Modular system for loading a conveyor dishwasher

Abstract

The invention proposes a modular system (120) for loading a conveying apparatus (118) of a conveyor dishwasher (114). The modular system (120) comprises: A. at least one detection module (146) for sensing status data relating to supplied washware (112); B. a plurality of interchangeable handling modules (168), wherein the handling modules (168) are each intended to perform an individual handling function for handling the washware (112) using at least one actuator (170); C. at least one feeding unit (164) for selectively feeding the supplied washware (112) to the handling modules (168); D. at least one control module (152), wherein the control module (152) has at least one registering unit (158), wherein the handling modules (168) and the individual handling function thereof can be registered, and deregistered, at the registering unit (158), wherein the control module (152) has at least one processor (156) and is programmed to evaluate the status data and to assess a respective situation of the supplied washware (112); and to detect which handling modules (168) are registered at the registering unit (158), whether the respective individual handling function of the handling modules (168) is usable in the respective washware situation, and to activate the feeding unit (164) such that washware (112) is fed to the handling modules (168) in accordance with the usability. The invention also proposes a cleaning system (110) which comprises the modular system (120), and further proposes a method for cleaning washware (112).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a modular system for loading a transport device of a conveyor dishwasher and to a cleaning system for cleaning items to be cleaned, comprising the modular system. The invention further relates to a method for cleaning items to be cleaned using the cleaning system. Systems and methods of the type mentioned can be used, for example, in the field of dishwashing technology, in particular in the field of commercial dishwashing technology. Thus, the invention can be used in particular in commercial kitchens in which items to be cleaned, for example trays, dishes and cutlery, have to be cleaned in large quantities. In particular, the invention can be used in conveyor dishwashers such as flight-type dishwashers. However, other areas of application are also conceivable in principle. Technical background

[0002] A variety of cleaning devices, also referred to as cleaning appliances, are known from the prior art, which can clean and / or disinfect items to be cleaned. Without limiting further possible embodiments, the invention is described below with reference to items to be cleaned which are used for serving, preparing, or storing food. The design of these cleaning devices depends largely on the various boundary conditions, such as the type of item to be cleaned, the level of soiling, the throughput, or similar conditions. By way of example, reference can be made to cleaning devices described, for example, in DE 10 2004 056 052 A1 or DE 10 2007 025 263 A1.

[0003] The items to be cleaned may, for example, include a tray loaded with dishes, cutlery, food scraps, and a napkin. The dishes may include a plate, a soup bowl, a dessert bowl, a salad bowl, a cup, and a drinking glass, or simply a selection of these. In addition, particularly in hospitals or care facilities, warming containers and a corresponding cover for the plate may be present. These warming containers are also called cloches. This area, together with the tray, is also referred to as the place setting. The occurrence and distribution of these items can be very uniform, for example in a prison canteen. However, the place setting can also have very variable compositions, for example in company restaurants or university cafeterias that offer a wide range of food.Variability in the temporal dimension can also occur, for example in the difference between breakfast, lunch and dinner.

[0004] Cutlery can typically include a knife, a fork, a soup spoon, and a small spoon, or simply a selection of the aforementioned items. Depending on country-specific circumstances, variations in the place setting and also in the amount of leftover food may be present or expected. The nature of the leftovers can also vary greatly, for example, from small traces of sauce on the plate to remnants of the actual food in all containers to almost completely filled containers. In addition, there may be food leftovers that are not usually consumed, such as bones, fish bones, seafood shells, fruit pits, wooden skewers, or similar items.

[0005] In typical commercial kitchens, the items to be cleaned are processed in various stages. The following example describes the use of a transport dishwasher. First, the loaded trays can be transported from the dining area to the dishwasher, for example using a trolley or transport system such as conveyor belts. The trays can then be separated, for example by hand or machine. Subsequently, any obstructions can be removed and drinking glasses cleared away. Drinking glasses, for example, can be emptied and placed in special glass baskets or directly onto a conveyor belt in the dishwasher. Furthermore, the dishes can be oriented accordingly so that they can be optimally picked up and correctly cleaned by the dishwasher's conveyor belt.Before loading the dishes into the dishwasher, however, food scraps must generally be removed from the dishes and disposed of in a manner that avoids contaminating the work area. Cutlery items are usually aligned and placed in cutlery baskets or cutlery holders, or even on the dishwasher's conveyor belt. Furthermore, food scraps and napkins must generally be removed from the trays and disposed of in a manner that avoids contaminating the work area. The trays are then usually placed in the dishwasher, individually aligned with the dishwasher's conveyor belt so that they can be optimally picked up and properly cleaned by the dishwasher.

[0006] There are several options for cleaning place settings. For example, all items can be processed in a single dishwasher. In these cases, the dishwasher's conveyor system can be divided into several lanes, each individually designed for a specific type of item. For example, there may be one lane for glasses, one lane for trays, and one or more additional lanes for different types of dishes. The arrangement and design of the lanes can be tailored to operational requirements. Such dishwashers with multiple lanes are often referred to as multi-lane dishwashers. As an alternative to using a single dishwasher, separate dishwashers can also be used. For example, one dishwasher may be designed for glasses, which are collected in baskets, for example, and / or a separate tray dishwasher for trays.The tray dishwasher can, for example, be arranged back to back with the dishwasher.

[0007] Individual or multiple process steps of the above-described process steps can be performed automatically, as an alternative to manual execution. For example, DE 1 956 050 A describes a pre-clearing device for loading dishwashers with food plates and trays to be cleaned from commercial kitchens. US 2019 / 0127152 A1 describes a transport and loading device. Furthermore, fully automated systems are also known which can perform the above-mentioned steps and / or parts of the above-mentioned steps. For example, reference is made to DE 1 956 049 A, DE 2 443 651 A1, or DE 3 413 480 A1. Devices with robots are also known. Reference is made to US 2019 / 0167065 A1, US 2019 / 0167068 A1, or WO 2018 / 031489 A1. For example, magnetic cutlery or magnetic dishes can be used, which are magnetically separated from the rest of the dishes.

[0008] DE 10 2019 102 800 A1 discloses a system for loading a dishwasher, which is designed, in particular, as a commercial conveyor dishwasher. The system comprises a feed conveyor belt for feeding washware to a loading area of the conveyor dishwasher. The system further comprises a sorting arrangement for sorting the washware fed to the loading area of the conveyor dishwasher via the feed conveyor belt according to predefined or definable washware groups. At least one loading arrangement is assigned to the sorting arrangement for automatically loading the conveyor dishwasher with washware belonging to one of the predefined or definable washware groups.

[0009] DE 10 2019 102 813 A1 discloses an unloading arrangement for unloading wash ware items arranged in particular on trays or tray-like objects, in particular wash ware items from place settings. The unloading arrangement comprises a feed conveyor belt for feeding the wash ware items to be unloaded, arranged in particular on trays or tray-like objects. The unloading arrangement further comprises a plurality of unloading stations arranged one behind the other—as seen in the transport direction of the feed conveyor belt. For the successive unloading of the feed conveyor belt or for the successive unloading of the trays or tray-like objects, each unloading station is preferably assigned a predetermined or definable wash ware group, and each unloading station is designed to unload, preferably exclusively, wash ware items from the wash ware group assigned to it from the wash ware fed via the feed conveyor belt.

[0010] EP 2 158 833 A2 describes a cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned, which can be used in particular for cleaning dishes. The cleaning device comprises at least one conveyor-type cleaning machine, in particular a conveyor-type dishwasher. The conveyor-type cleaning machine has at least one transport device and is configured to transport the items to be cleaned through at least one cleaning zone. The cleaning device further comprises at least one handling device, in particular a robot. The handling device is configured to at least partially automatically pick up the items to be cleaned and transfer them to the transport device.

[0011] Despite the advantages achieved with the described devices, numerous technical and organizational challenges remain. In particular, personnel requirements planning and the adaptation of machines, automation, and operating personnel to the actual situation continue to pose technical, organizational, and economic challenges. In particular, over- or under-dimensioning of devices must be avoided, while personnel requirements must be planned correctly and sufficiently for all situations.

[0012] For example, conventional equipment often requires numerous manual interventions to complete individual process steps. This can result in the performance of the human operators determining the limits of the processing capacity of the entire dishwashing system. Depending on the volume of washware per unit of time, one or more operators must then generally be deployed in front of the dishwasher. This personnel deployment requires space and generates costs. Staff shortages can also play a significant role. In addition, the working conditions for dishwasher operators are often stressful, as elevated temperatures and, in most cases, elevated humidity can occur. Noise pollution, odors, monotony, and drafts can also contribute to stress.On the other hand, the dishwasher and the connected transport systems usually set a cadence that the operating personnel must adhere to in order to ensure a smooth process. Otherwise, the cleaning process may come to a standstill, which could lead, for example, to no longer being able to load any more trays.

