Dishwasher basket

Abstract

The invention relates to a dishwashing basket (1) for dishwashers, in particular commercial dishwashers, which are designed in particular as automatic programs, as rack conveyor dishwashers or as rack pass-through hood dishwashers, wherein the dishwashing basket (1) is designed to receive and hold folding packaging (10), in particular clamshell packaging, and has an outer frame (2) with at least one retaining strut (3) extending in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the dishwashing basket (1), wherein the at least one retaining strut (3) is vertically spaced from a bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket (1) defined by the outer frame (2).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of commercial dishwashing.

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a special dishwashing basket for dishwashers, especially for commercial dishwashers, which are designed as automatic programs, as basket conveyor dishwashers or as basket pass-through hood dishwashers.

[0003] Automatic dishwashers are manually loaded and unloaded. These can be rack-type dishwashers (also called hood-type dishwashers) or front-loading dishwashers. Front-loading dishwashers can be undercounter, countertop, or freestanding models with front loading.

[0004] A dishwasher designed as a program-controlled automatic dishwasher typically has a treatment chamber for cleaning the dishes. Usually, a wash tank is located below the treatment chamber, into which liquid from the treatment chamber can flow back by gravity. The wash tank contains washing fluid, which is usually water, to which detergent can be added if necessary.

[0005] A dishwasher designed as a program-controlled automatic dishwasher typically has a treatment chamber for cleaning the dishes. Usually, a wash tank is located below the treatment chamber, into which liquid from the treatment chamber can flow back by gravity. The wash tank contains washing fluid, which is usually water, to which detergent can be added if necessary.

[0006] A dishwasher designed as a program-controlled automatic dishwasher further comprises a washing system with a wash pump and a pipe system connected to the wash pump, and with a plurality of spray nozzles integrated into at least one wash arm. The washing liquid in the wash tank can be pumped by the wash pump via the pipe system to the spray nozzles and sprayed by the spray nozzles in the treatment chamber onto the items to be cleaned. The sprayed washing liquid then flows back into the wash tank.

[0007] The conveyor dishwashers considered here are primarily rack conveyor dishwashers, which are typically used in commercial settings. Unlike automatic dishwashers where the items to be cleaned remain stationary within the machine during the cleaning process, conveyor dishwashers transport the items through various treatment zones.

[0008] A conveyor dishwasher typically has at least one pre-wash zone and at least one main wash zone, which, viewed in the direction of transport, is located after the pre-wash zone(s). Viewed in the direction of transport, after the main wash zone(s), there is usually at least one post-wash zone and at least one rinse zone following the post-wash zone. In rack conveyor dishwashers, the items, held by racks, typically pass through an inlet tunnel, the subsequent pre-wash zone(s), main wash zone(s), post-wash zone(s), rinse zone(s), and a drying zone before entering an outlet.

[0009] Each of the aforementioned washing zones of the conveyor dishwasher is assigned a washing system, which includes a wash pump and a pipe system connected to the pump. This system supplies liquid to the spray nozzles of the respective washing zone. The washing liquid supplied to the spray nozzles is sprayed onto the items being washed in the respective washing zone, which are transported through the washing zones by a conveyor system of the conveyor dishwasher. Each washing zone has an associated tank that collects the sprayed liquid and / or supplies liquid to the spray nozzles of that zone.

[0010] In conventional conveyor dishwashers, rinse aid, in the form of fresh water (which may be pure or contain additives such as rinse aid), is sprayed onto the items being washed via the spray nozzles of the rinse zone. At least a portion of the sprayed rinse aid is transported from zone to zone via a cascade system, in the opposite direction to the transport of the items.

[0011] The sprayed rinse aid is collected in a tank (post-wash tank) in the post-wash zone. From there, it is pumped by the wash pump of the post-wash zone's washing system to the spray nozzles (post-wash nozzles) of the post-wash zone. In the post-wash zone, the wash fluid is rinsed off the items being washed. The resulting liquid flows into the wash tank of at least one main wash zone, which is located upstream of the post-wash zone in the direction of item transport. Here, the liquid is typically mixed with a cleaning agent and sprayed onto the items via the nozzles (wash nozzles) of the main wash zone by a pump system (wash pump) belonging to the main wash zone's washing system. From the main wash zone's wash tank, the liquid then flows—unless another main wash zone is provided—into the pre-wash zone's storage tank.The liquid in the pre-wash tank is sprayed onto the items being washed via a pump system belonging to the pre-wash zone's washing system and the pre-wash nozzle of the pre-wash zone, in order to remove coarse dirt from the items being washed.

[0012] Regardless of whether the dishwasher is designed as a program-controlled automatic dishwasher or as a rack conveyor dishwasher, the items to be cleaned are usually placed in a dish basket, which is then fed into the washing chamber (in the case of program-controlled automatic dishwashers) or the treatment zones (in the case of rack conveyor dishwashers).

[0013] In dishwashing baskets known from the prior art and commonly used in commercial dishwashing, the items to be washed, especially glasses, cups, and plates, are sorted and placed in designated slots on the basket frame. A support strut arrangement is often provided to prevent the items from tipping over if the basket is shaken. Typically, the dishwashing basket has a frame with longitudinal and transverse struts arranged in a grid pattern, which ultimately define a surface for the items to be washed.

[0014] The terms "support strut", "longitudinal strut" and "transverse strut" used herein refer to rod-shaped elements running in the longitudinal or transverse direction, respectively.

