DOSING UNIT FOR A CLEANING DEVICE AND CLEANING DEVICE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a dosing unit for a cleaning device and to a cleaning device.

[0002] In a conventional solid detergent dosing system, solid detergent from a cartridge is used to dispense cleaning fluid into a dishwasher. The cartridge (filled with solid detergent) is inserted from above into a funnel-shaped holder. This holder has a fresh water connection that directs the incoming water to a nozzle inside the holder. The incoming water, combined with the nozzle's geometry, forms a spray jet directed at the opening of the inserted and filled cartridge. This spray jet then strikes the solid detergent inside the cartridge, partially dissolving it. The resulting detergent solution flows by gravity out of the same opening in the cartridge and is collected by a funnel-like structure within the holder in a dosing tube.The resulting cleaner-water mixture is then directed into the cleaning chamber of the dishwasher via a continuous gradient for dosing purposes.

[0003] Cartridge detection ensures that dosing, and therefore water flow, only occurs when a cartridge is inserted into the funnel. This is conventionally achieved, for example, by using a non-return valve in the funnel's inlet, which opens when the cartridge is inserted, or by using an electronic switch to control the inlet, which is also activated by cartridge insertion. Over-level detection further ensures that dosing only occurs when the cleaner-water mixture can drain away, thus preventing the funnel-shaped receiving device from overflowing in case of a malfunction. This is conventionally achieved, for example, by using a secondary outlet through which the cleaner-water mixture can drain if the primary outlet is blocked, or by using a sensor to detect an over-level.

[0004] US 2005 / 0023290 A1, for example, describes a dishwashing liquid dispenser that includes a safety cut-off mechanism for container mounting and dismounting ("container mounting and dismounting safety cut-off mechanism 25") and an overflow preventive sensor 26. The safety cut-off mechanism is implemented by a spring-loaded plunger and registers the placement of a container by pressing the plunger downwards, thereby making contact with a solenoid valve. The overflow preventive sensor, on the other hand, is implemented by two electrodes and registers an overflow of the cleaning solution when a current flows between the two electrodes; consequently, the solenoid valve in the inlet closes and a signal is output. The safety cut-off mechanism and the overflow preventive sensor are thus implemented by different components.Components are implemented that are designed separately from each other (see Figures 5 and 6 of D1).

[0005] Because cartridge detection and over-level detection are implemented using different and separately designed components in such a conventional dosing unit or cleaning device, the unit or cleaning device is larger and more complex, resulting in greater manufacturing effort and higher costs. Furthermore, cartridge detection and over-level detection each require separate signals to be sent to the dosing unit or cleaning device. This reduces the efficiency of the dosing unit or cleaning device. Finally, these separate components complicate the maintenance and repair of the dosing unit or cleaning device.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a dosing unit or cleaning device with regard to efficiency, manufacturing costs and user-friendliness, taking into account the desired applications.

[0007] This problem is solved by a dosing unit according to claim 1, a dosing system according to claim 14, and a cleaning device according to claim 15. Claims 2 to 13 relate to particularly advantageous embodiments of the dosing unit according to claim 1.

[0008] According to the present invention, a dosing unit for a cleaning device comprises a receiving unit for inserting a cartridge containing a cleaning agent for a cleaning process of the cleaning device into the receiving unit and for removing the cartridge from the receiving unit. The dosing unit further comprises a detection device for detecting both whether the cartridge has been inserted into or removed from the receiving unit and for detecting the level of a cleaning fluid containing the cleaning agent in the receiving unit.

[0009] The cleaning device can be, for example, a dishwasher, especially a commercial dishwasher, a dishwasher for other items such as medical equipment, or a washing machine.

[0010] The dosing unit can be part of the cleaning device and / or integrated into the cleaning device. Alternatively, the dosing unit can be separate from the cleaning device and / or serve as an external component for the cleaning device.

[0011] The dosing unit can include a drain, in particular a drain opening, through which the cleaning fluid can drain from the receiving unit, e.g., into a dosing hose of the cleaning device for use in a cleaning process. The receiving unit can, in particular, be funnel-shaped or have a funnel-shaped section so that the cleaning fluid can collect in the receiving unit and flow towards the drain.

[0012] The cleaning agent can be a solid cleaner or contain a solid cleaner, and the cleaning fluid can be a solution of the solid cleaner. Alternatively, the cleaning agent can be a liquid and / or viscous cleaning concentrate, and the cleaning fluid can be a diluted solution of the cleaning concentrate. The dosing unit can include a spray unit for spraying fresh water into the cartridge, so that the cleaning fluid is formed by dissolving the cleaning agent contained in the cartridge in the fresh water and then flows from the cartridge into the receiving unit. Furthermore, the dosing unit can include an inlet, in particular an inlet opening, through which the fresh water can flow into the dosing unit and be directed to the spray unit.After passing through the spray unit, the fresh water can form a spray jet, which can be directed towards an opening of the inserted cartridge. This allows the spray jet to strike the cleaning agent in the cartridge and at least partially dissolve it, forming the cleaning fluid that then flows from the cartridge into the receiving unit. A sieve may be located in the cartridge opening, which, by gravity, allows the solid cleaner to trickle down to the lowest point of the cartridge. In this case, the trickling of the powder serves to replenish the dissolved solid cleaner from the cartridge.