[0013] Semi-automatic solutions can reduce running costs because individual process steps can be handled by automated devices, thus eliminating the need for operating personnel. Fully automatic solutions can also reduce costs. However, in practice, the familiar semi-automatic or fully automatic systems are often extremely complex due to the multitude of tasks that must be handled by these systems. On the other hand, these systems are generally inflexible because in many cases they have to be specifically tailored to the existing place setting. If changes occur in the place setting, the automatic or semi-automated system usually has to be converted or retrofitted. Such changes are often only technically and economically feasible to an extent in existing systems.Therefore, in general, during planning and implementation, there is only a choice between the use of operating personnel, which on the one hand could be deployed flexibly but which, however, incurs high costs and places high demands on space requirements and ergonomics, and the use of partially automated or automated solutions, which, however, are inflexible. Object of the invention

[0014] It would therefore be desirable to provide devices and methods for cleaning items that at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of the type mentioned. In particular, the devices and methods should, on the one hand, ensure high throughput in cleaning items and, on the other hand, offer high cost efficiency and flexibility with regard to changing cleaning situations. General description of the invention

[0015] This problem is addressed by a modular system for loading a conveyor device of a conveyor dishwasher, by a cleaning system, and by a method for cleaning items to be cleaned, with 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.

[0016] In the following, the terms "have," "have," "comprise," or "include," or any grammatical variations thereof, are used non-exclusively. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, besides the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B," "A has B," "A comprises B," or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no further element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, for example, element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0017] 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.

[0018] Furthermore, the terms "preferably," "in particular," "for example," or similar terms are used below in connection with optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and these features are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or "in an embodiment of the invention" are understood as optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave untouched all possibilities of combining the features introduced thereby with other features, whether optional or non-optional.

[0019] In a first aspect of the present invention, a modular system for loading a conveyor device of a conveyor dishwasher is proposed. The modular system comprises: A. at least one detection module for detecting status data of delivered items to be cleaned; B. a plurality of interchangeable handling modules, each of which is configured to perform an individual handling function for handling the items to be cleaned using at least one actuator; C. at least one feed unit for selectively feeding the delivered items to the handling modules; and D. at least one control module.

[0020] The control module has at least one registration unit. The handling modules and their individual handling functions can be registered and deregistered at the registration unit. The control module has at least one processor and is programmed to ∘ to evaluate the status data and to assess the respective cleaning item situation of the delivered cleaning items; and ∘ to identify which handling modules are registered with the registration unit, whether the respective individual handling function of the handling modules can be used in the respective cleaning item situation and to control the feed unit in such a way that cleaning items are fed to the handling modules according to their usability.

[0021] The term "system," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and customary meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a unit composed of at least two components, wherein the components are configured to cooperate functionally to achieve at least one purpose of the system. The components may be mechanically and / or electrically connected to one another, particularly reversibly.

[0022] The term "modular system," as used herein, is thus also a broad term, which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a system within the meaning of the above definition, which has at least two system components in the form of modules that are interchangeable, so that, for example, at least a first module can be optionally combined with at least a second module or with at least a third module. The term "module," as used herein, is thus also a broad term, which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning.The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to an interchangeable system component that can perform at least one module function. To create modularity, standardized interfaces can be provided on the modules, for example, mechanical and / or electrical interfaces. The modular system can accordingly have at least one basic component that can be coupled to several interchangeable modules. The term "interchangeable," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning.The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a property of a system having multiple system components, wherein at least one of the system components can be removed from the system and replaced by another system component, wherein the system remains functional and optionally at least one system function is changed, for example according to a functionality of the replaced system components.

[0023] The term "loading," as used herein, is also a broad term, which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a process in which at least one type of item, especially in this case, items to be cleaned, is introduced into or applied to a device. Loading can, in particular, be fully or partially automated.

[0024] The term "transport device" as used here is also a broad term, which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device configured to transport at least one other device or at least one other element, in particular items to be cleaned, and / or to drive a movement of the other device or element. The transport device can in particular comprise at least one drive element, for example at least one drive element circulating through the cleaning chamber.In particular, the transport device, for example the drive element, can comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a conveyor belt; transport rollers, in particular driven transport rollers; a link chain; a ratchet transport system. The transport can, for example, be continuous, discontinuous or intermittent, so that, for example, continuously operating conveyor dishwashers or intermittent dishwashers can be used. The transport direction can, for example, be a main direction of movement of the items to be cleaned within a cleaning chamber of the conveyor dishwasher. The transport direction can be fixed or can also change, for example locally or temporally. For example, the transport direction can be directed from an inlet of the conveyor dishwasher to an outlet.

[0025] The term "dishwasher," also commonly referred to as "cleaning device," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a device designed to free items to be cleaned from adhering macroscopic or even microscopic contaminants or to at least partially remove such contaminants. In addition, a disinfection effect can optionally be exerted. The dishwasher can, in particular, be designed as a dishwashing machine.

[0026] Accordingly, the term "conveyor dishwasher" as used herein is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a dishwasher as defined above, which has at least one transport device. In particular, the conveyor dishwasher can have at least one cleaning chamber, for example at least one cleaning tunnel, in which the items to be cleaned are subjected to at least one cleaning fluid, in particular by means of at least one application device, as explained in more detail below. The transport device can be configured to transport the items to be cleaned through the cleaning chamber.

[0027] The term "item to be cleaned," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and customary meaning should be given, as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can refer, without limitation, to any item that can be cleaned by means of the cleaning device. One item can be cleaned, or multiple items can be cleaned simultaneously or sequentially. In particular, the item to be cleaned can be items that are used directly or indirectly for the preparation, storage, or presentation of food, for example, dishes, cutlery, trays, bowls, glasses, cups, pots, pans, or similar items.Accordingly, the cleaning device can be designed, in particular, as a dishwasher, for example, as a dishwasher for commercial use in commercial kitchens or communal catering kitchens. Other designs of the cleaning device and / or the items to be cleaned are also possible in principle.

[0028] The term "deliver," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and customary meaning should be given, as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a process in which items to be cleaned are manually or automatically delivered to the conveyor device and / or the conveyor dishwasher. The process can, for example, be carried out by automatically delivering items to be cleaned to the conveyor device and / or the conveyor dishwasher by means of a conveyor belt or other feeding device. Alternatively, however, manual delivery can also be used.

[0029] The term "recognition module," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a module of the system, as defined above, which is configured to record status data of the delivered cleaning items. In particular, the recognition module can have at least one sensor configured to record the status data of the delivered cleaning items. In particular, this can be at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of: an optical sensor, in particular a camera; a magnetic sensor; and a mechanical sensor, in particular a button. The recognition module can have its own intelligence, for example in the form of at least one processor.Alternatively, however, the detection module can also have only sensory properties and be configured to transmit status data, for example, in particular to the control module described in more detail below. Thus, the detection module can in particular have at least one interface, which can be wired or wireless.

[0030] The term "condition data" as used herein is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any data that directly or indirectly describes the condition of the items being cleaned. This condition data can, for example, be raw data that is subsequently further processed and / or evaluated by the control module, as explained in more detail below. Alternatively, the condition data can already have been at least partially evaluated.The status data can generally comprise at least one piece of information selected from the group consisting of: a type of item to be cleaned; a size of the item to be cleaned; a quantity of the item to be cleaned; a composition of the item to be cleaned; a spatial position and / or orientation of the item to be cleaned; a degree of soiling of the item to be cleaned; and foreign objects on or at the item to be cleaned. The status data can be recorded continuously or discontinuously, for example in status data packets. The status data can also be assigned to specific units of the item to be cleaned. For example, the item to be cleaned can be divided into units, each of which comprises at least one tray and a load on the tray. For example, the load can comprise dishes and / or cutlery, as well as, if applicable, foreign objects and contaminants.For each tray or stack of trays with items arranged on them, the status data can be recorded as a single unit, for example, as a data packet. Alternatively, however, the status data can first be recorded continuously, which can then be divided into packets corresponding to a tray or stack of trays with items arranged on them, for example, in the recognition module and / or the control module.

[0031] The term "handling module," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can refer, without limitation, in particular to a module, in particular an interchangeable unit, which is configured to perform an individual handling function for handling the items to be cleaned using at least one actuator. This handling function can be individual for the respective handling module, so that, for example, different handling modules have different handling functions. Alternatively, however, several handling modules of the same type and with the same individual handling function can be provided.

[0032] The term "handling function," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a process in which the items to be cleaned are handled in one or more specific ways. This handling can, for example, be selected from the group consisting of: reorienting the items to be cleaned; placing the items to be cleaned; sorting the items to be cleaned; emptying the items to be cleaned; receiving the items to be cleaned in at least one transport device such as a cleaning basket; and removing interfering particles from the items to be cleaned.The handling module can, for example, have its own intelligence, for example, by having at least one processor. Alternatively, however, the handling module can also be designed without its own intelligence. The handling module can have at least one drive for driving the at least one actuator. Furthermore, the handling module can have at least one module controller for controlling the operation of the actuator.

