b Interruption of dosing during the calibration method of the first embodiment, Fig. 4c Counting ranges and counting points of the calibration method with liquid detection in a second embodiment Exemplary embodiment, Fig.5 Counting ranges and counting points of the calibration procedure without liquid detection with small empty volume, Fig. 6a Dosing device with docking unit, induction distributor and targeting device, Fig. 6b Dosing device with several containers, Fig. 7 Docking unit with one detector, Fig. 8a Insert for the container with suction tube, Fig. 8b Container with insert, Fig. 8c Detail view of the insert placed in the container, and Fig. 9 Container with insert coupled to a docking unit.

[0115] The Figuren 1a und 1b show the conveying path 47 between an inlet 28 and an outlet 29.

[0116] In conveying path 47, a conveying device 1 in the form of a pump is arranged. However, instead of a pump, an openable valve or another conveying device is also conceivable.

[0117] A detector 15 with a detection range 14 is arranged in the conveying path 47. The detector 15 is designed as an optical detector, configured to receive light from the light source 5. The light passes through the conveying path 47 and thus through the medium contained within it. The detector 15 can distinguish between liquid 9 and air 7 based on their differing optical properties. This distinction is preferably not made between pure liquid and pure air, but rather based on a threshold value. In particular, a large number of air bubbles in the conveying path can be considered air 7.

[0118] The detector 15 need not be an optical detector. For example, devices with a float are possible, whereby the float rises to a different degree depending on whether liquid 9 or air 7 is present in the detection area 14, and the float's position can be detected by a switch, preferably a contactless one. Other devices suitable for distinguishing between liquid 9 and air 7 are also conceivable.

[0119] In the Figuren 1a und 1b The situation after the detection of a change from liquid 9 to air 7 in detection area 14 is shown. Typically, the conveying by the conveying device 1 is stopped after such a detection. If necessary, an empty level message can be issued to the operator. Afterwards, the container 3, in which the inlet 28 may be located, is typically replaced with a full container 3 or refilled.

[0120] In this situation, there is an empty volume in conveying path 47 between inlet 28 and detection area 14.

[0121] When pumping liquid 9 from the new or refilled container 3, the empty volume from the conveying path 47 must be pumped out. For this, the conveying device 1 must be operated for a longer period.

[0122] Furthermore, operating the conveying device 1 for a regular dosing range, in particular a dosing time range or a number of pump cycles for a dosing, leads to incorrect dosing, in particular underdosing, since the empty volume must also be conveyed.

[0123] When a calibration is performed, the empty volume distorts the calibration. The performance of the conveying unit 1 is underestimated due to the additional conveying of the empty volume. Therefore, overdosing is to be expected with subsequent doses using the resulting calibration.

[0124] In the Fig. 1a The detection area 14 is located near the inlet 28, resulting in a relatively small empty volume. In particular, L1 is smaller or much smaller than L2. The problem mentioned above can therefore be mitigated by arranging the detector 15 as close as possible to the inlet 28, for example in a docking unit 2 that can be coupled to a container 3 and / or a suction lance.

[0125] In the Fig. 1b The detection area 14 is located near the outlet 29, which means the empty volume is relatively large; in particular, L2 is smaller or much smaller than L1. In some situations, this may be unavoidable. The advantage is that after an empty volume signal, only a small amount of liquid remains in the conveying path 47, thus preventing unnecessary damage to the conveying path 47 from potentially corrosive properties of the liquid.

[0126] The Figuren 2a und 2b This shows the situation after a typical dosing process when no empty space is detected. The entire conveying path 47 is filled with liquid 9.

[0127] In situations where even the small empty volume of Fig. 1a If this leads to inaccurate results or in which the detector 15 is not or cannot be arranged close to the inlet 28 for other reasons, the dosing method or calibration method of the second variant according to the invention can be applied, whereby the arrangement of the detector 15 is irrelevant and the empty volume is compensated.