[0013] Alternatively, the cleaning agent in the cartridge can also be liquid, and the cleaning fluid in the receiving unit can be identical to the cleaning agent that has drained from the cartridge. In this case, the drainage of the cleaning agent from the cartridge can be controlled, for example, by a valve in or on the cartridge opening.

[0014] Fresh water can flow directly from an external fresh water connection to the spray unit via the inlet of the dosing unit, for example, using a water safety device such as type AD, DB, or DC. In this case, the water pressure required for spraying the fresh water can be generated by the mains pressure. Alternatively, the fresh water can first flow from the external fresh water connection into an intermediate tank, which can be located in or on the cleaning device, and from the intermediate tank to the spray unit via the inlet, for example, using a water safety device of type AB. In this case, the water pressure required for spraying the fresh water can be generated, for example, by a pressure booster pump between the intermediate tank and the dosing unit.

[0015] According to the present invention, the dosing unit further comprises a detection device, both for detecting whether the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or removed from the receiving unit, and for detecting a level of the cleaning fluid in the receiving unit.

[0016] When a cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the cleaning fluid can flow out of the drain as described above in a normal state of the dosing device. However, in a fault state, for example, if the drain is blocked, the cleaning fluid may not flow out of the drain, or may not flow out completely. Consequently, the level of the cleaning fluid in the receiving unit may be lower in the normal state than in the fault state. Specifically, the level of the cleaning fluid may be below a first threshold in the normal state (i.e., no excess level present) and above a second threshold in the fault state (i.e., excess level present), where the second threshold is greater than or equal to the first threshold. Thus, by detecting the level of the cleaning fluid, the detection device can determine the normal or fault state of the dosing unit.

[0017] The detection device further comprises a first detection unit and a second detection unit. The first detection unit is arranged to be movable back and forth between a first position and a second position relative to the receiving unit or one or more parts of the receiving unit, in particular relative to a housing of the receiving unit. Preferably, the first detection unit is attached to the receiving unit and rotatably arranged between the first position and the second position relative to the receiving unit, as described in more detail below. The first detection unit and the second detection unit are coupled, connected, or attached to each other in such a way that relative movement between the first detection unit and the second detection unit is possible at least in a certain position of the first detection unit.The first and second recognition units can be attached to each other in such a way that they are movable relative to each other but cannot be separated. Preferably, the second recognition unit is rotatably arranged relative to the first recognition unit, as described in more detail below. The defined position of the first recognition unit is preferably the second position, but can also be another position, in particular an intermediate position between the first and second positions.

[0018] The dosing unit is designed such that the second detection unit can assume an operating position, an empty position, and an overflow position. In particular, the second detection unit can be moved back and forth between these three positions by moving the first detection unit relative to the receiving unit and / or by moving the second detection unit relative to the first detection unit.

[0019] When the cartridge is removed from the receiving unit, i.e., when no cartridge is present in the receiving unit, the second detection unit is in the empty position. Preferably, in this case, the first detection unit is in the first position. When the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit and the level of the cleaning fluid is below the first threshold, the second detection unit is in the operating position. When the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit and the level is above the second threshold, the second detection unit is in the overflow position.Preferably, when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is arranged in the second position, and particularly preferably in this case, due to the relative mobility of the second detection unit to the first detection unit, the second detection unit is arranged to be movable between the operating position and the overflow position.

[0020] Thus, the detection device serves both to detect whether the cartridge is inserted into or removed from the receiving unit (cartridge detection) and to detect the level of the cleaning fluid in the receiving unit (over-level detection), thereby reducing the number of components of the dosing unit according to the invention compared to conventional dosing units. This allows the dosing unit according to the invention to be smaller and more compact and to have a simpler design than conventional dosing units. Furthermore, the dosing unit according to the invention can be manufactured with less effort and at lower cost. In addition, the control of the cleaning agent dosage is also simplified, as the number of signals required from the detection device is reduced, as described in more detail below. This also increases the efficiency of the dosing unit.The cleaning device is improved. Furthermore, the reduced number of components also simplifies maintenance and repair of the dosing unit and / or the cleaning device. In summary, the dosing unit according to the invention is improved compared to a conventional dosing unit with regard to efficiency, manufacturing costs, and user-friendliness.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the dosing unit further comprises a controller configured to dispense the cleaning agent from the cartridge based on the position of the second detection unit. In particular, the controller can be configured to allow the dispensing of the cleaning agent from the cartridge when the second detection unit is in the operating position and to prevent the dispensing of the cleaning agent from the cartridge when the second detection unit is in the empty and / or overflow position. Specifically, the controller can be configured to allow the spraying of fresh water from the spray unit into the cartridge when the detection unit is in the operating position and to prevent the spraying of fresh water when the second detection unit is in either the empty or overflow position.The controller can, for example, enable the spraying of fresh water by opening a solenoid valve in the water inlet, and prevent the spraying of fresh water by closing the solenoid valve in the water inlet. Alternatively, if the cleaning agent in the cartridge is liquid, the controller can be configured to allow the liquid cleaning agent to drain from the cartridge, for example, by opening a valve in or at the cartridge opening, when the detection unit is in the operating position, and to prevent the cleaning agent from draining from the cartridge, for example, by closing the valve, when the detection unit is in either the empty or overflow position.

