Cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning articles

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning apparatus (110) for cleaning articles (124). The cleaning apparatus (110) comprises at least one cleaning chamber (128) and at least one covering device (134), which encloses the cleaning chamber (128) at least in part. The covering device (134) can be moved by means of at least one electromechanical drive (186), via at least one gear mechanism (184), in an opening-movement direction (139) from a closed position (135) into an open position (137) or in a closing-movement direction (141) from an open position (137) into a closed position (135). The cleaning apparatus (110) also has a sensor (202), which is designed to detect manual force applied to the covering device (134) in the opening-movement direction (139) or in the closing-movement direction (141). The cleaning apparatus (110) is also designed to activate the electromechanical drive (186) in accordance with the detection of the manual force applied.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a cleaning device having the features of claim 1 and a method for cleaning items to be cleaned having the features of claim 11. Such cleaning devices and methods can be used in the field of dishwashing technology, particularly in commercial kitchens and communal catering facilities. The invention is used in hood-type dishwashers or pass-through dishwashers. State of the art

[0002] Numerous cleaning devices and methods for cleaning various types of items are known from the prior art. Without limiting further possible applications, the invention is described below with regard to dishwashing technology, i.e. with regard to cleaning devices in the form of dishwashers. In particular, these can be commercial dishwashers. Examples of such dishwashers are, in particular, the glass and dishwashing machines of the DV series or the EcoStar series from Meiko Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG, Offenburg, Germany, or the PT series from Winterhalter Deutschland GmbH, Meckenbeuren, Germany. However, the present invention can also be used in other products in principle.

[0003] In known hood-type dishwashers, the hood is usually guided by means of a suitable guide, whereby the operating personnel can move the hood from a closed to an open position or vice versa using corresponding handles and / or levers. However, automatic hood-type dishwashers are also known in which the hood movement occurs automatically, for example driven by a motor. The hood movement is usually initiated by a corresponding signal being given via a control panel on the hood-type dishwasher. Alternatively or additionally, separate buttons or switches can also be provided. The disadvantage of such arrangements, however, is that although the control elements can in principle be positioned anywhere, they each have to be wired separately, which is complex and cost-intensive in practice.Depending on the local conditions and the specific installation situation of the dishwasher, the operating controls are not always easily accessible for the operator. If the hood movement is triggered solely via the dishwasher's control panel, the operator must leave their working position, which is usually located to the side of the dishwasher, for example, at a sink with a pre-rinse spray, to initiate the hood movement.

[0004] Automatic triggering processes are also known from the prior art. For this purpose, various sensors are used in household appliances and furnishings, which receive specific signals and accordingly initiate the opening of a door or drawer. For example, WO 2009 / 132813 A1 discloses a dishwasher with a decorative panel designed as a touch sensor. DE 10 2008 028 313 A1 discloses a capacitive touch switch for a household appliance. EP 2 428 153 B1 describes a household appliance with a door opening sensor for detecting an acoustically expressed door opening request. EP 2 497 405 A2 describes a household appliance with a knock sensor, which enables the input of a knock signal. DE 10 2007 003 451 A1 and DE 20 2007 006 818 U1 describe a cabinet with one or more drawers and a room microphone as well as solid-state sound sensors.DE 10 2012 223 775 A1 describes a household appliance with a structure-borne sound sensor configured to detect footstep noise from a person moving in an area surrounding the household appliance. DE 10 2014 007 172 A1 describes an electronic household appliance with a gesture detection device.

[0005] Despite the advantages associated with this improved sensor technology, numerous technical challenges remain. One challenge, for example, is that signals are often ambiguous or difficult to interpret. In particular, acoustic signals, haptic signals, and even structure-borne noise can arise in the often turbulent operation of a commercial kitchen without the intention of triggering a specific reaction from the dishwasher. However, an incorrectly triggered reaction can interrupt the workflow and thus lead to unwanted malfunctions. Furthermore, many of the sensors mentioned are expensive and sensitive to environmental influences, which often presents a technical challenge, particularly with regard to the working conditions in commercial kitchens. Object of the invention

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cleaning device and a method for cleaning items to be cleaned that at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of this type. In particular, a cleaning device and a method are to be provided that enable the opening or closing of a cleaning chamber of the cleaning device in a simple, cost-effective, and user-friendly manner. Disclosure of the invention

[0007] This object is achieved by a cleaning device and a method having the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are presented in the dependent claims.

[0008] In the following, the terms "have," "have," "comprise," or "include," or any grammatical variations thereof, are used non-exclusively. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, apart from the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B," "A has B," "A comprises B," or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no further element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, for example, element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0009] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be provided singly or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. Upon subsequent re-mention of the feature or element, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element may be provided singly or multiple times.

[0010] Furthermore, the terms "preferably," "in particular," "for example," or similar terms are used below in connection with optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and these features are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or "in an embodiment of the invention" are understood to be optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave untouched all possibilities of combining the features introduced thereby with other features, whether optional or non-optional.

[0011] In a first aspect of the present invention, a cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned is proposed. Within the scope of the present invention, a cleaning device is generally understood to mean a device in which the items to be cleaned are cleaned using at least one cleaning fluid in order to at least partially remove adhering dirt and / or other contaminants. The cleaning fluid can, in particular, comprise at least one cleaning liquid. In addition, the cleaning device can also exert a germicidal or even disinfecting effect on the items to be cleaned.Accordingly, a method for cleaning items to be cleaned, as proposed in a second aspect of the present invention, hereinafter also referred to as a cleaning method, is understood to mean applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned for the purpose of at least partially removing adhering dirt from the items to be cleaned.

[0012] In this context, items to be cleaned can generally be understood to mean any goods that can be subjected to cleaning or a cleaning process, for example industrial goods. Without limiting further possible embodiments, reference is made below to items to be cleaned in the form of dishes. Items to be washed should generally include any objects that are used for the preparation, storage, presentation or transport of food and / or drinks. In particular, these can be items to be washed selected from the group consisting of dishes such as cups, plates, glasses, bowls or dishes; pots; trays; cutlery; warming devices; containers; boxes; baskets. Other devices that can be used directly or indirectly for the processing, preparation, transport or presentation of food and / or drinks or precursors of food and / or drinks can also be used.The cleaning device is designed as a dishwasher and as a hood dishwasher and / or pass-through dishwasher.