[0128] The Figuren 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 4c und 5 show the axis of a counting parameter 40 of the conveying device 1, for example a time axis or the axis of a counter of the number of pump cycles of the conveying device 1.

[0129] In the exemplary embodiments of the Figuren 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b und 4c The conveying of liquid 9 and / or air 7 is started by activating at least one conveying device 1 at a start counting point 33. Additionally, liquid 9 is detected in the detection area 14 of the detector 15 at a liquid detection counting point 34.

[0130] At liquid counting point 34, a volume of liquid 9 and / or air 7 was conveyed, which corresponds to the empty volume.

[0131] The Fig. 3a This represents a first embodiment of a metering method. Following the steps described above, the at least one conveying device 1 continues conveying after the liquid detection counter 34. The conveying of liquid 9 and / or air 7 is stopped by the at least one conveying device 1 after the elapsed time of a regular metering interval 35, which is predefined by a control unit 4, starting from the liquid detection counter 34. The regular metering interval 35 is the interval typically used by the control unit 4 to convey the desired quantity of liquid 9. In this way, conveying continues for a longer total metering interval 38, thus compensating for the empty volume.

[0132] This method also works if there is no empty volume, since detector 15 immediately detects liquid 9, and thus the start counting point 33 coincides with the liquid detection counting point 34. The total delivery counting range 38 would then be equal to the regular dosing counting range 35.

[0133] The Fig. 3b This represents a second embodiment of a metering method. Following the steps described above (detection of a change from air 7 to liquid 9), the idle metering interval 37 is calculated as the counting interval between the start counting point 33 and the liquid detection counting point 34. Subsequently, the regular metering interval 35 is adjusted by the idle metering interval 37, in particular by calculating a corrected metering interval 36 from the sum of the regular metering interval 35 and the idle metering interval 37. Metering continues using the at least one conveying device 1 and is stopped from the start counting point 33 after the liquid detection counting point 34 and after the corrected metering interval 36 has elapsed. The corrected metering interval 36 corresponds to the total metering interval 38.

[0134] The Fig. 4a Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a calibration method with liquid detection. After the detection of liquid 9 at the liquid detection counter 34, the conveying continues. Subsequently, a change from liquid 9 to air 7 is detected in the detection range 14 of the detector 15 at an air detection counter 39. Preferably, the conveying of liquid 9 and / or air 7 is then stopped by activating the at least one conveying device 1. An empty volume is again present in the conveying path 47 between inlet 28 and detector 15, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. 1a und 1b .

[0135] The interval between the liquid detection count point 34 and the air detection count point 39 is used as the calibration count range 42 for calibrating the at least one conveying device 1. A known or measurable reference volume was conveyed between the liquid detection count point 34 and the air detection count point 39, so that the calibration can be performed using the reference volume. The reference volume can, for example, be the initial volume of the container 3, whereby the entire contents of the container 3 are conveyed for calibration.

[0136] The Fig. 4b shows for the embodiment from Fig. 4a that a calibration process can be interrupted at a counting point 41. For example, the conveying for the calibration process can take place at times and for times, since the dosing device 32 is already performing a dosing process anyway.

[0137] The Fig. 4c Figure 1 shows a second embodiment of a calibration method with liquid detection. After the detection of liquid 9 at the liquid detection counting point 34, the conveying process continues. The conveying of liquid 9 and / or air 7 is stopped after the elapse of a selected calibration counting interval 43, counted from the start counting point 33.

[0138] The interval between the liquid detection counting point 3 and the counting point at the expiry of the selected calibration counting span 43 is used as the corrected calibration counting span 44 for calibrating the at least one conveying device 1.

[0139] In contrast to the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 4a Here, the counting range is fixed, not a reference volume. The actual reference volume pumped must be determined subsequently, for example by measurement.

[0140] As an alternative to detecting liquid at a liquid detection counting point to compensate for the empty volume, the empty volume in some devices can be made so small that it is negligible within a desired tolerance during calibration.