[0022] This control system ensures that the cleaning agent is only dispensed, specifically the spraying of fresh water into the cartridge and / or the drainage of the cleaning agent or cleaning solution from the cartridge into the intake unit, when the cartridge is inserted into the intake unit and the cleaning fluid level in the intake unit is not too high. This guarantees correct and efficient dispensing of the cleaning agent, prevents overflow of the cleaning fluid (e.g., if the drain is blocked), and avoids damage to the dispensing unit, the cleaning device, or the items being cleaned due to incorrect dispensing.

[0023] In a further preferred embodiment, the dosing unit comprises a sensor configured to detect the position of the second detection unit relative to the receiving unit and to output a first detection signal based on the detected position. Preferably, the controller is configured to control the dosing of the cleaning agent from the cartridge based on the first detection signal.

[0024] Preferably, the sensor distinguishes only between the operating position and either the empty or overflow position. For example, the first detection signal can be an operating detection signal when the second detection unit is in the operating position, and a fault detection signal, different from the operating detection signal, when the second detection unit is in either the empty or overflow position. In this case, the controller can enable or prevent the dosing of cleaning agent from the cartridge upon receiving the operating detection signal or the fault detection signal, respectively. Alternatively, the sensor can output a first detection signal when the second detection unit is in the operating position and no first detection signal when the second detection unit is in either the empty or overflow position.In this case, the controller can enable the dosing of cleaning agent from the cartridge upon receiving an initial detection signal and prevent dosing if no such signal is received. Consequently, only a single sensor and a single detection signal are required to achieve efficient control of the cleaning agent dosing. This simplifies the design of the dosing unit, reduces the number of components and manufacturing costs, and increases the unit's efficiency.

[0025] Preferably, the sensor comprises a first magnetic switch, e.g., a first reed switch, and a magnet. The first magnetic switch can be attached to the receiving unit, in particular to a housing or to a part of the receiving unit that is fixed relative to the housing, so that the first magnetic switch is fixed relative to the receiving unit or one or more parts of the receiving unit, while the magnet can be attached to the second receiving unit. Conversely, the magnet can also be attached to the receiving unit and the first magnetic switch to the second receiving unit. Since the second receiving unit can assume different positions relative to the receiving unit, the magnet can assume different positions relative to the first magnetic switch.In particular, the distance of the magnet from the first magnetic switch may be smaller when the second detection unit is in the operating position than when the second detection unit is in the idle or overflow position.

[0026] The sensor can detect the position of the second detection unit based on the relative arrangement of the magnet to the first magnetic switch, specifically based on the distance of the magnet from the first magnetic switch. For example, the sensor can only output a first detection signal if the distance between the magnet and the first magnetic switch falls below a predefined minimum distance. Therefore, the sensor outputs the first detection signal when the second detection unit is in the operating position, but not when the second detection unit is in the empty or overflow position. Thus, the following two switching states can be distinguished based on the relative position of the magnet to the first magnetic switch: 1. Dosing possible (cartridge inserted and no overfill), 2. Dosing not possible (cartridge not inserted and / or overfill).

[0027] Alternatively, the sensor can distinguish between each of the operating position, the idle position, and the overflow position. In particular, the sensor can include a second magnetic switch, e.g., a second reed switch, where the first and second magnetic switches can be mounted at different locations on the receiving unit. The sensor can detect the position of the second detection unit based on the arrangement of the magnet relative to the first and second magnetic switches, specifically based on the distance of the magnet from the first and second magnetic switches.

[0028] For example, as described above, the distance of the magnet from the first magnetic switch may be smaller when the second detection unit is in the operating position than when the second detection unit is in the idle or overflow position. Accordingly, the first magnetic switch can only output a first detection signal when the second detection unit is in the operating position. Furthermore, the distance of the magnet from the second magnetic switch may be smaller when the second detection unit is in the overflow (or alternatively, idle) position than when the second detection unit is in the operating or idle (or alternatively, overflow) position. Accordingly, the second magnetic switch can only output a second detection signal when the second detection unit is in the overflow (or alternatively, idle) position.By combining the first and second detection signals, the position of the detection unit can be determined: If the first detection signal is output and the second detection signal is not, the second detection unit is in the operating position. If the first detection signal is not output and the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the overflow position (or alternatively, the empty position). If neither the first nor the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the empty position (or alternatively, the overflow position).