[0015] It is also known that, in the case of dishwashing baskets, the support surfaces, especially for glasses or cups, are designed to slope downwards relative to the horizontal plane in order to facilitate the rapid drainage of the previously sprayed rinse liquid from the items being washed after the rinsing cycle has finished and to reduce the accumulation of water droplets on the items being washed.

[0016] In particular, it is known, for example, with regard to the upper basket of a dishwasher, that glasses, cups, and plates are sorted and placed in designated slots within the basket frame, with the shelves for glasses and cups possibly located at different levels within the basket. The items being washed rest against the basket supports at the bottom and sides, which thus serve as support and storage surfaces. The shelves for the glasses and cups are angled to allow water droplets to drain away.

[0017] The dishwashing baskets known so far are therefore adapted for the types of items typically washed, especially in a restaurant or canteen operation, such as plates, cups and glasses.

[0018] On the other hand, it is common practice, especially in coffee shops and fast-food restaurants, to use disposable tableware, particularly clamshell containers. Due to the enormous amounts of plastic waste generated daily by disposable tableware, there is a drive to reduce the amount of disposable tableware used, especially in fast-food restaurants.

[0019] One approach to improving the environmental footprint of fast-food restaurants in particular is to use disposable tableware, such as clamshell containers, which are recyclable. Disposable tableware made from cellulose acetate or so-called oxo-degradable plastic is one example.

[0020] The problem with this type of disposable tableware, however, lies in the fact that the oxo-degradable plastic can only decompose under certain defined conditions, which are generally not met during recycling. As a result, the material of the disposable tableware breaks down into microplastics and can continue to pollute the environment and pose a health risk. Furthermore, the production of disposable tableware from oxo-degradable plastic is relatively complex and therefore also negatively impacts its environmental footprint.

[0021] Clammable packaging (often also called "clamshells") consists of two halves connected by a hinge, allowing the box-like package to be closed. These types of packaging are particularly common in the fast-food, takeaway, and quick-service sectors and are colloquially known as "burger boxes."

[0022] Packaging in this segment is designed to be ready to use open and can be closed with a single movement using a clamp closure. Clamshell packaging can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but is always characterized by its two halves and the hinged section that connects them.

[0023] FIG. 1 Figure 1 shows, using an exemplary embodiment, the usual structure of a hinged packaging 10, specifically in the closed state of the hinged packaging 10, while FIG. 2 The folding packaging shows 10 items in the open state.

[0024] Typically, the folding packaging 10 of the type considered herein has so far been made of paper / cardboard or plastic and was therefore single-use packaging.

[0025] Due to increasingly stringent legal regulations regarding reusable packaging, numerous fast-food providers are currently developing reusable folding plastic containers to replace their existing single-use paper / cardboard containers. These reusable folding containers will therefore need to be cleaned in commercial dishwashers to be reused. One possible application is the use of a program-controlled dishwasher, such as an undercounter or hood-type model, where the items are cleaned in special baskets.

[0026] A major challenge lies in the unique design of these hinged containers compared to items typically used in commercial dishwashing, such as glasses, cups, mugs, bowls, plates, trays, cutlery, pots, or other cooking utensils. The key difference with these hinged containers is the hinge that connects the two halves. This means the lid (the top half of the container) is always firmly attached to the bottom half. When open, i.e., when the containers are being cleaned, the resulting shape is quite complex and cannot be easily placed in existing dishwashing baskets or effectively cleaned.

[0027] Accordingly, the present invention is based on the objective of providing a dishwashing basket that is specifically designed for clamshell packaging and ensures simple and intuitive sorting / loading of the clamshell packaging into the dishwashing basket, whereby in particular the best possible cleaning and drying result can be achieved.

[0028] This problem is solved in particular by the subject matter of independent claim 1, wherein advantageous further developments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0029] Accordingly, the invention relates in particular to a dishwashing basket for dishwashers, especially commercial dishwashers, which are designed as automatic programs or as rack conveyor dishwashers. The dishwashing basket according to the invention is designed to receive and hold hinged packaging, in particular clamshell packaging, and for this purpose has an outer frame with at least one retaining strut extending in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the dishwashing basket, wherein the at least one retaining strut is vertically spaced from a bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket defined by the outer frame. The dishwashing basket is designed in particular to receive and hold one-piece hinged packaging, in particular clamshell packaging, which has two packaging halves connected to each other via a hinge area.The at least one retaining strut of the dishwashing basket has the particular task of supporting the one-piece folding packaging in a state received by the dishwashing basket over its hinge area, and preferably exclusively or at least substantially exclusively over its hinge area.

[0030] The dishwashing basket according to the invention is designed to receive and hold different types of one-piece folding packaging and, in particular, different sizes, especially for one-piece folding packaging in which each half of the packaging has a length of at least 5 cm and preferably at least 510 cm perpendicular to the hinge area of ​​the folding packaging and a depth of at least 3 to 5 cm perpendicular to the hinge area and perpendicular to the length.

[0031] In particular, it is provided that the at least one retaining strut of the dishwashing basket is vertically spaced from the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket defined by the outer frame in such a way that one of the two packaging halves of the one-piece folding packaging can be received at least partially or in part on both sides of the at least one retaining strut.

[0032] Preferably, it is further provided in particular that the at least one retaining strut of the dishwashing basket is horizontally spaced from the outer frame of the dishwashing basket in such a way that at least partially or partially one of the two packaging halves of the one-piece folding packaging can be received in an area between the retaining strut and the outer frame of the dishwashing basket.