[0013] The cleaning device further comprises at least one cleaning chamber and at least one covering device that at least partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A cleaning chamber can generally be understood to be a completely or at least partially shielded space in which the items to be cleaned can be exposed to at least one cleaning fluid and / or multiple cleaning fluids. For example, at least one exposure device for exposing the items to be cleaned to the at least one cleaning fluid can be provided within the cleaning chamber. Furthermore, the items to be cleaned can also be completely or partially dried within the cleaning chamber. The cleaning device can in particular be designed as a single-chamber cleaning device. The items to be cleaned can also be referred to below as items to be washed, and the cleaning chamber can also be referred to as the rinsing chamber.

[0014] As explained above, the cleaning device has at least one cover device that at least partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A cover device is generally understood to mean a device or element that at least partially delimits the cleaning chamber and simultaneously allows access to the cleaning chamber, for example, for loading the cleaning chamber with items to be cleaned or for removing the items to be cleaned from the cleaning chamber.

[0015] As explained in more detail below, the cover device is designed as a hood that is mounted for vertical displacement. The cover device comprises a hood that can be moved upwards to open the cleaning chamber and downwards to close the cleaning chamber together with a base of the cleaning device.

[0016] The cover device can be moved via at least one gear by means of at least one electromechanical drive in an opening direction from a closed position to an open position, or in a closing direction from an open position to a closed position. The cover device is generally movably mounted so that it can be brought into at least two different positions: an open position and a closed position. Intermediate positions are also possible. The majority of possible positions between the open position and the closed position, optionally including the open position and the closed position, can also be referred to as the opening path.

[0017] In the context of the present invention, a "gearbox" can generally be understood as a machine element by means of which a force and / or torque transmission can take place between a drive and a driven element. In particular, motion variables can also be changed by means of a gearbox. For example, a change in force or torque can take place by means of the gearbox. In particular, a movement to be changed can be a rotational movement. The gearbox can thus also include a torque converter.

[0018] The transmission can in particular comprise at least one traction mechanism transmission, in particular at least one chain transmission. A traction mechanism transmission is generally understood to be a transmission in which a torque is transmitted between two elements, for example between at least one shaft and at least one further element, in particular also between two shafts, with the aid of a traction mechanism, for example a traction mechanism that wraps around the at least one shaft. A traction mechanism can generally be understood to be a deformable, for example bendable or stretchable, elongated element by means of which a tensile force can be transmitted. For example, the power transmission path can have at least one traction mechanism, in particular a bendable traction mechanism.The traction means can be selected from the group consisting of: a chain, in particular a roller chain, a bolt chain, or a link chain; a rope and / or cable pull; an elastic band; a belt, in particular a toothed belt or a V-belt. However, other traction means can also be used in principle.

[0019] In the context of the present invention, an "electromechanical drive" is generally understood to mean a device configured to convert electrical energy into at least one mechanical movement, in particular a linear movement and / or a rotary movement. In particular, the electromechanical drive may comprise at least one motor, as explained in more detail below. For example, the electromechanical drive may be coupled to the cover device via the gear mechanism in order to move the cover device in the opening direction, i.e., to open it completely or partially, and in the closing direction, i.e., to close it completely or partially.However, as an alternative or in addition to the use of a motor, other types of electromechanical drives can also be used, for example, at least one drive selected from the group consisting of a hydraulic drive, an electrohydraulic drive, a pneumatic drive, or an electropneumatic drive. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0020] The cleaning device further comprises a sensor. The sensor is configured to detect a manual application of force to the cover device in the opening or closing direction. The cleaning device is configured to actuate the electromechanical drive in accordance with the detection of the manual application of force.

[0021] A "sensor" within the meaning of the present invention is generally understood to be any element configured to detect at least one measured variable and generate at least one corresponding signal, for example, an electrical signal, such as an analog and / or digital signal. The at least one sensor may, in particular, comprise at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of a motion sensor, a pressure sensor, a tension sensor, a strain sensor, an incremental encoder, an actuator, an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, a pneumatic sensor, a hydraulic sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, a magnetic sensor, and an electrical sensor. Other sensors or combinations of the aforementioned sensors are also possible in principle.The at least one sensor may in particular comprise at least one angular position sensor which monitors at least one angular position of at least one shaft which is connected to the electromechanical drive, in particular the motor.

[0022] A "manual force application" within the meaning of the present invention is generally understood to mean any action or exertion of a force by a human person, in particular a user. This can be, for example, a compressive force or a tensile force. Detection of the manual force application on the covering device, i.e., a force acting on the covering device, can occur directly or indirectly. Direct detection includes, for example, a tensile and / or compressive force acting on the covering device.Indirect detection includes, for example, an effect caused by the applied force, for example a movement, for example a movement of the covering device and / or at least one element connected to the covering device, for example the gear or a part thereof and / or the electromechanical drive or a part thereof, for example a motor or a shaft connected to the motor. The manual application of force can occur entirely or partially directly on the covering device and / or entirely or partially indirectly, for example via at least one element connected to the covering device, for example a handle.

[0023] The manual force application that is detected occurs in the opening direction or in the closing direction. This means that the force manually exerted by the user has at least one force component in the opening direction and is preferably oriented parallel to the opening direction, or has at least one force component in the closing direction and is preferably oriented parallel to the closing direction. For example, in the case of a hood, a force can be exerted in a vertical upward or downward direction, so that, for example, the hood is slightly raised or lowered by the manual force application, which can be detected by the sensor.

[0024] As explained above, the cleaning device is configured to actuate the electromechanical drive upon detection of the manual force application. Within the context of the present invention, "actuation" is generally understood to mean a type of operation of the electromechanical drive, in particular starting the electromechanical drive, stopping the electromechanical drive, changing a drive speed of the electromechanical drive, for example, a rotational speed of a motor, or changing the direction of the electromechanical drive, for example, changing a rotational direction of a motor. The actuation can be effected, for example, by a controller of the cleaning device, which acts directly or indirectly on the electromechanical drive to effect the actuation, for example, according to one or more of the aforementioned types.