[0029] The controller can also be configured to issue an empty warning signal when the detection unit is in the empty position, and / or an overflow warning signal when the detection unit is in the overflow position. This allows the user to identify the type of error based on the warning signal, such as whether a cartridge is missing or the level is too high, and to take appropriate action to correct the error. This further enhances the functionality and user-friendliness of the dosing unit.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the metering unit comprises a spring element configured such that, when no cartridge is inserted, the first detection unit is biased in the first position, and when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is moved from the first position to the second position against the spring force of the spring element. Preferably, the second detection unit is connected to the first detection unit such that, when the level of the cleaning fluid is below the first threshold and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is moved from the first position to the second position against the spring force of the spring element, thereby moving the second detection unit from the empty position to the operating position.This enables efficient positioning of the first and second detection units depending on whether a cartridge is inserted or not, and thus efficient and accurate cartridge detection by the detection device.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the metering unit is designed such that, when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit and the level of the cleaning fluid rises from the first threshold to the second threshold, a buoyant force from the cleaning fluid acts on the second detection unit, causing the second detection unit to move from the operating position to the overflow position. Particularly preferably, the metering unit is designed such that, when the level of the cleaning fluid exceeds the first threshold, the second detection unit floats at least partially on the cleaning fluid. For example, the second detection unit can comprise a cavity in which a buoyancy element is arranged, preferably an air cushion. The buoyancy element can have a lower or medium density than the cleaning fluid, in particular a density of less than 1 g / cm³.This has the advantage that the second detection unit can be manufactured using a simple injection molding process, and a buoyancy element can then be inserted into the cavity of the second detection unit. In particular, the second detection unit can then be made from the same material as the first detection unit, thus reducing manufacturing costs. Alternatively, the second detection unit itself can be made from a material with a lower density than the cleaning fluid, specifically a density of less than 1 g / cm³. In this case, the second detection unit can, for example, be manufactured by thermoplastic foam injection molding.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the first detection unit is attached to the receiving unit, in particular to the housing or a part of the receiving unit that is fixed relative to the housing, by means of a first pivot joint, so that the first detection unit is rotatably arranged relative to the receiving unit between the first and the second position. In particular, the metering unit can be designed such that when the level is below the first threshold and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is rotated relative to the housing about the first pivot joint, thereby moving the second detection unit from the empty position to the operating position.

[0033] Particularly preferred is the second detection unit being attached to the first detection unit by means of a second pivot joint, so that, at least in the specific position of the first detection unit, the second detection unit is rotatably arranged relative to the first detection unit. In particular, the metering unit can be designed such that, when the level is below the first threshold and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit is rotated relative to the housing about the first pivot joint, and thereby the second detection unit is rotated relative to the first detection unit about the second pivot joint and moved from the empty position to the operating position.

[0034] The first and second swivel joints, as described above, each have the advantage of reducing the risk of binding between the respective two joint partners (i.e., the receiving unit and the first detection unit in the case of the first swivel joint, or the first detection unit and the second detection unit in the case of the second swivel joint). This prevents damage to the dosing unit and further improves its efficiency and user-friendliness.

[0035] Alternatively, the first detection unit can be arranged to be linearly movable between the first and second positions and / or the second detection unit can be arranged to be linearly movable relative to the first detection unit.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the receiving unit comprises a side wall arranged parallel to an insertion direction of the cartridge, particularly along a circumferential direction of the cartridge, wherein the detection device is partially or completely arranged in a recess of the side wall, at least when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit. This enables a particularly compact arrangement of the dispensing unit, thereby further reducing the size of the dispensing unit and the manufacturing costs. Preferably, the insertion direction of the cartridge is parallel or substantially parallel to the direction of gravity while the dispensing unit or cleaning device is in operation. The arrangement of the detection device in the recess of the side wall enables the detection device to precisely detect whether a cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or not, regardless of the cartridge weight.This is particularly advantageous because, when using the dosing unit, the cleaning agent is flushed out of the cartridge, thus reducing its weight. This avoids the need for increased complexity in the design of the return mechanism or the adjustment of the spring force of the spring element. Alternatively, the detection device can also be positioned below the cartridge.