[0033] According to preferred embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, the at least one retaining strut is designed such that, in a state where a hinged package is held by the retaining strut over its hinge area, there is no further contact point with the dishwashing basket except for the hinge area.

[0034] To facilitate intuitive loading of the dishwashing basket with folding packages, embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention provide that the at least one support strut extending in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the dishwashing basket has a suitable segmentation along one direction of extension of the support strut, which divides the support strut into individual sections. Preferably, a single folding package can be received in each section via its hinge area. For example, pin-shaped sections extending perpendicular to the direction of extension of the support strut are suitable as segmentations.

[0035] Preferably, the dishwashing basket has a first support strut extending in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the dishwashing basket and at least one second support strut extending parallel to the first support strut, wherein the first support strut is horizontally spaced from a second support strut running immediately adjacent to the first support strut such that one of the two packaging halves of the hinged packaging supported by the first support strut and one of the two packaging halves of the hinged packaging supported by the second support strut can be received in an area between the first support strut and the second support strut running immediately adjacent to it.

[0036] According to preferred embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, the outer frame of the dishwashing basket has a bottom area bounded by two parallel transverse struts and two parallel longitudinal struts, and furthermore has an upper edge area formed by two parallel transverse struts and two parallel longitudinal struts, which lies in a horizontal plane that runs parallel to and vertically spaced from the horizontal plane in which the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket lies.

[0037] Particularly in this context, it is advantageous for the at least one support strut to run parallel to the two transverse struts or parallel to the two longitudinal struts that form the upper edge of the dishwashing basket. Preferably, the at least one support strut is connected to the two longitudinal struts or to the two transverse struts that form the upper edge of the dishwashing basket.

[0038] According to preferred embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, the at least one retaining strut of the dishwashing basket is arranged vertically at a distance from the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket defined by the outer frame, and is designed in such a way that the one-piece folding packages can be received hanging from the at least one retaining strut in such a way that the packaging halves of the folding packages do not intersect a plane spanned by the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the outer frame of the dishwashing basket has a bottom frame defining the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket, which is at least substantially rectangular, and an upper edge frame, which is at least substantially rectangular and is vertically spaced from the bottom frame and forms an upper edge area of ​​the dishwashing basket, and which preferably has the same size and in particular the same shape as the bottom frame.

[0040] In this context, it is advantageous for the base frame to have two parallel longitudinal struts and two parallel transverse struts, as well as at least one and preferably exactly one horizontal intermediate strut connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts and at least one horizontal intermediate strut connecting the two parallel transverse struts of the base frame, wherein the at least one horizontal intermediate strut connecting the two parallel transverse struts of the base frame is spaced apart from and parallel to the at least one support strut.

[0041] Preferably, it is provided that a number of the horizontal intermediate struts connecting the two parallel cross struts of the base frame are identical to a number of the retaining struts of the dishwashing basket.

[0042] According to embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, the upper rim frame of the dishwashing basket has two parallel longitudinal struts and two parallel transverse struts, each of the two transverse struts of the upper rim frame of the dishwashing basket being connected to the corresponding parallel transverse strut of the base frame via at least one vertical intermediate strut, wherein an end region of the at least one vertical intermediate strut is connected to an end region of the at least one horizontal intermediate strut connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts of the base frame or in a region of the parallel transverse struts of the base frame, or adjoins an end region of the at least one horizontal intermediate strut connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts of the base frame.

[0043] Preferably, the at least one retaining strut of the dishwashing basket runs in a horizontal plane parallel to the longitudinal struts of the upper edge frame and the bottom frame.

[0044] In this context, it is specifically provided that the horizontal plane in which the at least one support strut runs lies between a horizontal plane in which the base frame of the dish basket lies and a horizontal plane in which the upper edge area of ​​the dish basket lies.

[0045] According to preferred embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, it is provided that the at least one retaining strut has at least one retaining device which is designed to hold a hinged packaging placed on the at least one retaining strut in a detachable manner.

[0046] Different designs are possible for the holding device.

[0047] For example, it is conceivable that the at least one holding device is designed to hold the folding packaging placed on the at least one supporting strut at least partially via a positive locking connection.

[0048] It is conceivable, in particular, that the at least one holding device is designed as a clamping device which has two clamping jaws between which an area of ​​the folding packaging and, in particular, the hinge area of ​​the folding packaging can be held, at least partially.

[0049] Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the at least one holding device has holding fingers which are designed in such a way that an area of ​​the folding packaging and in particular the hinge area of ​​the folding packaging can be picked up at least partially between two adjacent holding fingers.

[0050] In this context, it is particularly conceivable that the at least one holding device has a plurality of holding finger pairs, wherein an area of ​​the folding packaging and in particular the hinge area of ​​the folding packaging can be received at least partially between the holding fingers of each holding finger pair.

[0051] It is particularly preferred that the retaining fingers of the holding device are arranged obliquely with respect to a longitudinal extension direction of the at least one retaining strut of the dishwashing basket.

[0052] In this context, it is particularly advantageous for the retaining fingers to be connected to the at least one retaining strut in such a way that a receiving area, in particular a slit or slot-shaped, is formed between two adjacent retaining fingers and, in particular, between the two retaining fingers of a pair of retaining fingers, wherein an area of ​​the hinged packaging to be held by the adjacent retaining fingers and, in particular, by the pair of retaining fingers, and especially the hinge area of ​​the hinged packaging, can be inserted from above or obliquely from above into the receiving area, in particular a slit or slot-shaped, receiving area.