[0033] To perform this individual handling function, for which the respective handling module is configured, the handling modules each have at least one actuator. The term "actuator," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any device configured to act on at least one object in at least one way. This effect can, for example, be selected from the group consisting of: a mechanical effect, such as reorientation or repositioning; a magnetic effect.For example, the actuator may comprise at least one actuator selected from the group consisting of: a gripper; a slider; a brush; a permanent magnet; an electromagnet; a turner, for example a turning wheel.

[0034] The term "feed unit" as used herein is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any device configured to feed objects in a targeted or controlled manner to another device and / or to bring the other device closer to said objects, thus enabling movement of the objects and / or movement of the other device. The feeding device can comprise at least one transport device and / or at least one manipulator capable of effecting the aforementioned feeding function. In particular, this transport device can comprise at least one slider.Alternatively or additionally, however, other types of transport device may also be provided, for example one or more conveyor belts, grippers, or similar devices.

[0035] The term "selective," as used here, particularly in connection with the feed unit, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to the fact that certain types of objects, in particular items to be cleaned, are fed to certain, assigned types of handling modules. Thus, an assignment can be made between the types of items to be cleaned and the respective handling modules to which they are fed. If no assignment exists, the feed unit can be configured to effect no feeding.

[0036] The term "control module," as used herein, is also a broad term, which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a single-part or multi-part device configured to completely or partially control and / or regulate the operation of the modular system. In particular, the control module can be configured to change, in particular to control and / or regulate, one or more operating parameters of the modular system. The control module can, in particular, comprise at least one data processing device, for example, at least one processor. The control module can, in particular, be configured in a programmatic manner, for example, to perform the functions described in more detail below.The control module can be implemented entirely or partially in hardware or / and alternatively or additionally entirely or partially in software. Furthermore, the control module can comprise at least one volatile and / or non-volatile data memory. Furthermore, the control module can comprise at least one interface, for example a human-machine interface for inputting commands and / or outputting information, and / or a wireless or wired interface for the unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and / or commands. The control module can in particular be a central or decentralized machine control system. The control module can be designed entirely or partially separate from a control system of the conveyor dishwasher or can also be entirely or partially combined with and / or integrated into the latter.

[0037] As stated above, the control module has at least one registration unit, whereby the handling modules and their individual handling functions can be registered and deregistered at the registration unit. Registration and / or deregistration can optionally be implemented automatically and / or manually. This function of the control module contributes to the modularity of the modular system. The term "registration unit" as used herein is also a broad term, which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning.The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to at least one component of the control module, particularly one configured entirely or partially as hardware and / or software, which registers when a handling module is coupled to or logged on to the modular system and / or when a handling module is uncoupled or unregistered from the modular system, and which individual handling functions said handling modules have. Alternatively or additionally, the term can refer to at least one component of the control module, configured entirely or partially as hardware and / or software, which maintains a register of which handling modules with which individual handling functions are currently coupled to and / or logged on to the modular system.The term "register" as used herein is accordingly also a broad term, which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a coupling of a component to a system, wherein the coupling adds at least one functionality of the component to the functionality of the system. In particular, the term may refer to a coupling through hardware and / or software. In particular, the term may also encompass a registration of the registered component in a registry of the system.The registration unit can be configured to automatically register when a handling module is coupled and / or registered to the modular system and / or when a handling module is uncoupled and / or deregistered from the modular system and preferably also which individual handling functions the respective handling module has.

[0038] The control module includes at least one processor. The term "processor," as used herein, is also a broad term, which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to any logical circuit configured to perform basic operations of a computer or system and / or to a device configured to perform computations or logical operations. In particular, the processor may be configured to implement basic instructions that control a computer or computer system.For example, the processor may have at least one component selected from the group consisting of: an arithmetic logic unit (ALU); a floating-point unit (FPU), such as a mathematical coprocessor or a numerical coprocessor; a plurality of registers, in particular registers configured to supply operands to the ALU and to store results of operations; a memory, in particular a data memory, such as an L1 and / or L2 cache data memory. In particular, the processor may have a single core or multiple cores. In particular, the processor may be a central processing unit (CPU) or comprise such a central processing unit.Additionally or alternatively, the processor may be a microprocessor or comprise a microprocessor, so that, in particular, the components of the processor may be comprised in a single integrated circuit chip. Alternatively or additionally, however, the processor may also comprise one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and / or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or similar components. The processor may in particular be configured, in particular by software programming, to perform one or more evaluation operations.

[0039] The control module, in particular the processor, is, as explained above, programmed to to evaluate the status data and to assess the respective cleaning item situation of the delivered cleaning items and to recognize which handling modules are registered to the registration unit, whether the respective individual handling function of the handling modules can be used in the respective cleaning item situation and to control the feed unit in such a way that cleaning items are fed to the handling modules according to their usability.

[0040] The term "cleaning item situation," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to at least one piece of information about which cleaning items, in which combination and constellation, and in which condition, are delivered and when. The assessment of the cleaning item situation can thus relate in particular to a recognition of the cleaning item situation and a selection of appropriate control measures. The cleaning item situation can, for example, be recorded continuously, analogous to the status data described above, or in sections, for example, for a tray or stack of trays with the associated load.For example, the cleaning situation can comprise various categories, particularly with regard to one or more of the following possible criteria: the type of item to be cleaned; the type of soiling on the item to be cleaned; food scraps; drink scraps; obstructions; orientation of the item to be cleaned. Other criteria are also possible. For example, categories of cleaning situations can be created automatically or predefined, with tasks being assigned to each category. For example, for items to be cleaned that include obstructions, these tasks can include the removal of the obstructions and, for example, the transfer of the obstructions to a collection container. Alternatively or additionally, for dishes with food scraps or drink scraps, the tasks can include emptying the dishes into at least one waste container or at least one disposal chute.Alternatively or additionally, the tasks for dishes can include reorienting the dishes so that they are handed over to the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher, for example, in the correct orientation. Alternatively or additionally, the tasks can include, for example, handing over trays to the transport device in a specific orientation. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the tasks can include removing cutlery and handing the cutlery in a specific orientation to a collection container, for example a cutlery basket, or to the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher. Alternatively or additionally, the tasks can include, for example, collecting drinking glasses or cups in a glass basket and / or handing them over to the transport device in a specific orientation.Alternatively or additionally, the categories can also refer to specific lanes of the transport device, for example, so that specific types of cleaning items can be transferred to specific lanes. Alternatively or additionally, numerous other categories of cleaning item situations and the corresponding tasks to be performed are conceivable.

[0041] For the evaluation of the status data and the assessment of the respective cleaning situation of the delivered cleaning items, as explained in more detail below, the control module can, in particular, comprise at least one artificial intelligence. In particular, at least one self-learning system can be used, for example, an artificial neural network. Categorizing situations represents a typical task for a neural network, for example, by the neural network recognizing similarities in the status data, particularly in image data of the status data, and categorizing corresponding situations. However, other possibilities are also conceivable, for example, by pattern recognition and corresponding assignment to cleaning situations.

[0042] The detection of which handling modules are currently registered with the registration unit can be carried out, for example, by evaluating at least one of its data memories, for example a register. The registration unit can be designed separately from the control system, but can also be fully or partially integrated into the control system. The detection of whether the respective individual handling function of the handling modules can be used in the respective cleaning item situation can also be carried out, for example, by categorization. If, for example, the control module detects the presence of at least one specific category of cleaning item situation, it can be checked whether at least one handling module is registered whose respective individual handling function corresponds to the at least one task assigned to this category.If, for example, a category, as explained above, is the removal of foreign objects or waste, it can be checked whether at least one handling module is registered which has the individual handling function of separating foreign objects or waste. If, for example, alternatively or additionally, a category, as explained above, is the separation of cutlery, it can be checked whether at least one handling module is registered which has the separation of cutlery, in particular magnetic cutlery, as its individual handling function. In general, as explained above, the detection of which handling modules are registered to the registration unit and whether the respective individual handling function of the handling modules can be used in the respective cleaning item situation can be achieved by a corresponding comparison of tasks and available functionalities.Here, too, artificial intelligence can be used, or a conventional algorithm can be used.

[0043] Based on this detection, the control unit is configured to control the feed unit such that items to be cleaned are fed to the handling modules according to the usability of the respective handling modules. The at least one feed unit can be configured entirely or partially separate from the handling modules, but can also be entirely or partially integrated into the handling modules. For example, at least one of the handling modules can have at least one dedicated feed unit, by means of which the respective items to be cleaned are guided to the respective handling module and / or by means of which the respective handling module is brought closer to the respective items to be cleaned.