[0025] In the context of the present invention, control "according to the detection of the manual force application" is generally understood to mean that the control can be changed upon detection of the manual force application. For example, the control can be changed when it is detected that a manual force application is occurring, and / or the type of control can be changed when it is detected that a manual force application is occurring. Alternatively or additionally, the control can also be changed according to the direction of the manual force application.

[0026] As explained in more detail below, for example, a movement of the cover device caused by manual force application can be detected and its direction determined. The electromechanical drive is then controlled accordingly in such a way that it continues the movement of the cover device alone, without further manual force application, until this movement has reached its end, i.e. the open position or closed position. In the hood-type dishwasher, for example, the at least one sensor detects when a user manually begins to open the hood with the hood in the closed position, for example by moving the hood slightly upwards. The electromechanical drive, for example the motor, is then controlled in such a way that this opening movement is continued exclusively by the electromechanical drive until the open position is reached.However, if, alternatively or additionally, the at least one sensor detects that a user manually begins to close the hood when the hood is in the open position, for example, by moving the hood slightly downwards, the electromechanical drive, for example, the motor, is controlled in such a way that this closing movement is continued exclusively by the electromechanical drive until the hood reaches the closed position. An opening movement is generally understood to mean a movement in the opening direction, and a closing movement is generally understood to mean a movement in the closing direction.

[0027] The cleaning device is a dishwasher. The dishwasher is selected from the group consisting of a hood-type dishwasher and a pass-through dishwasher. A hood-type dishwasher is generally understood to be a dishwasher having a base that provides a bottom side of the washing chamber and at least one hood or hood casing as a covering device, which completely or partially forms at least one side wall of the cleaning chamber and optionally at least one lid of the cleaning chamber and which can be raised or lowered to expose the cleaning chamber.A pass-through dishwasher is generally understood to be a dishwasher which has at least one pass-through device by means of which items to be cleaned, for example a basket with items to be cleaned, can be pushed into the washing chamber from one insertion side, for example with the hood open, and from which the items to be cleaned can be pushed out of the cleaning chamber again on a second side, for example a removal side, after the cleaning process has been completed. In practical usage, the term pass-through dishwasher is often used as a generic term and also includes, for example, hood dishwashers with a pass-through device. Pass-through dishwashers generally do not have an active pass-through device but rather a manual dish feed. The pass-through device comprises, for example, slide rails and / or guides.For examples of such hood dishwashers, reference can be made to the above-mentioned state of the art.

[0028] As stated above, the cleaning device can further comprise, in particular, at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. For example, one or more cleaning nozzles can be provided in the cleaning chamber, via which the cleaning fluid can be sprayed and / or sprayed and / or dripped onto the items to be cleaned. In particular, one or more spray arms, in particular rotating spray arms, can also be provided.

[0029] The cleaning device can further comprise at least one processing tank, in particular at least one boiler, formed separately from the cleaning chamber. A rinse liquid can be temperature-controlled in the processing tank while a rinsing process takes place in the cleaning chamber. Thus, the cleaning device can be designed, in particular, as a commercial dishwasher.

[0030] The opening movement direction and the closing movement direction each have at least one vertical directional component. Preferably, the cover device has different potential energy, in particular different potential energy, in the closed position and the open position. Thus, in the open position, the cover device can be arranged, in particular, at least partially above the closed position.

[0031] The covering device can in particular be or comprise a linearly movable covering device. The covering device can in particular perform exclusively a linear movement between the open position and the closed position or vice versa, without any rotational component. This is particularly the case with hood-type dishwashers of conventional design. However, other configurations with one or more rotational components or with an exclusively rotational movement are also possible in principle. The cleaning device can in particular have at least one linear guide for the covering device, in particular a guide rail and / or a guide rod.

[0032] The cleaning device can, in particular, have at least one controller. Within the scope of the present invention, a "controller" is understood to mean a device configured to influence at least one function of the cleaning device. For example, the controller can comprise at least one electrical controller, in particular an electrical controller with at least one data processing device. For example, the controller can comprise at least one processor, at least one microcomputer, or at least one application-specific integrated circuit. Other configurations are also possible. The controller can, in particular, be configured in a program to control at least one function of the cleaning device, for example, at least one program sequence of at least one cleaning program.The controller can further comprise at least one user interface, for example at least one input device that enables a user to transmit at least one command and / or at least one piece of information to the controller. For example, the user interface can comprise at least one keyboard and / or at least one button and / or at least one switch. Furthermore, the user interface can comprise at least one output device, for example at least one display and / or at least one indicator device. Furthermore, the controller can comprise at least one electronic interface, for example at least one wireless or wired interface. The controller can, for example, be or comprise a central machine control system by means of which one or more cleaning programs, in particular one or more rinsing programs, can be controlled.For example, the control system can be configured to control at least one rinsing process, at least one post-rinsing process and optionally at least one drying process.

[0033] The controller is configured to control the electromechanical drive. For example, the controller can be configured to start or stop the electromechanical drive, determine or reverse a direction of movement of the electromechanical drive, determine a speed of the electromechanical drive, or perform a combination of the aforementioned actions, for example by transmitting a corresponding electrical signal. For example, the controller can be connected to the electromechanical drive via at least one interface, for example, wired or wireless.

[0034] The cleaning device, in particular the control, can be configured in at least one of the following ways: the cleaning device, in particular the control system, is configured to detect a manual application of force in the opening direction and to control the electromechanical drive such that the covering device is moved in the opening direction; and / or the cleaning device, in particular the control system, is configured to detect a manual application of force in the closing direction and to control the electromechanical drive such that the covering device is moved in the closing direction.

[0035] As explained above, in this way a detected, user-induced opening or closing movement can be continued independently by the electromechanical drive, for example to the open position or to the closed position.

[0036] As stated above, the electromechanical drive can in particular comprise at least one motor, in particular an electric motor, in particular a geared motor. The motor can in particular be a DC geared motor. However, other configurations are also possible in principle.