[0053] According to preferred embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, the dishwashing basket has at least one retaining element which can preferably be manually moved into a position in which a folding package received by the dishwashing basket is at least partially or partially received between the at least one retaining strut and the retaining element.

[0054] In this context, it is particularly advantageous that, in the position of the at least one retaining element in which a folding package received by the dishwashing basket is at least partially or partially received between the at least one retaining strut and the retaining element, the retaining element runs parallel to the retaining strut and preferably spaced apart from the retaining strut via a gap area.

[0055] In particular, according to embodiment variants of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, the at least one retaining element is designed as a retaining rod which is connected via a bearing area and in particular via a joint area to the outer frame of the dishwashing basket and preferably to an upper edge area of ​​the dishwashing basket relative to the outer frame in a movable and in particular pivotable manner.

[0056] According to a preferred implementation, particularly of the last-mentioned aspect, it is provided that the at least one retaining element is connected to the outer frame of the dishwashing basket and preferably to the upper edge region of the dishwashing basket in such a way that the at least one retaining element can preferably be moved manually into a position and, in particular, pivoted relative to the outer frame of the dishwashing basket, such that the retaining element then rests on a support strut or runs directly adjacent to a support strut.

[0057] According to preferred embodiments of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, it is provided that each retaining strut is assigned two and in particular exactly two retaining elements, wherein each retaining element is connected to the outer frame of the dishwashing basket, in particular by a pivot connection, in a region of the outer frame of the dishwashing basket in which the retaining strut is also connected to the outer frame of the dishwashing basket.

[0058] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it is provided that the outer frame with the at least one retaining strut is designed as a dishwashing basket attachment which can be placed on a flat basket and in particular can be attached to it in order to form the dishwashing basket.

[0059] According to another aspect of the invention, the dishwashing basket has a code that can be read by a sensor in a dishwasher, by which the dishwashing basket or at least the type of dishwashing basket can be identified.

[0060] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] They show: FIG. 1 schematically and in an isometric view an exemplary embodiment of a clamshell-style hinged packaging, in a closed state; FIG. 2 schematically and in an isometric view the exemplary embodiment of the hinged packaging according to FIG. 1 , namely in an open state; FIG. 3A Schematic and in an isometric view of a conventional dishwashing basket (plate basket) known from commercial dishwashing and designed for plates; FIG. 3B Schematic and in an isometric view of the conventional plate basket according to FIG. 3A , specifically in a state when loaded with folding packaging; FIG. 4A Schematic and isometric view of a conventional flat basket commonly used in the field of commercial dishwashing for cleaning, for example, cutlery; FIG. 4B Schematic and isometric view of the conventional flat basket according to FIG. 4A , namely in a state when it is loaded with folding packages; FIG. 5A Schematic and in an isometric view a first exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is (still) not loaded with folding packages, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining rods, are in their open state; FIG. 5B Schematic and in an isometric view the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention FIG. 5A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with folding packaging, with the retaining elements designed as retaining bars still in their open state; FIG. 6 Schematic and in an isometric view the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention FIG. 5A , namely in a state in which the retaining elements designed as retaining rods are in their closed state; FIG. 6B schematically and in an isometric view the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention. FIG. 6A , specifically in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with folding packaging; FIGS. 7A to 7C each show sectional views of the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention. FIG. 6B , namely loaded with folding packages of different sizes; FIG. 8A Schematic and in an isometric view a second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is (still) not loaded with folding packages, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining rods, are in their open state; FIG. 8B Schematic and in an isometric view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention FIG. 8A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is (still) not loaded with folding packaging, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining bars, are in their closed state; FIG. 9 Schematic and in an isometric view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention FIG. 8A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with relatively small folding packages, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining rods, are in their open state; FIG. 9B schematically and in a top view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention. FIG. 9A ; FIG. 10Aschematic and in an isometric view the second exemplary embodiment of the washing basket according to the invention FIG. 8A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with relatively small folding packages, and in which the retaining elements designed as retaining rods are in their closed state; FIG. 10B schematically and in a top view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention. FIG. 10A ; FIG. 11Aschematic and in an isometric view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention FIG. 8A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with relatively large folding packages, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining bars, are in their open state; FIG. 11B schematically and in a top view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention. FIG. 11A ; FIG. 12Aschematic and in an isometric view the second exemplary embodiment of the washing basket according to the invention FIG. 8A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with relatively large folding packages, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining bars, are in their closed state; FIG. 12B schematically and in a top view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention. FIG. 12A ; FIG. 13Aschematic and in an isometric view the second exemplary embodiment of the washing basket according to the invention FIG. 8A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with both large and small folding packages, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining bars, are in their open state; FIG. 13B schematically and in a top view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention. FIG. 13A ; FIG. 14Aschematic and in an isometric view the second exemplary embodiment of the washing basket according to the invention FIG. 8A , namely in a state in which the dishwashing basket is loaded with both relatively large and relatively small folding packages, and in which the retaining elements of the dishwashing basket, designed as retaining rods, are in their closed state; and FIG. 14B schematically and in a top view the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention FIG. 14A .

[0062] Folding packaging 10 of the type considered herein includes in particular so-called "clamshell packaging", which consists of two interconnected halves 11, 12 that surround and protect the product to be contained in the packaging.

[0063] In this context, reference should be made to the presentation in FIG. 1 und FIG. 2 Reference is made to the usual structure of a clamshell package 10, shown in the closed and open states.