[0044] The control of the feed unit by means of the control module can, for example, be achieved entirely or partially by transmitting commands and / or control signals from the control module directly or indirectly to the respective handling module and / or to at least one control unit that controls the respective handling module, for example, a current source and / or a voltage source. For transferring the commands and / or control signals, at least one interface can be provided, for example, a wired and / or wireless interface. Alternatively or additionally, at least one bus system can be provided.

[0045] By controlling the feed unit accordingly, a supply of cleaning items to the handling modules, i.e., a convergence between the cleaning items and the respective handling module, is selectively enabled and / or effected depending on the detected cleaning item situation. Through this selective convergence, the control module can ensure that the respective cleaning item and the handling module only approach if it is detected that a handling module can be used in the specific cleaning item situation. For example, a corresponding slider and / or another type of actuator can be controlled to guide the cleaning items to the appropriate handling module, or vice versa.

[0046] As stated above, the individual handling functions can be designed very differently depending on the intended use. In particular, the at least one individual handling function of the handling module can be selected from the group consisting of: removing obstructing items from a tray; removing food scraps and napkins from a tray; clearing drinking glasses from a tray; clearing cutlery from a tray; clearing other items of crockery from a tray; preparing delivered trays for the conveyor dishwasher; turning a removed item of crockery and handing it over to the conveyor dishwasher's transport device; further transporting a removed item of crockery and handing it over to the conveyor dishwasher's transport device.

[0047] Other individual handling functions are also possible alternatively or additionally.

[0048] As further explained above, the status data can, in particular, comprise image data of the delivered cleaning items. For example, the recognition module can comprise at least one camera that continuously or discontinuously records images of the delivered cleaning items at one or more locations. Accordingly, the recognition module can, for example, have at least one image capture device. Alternatively or additionally, however, the image capture device can also be arranged, for example, in the control module, as explained above. Again, alternatively or in addition to image data, other data can also be recorded by the recognition module.

[0049] The processor of the control module can, in particular, as explained above, comprise at least one image analysis software. Accordingly, the processor can be configured to recognize and evaluate the cleaning item situation using the image analysis software. As also already explained, at least one artificial intelligence can also be used. In particular, the artificial intelligence can be trained on various cleaning item situations, for example, to recognize the categories described above and / or other categories. Accordingly, the processor can, in particular, comprise at least one artificial intelligence, in particular at least one artificial neural network, to evaluate the cleaning item situation.

[0050] The control module can, in particular, be configured to detect when the respective cleaning item situation requires at least one handling step for which no handling module with a suitable individual handling function is registered with the registration unit. For example, in the current cleaning situation, one or more handling steps may be required for which no handling module is currently registered with the registration unit. For example, if interfering items are detected for which no handling is intended, this can be such a case, for example, if a wallet, key, or banknotes are detected on the tray.Accordingly, the control module can be configured, in particular, to report this cleaning item to the human operating personnel when one or more handling steps are required for which no handling module is registered, for example by means of a visual or acoustic warning signal, and / or to supply this cleaning item to a workstation for human operating personnel so that the human operating personnel can carry out the corresponding handling.

[0051] The at least one individual handling function of the handling modules can, in particular, comprise providing at least one selected type of item to be cleaned to at least one assigned track of the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher. As explained above, the conveyor dishwasher can, for example, be configured such that the transport device is virtually or actually divided into tracks, each of which extends parallel to a transport direction of the transport device. These tracks can be actually provided, for example, by making certain subdivisions or different configurations on a belt of the transport device, for example by having transport fingers of different designs and / or arrangements in the tracks. For example, tracks for cutlery, glasses, plates, and trays can be provided. Other configurations are also possible.An application device can also differ accordingly in the tracks. For example, different types and / or orientations of nozzles can be provided in order to apply different types of cleaning items differently, for example from different directions, with different pressures, or even with different cleaning fluids. At least one of the individual functions of the at least two handling modules can consist in particular in recognizing types of cleaning items, for example by the recognition module, and then feeding them, in particular by the handling modules, according to the associated tracks, for example in a prescribed orientation.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the individual handling functions of the at least two handling modules can comprise a spatial orientation or reorientation of at least one selected type of item to be cleaned, in particular turning the item to be cleaned or at least one type of item to be cleaned. For example, at least one handling module can be provided that turns plates and / or feeds them to the transport device in at least one prescribed orientation.

[0053] At least one of the handling modules can also have feeding functions in whole or in part. For example, the functionality of the feeding unit can also be taken over in whole or in part by at least one of the handling modules. For example, at least one of the handling modules can be designed in whole or in part as a robot or have a robot. For example, this can be a robot that handles glasses and / or other items of tableware. These can, for example, be removed directly from the transport device, for example the conveyor belt, optionally without at least one additional feeding unit being required for this handling module. Alternatively, however, at least one feeding unit designed separately from the handling modules can be provided in the modular system, which feeds items to be cleaned selectively to at least one of the handling modules.Separate feed units can be provided for the handling modules, with, for example, at least one first feed unit selectively feeding items to be cleaned to at least one first handling module and at least one second feed unit selectively feeding items to be cleaned to at least one second handling module. Alternatively or additionally, however, at least one feed unit can also be provided that selectively feeds items to be cleaned to at least two handling modules.

[0054] The modular system can, in particular, comprise at least one interface. The interchangeable handling modules can, in particular, be reversibly dockable to the interface. This interface can, for example, ensure at least one mechanical holding function. Furthermore, this interface can also have at least one interface for the unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and / or control commands between the handling modules and the control module, or vice versa, as well as optionally for the unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and / or control commands between the control module and the detection module, or vice versa. Alternatively or additionally, at least one interface can also be provided for supplying the at least one handling module with energy.

[0055] As explained above, the modular system can be configured, in particular, to handle items to be cleaned that comprise trays. The items to be cleaned can thus, in particular, comprise trays as well as crockery items held on the tray. For example, at least one transport system can be provided for delivering soiled items to be cleaned, which comprises trays as items to be cleaned as well as additional items to be cleaned arranged on the trays. For example, a tray or a stack of trays and additional items to be cleaned arranged thereon, as well as any soiling and debris, can be regarded as a unit of items to be cleaned, which can be separated by means of the modular system and fed to the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher.

[0056] The plurality of interchangeable handling modules may in particular comprise at least one handling module which is configured to perform an individual handling function in the form of removing interfering parts from a tray.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of interchangeable handling modules can comprise at least one handling module configured to perform an individual handling function in the form of removing food scraps and napkins from a tray. The individual handling function can, in particular, further comprise at least one disposal of the food scraps and napkins into at least one disposal device, for example, a device for shredding, homogenizing, and temporarily storing the food scraps and / or napkins and / or a transfer device for discharging them into a piping system for food scraps, into a waste container, and / or into a disposal shaft.

[0058] Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of interchangeable handling modules can comprise at least one handling module configured to perform an individual handling function in the form of clearing drinking glasses from a tray. The individual handling function can, in particular, further comprise at least one provision of the drinking glasses to the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher, wherein this provision can, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of: placing the drinking glasses in glass washing baskets; placing the drinking glasses on at least one glass track of the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher.The individual handling function may in particular further comprise emptying the drinking glasses, for example into at least one disposal container and / or at least one disposal chute, and / or emptying into at least one tank of the conveyor dishwasher, for example a tank with the lowest degree of purity in a cascade system of tanks.

[0059] The plurality of interchangeable handling modules can, again alternatively or in addition to the options already mentioned and / or other options, comprise at least one handling module which is configured to perform an individual handling function in the form of clearing cutlery items from a tray. The individual handling function can in particular further comprise at least one provision of the cutlery items to the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher, selected from the group consisting of: placing the cutlery items in cutlery item washing baskets; placing the cutlery items on at least one cutlery track of the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher. As explained above, at least one magnet, for example at least one electromagnet and / or at least one permanent magnet, can be used as the manipulator.

[0060] Alternatively or in addition to the aforementioned options or other options, the plurality of interchangeable handling modules can comprise at least one handling module configured to perform an individual handling function in the form of clearing at least one type of crockery, excluding cutlery and drinking glasses, from a tray. For example, crockery selected from the group consisting of plates, cups, food bowls, bowls, or other types of crockery other than cutlery or drinking glasses can be cleared and preferably fed directly or indirectly to the transport device.In particular, the individual handling function may further comprise at least one provision of the crockery items to the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher, selected from the group consisting of: placing the crockery items in dishwashing baskets; placing the crockery items on at least one crockery track of the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher.

[0061] As explained above, the feed unit can generally be configured to selectively feed the delivered cleaning items to the handling modules, bringing the handling modules closer to the cleaning items and / or vice versa. In particular, the feed unit can comprise at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a pusher for selectively pushing components of the cleaning items toward the respective handling modules; a gripper; a brush; a magnet; a chute; a switch; and a scraper bar.