[0037] The motor can, in particular, be a non-self-locking motor, for example, a non-self-locking electric motor, preferably a non-self-locking DC motor. A "non-self-locking" motor is generally understood to mean a motor which, when not controlled and, for example, not supplied with current, allows movement of its drive axle or drive shaft. In this way, for example, an initial manual movement of the covering device can be initiated without the motor significantly inhibiting this movement. In particular, the cleaning device can be configured such that the motor is moved by the manual application of force to the covering device, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a movement of the motor, in particular a rotational movement.For example, as explained above, the sensor can comprise at least one incremental encoder that detects a rotary movement of the motor induced by the manual movement of the covering device. An "incremental encoder" within the meaning of the present invention is understood to mean, in particular, a sensor configured to detect position changes, in particular position changes during a linear movement of the covering device and / or the electromechanical drive, and / or angular changes, for example, angular changes during a rotary movement of the covering device and / or the electromechanical drive, in particular the motor. However, other configurations are also possible in principle.

[0038] As explained above, the sensor can also be configured, in particular, to detect the direction of manual force application. This direction detection can be used, in particular, to support the detected, user-induced movement in the direction desired by the user or even to continue it independently using the electromechanical drive.

[0039] The at least one sensor can generally be arranged at various locations on the cleaning device to fulfill the aforementioned function. A combination of sensors is also possible in principle. In particular, the sensor can be connected to at least one element selected from the group consisting of: the covering device, the gear, and the electromechanical drive. Thus, the sensor can, in particular, have at least one incremental encoder connected to the electromechanical drive.

[0040] The sensor is configured to detect the manual application of force to the covering device due to a movement. Thus, as explained above, the manual application of force to the covering device can, in particular, initiate a movement of the covering device, preferably a minimal movement, for example a linear movement of 50 mm or less, in particular 30 mm or less, for example 10 mm or less, in particular 5 mm or less. Due to this preferred minimal movement, the amount of force required by a user to initiate the movement can be kept as low as possible. The movement can, in particular, be selected from a movement of the covering device, a movement of the gear, and a movement of the electromechanical drive. Combinations are also possible.

[0041] In particular, a threshold value method can be used to detect movement. For example, it can be detected whether, due to the manual application of force, the covering device moves by more than a predetermined threshold value or by at least one predetermined threshold value, for example upwards or downwards, for example in the opening or closing direction. The detection of movement can, in particular, generally be associated with a query as to whether or not the electromechanical drive is currently being controlled to move the covering device. For example, the cleaning device can be configured such that if a movement by at least one predetermined threshold value or by more than a predetermined threshold value is detected, this is only recognized as a movement due to the manual application of force if the covering device is not simultaneously being driven by the electromechanical drive.Only then, for example, can the control system interpret this movement as a user's request to carry out an opening or closing movement.

[0042] In general, the cleaning device can therefore be configured, in particular, to compare the movement with at least one threshold value, for example, by comparing a traveled distance or an angle traveled by the covering device, the gear, or the electromechanical drive with the at least one threshold value in order to detect the manual application of force to the covering device. In addition, as explained above, it can be detected as a further boundary condition whether the electromechanical drive is in operation or not, so that, for example, movements induced by the electromechanical drive can be excluded.

[0043] The transmission can in particular comprise at least one traction mechanism transmission, in particular at least one chain transmission. A traction mechanism transmission is generally understood to be a transmission in which a torque is transmitted between two elements, for example between at least one shaft and at least one further element, in particular also between two shafts, with the aid of a traction mechanism, for example a traction mechanism that wraps around the at least one shaft. A traction mechanism can generally be understood to be a deformable, for example bendable or stretchable, elongated element by means of which a tensile force can be transmitted. For example, the power transmission path can have at least one traction mechanism, in particular a bendable traction mechanism.The traction means can be selected from the group consisting of: a chain, in particular a roller chain, a bolt chain, or a link chain; a rope and / or cable pull; an elastic band; a belt, in particular a toothed belt or a V-belt. However, other traction means can also be used in principle.

[0044] The above-mentioned at least one sensor of the cleaning device can in principle be arranged at at least one arbitrary location within the cleaning device which is suitable for detecting the manual application of force to the covering device in the opening movement direction or in the closing movement direction. If, for example, a gear and / or a power transmission line are included in the cleaning device, the at least one sensor can be arranged at any arbitrary location within this gear and / or within this power transmission line. For example, the sensor can be arranged relatively far forward in the entire power transmission, for example as a strain gauge, which can be arranged, for example, on a rod or on a first chain. As a result, relatively short distances are required on the covering device in order to detect the application of force.This design can also be used, for example, in combination with a self-locking drive motor. However, other designs are also possible.

[0045] The cleaning device can further have additional functions. For example, the cleaning device can be further configured to start at least one cleaning program, in particular at least one rinsing program, after performing a closing movement after the cover device has reached the closed position. For example, in a hood-type dishwasher, the hood can be in the closed position, in particular the lower end position, after closing, and a rinsing program can then additionally be started automatically, in particular if the control system is parameterized accordingly.

[0046] As explained above, a second aspect of the present invention proposes a method for cleaning items to be cleaned. The method can be carried out, in particular, using the cleaning device according to the present invention, in particular according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. Accordingly, for possible definitions and / or options of the method, reference can be made to the description of the cleaning device.

[0047] The method comprises various process steps, which can be carried out, for example, in the specified order. However, a different order is also possible in principle. Furthermore, the method may comprise additional, unspecified process steps. Furthermore, one or more or even all of the process steps may be carried out repeatedly and / or continuously. Furthermore, two or more of the specified process steps, or even all of the specified process steps, may be carried out simultaneously or in an overlapping manner.

[0048] The method utilizes at least one cover device that at least partially encloses the cleaning chamber. The cover device can be moved via at least one gear mechanism by means of at least one electromechanical drive in an opening direction from a closed position to an open position, or in a closing direction from an open position to a closed position.

[0049] The method comprises detecting a manual force application to the cover device in the opening direction or in the closing direction by means of at least one sensor. The method further comprises controlling the electromechanical drive in accordance with the detection of the manual force application.

[0050] The method may further comprise applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning device, for example, using at least one application device. This application may occur, for example, after the covering device has been moved into the closed position in the closing direction.

[0051] As explained above, the control of the electromechanical drive can in particular comprise at least one of the following steps: upon detection of a manual force application in the opening movement direction, a control of the electromechanical drive such that the cover device is moved in the opening movement direction; upon detection of a manual force application in the closing movement direction, a control of the electromechanical drive such that the cover device is moved in the closing movement direction.