[0064] Such hinged packaging is generally made of paper / cardboard or thermoformed plastic, where the edges can be sealed for airtight protection. It enhances product appeal and attracts a maximum number of consumers, thereby driving market growth. The packaging also allows manufacturers to add visually appealing graphics or enhance their brand through imprints and logos.

[0065] One of the key factors driving global clamshell packaging is the growth of multinational fast-food chains, which leads to the introduction of cost-effective and practical packaging materials, including and especially clamshell packaging. 10. The increasing demand for convenience food services due to the converging eating habits and lifestyles of urban populations is also fueling the growth of the clamshell packaging market.

[0066] Based on the material, the market is segmented into plastic, paper and cardboard, foam, bagasse, and others. Plastic dominated the material segment of the global clamshell packaging market.

[0067] Increasing environmental concerns are limiting market growth. Plastic clamshell packaging is considered environmentally hazardous because it does not decompose quickly. Furthermore, bans on the use of plastic in several industrialized and developing countries, along with stricter restrictions on the use of disposable tableware, are expected to hinder the global clamshell packaging market.

[0068] Using conventional folding packaging 10 as reusable packaging, especially in the food sector, is currently problematic because the special design of the folding packaging 10 makes it difficult to clean them efficiently and hygienically.

[0069] Dishwashing baskets 20, 21, which are not typically used in commercial dishwashing and are designed for glasses, beakers, cups, bowls, plates, trays, cutlery, pots or other cooking utensils, are particularly suitable for efficiently and hygienically cleaning folding packaging 10. This is primarily because folding packaging 10 has a rather complex structure and consists of an upper half 11 and a lower half 12, which are connected to each other by a hinge area 13.

[0070] Due to the complex shape of the folding packaging 10, problems arise in particular with regard to the difficult sorting / placement in the washing baskets 20, 21 that have been available so far.

[0071] Dishwashing baskets commonly used in commercial dishwashing are so-called "plate baskets", an exemplary embodiment of such a plate basket 20 is shown in an isometric view in FIG. 3A shown.

[0072] If the folding packaging 10 is placed upright, such as plates, in such a plate basket 20 which has the corresponding fingers (pins) or the like (see FIG. 3A ), this is only possible with increased manual effort, as the two halves 11, 12 of the folding packaging 10 move very easily during sorting due to the hinge area 13. This makes it difficult to find the correct setting position.

[0073] Furthermore, a secure stand is not guaranteed, as the support surfaces of a plate basket 20 are not clearly defined due to the complex geometry of a folding package 10. This makes adjustment difficult, resulting in increased workload compared to previously used items such as plates or trays.

[0074] However, if conventional "flat baskets" used in commercial dishwashing are to be used for cleaning folding packaging 10, further difficulties arise. An exemplary embodiment of such a commercially available flat basket 21 is shown schematically and in an isometric view in FIG. 4A shown.

[0075] If the hinged packaging 10 is opened and washed flat with the opening facing downwards in, for example, a flat basket 21 or universal basket, which is usually used for cleaning bowls, dishes, pots or other containers, sorting is generally easier for the operator, however, the problem here is that there are no really predefined positions for inserting / positioning the hinged packaging 10.

[0076] Therefore, there is an increased risk that either the full capacity of the dish rack 21 will not be used, or that the dish rack 21 will be overloaded, which will then have a negative impact on the cleaning result.

[0077] Another problem that arises with this orientation is that the lid area 11 and the base area 12 of the hinged packaging 10 are horizontally aligned, which is not ideal with regard to the drying result, as the water cannot drain properly after the rinse cycle. This is particularly disadvantageous for plastic items, which have only a minimal self-drying effect due to their low heat capacity.

[0078] Additionally, the dishwashing basket capacity is severely limited with this orientation, as very few folding packages (10) generally fit into a dishwashing basket (21) with this type of loading. This is in FIG. 4B shown.

[0079] Regardless of this, standard dishwashing baskets, especially plate baskets 20, are suitable. FIG. 3A or flat baskets 21 according to FIG. 4A , not really suitable for the efficient cleaning of hinged packaging 10 due to the so-called shielding effect (shadow zones).

[0080] Another disadvantage that arises when the folding packaging 10 is oriented vertically in, for example, a plate basket 20 according to FIG. 3B The result is the occurrence of shadow zones, since due to the depth of the folding packages 10 large shadow zones result when the folding packages 10 are adjusted so that as many folding packages 10 as possible can be washed per dish basket 20.

[0081] One theoretical possibility would be to place the folding packages 10 with more space between them in the dishwashing basket 20. However, this would significantly reduce the dishwashing basket capacity, which would be detrimental in terms of washing capacity and resource consumption.

[0082] If, on the other hand, the folding packaging 10 is opened and washed flat with the opening facing downwards in, for example, a plate or universal basket 21 (see FIG. 4B ), the problem of shadow zones also arises, since the bottom of a standard flat basket 21 must have a relatively fine mesh to prevent the items being washed from slipping out during the cleaning process.

[0083] Another problem with conventional commercially available dishwashing baskets 20, 21 is the inadequate drying result with folding packaging 10 due to numerous contact points, both with the standard commercial plate basket 20 according to FIG. 3A as well as with the flat universal basket 21 according to FIG. 4A to see.

[0084] The problem with both basket types or dishwashing item orientations is that the folding packaging 10 has numerous contact points due to the design of the existing commercially available dishwashing baskets 20, 21, which is detrimental to the drying result due to the already mentioned poor self-drying effect of plastic dishwashing items.