[0037] Preferably, the second detection unit is arranged to be linearly movable between the operating position and the empty position along a direction of movement. In particular, when the level of the cleaning fluid is below the first threshold, the second detection unit can at least partially rest on a support surface of the metering unit and slide along the support surface between the operating position and the empty position. The direction of movement of the second detection unit preferably differs from the insertion direction of the cartridge, wherein the angle between the direction of movement and the insertion direction is preferably not equal to 0° and particularly preferably 90° or substantially 90°.In particular, the dosing unit can be designed such that, when the level is below the first threshold and the cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit, the first detection unit rotates relative to the receiving unit around the first pivot point, thereby rotating the second detection unit relative to the first detection unit around the second pivot point and moving linearly from the empty position to the operating position along the direction of movement. This enables precise detection of whether a cartridge is inserted into the receiving unit or not, especially regardless of the cartridge weight.

[0038] Furthermore, the first detection unit can comprise a contact surface, wherein, when the level is below the first threshold and the cartridge has been removed from the receiving unit, the contact surface is arranged at an angle other than 0° to the cartridge insertion direction. Upon insertion of the cartridge into the receiving unit, the cartridge first comes into contact with the contact surface and exerts a force on it, causing the first detection unit to rotate relative to the receiving unit about the first pivot point against the spring force of the spring element, thereby moving it from the unloaded position to the operating position. This allows for particularly easy insertion of the cartridge into the receiving unit. Once the cartridge is inserted, the contact surface can be arranged at an angle of 0° or substantially 0° to the cartridge insertion direction and / or be flush or substantially flush with the side wall.In particular, the contact surface can then rest against the cartridge and / or be pre-tensioned towards the cartridge by the spring force of the spring element. This enables a particularly stable hold of the cartridge in the receiving unit during operation of the dosing unit or cleaning device.

[0039] According to the present invention, a dosing system comprises a dosing unit as described above and the cartridge. In particular, the shape and size of the receiving unit can be adapted to the shape and size of the cartridge so that the cartridge fits precisely into the receiving unit and is held stably during operation of the dosing unit. As described above for the dosing unit according to the invention, the dosing system according to the invention also enables high efficiency and user-friendliness as well as low manufacturing costs. According to the present invention, a cleaning device comprises a dosing unit as described above. As described above for the dosing unit according to the invention, the cleaning device according to the invention also enables high efficiency and user-friendliness as well as low manufacturing costs.

[0040] These and other features and advantages of the invention will become clear with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show a particularly advantageous embodiment. They show: Fig. 1 a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the dosing unit according to the invention in which no cartridge is inserted; Fig. 2 a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the dosing unit according to the invention in which a cartridge is inserted, wherein there is no excess cleaning fluid level; Fig. 3 a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the dosing unit according to the invention in which a cartridge is inserted, wherein there is an excess cleaning fluid level; Fig. 4A a schematic view of a cleaning device with an integrated dosing unit; and Fig. 4B a schematic view of a cleaning device with an external dosing unit.

[0041] Fig. 1 bis 3 Each figure shows a cross-sectional view of a dosing unit 1 according to the invention for a cleaning device. The vertical direction, i.e., the direction from top to bottom, in these figures corresponds to the insertion direction of a cartridge 2 into the dosing unit 1 and coincides with the direction of gravity when the dosing unit 1 or the cleaning device is in operation.

[0042] The dosing unit 1 comprises a receiving unit 11, a detection device 12, a first pivot joint 13, a sensor 14, a spring element 15, a spray unit 16, an inlet 17, and an outlet 18. The receiving unit 11 is funnel-shaped and tapers vertically from top to bottom. The inlet 17 can be connected to a fresh water connection 5, through which fresh water flows into the dosing unit 1. As shown in Fig. 2 As shown by the arrows, after passing through the spray unit 16, the fresh water forms a spray jet directed towards an opening of the inserted cartridge 2, so that the spray jet hits the cleaning agent, e.g., the solids cleaner, in the cartridge and partially dissolves it. The resulting cleaning fluid, i.e., the solution of the cleaning agent in the fresh water, flows from the cartridge into the funnel-shaped receiving unit 11, is collected there, and then flows out of the dosing unit via the outlet 18, e.g., into a dosing hose, to be used for a cleaning process of the cleaning device.

[0043] The detection device 12 comprises a first detection unit 121, which is attached to a housing of the receiving unit 11 by means of a first pivot joint 13. This allows the first detection unit 121 to be rotatably arranged relative to the receiving unit 11 between a first and a second position. Fig. 1 The first recognition unit 121 is arranged in the first position while it is in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 is arranged in the second position.

[0044] The detection device 12 further comprises a second detection unit 122, which is attached to the first detection unit 121 by means of a second pivot joint 123, so that, as shown in Figs. 2 and 3 As shown, at least in the second position of the first recognition unit 121, the second recognition unit 122 is rotatably arranged relative to the first recognition unit 121. Due to the rotatable arrangement of the first recognition unit 121 relative to the receiving unit 11 and the rotatable arrangement of the second recognition unit 122 relative to the first recognition unit 121, the second recognition unit 122 can assume, in particular, three positions relative to the receiving unit 11: the empty position as shown in Fig. 1 shown, the operating position as in Fig. 2 shown and the overflow position as in Fig. 3 shown.