[0052] The cleaning device and method offer numerous advantages over known devices and methods of the type mentioned. For example, support for the opening or closing movement of a cover device can be easily implemented without requiring significant additional equipment. In particular, additional switches, buttons, proximity sensors, or similar complex sensors that signal a user request to open or close the cover device can be omitted. This also eliminates the problem of wiring such switches, buttons, or sensors, as well as the problem of arranging these devices.

[0053] The sensor, however, is easy to implement. The sensor can also be used for multiple functions. For example, incremental encoders can be easily implemented in gearboxes or motors. Such incremental encoders can also be used, for example, to monitor motor functionality.

[0054] Operation can be designed to be very intuitive, since the user usually applies force to the cover itself to open or close it. This force can be detected and automatically assisted. The user may not even be aware that by applying force to the cover, they are triggering a switching process that either assists the movement of the cover or is automatically performed by the electromechanical drive.

[0055] The cover device can, for example, have at least one handle or at least one lever that can be used by the user for the opening or closing process. An additional button or switch is no longer required, since the cover device itself and its movement can be used, for example, as a control element.

[0056] The opening or closing of the covering device does not necessarily have to be triggered by the manual application of force to the covering device. In addition to this option of triggering the opening or closing movement by manual application of force, other triggers for an opening or closing movement can also be provided. For example, the cleaning device can be designed such that, in addition to the design according to the invention, a program-controlled opening or closing movement also occurs, in which an impulse given by a user does not necessarily trigger the opening or closing movement. For example, the cleaning device, in particular the control system, can be set up such that at the end of a cleaning program, the covering device, for example the hood, is opened automatically, for example in accordance with a parameterization of the cleaning program.

[0057] The present invention is particularly advantageous in hood-type dishwashers or pass-through dishwashers in which a heavy hood has to be moved. The hood can be driven by a motor, such as a DC geared motor, via chains or other traction devices. An incremental encoder can be located at the end of the motor's shaft to implement monitoring functions. The geared motor can be designed such that it is not self-locking. This means that, for example, in the event of a malfunction, the hood can also be operated manually. This design makes it possible to move the hood by hand, which moves the motor along with it. The incremental encoder can detect a rotary movement of the motor and the associated operating direction and pass this information on to the control system, for example by means of at least one signal.The control system can evaluate this signal, interpret the desired movement, and then drive the motor in the appropriate direction. As explained above, movement can be detected, for example, using a threshold value method. For example, a hood lift of 5 mm or more can be detected, and the motor can then be driven in the appropriate direction. Separate buttons or switches are generally not required, although these may be present, thus avoiding increased assembly and installation requirements and thus enabling costs to be reduced. Hood-type dishwashers are usually equipped with one or more handles on the hood or one or more levers on the hood. These are generally conveniently located relative to the operator's working position and can, for example, be operated without direct visual contact.Overall, the invention results in a user-friendly and safe situation. Short description of the characters

[0058] Further details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, particularly in conjunction with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the embodiments. The embodiments are illustrated schematically in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures designate identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions.

[0059] In detail: Figure 1 shows an exemplary front view of a pass-through dishwasher in the form of a hood dishwasher in which the invention can be implemented; Figure 2 shows a side view of the hood dishwasher according to Figure 1 ; and Figure 3 shows a schematic view of a power transmission line and spring elements for weight compensation of the hood of the hood-type dishwasher. Description of the embodiments

[0060] In Figure 1 An embodiment of a cleaning device 110 according to the invention is shown. The cleaning device 110 is designed in this embodiment as a pass-through dishwasher 112, which comprises an infeed table or feed table 114, a hood-type dishwasher 116 and an outfeed table 118. The cleaning device 110 is in Figure 1 shown in front view. In Figure 2 the hood dishwasher 116 is shown again in a side view.

[0061] In addition to the hood-type dishwasher 116, the cleaning device 110 can, for example, comprise a basin 120 and a hose spray 122 for pre-cleaning the items to be cleaned 124 in the area of ​​the inlet table 114. The items to be cleaned 124 can, for example, be introduced into a cleaning chamber 128 of the cleaning device 110 by means of one or more dish baskets 126. There, the items to be cleaned 124 can be exposed to one or more cleaning fluids, for example via one or more Figures 1 and 2 not shown in detail, for example nozzle systems.

[0062] The hood-type dishwasher 116 has a base 130, which has, for example, a frame 132. Furthermore, the hood-type dishwasher 116 comprises a covering device 134, which is designed as a hood 136. This hood 136 can be opened via an opening path and is in the Figures 1 and 2 each shown with solid lines in a closed position 135 and with dashed lines in an open position 137. The direction of movement from the closed position 135 to the open position 137 defines an opening movement direction 139, and the opposite direction of movement from the open position 137 to the closed position 135 defines a closing movement direction 141.

[0063] The hood-type dishwasher 116 further comprises at least one actuating element 138 in the form of a handle 140. In Figure 2Analogous to the representation of the hood 136, the handle 140 is shown with solid lines in the closed position 135, and with dashed lines in the open position 137. The handle 140, for example, engages directly on the hood 136.

[0064] At least one controller 148 can also be arranged in the base 130 of the hood-type dishwasher 116. However, a controller 148 can also be arranged alternatively or additionally at other locations on the hood-type dishwasher 116. Furthermore, further elements can be arranged in the base 130, such as at least one treatment tank in which a rinse liquid can be tempered, for example, at least one boiler. These elements are not shown in the figures.

[0065] The hood 136 is connected to at least one electromechanical drive 188 via at least one gear 184. The electromechanical drive 188 is configured to move the hood 136 in the opening movement direction 139 or the closing movement direction 141 via the gear 184, for example, to move the hood 136 from the closed position 135 to the open position 137 or vice versa. The gear 184 can, for example, be or have a traction mechanism 185, as described below, as explained in more detail below. The gear 184 comprises, for example, a power transmission path 182, one or more torque transmission elements 168, one or more torque converters 166, one or more sprockets 162, 170, one or more traction mechanisms 158, 172, and optionally further elements.However, it should be noted that other types of transmissions 184 can also be used within the scope of the present invention, for example, transmissions 184 without traction means and / or transmissions 184 without torque converters. The following description of transmission 184 should therefore be considered exemplary.