[0085] Based on this problem, the invention is therefore particularly aimed at providing a dishwashing basket specifically for clamshell packaging 10, which meets the following criteria: Simple and intuitive sorting / loading of the clamshell packages 10 into the dishwashing basket using the design elements typical of clamshell packages 10 (two packaging halves connected by a hinged section); combination of clearly defined, easily understandable adjustment positions with the flexibility to clean different packaging shapes and sizes simultaneously in one dishwashing basket; best possible cleaning and drying results through ideal alignment of the clamshell packages 10 in the dishwashing basket using the design elements typical of clamshell packages 10; and / or best possible cleaning and drying results by minimizing shadowed areas.

[0086] A first exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention is described below with reference to FIG. 5A , B, FIG. 6A , B and FIG. 7A described up to C. A further (second) exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention is described in FIG. 8A bis FIG. 14B shown.

[0087] The exemplary embodiments of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention are generally characterized by their minimalist design: in principle, the dishwashing basket 1 consists only of an outer frame 2 so that the dishwashing basket 1 can be placed in the dishwasher. Support struts 3 in the form of support rods are attached to the outer frame 2.

[0088] Specifically, the following applies to the in FIG. 5A In the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 shown, it is provided that it has a total of three parallel retaining struts 3, each of which is vertically spaced from a bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket 1 defined by the outer frame 2.

[0089] The retaining struts 3 are designed so that the half-opened clamshell packages 10 with the hinge area 13 can be "hung" on them (similar to laundry on a clothesline).

[0090] At the in FIG. 5A In the schematically shown embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention, a total of three parallel support struts / bars 3 are used. Depending on the size of the clamshell packages 10 to be cleaned, however, more or fewer support struts / bars 3 are also conceivable.

[0091] As the depictions in FIG. 7A bis C The dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention is suitable for holding clamshell packages 10 of different sizes.

[0092] In detail, in FIG. 7A A sectional view shows a state in which 3 relatively large clamshell packages 10 are held on the three support struts.

[0093] In FIG. 7B However, a sectional view also shows a state in which 3 relatively small clamshell packages 10 are held by the three support struts, while in FIG. 7C A sectional view shows a state in which both large and small clamshell packages 10 are held by the corresponding support struts 3.

[0094] It can be seen in particular that the retaining struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 are designed to support the clamshell packaging 10 in a state received by the dishwashing basket 1 via its hinge area 13 and preferably exclusively or at least substantially exclusively via its hinge area 13.

[0095] Furthermore, it can be seen that the retaining struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 run vertically spaced from the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket 1 defined by the outer frame 2, in such a way that at least partially or partially one of the two packaging halves of the clamshell packaging 10 can be received on both sides of the retaining struts 3.

[0096] On the other hand, the retaining struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 are spaced horizontally from the outer frame 2 of the dishwashing basket 1 in such a way that in an area between two adjacent retaining struts 3 or in an area between a retaining strut and the outer frame 2 of the dishwashing basket 1, at least partially or partially one of the two packaging halves 11, 12 of the clamshell packaging 10 received by the retaining strut 3 can be received.

[0097] The special design of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention, adapted to clamshell packaging 10, makes it possible that, in a state when a clamshell packaging 10 is held by a retaining strut 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 via its hinge area 13, ideally there is no further point of contact with the dishwashing basket 1 except for the hinge area 13 of the clamshell packaging 10.

[0098] Although not implemented in the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 shown in the drawings, it is in principle conceivable that the retaining struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 are segmented, for example, by means of corresponding pin-shaped areas, so that each retaining strut 3 is divided into individual areas, wherein in each area preferably a single clamshell package 10 can be received via its hinge area 13.

[0099] The minimalist design of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention is also achieved in particular by the fact that the outer frame 2 of the dishwashing basket 1 has a bottom area which is preferably limited by only two parallel transverse struts 15.1 and two parallel longitudinal struts 14.1.

[0100] To increase the dimensional stability and stability of the dishwashing basket 1, a central strut 16.1, 16.2 can also be arranged between the two parallel transverse struts 15.1 and between the two parallel longitudinal struts 14.1 of the base area, as shown in FIG. 5A hinted at.

[0101] The upper edge of the dishwashing basket 1 is formed by two parallel transverse struts 15.2 and two parallel longitudinal struts 14.2. The upper edge lies in a horizontal plane that is parallel to and vertically spaced from the horizontal plane in which the bottom of the dishwashing basket 1 lies.

[0102] It can also be seen that in the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention, the retaining struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 run parallel to the two transverse struts 15.2, which form the upper edge region of the dishwashing basket 1. It is provided that the retaining struts 3 are connected to the longitudinal struts 14.1 of the dishwashing basket 1, which form the upper edge region.

[0103] A particular aspect of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention is that it is provided with retaining elements 8, which can preferably be manually moved into a position in which a clamshell package 10 received by the dishwashing basket 1 is at least partially or partially received between a retaining strut 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 and the retaining element 8.

[0104] At the in FIG. 5A In the embodiment shown, 8 foldable retaining bars are used as retaining elements, which are folded down onto the clamshell packaging 10 from above after the washing basket 1 has been loaded, in order to prevent the clamshell packaging 10 from falling down during the cleaning process due to the washing mechanism.

[0105] Instead of such foldable restraint elements 8, correspondingly movable restraint elements 8 are also conceivable.