[0045] In Fig. 1 No cartridge 2 is inserted into the receiving unit 11. In this case, the first detection unit 121 is pre-tensioned in the first position by the spring element 15, while the second detection unit 122 rests at least partially on a support surface 112 and is therefore in the empty position.

[0046] If, as in Fig. 2 As shown, a cartridge 2 is inserted into the receiving unit 11, the first detection unit 121 is rotated against the spring force of the spring element 15 about the first pivot joint 13 and thereby from the first position ( Fig. 1 ) to the second position ( Fig. 2 ) moves. This causes the second detection unit 122 to rotate relative to the first detection unit 121 about the second pivot joint 123 and slide along the support surface 112 from the empty position ( Fig. 1 ) to the operating position ( Fig. 2 ), namely along a direction of movement (horizontal direction in Fig. 1 bis 3 ), which runs perpendicular to the insertion direction of cartridge 2.

[0047] The first recognition unit 121 further comprises a contact surface 1211, which is in Fig. 1 is arranged at an angle other than 0° to the insertion direction of the cartridge 2. When the cartridge 2 is inserted into the receiving unit 11, the cartridge 2 comes into contact with the contact surface 1211 and exerts a force on the contact surface 1211, such that the first detection unit 121 is moved relative to the receiving unit 11 from the first position to the second position. When the cartridge is inserted, as shown in Fig. 2 As can be seen, the contact surface 1211 is arranged at an angle of 0° to the insertion direction of the cartridge 2 and is aligned with a side wall 111 of the receiving unit 11. Furthermore, the contact surface 1211 then rests against the cartridge 2 and is biased towards the cartridge 2 by the spring force of the spring element 15, so that the cartridge 2 is held stably in the receiving unit 11.

[0048] Furthermore, in Fig. 2 shown that when the cartridge 2 is inserted into the receiving unit 11, the detection device 12 is arranged completely in a recess of the side wall 111, the side wall 111 running parallel to the insertion direction and along a circumferential direction of the cartridge 2.

[0049] Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows a normal state of the dosing device 1, in which the cleaning fluid can flow out of the outlet 18 as described above. As a result, the level of the cleaning fluid in the receiving unit 11 is below a first threshold value, i.e., there is no excess level of the cleaning fluid. Due to the force of gravity acting upon it, the second detection unit 12 rests on the support surface 112 and is in its operating position.

[0050] Fig. 3 In contrast, this shows a fault condition of the dosing device 1 in which the drain 18 is blocked, so that the cleaning fluid cannot flow out. As a result, the level of the cleaning fluid is above a second threshold, i.e., there is an overlevel. When the level of the cleaning fluid rises to the second threshold, a buoyant force of the cleaning fluid acts on the second detection unit 122, which causes the second detection unit 122 to rotate about the second pivot joint 123 and thereby from the operating position ( Fig. 2 ) into the overflow position ( Fig. 3 ) is moved. As in Fig. 3 As can be seen, in this state the second detection unit 122 floats at least partially on the cleaning fluid.

[0051] As in Fig. 1 bis 3 As can be seen, the dosing unit 1 comprises a sensor 14, which includes a first magnetic switch 141a and a magnet 142. The first magnetic switch 141a is attached to a housing of the receiving unit 11 and is therefore fixed relative to the receiving unit 11. The magnet 142 is attached to the second detection unit 122 and can therefore assume different positions relative to the magnetic switch 141. The distance of the magnet 142 from the first magnetic switch 141a is smaller when the second detection unit 142 is in the operating position ( Fig. 2 ), as if the second recognition unit 142 were in the empty position ( Fig. 1 ) or the overflow position ( Fig. 3 ). The first magnetic switch 141a is configured such that it is only actuated, or only outputs a first detection signal, when the distance between the magnet 142 and the first magnetic switch 141a falls below a predetermined minimum distance, so that it outputs the first detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the operating position, but does not output the first detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the idle or overflow position.

[0052] The first detection signal is transmitted to a controller, which regulates the dosage of cleaning agent from cartridge 2 based on this signal. If the second detection unit 122 is in the operating position and the controller receives the first detection signal, the controller can, for example, open or hold open a solenoid valve in the fresh water inlet, allowing fresh water to be sprayed into cartridge 2 and thus enabling the dosing of cleaning agent. Conversely, if the second detection unit 122 is in the empty or overflow position and the controller does not receive the first detection signal, the controller can close or hold closed the solenoid valve, preventing further fresh water from entering and thus preventing the dosing of cleaning agent.

[0053] In summary, the following two switching states can be distinguished based on the relative position of magnet 142 to the first magnetic switch 141a: 1. Dosing possible (cartridge 2 inserted and no excess level present, as in Fig. 2 2. Dosage not possible (cartridge 2 not inserted and / or excess level present, as shown in Fig. 1 or Fig. 3 shown).