[0062] In a further aspect of the present invention, a cleaning system for cleaning items to be cleaned is proposed. The term "cleaning system," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can refer, without limitation, in particular to a system as defined above, which serves to clean items to be cleaned. Accordingly, the term "cleaning," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning.The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a process in which items to be cleaned are freed from adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants, or such contaminants are at least partially removed. Optionally, a disinfection effect can also be exerted.

[0063] The cleaning system includes: a. at least one modular system according to the present invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below; b. at least one conveyor dishwasher, wherein the conveyor dishwasher has at least one cleaning chamber and at least one transport device for transporting items to be cleaned from an inlet of the conveyor dishwasher through the cleaning chamber to an outlet of the conveyor dishwasher, wherein the conveyor dishwasher is designed to apply at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber; and c. at least one transport system for delivering soiled items to be cleaned.

[0064] The term "cleaning chamber," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a completely or partially enclosed chamber within which the cleaning process can be carried out completely or partially. The cleaning chamber can, in particular, comprise at least one housing that completely or partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A single cleaning chamber can be provided, or in principle, several cleaning chambers can be provided, for example, sequentially. The cleaning chamber can, for example, comprise at least one opening for loading the cleaning chamber with the items to be cleaned, which can also be referred to as an inlet.For example, this can be an opening with a flap arranged on a front side of the cleaning chamber and / or a top side of the cleaning chamber. Alternatively, hoods for closing off the cleaning chamber are also possible, for example in so-called hood-type dishwashers. Alternatively, the cleaning chamber can also be designed, for example, entirely or partially, as a tunnel, for example in so-called conveyor dishwashers or conveyor dishwashers, for example as a tunnel with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, also referred to as an outlet. Other designs are also possible in principle. Accordingly, the terms "inlet" and "outlet" can refer to areas of the conveyor dishwasher and / or the conveyor dishwasher's transport device in which the items to be cleaned enter or exit the cleaning chamber.In these areas, for example, the transport device can protrude beyond the cleaning chamber and be freely accessible.

[0065] The conveyor dishwasher is designed to apply at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. For this purpose, the conveyor dishwasher may, in particular, comprise at least one application device, particularly within the cleaning chamber. The term "application device," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be attributed, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to any device by means of which the items to be cleaned within the cleaning chamber can be applied with the cleaning fluid. The application device may, in particular, comprise at least one nozzle system.Furthermore, the supply device can comprise at least one pump and at least one line system for supplying cleaning fluid to the nozzle system. For example, a nozzle system and a line system for supplying cleaning fluid from a tank can be provided, as well as at least one corresponding pump. Alternatively or additionally, at least one nozzle system can also be supplied directly from a supply line, without the need for a pump. One or more cleaning zones can be provided in the cleaning device, through which the items to be cleaned pass sequentially, for example.For example, a single cleaning zone can be provided, wherein the cleaning device is configured to carry out a cleaning program by means of the application device, in which the items to be cleaned are held stationary in the cleaning chamber and are successively exposed to cleaning fluid in different ways in one or more cleaning steps of the cleaning program. Alternatively, the items to be cleaned can also be transported successively through several cleaning zones, in which a different type of exposure to cleaning fluid takes place, for example one or more cleaning zones selected from the group consisting of: a pre-clearing zone; a washing zone; a final rinsing or final rinse zone, wherein the latter can be further subdivided into a pumped final rinse zone and a downstream fresh water final rinse zone.Furthermore, at least one drying step can be provided, which can be arranged downstream of the application of the cleaning liquid in one chamber when the items to be cleaned are held stationary, or which can be carried out, for example, in a conveyor dishwasher in a drying zone downstream of the liquid cleaning zones.

[0066] The term "cleaning fluid" as used herein is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can refer, without limitation, in particular to a fluid that, upon contact with the item to be cleaned, can exert a cleaning effect. In particular, the cleaning fluid can comprise an aqueous fluid, for example, water and / or water with one or more additives, for example, with one or more cleaning concentrates and / or rinse aids and / or disinfectants. The cleaning device can be configured to use a single cleaning fluid or to employ a combination of several cleaning fluids.If multiple cleaning liquids are provided, the items to be cleaned can be exposed to the different cleaning liquids simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the items to be cleaned can remain stationary within the cleaning chamber and be exposed to the various cleaning liquids and / or cleaning fluids one after the other. Alternatively, as explained above, the items to be cleaned can also be transported sequentially through multiple cleaning zones, in which, for example, exposure to different types of cleaning liquid and / or cleaning liquids with different degrees of purity takes place. Different degrees of purity can be created, for example, by a cascade overflow between different tanks of the cleaning device, with a degree of purity preferably increasing in the direction of transport.

[0067] The term "transport system," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any system designed to deliver soiled items to be cleaned. This can be a continuous or discontinuous system. In particular, it can be an automatic system in which items to be cleaned are delivered automatically. In particular, the transport system can comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a conveyor belt; transport rollers, in particular driven transport rollers; and a link chain.

[0068] In a further aspect, a method for cleaning items to be cleaned is proposed. The method comprises the steps detailed below. These steps can be carried out in the specified order. However, a different order is also possible in principle. Furthermore, two or more of the specified method steps can be carried out simultaneously or overlappingly. Furthermore, one or more of the specified method steps can be carried out singly or repeatedly. In addition to the specified steps, the method can comprise further method steps which are not specified.

[0069] The procedure includes the following steps: i. Providing at least one cleaning system according to the invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below; ii. Delivering items to be cleaned by means of the transport system; iii. Recording status data of the delivered items to be cleaned by means of the recognition module; iv. Evaluating the status data and assessing the respective cleaning item situation of the delivered items to be cleaned by means of the control module; v. Recognizing the handling modules registered with the registration unit and the respective individual handling function of the handling modules and assessing their suitability for use in the respective cleaning item situation; and vi. Controlling the feed unit by the control unit in such a way that items to be cleaned are fed to the handling modules according to their suitability for use.

[0070] For possible details, definitions and options regarding the proposed process, reference can be made to the above description of the modular system and the cleaning system.

[0071] The proposed modular system, the proposed cleaning system, and the proposed method offer numerous advantages over known devices and methods of the type mentioned. In particular, the modularity ensures a high degree of flexibility. This allows the system to be quickly adapted to changing requirements. This avoids fundamental oversizing without increasing the risk of subsequent reinvestment in a larger system, while simultaneously efficiently reducing personnel costs. The modular system also responds flexibly to changing cleaning material situations and recognizes the specific capabilities of the modular system and their applicability to the current situation.

[0072] Overall, this reduces the number of personnel required to process place settings in front of a conveyor dishwasher. In particular, it also overcomes a disadvantage of conventional systems: the situation between the dining area and the dishwasher inlet would have to be recorded in its entirety, which can result in high complexity with conventional machines. Using the proposed modular system, the processing steps involved can be analyzed and subsequently broken down into the smallest and thus least complex subtasks possible. This approach can, on the one hand, provide a holistic view of the system for processing used place settings. On the other hand, breaking down the processing into the simplest possible subtasks generally enables good scalability of the type and number of processing stations and processing tools that must be used in the actual task.

[0073] Furthermore, the proposed invention, and in particular the division into subtasks according to the capabilities of the available handling modules, makes it possible to identify potential bottlenecks and disturbances in the processing of the items to be cleaned. If additional operating personnel are still required, the number of items to be processed manually by the operating personnel can be increased, for example, by relieving them of subtasks. Handling modules can be provided to process less complex subtasks. Furthermore, the modular system can be used to identify, for example, whether and which subtasks cannot be completed, or whether and which subtasks cannot be broken down further, meaning that they cannot be processed using handling modules.

[0074] Depending on the specific requirements, a range of processing stations and processing tools can be individually assembled in the form of suitable handling modules. This modular system can be arranged, for example, at the inlet of a conveyor dishwasher. Depending on the requirements, handling modules can be used that comprise individual or multiple automatic modules. Alternatively or additionally, one or more handling modules that comprise robots can be used, particularly where the subtasks are too complex for the simple automatic module and yet simple enough that they can be performed by the robot with high operational reliability and sufficient speed. Other options are also conceivable.

[0075] Furthermore, in addition to the modular system, at least one manual workstation for operating personnel can be provided on the conveyor dishwasher. This is particularly useful where at least one of the subtasks to be performed is too complex to be handled with handling modules. This can be the case, for example, when simple automatic modules cannot be used because the subtask is too complex, and when, on the other hand, robots cannot or should not be used, for example, due to processing time, capacity, operational reliability, or installation space constraints.