[0106] In the position of the retaining elements 8, in which a clamshell package 10 received by the dishwashing basket 1 is at least partially or partially received between a retaining strut 3 and the retaining element 8, the retaining element 8 runs parallel to the retaining strut 3 and preferably spaced apart from the retaining strut 3 via a gap area.

[0107] In the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention shown in the drawings, it is particularly provided that each retaining strut 3 is assigned exactly two retaining elements 8 (retaining rods), wherein each retaining element 8 is in particular pivotally connected to the outer frame 2 of the dishwashing basket 1, namely in a region of the outer frame of the dishwashing basket 1 in which the retaining strut 3 is also connected to the outer frame 2 of the dishwashing basket 1.

[0108] The following refers to the representations in FIG. 8A bis FIG. 14B A further (second) exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention is described in more detail.

[0109] Like the first exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention, the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention is designed for receiving and holding folding packaging 10, in particular clamshell packaging, and has an outer frame 2 with at least one retaining strut 3 extending in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the dishwashing basket 1. The at least one retaining strut 3 is vertically spaced from a bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket 1 defined by the outer frame 2.

[0110] The folding packages 10 to be picked up and held by the dishwashing basket 1 are in particular one-piece folding packages which have two packaging halves 11, 12 which are articulated together via a hinge area 13.

[0111] The retaining struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1 are spaced vertically apart from the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket 1 defined by the outer frame 2 in such a way that the one-piece folding packages 10 can be suspended from the retaining struts 3 in such a way that the packaging halves 11, 12 of the folding packages 10 do not intersect a plane spanned by the bottom area of ​​the dishwashing basket 1.

[0112] As can be seen in particular in the depictions in FIG. 8A and in FIG. 8B The outer frame 2 of the dish basket 1 has a bottom frame defining the bottom area of ​​the dish basket 1, which is at least substantially rectangular, and an upper edge frame, which is at least substantially rectangular and is vertically spaced from the bottom frame and forms an upper edge area of ​​the dish basket 1, and which has the same size and in particular the same shape as the bottom frame.

[0113] Specifically, the base frame is provided to have two parallel longitudinal struts 14.1 and two parallel transverse struts 15.1, as well as a horizontal intermediate strut 16.1 connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts 14.1 and several (here: three) horizontal intermediate struts 16.2 connecting the two parallel transverse struts 15.1 of the base frame. The horizontal intermediate struts 16.2 connecting the two parallel transverse struts 15.1 of the base frame run spaced apart from and parallel to the support struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1.

[0114] In particular, it is provided that a number of the horizontal intermediate struts 16.2 connecting the two parallel cross struts 15.1 of the base frame is identical to a number of the retaining struts 3 of the dishwashing basket 1.

[0115] The depictions in FIG. 8A und FIG. 8B It can be seen that the upper rim frame of the dishwashing basket 1 has two parallel longitudinal struts 14.2 and two parallel transverse struts 15.2, each of the two transverse struts 15.2 of the upper rim frame being connected to the corresponding parallel transverse strut 15.1 of the base frame via at least one vertical intermediate strut 17. At the parallel transverse struts 15.1 of the base frame, an end region of each intermediate strut 17 is connected to an end region of the horizontal intermediate struts 16.1 connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts 14.1 of the base frame.

[0116] It is further provided that each of the two longitudinal struts 14.2 of the upper edge frame is connected to the corresponding longitudinal strut 14.1 of the bottom frame, which runs parallel to it, via at least one vertical intermediate strut 17.

[0117] It can also be seen that the retaining struts 3 of the dish basket 1 run in a horizontal plane parallel to the longitudinal struts 14.1, 14.2 of the base frame and the upper edge frame of the dish basket 1.

[0118] In this context, it is specifically provided that the horizontal plane in which the retaining struts 3 run lies between a horizontal plane in which the base frame of the dish basket 1 lies and a horizontal plane in which the upper edge area of ​​the dish basket 1 lies.

[0119] The in FIG. 8A bis FIG. 14B The second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention shown here differs from the first exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention described above, particularly in that in the second embodiment the retaining struts 3 have corresponding retaining devices 18 which are designed to detachably hold a folding package 10 placed on the corresponding retaining strut 3. The retaining devices 18 are designed to hold the folding packages 10 placed on the retaining struts 3 at least partially by means of a positive locking connection.

[0120] Although it is conceivable in principle that the holding devices 18 are designed as clamping devices with corresponding clamping jaws, in the case of the FIG. 8A bis FIG. 14B In the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket according to the invention, each holding device 18 has corresponding holding fingers designed such that a region of the hinged packaging 10, and in particular the hinge region 13 of the hinged packaging 10, can be received at least partially between two adjacent holding fingers. It can be seen in particular that the holding device 18 is designed as pairs of holding fingers.

[0121] The retaining fingers of the retaining device 18 are arranged obliquely with respect to a longitudinal extension direction of the retaining struts of the dishwashing basket.

[0122] The retaining fingers of the holding device 18 are connected to the corresponding retaining struts 3 in such a way that a receiving area, in particular a slit or slot-shaped, is formed between two adjacent retaining fingers and, in particular, between the two retaining fingers of a pair of retaining fingers. A portion of the hinged packaging 10 to be held by the adjacent retaining fingers, and in particular by the pair of retaining fingers, and especially the hinge area 13 of the hinged packaging 10, can be inserted into the receiving area, in particular a slit or slot-shaped, from above or obliquely from above.