[0066] The cleaning device 110 has guide elements 150 on both sides of its rear side, one of these guide elements 150 in Figure 3 This guide element 150 can, as shown in Figure 3 shown, for example, a guide rail 152 or another type of guide profile, for example a rectangular profile in the form of a rectangular tube and / or square tube. This is, as shown in Figure 3shown, arranged vertically. Each guide element 150 is supported, for example, by rollers 154, for example, three rollers on each side. A cantilever arm 156 is formed at the top of each guide element 150, onto which the hood 136, for example a completely pre-assembled one, can be pushed and secured, for example, with only a few fastening elements, e.g., two screws.

[0067] A first traction means 158, for example, at least one first roller chain, is attached to the bottom of each guide element 150. This first traction means 158 is guided over a deflection wheel 160 in the upper region of a housing of the cleaning device 110. The first traction means 158 is further placed on a first sprocket 162 in the lower region of the housing. The illustrated arrangement of the guide element 150, the first traction means 158, the deflection wheel 160, and the first sprocket 162 is duplicated on the opposite side of the rear of the cleaning device 110, so that two, for example, identical, first sprockets 162 exist, of which Figure 3To simplify the illustration, only one is shown. The two first sprockets 162 are connected to one another in a torsionally rigid manner via a shaft 164, to which they are mounted in a rotationally rigid manner. In addition, a torque converter 166 is mounted on this shaft 164, also in a torsionally rigid manner. This torque converter comprises a rotatably mounted torque transmission element 168, which in this exemplary embodiment is designed as a third sprocket 170. This third sprocket 170 is rotatably mounted about the axis of the shaft 164. Furthermore, a third traction means 172 is mounted on this third sprocket 170, which lifts off from the third sprocket 170 at an engagement point 174 and is connected at its other end to two spring elements 176, as an example in this exemplary embodiment. The hood 136 is in Figure 3shown in the closed position 135. During a movement along an opening path, the guide element 150 moves upwards, and the first chain wheels 162 rotate in a direction of rotation 178. During this opening movement, the third chain wheel 170 rotates in a direction of rotation 180, for example, the same direction of rotation as the direction of rotation 178.

[0068] The torque transmission element 168 in the form of the third chain wheel 170 is designed, for example, with an uneven radius, as in Figure 3 This means that a distance R between the point of application 174 and the axis changes with an angular position of the torque transmission element 168. However, this also changes the torque transmitted by the third traction means 172 to the shaft 164, since this torque depends on the angular position of the sprocket 170.

[0069] When the hood 136 is closed, the two chains of the first traction means 158, which are attached to the bottom of the guide rails 152, are largely unwound from the sprockets 162. The third traction means 172, however, also designed in the form of a roller chain, for example, is largely wound on its third sprocket 170, and the spring elements 176, which are designed as tension springs, for example, are, as in Figure 3 shown, tensioned. When the hood 136 is raised, the first two traction means 158 wind up onto their wheels 162. At the same time, the third traction means 172 is unwound, and the spring elements 176 relax.

[0070] To compensate for the change in the spring force of the spring elements 176 over the opening travel, the third sprocket 170, as explained above, has an effective radius and / or pitch circle that changes over its circumference. This design allows the change in the spring force over the opening travel or over the extension to be adapted to the force actually required to compensate for the weight of the hood 136. In addition to a uniform and / or continuous radius reduction or increase, non-uniform adjustments of the effective radius R can also be realized. For example, sudden diameter changes can also be incorporated into the sprockets to dampen a movement at the end positions.

[0071] The traction means 158 and the torque converter 166 are components of a power transmission line 182, by means of which a spring force of the at least one spring element 176 can be transmitted to the cover device 134 in a converted form. In this exemplary embodiment, the power transmission line 182 is a component of the transmission 184. Further components of the power transmission line can be the deflection wheels 160 as well as the first chain wheels 162 and the shaft 164. Due to the effective radius R, which varies across the angular position, the torque converter 166 and thus the entire power transmission line 182 has a transmission ratio that varies across the opening travel. The torque converter 166 is thus, for example, a component of the transmission 184, which in this exemplary embodiment has a variable transmission ratio that varies across the opening travel of the cover 136.However, it should be noted that embodiments of the present invention are also possible in which no transmission 184 with a variable gear ratio is used, but rather a transmission with a fixed gear ratio.

[0072] The sprockets 162, 170 can, for example, be individually manufactured and assembled from metal. Furthermore, individual parts of the gear set, such as guide discs, can also be made entirely or partially from plastic. Manufacturing the entire gear set from plastic is also conceivable. The gear set is preferably mounted on roller bearings, which reduces friction and thus enables smooth running. The sprockets 162 and the shaft 164, as well as the traction means 158, 172, can be further components of the transmission 184.

[0073] As already explained above, to realize a semi-automatic and / or fully automatic hood 136, at least one electromechanical drive 186 is coupled to the gear 184, for example, at least one motor and particularly preferably at least one electric motor. In particular, this can be a DC gear motor. The electromechanical drive 186 can be coupled, for example, by means of a further chain 188 and / or another type of traction mechanism, as well as by means of two pinions 190, which can be of the same or different types, and / or by means of a further gear with a fixed or variable transmission ratio.

[0074] To protect operating personnel from excessive closing forces of the semi-automatic or fully automatic hood, several solutions are applicable to an optional semi-automatic or fully automatic hood. For example, the electric motor can be mounted in such a way that its torque is absorbed by a spring-supported torque support 192. If the torque is too high, for example, if the closing force on the hood 136 is too high, this torque support 192 is deflected. This movement can be detected, for example, by a switch 194, which can transmit its signal to the controller 148. The controller 148 can then, for example, stop the movement of the hood 136 and optionally initiate a reverse movement.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, at least one rotary encoder can be integrated into the power transmission line 182, including the electromechanical drive 186, which can also be connected to the controller 148. This rotary encoder is in Figure 3 not shown. The controller 148 can, for example, detect when the signals from the rotary encoder are missing, for example because a movement is obstructed. In this case, the controller 148 can then, for example, stop the movement of the hood and / or initiate a reverse movement. To limit any crushing force that may occur, the weight compensation force for the hood 136 can be adjusted to the closing force of the drive so that safe values ​​are not exceeded.