[0141] In the first version of the invention, as in Fig. 5 As shown, the conveying of liquid 9 and / or air 7 is started by activating the at least one conveying device 1 at a start counting point 33. In a second step, air 7 is detected in the detection range 14 of the detector 15 at an air detection counting point 39. The interval between the start counting point 33 and the air detection counting point 39 is used as a calibration counting range 42 for calibrating the at least one conveying device 1.

[0142] The detection area 14 is arranged in a docking unit or a suction lance on the container, in particular in the quarter, preferably eighth and especially preferably tenth, of the conveying path 47 adjacent to at least one inlet 28, as for example in Fig. 1a The empty volume is so small that the empty feed counting range 37 is much smaller than the calibration counting range 42, meaning the calibration is sufficiently accurate. The liquid detection counting point 34 does not need to be determined in this variant and is shown in Fig. 5 Shown for comparison purposes only.

[0143] Between the start counting point 34 and the air detection counting point 39, a known or measurable reference volume and an empty volume are conveyed, wherein the empty volume can be less than 5 percent, preferably less than 2 percent and particularly preferably less than 1 percent of the reference volume.

[0144] The Fig. 6a Figure 1 shows a metering device 32 for metering a liquid 9 contained in a container 3. The liquid 9 can be drawn in by a pumping device 1, in particular a pump, through a docking unit 2, which is detachably attached to an opening of the container 3. The liquid 9 can then be conveyed by the pumping device 1 towards a target device 45, in particular a washing machine or a dishwasher. It may be provided that the liquid 9 is not conveyed directly to the target device 45 by the pumping device. Instead, a dispenser 46 can be provided upstream of the target device 45, in which different liquids 9 are mixed and conveyed to the target device 45 by means of a rinsing medium.

[0145] Both the conveying unit 1 and the docking unit 2 are connected via a data line 12 to a control unit 4, in particular a central control unit. The control unit 4 can control the entire dosing device 32 and serves as the central processing unit for the dosing device 32. For this purpose, the control unit 4 is in data communication with the conveying unit 1 and the docking unit 2 via data lines 12.

[0146] A controllable valve 49 can be located between the induction distributor 46 and the target device 45. The valve 49 can also be designed as a distribution valve and allow the selection of several target devices 45.

[0147] The docking unit contains detector 15 for distinguishing between liquid 9 and air 7. Docking unit 2 also contains a logic unit 11, which, among other things, forwards data from detector 15.

[0148] The Fig. 6b Figure 1 shows a dosing device 32 with several containers 3, which can contain different liquids 9. Each container 3 has its own docking unit 2 with detector 15, and each docking unit 2 is in communicative contact with a conveying device 1 via a line 10.

[0149] All docking units 2 and all conveyor devices 1 are connected to a control unit 4 via data lines 12.

[0150] To the Figuren 6a und 6b It should be noted that the data lines 12 can also be configured wirelessly via radio.

[0151] The Fig. 7 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a docking unit 2 in a schematic sectional view.

[0152] A docking unit outlet 17 is provided on the top of the docking unit 2, which is suitable for connecting a hose as a drain 10.

[0153] The docking unit inlet 16, through which liquid 9 can enter the docking unit 2, is also visible in the sectional view. The docking unit inlet 16 is formed on a projection on the underside of the docking unit 2, so that the docking unit inlet 16 can be inserted into an insert 22 and / or a container 3.

[0154] A liquid channel 31 connects to the docking unit inlet 16 and to the docking unit outlet 17. A check valve 18 is arranged in the liquid channel 31. The check valve 18 has a sealing ball 19. The ball 19 can be held in contact with a tapered section of the liquid channel 31 by means of a spring (not shown) or by gravity. When a vacuum is applied by means of the conveying device 1, in particular a pump, the ball 19 rises and liquid can flow through the liquid channel 31. Alternatively, the check valve 18 can be mechanically forced open during docking.