[0054] Optionally, the dosing unit 1 further comprises a second magnetic switch 141b, wherein the first magnetic switch 141a and the second magnetic switch 141b are attached at different locations on the receiving unit 11. The distance of the magnet 142 from the second magnetic switch 141b is smaller when the second detection unit 122 is in the overflow position ( Fig. 3 ), as if the second recognition unit 122 were in the operating position ( Fig. 2 ) or the empty position ( Fig. 1 ). The second magnetic switch 141b is configured such that it is actuated, or only outputs a second detection signal, when the distance between the magnet 142 and the second magnetic switch 141b falls below a predetermined minimum distance, so that it outputs the second detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the overflow position, but does not output the second detection signal when the second detection unit 142 is in the idle position or the operating position.

[0055] In this way, as described above, the position of the second detection unit 122 can be determined by combining the first and second detection signals: If the first detection signal is output and the second detection signal is not output, the second detection unit 122 is in the operating position ( Fig. 2 If the first detection signal is not output and the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the overflow position ( Fig. 3 If neither the first nor the second detection signal is output, the second detection unit is in the idle position ( Fig. 1 The controller can, for example, issue an empty warning signal when the detection unit 122 is in the empty position, and an overflow warning signal when the detection unit 122 is in the overflow position. The user can thus use the warning signal to determine, for example, whether cartridge 2 is missing or if there is an overfill, and take appropriate action to correct the fault.

[0056] Fig. 4A shows a schematic view of a cleaning device with an integrated dosing unit 1, and Fig. 4B Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a cleaning device with an external dosing unit 1. In this embodiment, the cleaning device is a dishwasher. The dishwasher comprises a dishwasher housing 4 and a wash chamber 3, which includes a wash tank 31 and a dispensing device 32.

[0057] In Fig. 4A The dosing unit 1 is a component of the dishwasher and therefore integrated into the dishwasher. Furthermore, it is in Fig. 4A A water safety device 6 is integrated into the dishwasher. The fresh water from the fresh water connection 5 is first directed to the water safety device 6. From there, it can flow via a first branch to the dosing unit 1 to be used for dosing the detergent as described above, and via a second branch to the wash chamber 3 to be used for filling and / or rinsing the machine.

[0058] In contrast, in Fig. 4B The dosing unit 1 is designed separately from the dishwasher and is therefore an external component. In this case, the water safety device 6 is also designed separately from the dishwasher and is therefore an external component. The water from the fresh water connection 5 is first directed to the water safety device 6 and from there to the dosing unit 1 to be used for dosing the detergent, as described above.

[0059] Otherwise, the features and functions of dosing unit 1 are analogous in both cases as described above. In particular, they show Fig. 4A und Fig. 4B The cartridge 2, filled with the cleaning agent and inserted into the dosing unit, and the outlet of the cleaning fluid, i.e., the solution of the cleaning agent in the fresh water, from the dosing unit 1 into the wash tank 31 and from there into the dispensing device 32 to be used for a washing cycle of the dishwasher. In another embodiment, it is also possible that the cleaning fluid, i.e., the solution of the cleaning agent in the fresh water, is fed directly to one or more dispensing devices of a dishwasher or other cleaning device, optionally with the interposition of heating devices and / or heat exchangers. Liste der Bezugszeichen

[0060] 1 Dosing unit 11 Receiving unit 111 Side wall 112 Support surface 12 Detection device 121 First detection unit 1211 Contact surface 122 Second detection unit 13 First swivel joint 123 Second swivel joint 14 Sensor 141a First magnetic switch 141b Second magnetic switch 142 Magnet 15 Spring element 16 Spray unit 17 Inlet 18 Outlet 2 Cartridge 3 Wash chamber 31 Wash tank 32 Dispensing device 4 Dishwasher housing 5 Fresh water connection 6 Water safety device

Claims

1. Metering unit (1) for a cleaning device, wherein the metering unit (1) comprises a receiving unit (11) for inserting a cartridge (2), which contains a cleaning agent for a cleaning process of the cleaning device, into the receiving unit (11) and for removing the cartridge (2) from the receiving unit (11); characterized in that the metering unit (1) further comprises a detection device (12) both for detecting whether the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) or is removed from the receiving unit (11), and also for detecting a level of a cleaning liquid, which contains the cleaning agent, in the receiving unit (11); wherein the detection device (12) comprises a first detection unit (121) and a second detection unit (122); wherein the first detection unit (121) is arranged to be movable back and forth, relative to the receiving unit (11), between a first position and a second position; wherein the first detection unit (121) and the second detection unit (122) are coupled to one another such that a relative movement between the first detection unit (121) and the second detection unit (122) is possible at least in a certain position of the first detection unit (121) relative to the receiving unit (11); wherein the second detection unit (122) can assume an operating position, an empty position, and an overflow position relative to the receiving unit (11); and wherein the metering unit (1) is configured such that: - when the cartridge (2) is removed from the receiving unit (11), the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the empty position, - when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) and the level is below a first threshold value, the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the operating position, and - when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) and the level is above a second threshold value, which is greater than or equal to the first threshold value, the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the overflow position.