[0076] To increase the safety of the operating personnel in the event of the failure of individual components of the counterweight system, several elements of the power transmission line 182 can be designed redundantly. For example, instead of a single third traction device 172, such as a single third chain, two chains can be used in parallel or "back to back." Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the third traction device 172 can be supplemented by another deformable component and / or traction device, such as a rope, which can absorb the tensile force in the event of a chain break.

[0077] Further possible embodiments relate to securing elements that provide security in the event of a breakage of the at least one spring element 176. For example, the spring element 176 can have at least one securing element 196, which can be a direct component of the spring elements 176 or, what is also intended to be included, can be coupled to them. For example, this securing element 196 can comprise a catching element or a catching device, which in this exemplary embodiment are coupled to the two spring elements 176. For example, this securing element can have at least one securing rod 198, wherein the force transmission path 182 can couple to the securing rod 198 in the event of a breakage of the at least one spring element 176 or, in the case of multiple spring elements 176, to the breaking rod 198. However, other embodiments are also possible.

[0078] As explained above, in particular, two first traction means 158 can be provided. However, a different number is also possible. Furthermore, two or more of the aforementioned elements can also be combined in whole or in part. For example, the two first traction means 158 can also be shorter and connected, for example, with a single chain, which can then be individually connected to the weight-compensating spring elements 176 via the gear set.

[0079] Instead of the aforementioned roller chains, the invention can also be implemented with other flexible or deformable traction means, or in combination with various types of traction means. For example, bolt chains, link chains, belts, or ropes can be used.

[0080] To actuate a hood movement, a user, in particular operating personnel, can, for example, actuate one or more operating elements 200, which can be arranged, for example, laterally or on a front side of the base 130 and / or the hood 136. These can, for example, act on the controller 148, which in turn controls the electromechanical drive 186. As explained above, however, the arrangement and electrical connection of the at least one operating element 200 are fundamentally problematic. In particular, in the Figure 1 In the arrangement shown, the operating personnel may have to leave the workstation at the basin 120 in order to initiate movement of the hood 136.

[0081] As explained above, to solve this problem, at least one sensor 202 is provided within the scope of the present invention, which is configured to detect a manual application of force to the covering device 134 and preferably also the direction of this application of force. In this way, for example, the hood 136 can be slightly lifted by a user when it is in the closed position 135, i.e., moved in the opening movement direction 139, which is detected by the sensor 202. For example, movements of 5 mm or more or movements greater than 5 mm can be detected as a desire to move the hood 136 in this direction. Conversely, for example, the hood 136 can be slightly pulled downwards in the closing movement direction 141 by a user when it is in the open position 137, which is detected by the sensor 202.The detection of this force application and, if applicable, the direction of this force application can then be converted by the controller 148 into a corresponding control command for the electromechanical drive 186 in order to subsequently support the movement of the hood 136 in the desired direction by the electromechanical drive 186 or even to carry it out exclusively by the electromechanical drive 186. The hood 136 itself can thus be used as a type of control element 200 in that a request regarding a movement of the hood 136 is transmitted to the controller 148 by means of a force application to this hood 136.

[0082] The sensor 202 can generally be arranged at various locations within the cleaning device 110. For example, the at least one sensor 202 can be arranged at one or more of the following locations: on the hood 136; on the guide element 150; on the guide rail 152; within the gear 184, for example, within the power transmission path 182 and / or at another location within the gear 184; in the electromechanical drive 186. In the illustrated embodiment, the electromechanical drive 186 and / or the gear 184 can, for example, comprise at least one driven shaft 204, which is preferably rotatable by the electromechanical drive 186, preferably in both possible directions of rotation. The sensor 202 can, for example, comprise an incremental encoder 206, which can, for example, be arranged at a shaft end of the shaft 204.

[0083] The sensor 202 can, for example, be connected wirelessly or by wire to the controller 148 in order to communicate with it unidirectionally or bidirectionally. The controller 148 can, for example, be configured to evaluate the information from the sensor 202 and issue corresponding control commands to the electromechanical drive 186. The electromechanical drive 186 can be connected to the controller 148 directly or indirectly, for example wirelessly or by wire. For example, the controller 148 can be configured to start the electromechanical drive 186, influence its direction of rotation, or even its rotational speed. Other configurations are also possible. The controller 148 can, for example, be configured to programmatically evaluate signals and / or information from the sensor 202, for example by using a threshold value method.For example, a change in the position and / or an increment transmitted by sensor 202 can be monitored and compared, for example, with one or more threshold values. In this way, for example, the monitoring described above can be performed to determine whether the hood 136 has been moved more than a predetermined distance by the manual force application, which can then be interpreted as a command for further movement in the direction of this force application.

[0084] The electromechanical drive 186 can be configured, in particular, as a DC geared motor. The DC geared motor can, for example, be designed so that it is not self-locking. This allows manual movement and / or the hood 136 can also be operated manually in the event of a malfunction. The motor can be moved along with it. The incremental encoder 206 can, for example, detect a rotary movement of the motor and the associated operating direction, and transmit these signals to the controller 148. The controller 148 can, for example, evaluate this signal, interpret the movement request, and then drive the motor in the appropriate direction.

[0085] Furthermore, the cleaning device 110 can also have additional functions. In particular, it can be configured to carry out at least one cleaning program, for example, by means of a corresponding programming device of the controller 148. For example, after a closing movement, when the hood 136 is in the closed position 135, a rinsing program can be started automatically.