[0155] The detector 15 can distinguish between liquid 9 and air 7 in the detection area 14, here in the liquid channel 31.

[0156] This allows the detection of an empty container 3. In particular, the detector 15 can detect a change from liquid 9 to air 7. The air 7 enters the detection area 14 when the container 3 is almost empty.

[0157] Detector 15 can also detect when an empty volume "ends" when a change from air 7 to liquid 9 takes place in the detection area 14.

[0158] In this embodiment of the docking unit 2, the detector 15 is designed as an optical sensor. Specifically, a translucent section of the liquid channel 31 is illuminated from one side by a light source 5. The detector 15, which detects the light, is located on the opposite side of the liquid channel 31. The air 7 in the liquid 9 alters the refractive properties of the light, allowing the presence of air 7 or liquid 9 to be detected.

[0159] The docking unit 2 also shows a schematic diagram of the logic unit 11. This unit is in data communication with the detector 15.

[0160] The logic unit 11 can continue to be in data communication with a reader 50 for contactless reading of data from a data carrier 48, in particular an RFID tag, located in the container 3 or in use 22.

[0161] The reader 50 can also be configured as a writing device, enabling data, in particular an updated volume or a fill level of the container, to be written to the data carrier 48.

[0162] The data can be forwarded to an antenna 24 for wireless data transmission and / or a data port 30 for connecting a cable for wired data transmission. The docking unit can communicate with other units via these interfaces. In particular, the docking unit 2 can be connected to a control unit 4 in this way.

[0163] For the detachable attachment of the docking unit 2 to a container 3 and / or an insert 22, a mating thread 20 is provided on the underside of the docking unit. For example, the mating thread 20 can be designed to engage with a container closure thread 21.

[0164] The Fig. 8a shows an insert 22 in a schematic sectional view. Fig. 8b shows an insert 22 that is detachably attached to a container 3.

[0165] The insert 22 has a suction tube 6 and a fastening element 23. The fastening element 23 allows the insert 22 to be detachably fastened in a container opening, preferably by pressing it in. Because the insert 22 is detachably fastened in the container 3, the container 3 can be recycled or reused separately from the insert 22 after use.

[0166] A seal 26 is also arranged on the fastening part 23, which can seal the insert 22 against an inserted docking unit 2.

[0167] Liquid 9 can be drawn from the container 3 by means of the suction tube 6, which is preferably made of a softer material than the fastening part 23.

[0168] The end of the suction pipe 6 typically forms the inlet 28 into the conveying path 47 of the metering device 32.

[0169] In the Fig. 8b It is evident that the insert 22 is placed into the container opening and is preferably pressed in there.

[0170] A data carrier 48, in particular an RFID tag, can be arranged on the insert 22 and can be read by means of a reader 50 arranged on the docking unit 2. The reader 50 can be configured as a writing device for writing data to the data carrier 48. The data carrier 48 can also be arranged directly on the container 3.

[0171] The Fig. 8c Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment of an insert 22. In this embodiment, the insert 22 can be connected to a locking hook 25. The locking hook 25 is an additional component that can be attached to the inside of the container 3. In particular, the locking hook 25 can be designed such that it can be inserted longitudinally through the container opening into the container 3 and can bridge the container opening transversely. In this way, the locking hook 25 can brace itself against the inside of the container 3 and hold the insert 22 in the opening of the container 3.

[0172] The connection between the insert 22 and the locking hook 25 is preferably made by locking with a locking device 27, but other connections are also possible. A locking device 27 can have several locking teeth.

[0173] The Fig. 9 shows a container 3 with an insert 22, which is attached in the container opening, and a docking unit 2, which is detachably attached in the insert 22 and to the container 3.

[0174] The docking unit 2 can be detachably attached to the container closure thread 21 of the container 3 by means of a counter thread 20 arranged on the docking unit 2, either by turning or by hooking.