[0076] Thanks to the modularity and the division of the work to be performed into subtasks, according to the individual handling functions of the existing handling modules, a subdivision can be achieved, particularly of the entire processing area between the food hall and the conveyor dishwasher. This subdivision can be individually and variably configured and operated thanks to the modularity of the proposed system.

[0077] Furthermore, the modular system also allows the operator to adapt the configuration of the modular system to their specific requirements. For example, it is conceivable that the configuration and composition of the modular system could be changed over the course of a working day, for example by exchanging handling modules. In particular, it is possible to change the number, type, and arrangement of the processing stations throughout the day depending on requirements, particularly depending on the type and / or volume of the items to be cleaned, e.g. the place setting. In particular, an adjustment can be made so that a place setting for breakfast or dinner usually differs significantly from a corresponding place setting for lunch, for example in terms of content, composition, and volume.

[0078] The modular system can also include individual or multiple components, for example, as handling modules, which are already known for similar purposes, for example, from the aforementioned prior art. For example, sliders or wipers can be used as handling modules. Alternatively or additionally, one or more handling modules can be used, which include cutlery lifting magnets, as required.

[0079] As explained above, the recognition module can, for example, have at least one device for image capture. The recognition module itself and / or the control module can also comprise at least one image evaluation of the image processing. For example, the image capture can be arranged on the transport system for delivering soiled items to be cleaned, which can be part of the proposed cleaning system. For example, the image capture can be arranged on a feed belt from the dining area. The image capture and image processing can, for example, also recognize interfering parts on trays and then issue a corresponding warning and / or guide the respective item to be cleaned, for example the tray with the interfering part, to a special handling module, which ejects either the interfering part itself or the entire item to be cleaned with the interfering part, for example a tray with the interfering part.

[0080] The interchangeable handling modules can be designed as universal modules, in particular by having a universal interface, which can, for example, be designed analogously for all interchangeable handling modules. Thus, the interchangeable handling modules can be designed as universal interface modules.

[0081] The modular system and in particular the feed unit can be configured such that the corresponding items to be cleaned are fed to the respective handling modules, for example, in a defined position, for example in the usual position of use. As explained above, the respective handling module can then perform its at least one individual handling function for handling the items to be cleaned, in particular the item of crockery, using at least one actuator. For example, this individual handling function can comprise at least one of the above-mentioned functions, in particular at least one function selected from the group consisting of: turning the items to be cleaned; emptying and / or clearing the items to be cleaned, in particular removing food residues; preparing the items to be cleaned for pickup by the transport device, in particular the conveyor belt, of the conveyor dishwasher.In particular, the items to be cleaned, for example the respective item of crockery, can be dispensed from the handling module in the correct location and / or position and optionally with appropriate timing and at the correct time and can be transferred directly or indirectly to the transport device.

[0082] These individual handling functions can also include the treatment of food residues or other contaminants from the items being cleaned. For example, subsequent manual steps for removing contaminants and food residues can be at least partially eliminated. For example, at least one individual handling function of at least one handling module can consist of the removal of contaminants and / or food residues. For example, food residues can be disposed of automatically as needed or continuously, for example by the respective handling module disposing of them directly into a disposal container or disposal chute and / or by the respective handling module generating a pumpable mass of food residues and, if necessary, temporarily storing them until they are transferred to a connected disposal system.A simple solution for collecting food waste could be a disposal container, such as a trash can. More complex solutions are also possible, such as connecting the respective handling module to a central waste disposal system or similar.

[0083] The handling modules can be adapted to different types of items to be cleaned, for example, plates, cups, bowls, trays, or cutlery. This also allows the workload of the operating personnel to be reduced, allowing them to process a larger number of items, especially tableware, in the same amount of time.

[0084] The modular system can further be configured to communicate with the conveyor dishwasher unidirectionally or bidirectionally. In particular, as explained above, the control module can communicate with the conveyor dishwasher and / or even be fully or partially integrated into the conveyor dishwasher, for example, into a central machine control system of the conveyor dishwasher. Alternatively or additionally, the handling modules can also communicate with the conveyor dishwasher, for example.

[0085] Such communication between the modular system and the conveyor dishwasher can be used, for example, for the modular system to transmit information about the status data of the items to be cleaned and / or the cleaning situation of the delivered items to the conveyor dishwasher. For example, the modular system can be configured to transmit quantities of processed dishes to the conveyor dishwasher, for example to a control system of the conveyor dishwasher. For example, the modular system, for example at least one of the handling modules and / or the control module, can transmit to the conveyor dishwasher when no items to be cleaned are delivered, for example because place settings are not fully loaded.The conveyor dishwasher can adjust its operating parameters based on this information, for example to save resources, for example by temporarily interrupting the application of cleaning fluid.

[0086] The handling modules can, for example, be designed in such a universal manner that they can be docked or otherwise connected directly or indirectly to the conveyor dishwasher, for example, to the inlet of the conveyor dishwasher. In particular, this interface can also comprise a mechanical interface. In particular, the handling modules can be designed such that they can be docked, for example, at any point at the inlet of the conveyor dishwasher. Docking can, in particular, be carried out without the use of tools. Furthermore, the handling modules can be designed such that they can be moved from one location to another, preferably also without the use of tools, including a corresponding supply of energy and / or control signals.

[0087] Furthermore, several handling modules, which can be equipped, for example, for different items to be cleaned, in particular for different dishes, can be arranged next to one another at the inlet of the conveyor dishwasher. In particular, a single handling module can have the width required, at least substantially, by the respective item of items to be cleaned, in particular items of dishes, on the transport device, for example, the conveyor belt of the conveyor dishwasher.

[0088] This optimizes the capacity of the conveyor dishwasher or at least does not significantly reduce it compared to the situation without the modular system.

[0089] The number and arrangement of the handling modules can be determined, in particular, by the quantity of items to be cleaned per unit of time, by the requirements of the conveyor dishwasher, in particular its width, type, and distribution of the conveyor tracks described above, by the type of items to be cleaned, and, if applicable, by the distribution of the quantity of items to be cleaned across different types of items. Combinations of the above-mentioned factors are also possible.

[0090] The situation in front of the handling modules and / or the loading of the handling modules can be designed very individually and / or with only minor restrictions. Three variants are conceivable, either individually or in combination with each other or in combination with other variants.

[0091] In a first variant, for example, there is a feed belt for the delivery of the items to be cleaned, on which the items to be cleaned are transported in the form of place settings from the dining room to the dishwashing area. The feed belt, for example, runs transversely in front of the inlet of the conveyor dishwasher. Several different handling modules, for example, are arranged between the feed belt and the inlet of the conveyor dishwasher. In addition, human operators can optionally be provided to remove some items of crockery by hand, for example. Cutlery can be removed by a handling module using a magnet, and the tray can be fed to the conveyor dishwasher by a simple handling module in the form of an automation module.

[0092] In a second variant, for example, there is again a feed belt on which the place settings are transported from the dining room to the dishwashing area. The feed belt, for example, runs transversely in front of the conveyor dishwasher's inlet. Between the feed belt and the conveyor dishwasher's inlet, several different handling modules are arranged. A handling module with a robot can, for example, remove the drinking glass from the tray, while human operators can, for example, remove the remaining dishes by hand. The cutlery and the tray are fed to the conveyor dishwasher by one or more additional handling modules, for example one or more simple automation modules.

[0093] In a third variant, the drop-off situation in the dining room is modified compared to the usual arrangements in such a way that the guest places the individual components of the place setting individually. These individual pieces are then transported separately to the handling modules and processed there, as described above. This variant is particularly conceivable in cost-sensitive establishments.

[0094] Depending on developments in communal catering or robotics technology, an existing cleaning system can also be upgraded, retrofitted, or otherwise modified with the modular system. Accordingly, the system as a whole can be adapted to the changing or evolving needs of the operator.

[0095] In general, this provides the operator with a high degree of flexibility in the design and staffing of the dishwashing area. The proposed design also offers greater flexibility for future changes compared to conventional solutions, especially semi-automatic or fully automatic systems.

[0096] For the cleaning system manufacturer, the proposed solution with its various interchangeable handling modules offers the possibility of developing and producing several similar handling modules, instead of repeatedly building new, customized systems. This can increase overall cost-effectiveness and reduce development and manufacturing costs.

[0097] By dividing up the processes, it is particularly possible to further reduce personnel requirements in the dishwashing area and also to lighten the workload for the operating staff. Breaking down the processes into individual steps generally reduces the workload of the operating staff, meaning that more items to be cleaned, for example more dishes, can be processed in the same amount of time. Furthermore, breaking down the processing steps into smaller subtasks makes it possible to use robots to load a conveyor dishwasher in communal catering. The design of the handling modules with robotics can be adapted to the current state of the art, so that, for example, robot modules can be assigned those tasks that can already be handled by robots today.As the scope of applicability increases, robot modules can then be given a wider range of tasks, and additional handling modules with robotics can be used without the need for a complete redesign of the system. Short description of the characters

[0098] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, particularly in conjunction with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments are illustrated schematically in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures designate identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions.