[0086] As explained above, in the embodiment according to the invention, in particular, no separate buttons and / or switches are required to initiate a movement of the hood 136. This eliminates the corresponding installation requirements, and costs can also be significantly reduced compared to conventional cleaning devices 110. The handle 140 is usually located in an ergonomically favorable position on the hood 136, for example, in an ergonomically favorable position relative to a workstation at the basin 120. Operating personnel at this workstation can thus easily reach the handle 140 and thus initiate the hood movement, even without visual contact with the controller 148 and / or corresponding operating elements 200. Furthermore, training is generally not required, since the hood movement is initiated intuitively with a corresponding movement of the handle 140.This results in a user-friendly and safe overall situation of the cleaning device 110. List of reference symbols

[0087] 110 Cleaning device 112 Pass-through dishwasher 114 Inlet table 116 Hood-type dishwasher 118 Outlet table 120 Basin 122 Hose spray 124 Items to be cleaned 126 Dish basket 128 Cleaning chamber 130 Base 132 Frame 134 Cover device 135 Closed position 136 Hood 137 Open position 138 Actuating element 139 Opening direction 140 Handle 141 Closing direction 146 Side wall 148 Control system 150 Guide element 152 Guide rail 154 Roller 156 Cantilever arm 158 First traction device 160 Deflection wheel 162 First sprocket 164 Shaft 166 Torque converter 168 Torque transmission element 170 Third sprocket 172 Third traction mechanism 174 Point of engagement 176 Spring element 178 First direction of rotation 180 Second direction of rotation 182 Power transmission line 184 Gearbox 185 Traction mechanism 186 Electromechanical drive 188 Chain 190 Pinion 192 Torque arm 194 Switch 196 Safety element 198 Safety rod 200 Control element 202 Sensor 204 Shaft 206 Incremental encoder

Claims

1. Cleaning device (110) for cleaning items to be cleaned (124), wherein the cleaning device (110) is a dishwasher, wherein the cleaning device (110) comprises at least one cleaning chamber (128) and at least one covering device (134), wherein the covering device (134) can be moved in an opening movement direction (139) from a closed position (135) into an open position (137) or in a closing movement direction (141) from an open position (137) into a closed position (135) by means of at least one electromechanical drive (186) via at least one transmission (184), wherein the cleaning device (110) furthermore has a sensor (202), wherein the sensor (202) is designed to detect the action of a manual force on the covering device (134) in the opening movement direction (139) or in the closing movement direction (141), and wherein the cleaning device (110) is furthermore designed to control the electromechanical drive (186) in accordance with the detection of the action of a manual force, characterized in that the dishwasher is selected from a hood-type dishwasher (116) and a pass-through dishwasher (112), wherein the covering device (134) at least partially surrounds the cleaning chamber (128) and comprises a hood (136) mounted so as to be movable in a vertical direction, which hood can be moved upwards in order to open the cleaning chamber (128) and can be moved downwards in order to close off the cleaning chamber (128) together with a base (130) of the cleaning device (110), wherein the cleaning device (110) is designed in at least one of the following ways: the cleaning device (110) is designed to detect the action of a manual force in the opening movement direction (139) and to control the electromechanical drive (186) in such a way that the covering device (134) is moved in the opening movement direction (139), wherein the cleaning device (110) is designed to detect, by means of the sensor (202), when a user begins to manually open the hood (136) when the hood (136) is in the closed position (135) and to control the electromechanical drive (186) in such a way that this opening movement is continued exclusively by the electromechanical drive (186) until the open position (137) has been reached; the cleaning device (110) is designed to detect the action of a manual force in the closing movement direction (141) and to control the electromechanical drive (186) in such a way that the covering device (134) is moved in the closing movement direction (141), wherein the cleaning device (110) is furthermore designed to detect, by means of the sensor (202), when the user begins to manually close the hood (136) when the hood (136) is in the open position (137) and to control the electromechanical drive (186) in such a way that this closing movement is continued exclusively by the electromechanical drive (186) until the hood (136) has reached the closed position (135).

2. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the covering device (134) is a linear-motion covering device (134).

3. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning device (110) has a controller (148), wherein the controller (148) is designed to control the electromechanical drive (186).

4. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (202) is designed to detect a direction of the action of manual force.

5. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (202) has at least one incremental encoder (206) connected to the electromechanical drive (186).

6. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (202) is designed to detect the action of manual force on the covering device (134) from a movement.

7. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cleaning device (110) is designed to compare the movement with at least one threshold value in order to detect the action of manual force on the covering device (134).

8. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electromechanical drive (186) comprises a motor, wherein the motor is a non-self-locking motor.

9. Cleaning device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cleaning device (110) is designed in such a way that the motor is moved simultaneously by the action of manual force on the covering device (134), wherein the sensor (202) is designed to detect a movement of the motor.

10. Cleaning device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning device (110) is furthermore designed to start at least one cleaning program after a closing movement has been carried out, once the covering device (134) has reached the closed position.

11. Method for cleaning items to be cleaned (124) comprising cleaning the items to be cleaned (124) in at least one cleaning chamber (128) of a cleaning device (110), wherein the cleaning device (110) is a dishwasher, wherein at least one covering device (134) is used, wherein the covering device (134) can be moved in an opening movement direction (139) from a closed position into an open position or in a closing movement direction (141) from an open position into a closed position by means of at least one electromechanical drive (186) via at least one transmission (184), wherein the method furthermore comprises detecting the action of a manual force on the covering device (134) in the opening movement direction (139) or in the closing movement direction (141) by means of at least one sensor (202), and wherein the method furthermore comprises controlling the electromechanical drive (186) in accordance with the detection of the action of a manual force, characterized in that the dishwasher is selected from a hood-type dishwasher (116) and a pass-through dishwasher (112), wherein the covering device (134) at least partially surrounds the cleaning chamber (128) and comprises a hood (136) mounted so as to be movable in a vertical direction, which hood can be moved upwards in order to open the cleaning chamber (128) and can be moved downwards in order to close off the cleaning chamber (128) together with a base (130) of the cleaning device (110), wherein the control of the electromechanical drive (186) comprises at least one of the following steps: when the action of a manual force in the opening movement direction (139) is detected, the electromechanical drive (186) is controlled in such a way that the covering device (134) is moved in the opening movement direction (139), wherein the cleaning device (110) is designed to detect, by means of the sensor (202), when a user begins to manually open the hood (136) when the hood (136) is in the closed position (135) and to control the electromechanical drive (186) in such a way that this opening movement is continued exclusively by the electromechanical drive (186) until the open position (137) has been reached; when the action of a manual force in the closing movement direction (141) is detected, the electromechanical drive (186) is controlled in such a way that the covering device (134) is moved in the closing movement direction (141), wherein the cleaning device (110) is furthermore designed to detect, by means of the sensor (202), when the user begins to manually close the hood (136) when the hood (136) is in the open position (137) and to control the electromechanical drive (186) in such a way that this closing movement is continued exclusively by the electromechanical drive (186) until the hood (136) has reached the closed position (135).

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