2. Metering device (1) according to claim 1, which further comprises: a controller, which is configured such that it controls a metering of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2) based on the position of the second detection unit (122).

3. Metering device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the controller is configured such that it: - enables the metering of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2) when the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the operating position, and - prevents the metering of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2) when the second detection unit (122) is arranged in the empty position or in the overflow position.

4. Metering device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which further comprises: a sensor (14) which is configured such that it detects a position of the second detection unit (122) and outputs a first detection signal based on the detected position; and wherein the controller is preferably configured such that it controls the metering of the cleaning agent from the cartridge (2) based on the first detection signal.

5. Metering device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the sensor (14) comprises a first magnetic switch (141a) and a magnet (142); wherein the first magnetic switch (141a) is fixed on the receiving unit (11); wherein the magnet (142) is fixed on the second detection unit (122); and wherein the sensor (14) detects the position of the second detection unit (122) based on an arrangement of the magnet (142) relative to the first magnetic switch (141a), in particular based on a distance of the magnet (142) from the first magnetic switch (141a), wherein further preferably, the sensor (14) further comprises a second magnetic switch (141b), which is fixed on the receiving unit (11), wherein the second magnetic switch (141b) differs from the first magnetic switch (141a); and the sensor (14) detects the position of the second detection unit (122) based on an arrangement of the magnet (142) relative to the first magnetic switch (141a) and to the second magnetic switch (141b), in particular based on a distance of the magnet (142) from the first magnetic switch (141a) and a distance of the magnet (142) from the second magnetic switch (141b).

6. Metering device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the metering unit (1) comprises a spring element (15), which is designed such that the first detection unit (121) is biased in the first position when no cartridge (2) is inserted, and, when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11), the first detection unit (121) is moved counter to the spring force of the spring element (15) out of the first position into the second position.

7. Metering device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the metering device (1) is designed such that, when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11) and the level rises from the first threshold value to the second threshold value, a buoyancy force of the cleaning liquid acts on the second detection unit (122) so that the second detection unit (122) is moved from the operating position into the overflow position, wherein further preferably i) the second detection unit (122) comprises a cavity in which a buoyant element is arranged, wherein the buoyant element is preferably an air cushion; or ii) the second detection unit (122) is manufactured from a material which has a lower density than the cleaning liquid, preferably a density lower than 1 g / cm3.

8. Metering device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning agent is a solid cleaner; and wherein the cleaning liquid is a solvent of the solid cleaner.

9. Metering device (1) according to claim 8, which further comprises: a spray unit (16) for spraying fresh water into the cartridge (2) so that the cleaning liquid is formed by dissolving the solid cleaner contained in the cartridge (2) in the fresh water and runs out of the cartridge (2) into the receiving unit (11), wherein the controller is further preferably configured such that it: - enables the spraying of fresh water from the spray unit (16) when the detection unit is arranged in the operating position, and - prevents the spraying of fresh water from the spray unit (16) when the detection unit is arranged in either the empty position or the overflow position.

10. Metering device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving unit (11) comprises a side wall (111) which is arranged parallel to an insertion direction of the cartridge (2); and wherein, when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11), the detection device (12) is arranged in a recess of the side wall (111), and / or wherein the second detection unit (122) is arranged to be movable along a linear movement direction between the operating position and the empty position; wherein this movement direction of the second detection unit differs from an insertion direction of the cartridge (2).

11. Metering device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first detection unit (121) is fixed on the receiving unit (11) by means of a first pivot joint (13) so that the first detection unit (121) is arranged to be pivotable between the first and the second position relative to the receiving unit.

12. Metering device (1) according to claim 11, wherein the first detection unit (121) comprises a contact surface (1211); wherein, when the level lies below the first threshold value and the cartridge (2) is removed from the receiving unit (11), the contact surface (1211) is arranged at an angle differing from 0° to the insertion direction of the cartridge (2); and wherein preferably, when the cartridge (2) is inserted into the receiving unit (11), the contact surface (1211) contacts the cartridge (2) and / or is biased by the spring force of the spring element (15) in the direction of the cartridge (2).

13. Metering device (1) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the second detection unit (122) is fixed on the first detection unit (121) by means of a second pivot joint (123), so that at least in the certain position of the first detection unit, the second detection unit is arranged to be pivotable relative to the first detection unit.

14. Metering system for a cleaning device which comprises a metering unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims and the cartridge (2).

15. Cleaning device which comprises the metering unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13.