[0099] In detail: Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a cleaning system and a modular system in a plan view; Figure 2 shows a further embodiment of a cleaning system and a modular system in a sectional side view; and Figure 3 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for cleaning items to be cleaned. Description of the embodiments

[0100] Figure 1shows a plan view of a schematic arrangement of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning system 110 for cleaning items 112. In this exemplary embodiment, the cleaning system 110 comprises, by way of example, a conveyor dishwasher 114 with a cleaning chamber 116 and a transport device 118 for transporting the items 112 through the cleaning chamber 116. Furthermore, in the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the cleaning system 110 comprises a modular system 120 for loading the transport device 118 of the conveyor dishwasher 114 with items 112. Furthermore, the cleaning system 110 comprises a transport system 122 for delivering soiled items 112.

[0101] The conveyor dishwasher 114 comprises a Figure 1schematically illustrated application device 124. By means of the application device 124, the items to be cleaned 112, which are transported by means of the transport device 118 through the cleaning chamber 116, for example a cleaning zone, can be subjected to at least one cleaning fluid. For example, several cleaning zones can be arranged within the cleaning chamber 116 of the conveyor dishwasher 114, by means of which cleaning fluid can be applied one after the other, for example at least one pre-clearing zone, at least one washing zone and at least one final rinse zone, and optionally also at least one drying zone. With regard to possible embodiments of the conveyor dishwasher 114, reference can generally be made to the above prior art.The items to be cleaned 112 can, for example, be transported from an inlet 126 of the conveyor dishwasher 114, through the cleaning chamber 116, to an outlet 128, which in . Figure 1 is merely indicated. The transport device 118 can, as in Figure 1As indicated, it can be divided into a plurality of tracks 130, which can be configured in a real or virtual manner. In a real configuration, for example, different types of receptacles can be provided on the transport device 118, for example different chain links and / or different compartments. The tracks 130 can, for example, accordingly accommodate different types of items to be cleaned 112. These different types of items to be cleaned can, for example, be provided with different types of exposure by the exposure device 124 within the cleaning chamber 116, for example through a different arrangement and / or orientation of nozzles.

[0102] The transport system 122 can, for example, be designed as a belt transport system. The items to be cleaned 112 can, for example, be divided into units, which can be defined in particular by a tray 132 and its contents. For example, cutlery 134, drinking glasses 136, dishes 138 of various types, as well as debris 140 and / or waste 142 can be provided on each tray 132. The transport system 122 can, for example, have at least one conveyor belt, by means of which the items to be cleaned 112 can be transported to a transfer point 144. The transport can, for example, begin in a dining room and end in a dishwashing area, so that the transfer point 144 can, for example, be located in the dishwashing area.

[0103] The modular system 120 comprises at least one detection module 146 for capturing status data of the delivered cleaning items 112. For example, the at least one detection module 146 can have at least one camera 148 for capturing image data. For example, the detection module 146 can be arranged at one or more detection points of the transport system 122, which do not necessarily have to be identical to the transfer point 144 and which can be arranged, for example, upstream of the transfer point 144 with respect to a transport direction 150 of the transport system 122.

[0104] The detection module 146 can be unidirectionally or bidirectionally coupled to at least one control module 152 of the modular system 120. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one detection module can also be fully or partially integrated into this control module 152. This control module 152 can, for example, also Figure 1not shown, can be unidirectionally or bidirectionally coupled to a control 154 of the conveyor dishwasher 114, and / or can also be fully or partially integrated into this control 154.

[0105] The control module 152 has at least one processor 156. The control module 152 also has at least one registration unit 158. This registration unit 158 can be implemented entirely or partially as software and / or entirely or partially as hardware. Furthermore, the registration unit 158 can also be integrated entirely or partially into the processor 156. The control module 152 can also have at least one interface 160 for connecting to the at least one detection module 146, at least one interface 162 for connecting to at least one feed unit 164 described in more detail below, and at least one interface 166 for reversibly coupling a plurality of handling modules 168.

[0106] The modular system 120 further comprises, as previously mentioned, a plurality of interchangeable handling modules 168. These interchangeable handling modules 168 are each configured to perform an individual handling function for handling the items to be cleaned 112 using at least one actuator 170. Examples of possible actuators are mentioned above and will be described in more detail below. In particular, these can be actuators 170 that have a magnetic function, a mechanical function, or, for example, a disposal function. By means of the actuators 170, in particular, a transfer of certain types of items to be cleaned 112 to the transport device 118 can take place, in particular in a predetermined orientation. After this transfer, the items to be cleaned 112 can then be transported by means of the transport device 118 in a transport direction 172 through the cleaning chamber 116.The individual handling function of the handling modules 168 can, for example, relate to certain types of cleaning items 112 and / or to certain actions to be performed, such as emptying food residues from the cleaning items 112 and / or disposing of waste.

[0107] The handling modules 168 can be reversibly coupled to and decoupled from the modular system 120. Thus, the modular system 120 can be individually configured for the respective application and flexibly redesigned. For example, the at least one interface 166 can have at least one mechanical interface, which can be arranged, for example, on a housing 174 of the modular system 120 and / or which can also be arranged entirely or partially on a housing 176 of the conveyor dishwasher 114. A mechanical and / or electrical or electronic coupling can be implemented.These functions of the interface can also be designed separately, so that, for example, a mechanical coupling to the conveyor dishwasher 114 can take place, whereas a coupling for the unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and / or control commands and / or an electrical supply can take place via the at least one interface 166 on the housing 174. Furthermore, the latter interface 166 in particular can be designed to be wired or completely or partially wireless, for example as part of a coupling to an Internet of Things (IoT). Various configurations are conceivable and generally known to those skilled in the art. The respectively coupled handling modules 168 can be registered in the registration unit 158 and can also be deregistered again upon decoupling.For example, the registration unit may comprise at least one directory or register in which the currently registered handling modules 168 are listed. Furthermore, the respective individual handling functions of the registered handling modules 168 are also listed in the registration unit.

[0108] The modular system 120 further comprises at least one feed unit 164. This feed unit 164 is configured to feed items to be cleaned 112 to the handling modules 168 according to their usability. This feeding generally occurs in such a way that the respective items to be cleaned 112 and the respective handling module 168 are brought closer together, so that, for example, the items to be cleaned 112 and / or the respective handling module 168 can be moved. For example, the feed unit 164 can have at least one slider that selectively feeds specific items to be cleaned 112 to an associated handling module 168.

[0109] The processor 156 of the control module 152 is programmed to evaluate status data supplied by the recognition module 146, and to evaluate and assess the respective cleaning item situation of the delivered cleaning item 112, for example, for each tray 132 including its contents. Furthermore, the processor 156 is programmed to identify which handling modules 168 are currently registered with the registration unit 158, for example, by querying the directory or register of the registration unit 158. The processor 156 is further configured to identify whether the respective individual handling functions of these registered handling modules 168 can be used in the respective cleaning item situation.Accordingly, the processor 156 is configured to control the feed unit 164 such that, when usability is detected, items to be cleaned 112 are fed to the respective handling modules 168. If, for example, it is detected that a handling module 168 is registered for handling cutlery 134, then cutlery 134 can be specifically fed to this handling module 168. For example, this cutlery 134 can be fed to the handling module 168 using at least one magnetic actuator. The handling module 168 can, for example, place the cutlery 134 on a specific cutlery track of the tracks of a transport device 118 and / or collect it in one or more cutlery baskets or cutlery holders. If, for example, it is detected that a handling module 168 is registered for handling plates or other types of tableware 138, then items of tableware can be specifically fed to this handling module 168.For example, these items of crockery can be grasped by a gripper or suction device, freed of food residue, and placed in the correct orientation on the transport device 118. Similar processes can also be performed for other types of items 112 to be cleaned.

[0110] If, during the evaluation of the cleaning item situation by the control module 152 and a corresponding comparison with the registered handling modules 168, it is recognized that individual handling functions or handling steps are required for which no handling module 168 is registered, the control module 152 can react in various ways. For example, a warning can be issued to human operating personnel, for example an acoustic and / or visual warning by means of at least one warning device of the cleaning system 110 and / or the modular system 120. Alternatively or additionally, the corresponding cleaning item 112 can also be diverted, for example to a special manual workstation and / or to a waiting position. There, human operating personnel can then perform the corresponding work steps.For example, corresponding trays 132 with the load, for which steps that cannot be carried out by registered handling modules 168 are required, can simply be transported further by means of the transport system 122 until human operating personnel can take care of the completion of the corresponding tasks.