[0175] The docking unit inlet 16 is thereby brought into communicative contact with the interior of the insert 22 and the suction pipe 6, so that liquid 9 can be drawn from the container 3 into the docking unit 2. A seal 26, which may be shaped as a sealing lip, seals the docking unit 2 against the insert 22; in particular, the extension of the docking unit 2, on which the docking unit inlet 16 is arranged, is sealed against the insert 22.

[0176] When the docking unit 2 is attached to the container 3, the data carrier 48 on the container 3 can be read and / or written using the reader 50 of the docking unit 2. Reference symbol list

[0177] 1 Conveyor 2 Docking unit 3 Container 4 Control unit 5 Light source 6 Suction tube 7 Air 9 Liquid 10 Liquid line 11 Logic unit 12 Data line 13 Initial volume 14 Detection range 15 Detector 16 Docking unit inlet 17 Docking unit outlet 18 Check valve 19 Ball 20 Counter thread 21 Container closure thread 22 Insert 23 Mounting part 24 Antenna 25 Locking hook 26 Seal 27 Locking device 28 Inlet 29 Outlet 30 Data connection 31 Liquid channel 32 Metering device 33 Start counting point 34 Liquid detection counting point 35 Regular metering counting range 36 Corrected metering counting range 37 Empty conveying counting range 38 Total feed count range 39 Air detection count point 40 Counting parameters 41 Feed stop count point 42 Calibration count range 43 Selected calibration count range 44 Corrected calibration count range 45 Target device 46 Induction distributor 47 Conveyor path 48 Data carrier 49 Valve 50 Reader

Claims

1. A method for calibrating at least one conveyor device (1) for conveying liquid (9) and / or air (7) of a dosing device (32) for dosing a liquid (9) from at least one inlet (28) to at least one outlet (29), in particular from at least one container (3) to at least one rinsing-in distributor (46) and / or at least one target device (45), by means of the at least one conveyor device (1), wherein a detection region (14) of at least one detector (15) for distinguishing between liquid (9) and air (7) is arranged between the at least one inlet (28) and the at least one outlet (29), with the following steps: - connecting at least one, in particular interchangeable, container (3) to the at least one inlet (28) by means of at least one docking unit (2) for coupling to the at least one container (3) and / or by means of a suction lance for inserting into the at least one container (2), wherein the detection region (14) of the at least one detector (15) is arranged in the docking unit (2) and / or in or on the suction lance, - starting the conveying of liquid (9) and / or air (7) by activating the at least one conveyor device (1) at a start counting point (33), - detecting a change from liquid (9) to air (7) in the detection region (14) by the at least one detector (15) at an air detection counting point (39), - using the interval between the start counting point (33) and the air detection counting point (39) as a calibration counting span (42) to calibrate the at least one conveyor device (1), and / or with the following steps: - connecting at least one, in particular interchangeable, container (3) to the at least one inlet (28), - starting the conveying of liquid (9) and / or air (7) by activating the at least one conveyor device (1) at a start counting point (33), - detecting a change from air (7) to liquid (9) in the detection region (14) by the at least one detector (15) at a liquid detection counting point (34), - detecting a change from liquid (9) to air (7) in the detection region (14) by the at least one detector (15) at an air detection counting point (39), - using the interval between the liquid detection counting point (34) and the air detection counting point (39) as the calibration counting span (42).

2. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein - a known or measurable reference volume and an empty volume are conveyed between the start counting point (34) and the air detection counting point (39), preferably wherein the empty volume is less than 5 percent, preferably less than 2 percent and particularly preferably less than 1 percent of the reference volume, and / or - a known or measurable reference volume is conveyed between the liquid detection counting point (34) and the air detection counting point (39).