[0111] In Figure 2 is an example of the cleaning system 110 with the modular system 120 shown in a schematic sectional view from the side. Here, only a single handling module 168 is shown as an example. Otherwise, the description of the Figure 1Here, as an example, the handling module 168 is designed as a tray turner 178. Alternatively or additionally, a plate turner can also be provided, for example. The tray turner shown here can, for example, have a feed ramp 180, as well as a turning wheel 182. After the trays 132 have been cleared by previous handling modules 168 and / or by human operators, a pusher 184 of the feed unit 164 can, for example, push the empty tray 132 onto the feed ramp 180, via which the tray 132 is then introduced into the turning wheel 182. There, by rotation by means of the turning wheel 182, it is first freed of waste, which can, for example, be discharged into a disposal chute 186.By further rotation, the tray 132 can then be inserted, for example, into corresponding compartments of the transport device 118 formed by the fingers 188, for example, on a designated track 130 or tray track. Alternatively or in addition to the method shown in . Figure 2 In addition to the handling module 168 shown, other types of handling modules 168 can be used, for example with other individual handling functions.

[0112] In Figure 3 A schematic process flow of an embodiment of a method for cleaning items to be cleaned 112 is shown. The method comprises, in a step 190, providing a cleaning system 110, for example as shown in Figure 1The method further comprises a step in which items to be cleaned 112 are delivered by means of the transport system 122. The method further comprises a step 194 in which status data of the delivered items to be cleaned 112 are recorded by means of the recognition module 146. The method further comprises a step 196 in which the status data are evaluated and the respective status of the delivered items to be cleaned 112 is assessed by means of the control module 152. As explained above, this can be done, for example, for each tray 132 with additional items to be cleaned 112 held thereon.The method further comprises a step 198 in which, in particular by the control module 152, the handling modules 168 registered with the registration unit 158 and their respective individual handling functions are recognized, and in which the usability of the registered handling modules 168 for the respective cleaning item situation is evaluated. Furthermore, in a step 200, the feed unit 164 is controlled by the control module 152 such that cleaning items 112 are fed to the handling modules 168 according to their usability. Subsequently, the method can be carried out as in . Figure 3shown, can be repeated in whole or in part, for example by repeating the method steps starting from step 192. Alternatively, however, method steps can also run in parallel, so that, for example, steps 192 and 194 are repeated with the next tray 132 while previous trays 132 are still being processed. For further possible embodiments of the method, reference can be made to the above description of the cleaning system 110 and the modular system 120. List of reference symbols

[0113] 110 Cleaning system 112 Items to be cleaned 114 Conveyor dishwasher 116 Cleaning chamber 118 Transport device 120 Modular system 122 Transport system 124 Loading device 126 Inlet 128 Outlet 130 Lane 132 Tray 134 Cutlery 136 Drinking glass 138 Crockery 140 Interference object 142 Waste 144 Transfer point 146 Detection module 148 Camera 150 Transport direction 152 Control module 154 Controller 156 Processor 158 Registration unit 160 Interface 162 Interface 164 Feed unit 166 Interface 168 Handling module 170 Actuator 172 Transport direction 174 Housing 176 Housing 178 Tray turner 180Feed ramp 182Turning wheel 184Slider 186Disposal chute 188Finger 190Providing a cleaning system 192Delivering the items to be cleaned 194Collecting status data 196Evaluating status data 198Recognizing the registered handling modules 200Controlling the feed unit

Claims

1. Modular system (120) for loading a conveying device (118) of a conveyor dishwasher (114), comprising: A. at least one detection module (146) for acquiring state data of supplied washware (112); B. a plurality of interchangeable handling modules (168), wherein the handling modules (168) are each configured to carry out an individual handling function for handling the washware (112) using at least one actuator (170), wherein at least one individual handling function comprises a provision of the washware (112) for reception by the conveying device of the conveyor dishwasher; C. at least one feeding unit (164) for selectively feeding the supplied washware (112) to the handling modules (168); D. at least one control module (152), characterized in that - the control module (152) comprises at least one registration unit (158), wherein the handling modules (168) and the individual handling functions thereof are registrable, and deregistrable, at the registration unit (158), - wherein the control module (152) comprises at least one processor (156) and is configured, by programming, ∘ to evaluate the state data and assess a respective washware situation of the supplied washware (112); and ∘ to recognize which handling modules (168) are registered to the registration unit (158), whether the respective individual handling functions of the handling modules (168) are utilizable in the respective washware situation, and to drive the feeding unit (164) in such a way that washware (112) is fed to the handling modules (168) according to utilizability.

2. Modular system (120) according to the preceding claim, wherein the individual handling function is selected from the group consisting of: - removing disruptive items (140) from a tray (132); - removing food remains and napkins from a tray (132); - clearing drinking glasses (136) from a tray (132); - clearing flatware items (134) from a tray (132); - clearing other tableware items (138) from a tray (132); - providing supplied trays (132) to the conveying device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114); - turning a removed tableware item over and transferring the latter to the conveying device of the conveyor dishwasher; - forwarding a removed tableware item and transferring the latter to the conveying device of the conveyor dishwasher.

3. Modular system (120) according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the state data comprise image data of the supplied washware (112), wherein the processor (156) has at least one image evaluation software and is configured to recognize and assess the washware situation by means of the image evaluation software.

4. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the processor (156) comprises at least one artificial intelligence for assessing the washware situation.

5. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control module (152) further is configured to recognize if the respective washware situation requires handling for which no handling module (168) with a suitable individual handling function is registered to the registration unit (158).

6. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the individual handling function comprises a provision of at least one selected type of washware (112) to at least one assigned lane of the conveying device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114).

7. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the modular system (120) comprises at least one interface (166), wherein the interchangeable handling modules (168) are capable of being reversibly docked to the interface (166).

8. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of interchangeable handling modules (168) comprise at least one handling module (168) that is configured to carry out an individual handling function in the form of a removal of disruptive items (140) from a tray (132).

9. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of interchangeable handling modules (168) comprise at least one handling module (168) that is configured to carry out an individual handling function in the form of a removal of food remains and napkins from a tray (132), wherein the individual handling function furthermore comprises at least a disposal of the food remains and napkins in at least one disposal device.

10. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of interchangeable handling modules (168) comprise at least one handling module (168) that is configured to carry out an individual handling function in the form of clearing drinking glasses (136) from a tray (132), wherein the individual handling function furthermore comprises at least a provision of the drinking glasses (136) to the conveying device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114), selected from the group consisting of: loading the drinking glasses into drinkware dishwasher baskets; placing the drinking glasses on at least one drinkware lane of the transporting device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114).

11. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of interchangeable handling modules (168) comprise at least one handling module (168) that is configured to carry out an individual handling function in the form of clearing flatware items (134) from a tray (132), wherein the individual handling function furthermore comprises at least a provision of the flatware items (134) to the conveying device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114), selected from the group consisting of: loading the flatware items (134) into flatware dishwasher baskets; placing the flatware items (134) on at least one flatware lane of the transporting device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114).

12. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of interchangeable handling modules (168) comprise at least one handling module (168) that is configured to carry out an individual handling function in the form of clearing at least one type of tableware items (138) apart from flatware (134) and drinking glass (136) from a tray (132), wherein the individual handling function furthermore comprises at least a provision of the tableware items (138) to the conveying device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114), selected from the group consisting of: loading the tableware items (138) into tableware dishwasher baskets; placing the tableware items on at least one tableware lane of the transporting device (118) of the conveyor dishwasher (114).

13. Modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the feeding unit (164) comprises at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a pushing means (184) for selectively pushing constituent parts of the washware (112) to the respective handling modules (168); a gripper; a brush; a magnet; a slide; a switch; a scraper bar.

14. Cleaning system (110) for cleaning washware (112), comprising: a. at least one modular system (120) according to any of the preceding claims; b. at least one conveyor dishwasher (114), wherein the conveyor dishwasher (114) comprises at least one cleaning chamber (116) and at least one conveying device (118) for conveying washware (112) from an inlet (126) of the conveyor dishwasher (114) to an outlet (128) of the conveyor dishwasher (114) through the cleaning chamber (116), wherein the conveyor dishwasher (114) is configured to apply at least one cleaning fluid to the washware (112) in the cleaning chamber (116); and c. at least one conveying system (122) for supplying dirtied washware (112).

15. Method for cleaning washware (112), comprising: i. providing at least one cleaning system (110) according to Claim 14; ii. supplying washware (112) by means of the conveying system (122); iii. acquiring state data relating to the supplied washware (112) by means of the detection module (146); iv. evaluating the state data and assessing the respective washware situation of the supplied washware (112) by means of the control module (152); v. recognizing the handling modules (168) registered to the registration unit (158) and the respective individual handling function of the handling modules (168), and assessing the utilizability in the respective washware situation; and vi. driving the feeding unit (164) by way of the control unit in such a way that the handling modules (168) are fed washware (112) in accordance with the utilizability.

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