3. A method for dosing a liquid (9) from at least one inlet (28) to at least one outlet (29), in particular from at least one container (3) to at least one rinsing-in distributor (46) and / or at least one target device (45), by means of at least one conveyor device (1) for conveying liquid (9) and / or air (7), in particular in combination with a method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a detection region (14) of at least one detector (15) for distinguishing between liquid (9) and air (7) is arranged between the at least one inlet (28) and the at least one outlet (29), with the following steps: - connecting at least one, in particular interchangeable, container (3) to the at least one inlet (28), - starting the conveying of liquid (9) and / or air (7) by activating the at least one conveyor device (1) at a start counting point (33), - detecting a change from air (7) to liquid (9) in the detection region (14) by the at least one detector (15) at a liquid detection counting point (34), - stopping the conveying of liquid (9) and / or air (7) by activating the at least one conveyor device (1), wherein the liquid detection counting point (34) is taken into account for determining the counting point of the stop.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one detection region (14) of the at least one detector (15) is arranged in or on a suction lance or on a liquid line (10) of the conveying path (47).

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveyor device (1) is designed - as a controllable pump, in particular a peristaltic pump or diaphragm pump or piston pump or gear pump or progressive cavity pump, and / or - as a controllable valve.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one detector (15) is designed - as an optical sensor, and / or - as a sensor for electromagnetic waves, and / or - as an ultrasonic sensor, and / or - as a floater with a switch.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveyor device (1) is controlled by at least one control unit (4), preferably wherein the at least one control unit (4) is designed as a central control unit which controls at least one conveyor device (1) and / or at least one target device (45) and / or at least one valve (49).

8. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one detector (15) sends a signal to the control unit (4) when a change from liquid (9) to air (7), or vice versa, is detected.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection of a change from liquid (9) to air (7) or from air (7) to liquid (9) takes place when an average value of a detector signal, in particular a light intensity in an optical detector, exceeds or falls below a certain threshold value over a certain detection period.

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection of a change from liquid (9) to air (7) is only taken into account when - a certain start-up time, in particular counted from the start counting point (33), has elapsed, and / or - the residual volume of liquid (9) in the at least one container (3) falls below a certain limit volume, for example 20 percent, in particular 10 percent, of the initial volume (13).

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the residual volume of liquid (9) in the at least one container (3) is stored in the at least one dosing device (32), in particular in the control unit (4), and / or in a data carrier (48) of the at least one container (3) and is updated after a conveying, and / or wherein the residual volume of liquid (9) in the at least one container (3) is measured by means of a sensor.

12. A dosing device (32) for dosing a liquid (9) from at least one inlet (28) to at least one outlet (29), in particular from at least one container (3) to at least one rinsing-in distributor (46) and / or at least one target device (45), having means for carrying out the method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one conveyor device (1) for conveying liquid (9) and / or air (7), the at least one inlet (28), the at least one outlet (29) and at least one detector (15), wherein a detection region (14) of at least one detector (15) for distinguishing between liquid (9) and air (7) is arranged between the at least one inlet (28) and the at least one outlet (29).

13. The dosing device (32) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one inlet (28) is arranged in the at least one container (4), preferably wherein - the at least one container (4) can be coupled to the dosing device (32) by means of a docking unit (2), and / or - at least one insert (22) and / or at least one data carrier (48), in particular an RFID-tag, is arranged in the at least one container (3), particularly preferably wherein the at least one data carrier (48) is arranged on the at least one insert (22).

14. The dosing device (32) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the dosing device (32) has at least one reading device (50) for reading, in particular contactlessly, a data carrier (48), which is arranged preferably on the container (3) or on an insert (22) in the container (3), particularly preferably wherein the at least one reading device (50) is also designed as a writing device.

15. The dosing device (32) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein at least two containers (3) and at least two conveyor devices (1) are provided and one respective conveyor device (1) is provided for each container (3), preferably wherein the liquid (9) can be conveyed by means of the conveyor device (1) into a rinsing-in distributor (46), particularly preferably wherein the liquid (9) can be further conveyed from the rinsing-in distributor (46) via a rinsing medium, in particular water, to the at least one target device (49).