[0123] As in the first exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention, the second exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention provides that it has corresponding retaining elements 8, which can preferably be manually moved into a position in which the folding packages 10 received by the dishwashing basket are at least partially or partially received between the retaining struts 3 and the retaining elements 8.

[0124] The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiment of the dishwashing basket 1 shown in the drawings, but results from a combination of all the features disclosed herein.

[0125] In this context, it is particularly conceivable that the outer frame 2 with the at least one retaining strut 3 is designed as a dishwashing basket attachment which can be placed on a flat basket and, in particular, can be attached to it.

[0126] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the dish basket 1 has a code that can be read by a sensor in a dishwasher, by which the dish basket 1 or at least the type of dish basket 1 can be identified.

[0127] The following is a brief summary of the aspects of the dishwashing basket 1 according to the invention shown in the drawings: The clamshell packages 10 are held in the dishwashing basket 1 only at the hinge area 13 of the clamshell packages 10, which holds the two halves of the package together, by means of a retaining strut 3 designed as a retaining bar. Several retaining struts 3 are provided in the dishwashing basket 1, preferably three retaining struts 3, depending on the size of the clamshell packages 10 to be cleaned. Theoretically, the clamshell packages 10, when held in the dishwashing basket 1, preferably do not require any further contact point with the dishwashing basket 1 to ensure a secure hold.The support struts 3 are designed so that the clamshell packages 10 can be hung on the support strut 3 in their natural open position, which results when the clamshell packages 10 are opened but the upper half is not pushed completely backward. This means the clamshell packages 10 can be positioned on the support struts 3 with one hand, without having to ensure that the first half of the clamshell package 10 is at a specific angle to the second half. By being placed on the support struts 3 in their natural open position, the clamshell packages 10 are automatically oriented so that only sloping or inclined surfaces are present, thus ensuring unimpeded drainage of the wash and rinse water, which is a significant advantage, especially with regard to the washing and drying results.The novel principle of using retaining struts 3 allows the bottom and side areas of the dishwashing basket 1 to be designed as open as possible to eliminate shadow zones, since these areas are not needed to secure the clamshell packages 10 in the dishwashing basket 1. During the cleaning process, the clamshell packages 10 can be held in position from above by means of, for example, hinged or laterally sliding retaining elements 8 / retaining bars. For ergonomic and space reasons, the hinged or laterally sliding retaining elements 8 are preferably designed in two parts. The retaining elements 8 preferably do not rest flush against the clamshell packages 10 from above, but have a small gap of approximately0.2 to 3 cm and preferably 0.5 to 1.5 cm to the retaining struts 3, so that the clamshell packages 10 can move easily on the retaining struts 3 during the cleaning process without falling off, thus avoiding static contact points in the area of ​​the hinge area 13 of the clamshell packages 10 and ensuring a perfect washing and rinsing result even in this area. Due to the holding principle using retaining struts 3, clamshell packages 10 of different shapes and sizes can be cleaned simultaneously without negatively affecting each other, for example by covering each other, jamming, etc. The holding principle using retaining struts 3 can also be implemented in the form of a basket adapter consisting of a lateral outer frame 2, retaining struts 3 and optionallyRetaining elements 8 can be implemented, which, for example, can optionally be attached to a standard flat basket. The dishwashing basket 1 can be equipped with a special code to detect it via sensors in the dishwasher and then start a special cleaning / drying program. Bezugszeichenliste

[0128] 1 Dishwashing basket 2 Outer frame 3 Support strut 8 Retaining elements / retaining bar 10 Clamshell packaging 11 Upper half of the clamshell packaging 12 Lower half of the clamshell packaging 13 Hinge area of ​​the clamshell packaging 14.1 Longitudinal strut of the base frame 14.2 Longitudinal strut of the upper edge frame 15.1 Cross strut of the base frame 15.2 Cross strut of the upper edge frame 16.1 First horizontal intermediate strut 16.2 Second horizontal intermediate strut 17 Vertical intermediate strut 18 Holding device / pair of holding fingers 20 Standard dishwashing basket for plates 21 Standard flat basket

Claims

1. A washing basket (1) for dishwashers, in particular commercial dishwashers, which are preferably designed as a programmable automatic dishwasher, as a rack transport dishwasher or as a rack-through hood type dishwasher, wherein the washing basket (1) is designed to receive and hold folding packaging (10), in particular clamshell packaging, and has an outer frame (2) with at least one holding strut (3) running in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the washing basket (1), wherein the at least one holding strut (3) is spaced vertically from a base region of the washing basket (1) defined by the outer frame (2), and wherein the washing basket (1) is designed to receive and hold in particular one-piece folding packaging (10), in particular clamshell packaging, which has two packaging halves (11, 12) which are articulated to one another via a hinge region (13).

2. Washing basket (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one holding strut (3) of the washing basket (1) is designed to support the one-piece folding packaging (10) via its hinge region (13) when it is received in the washing basket (1), and preferably to support it exclusively or at least substantially exclusively via its hinge region (13).

3. Dishwashing basket (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each packaging half (11, 12) has a length of at least 5 cm and preferably of at least 10 cm running perpendicular to the hinge region (13) and a depth of at least 5 cm running perpendicular to the hinge region (13) and perpendicular to the length.

4. Dishwashing basket (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one retaining strut (3) of the dishwashing basket (1) extends at a vertical distance from the bottom region of the dishwashing basket (1) defined by the outer frame (2) and is designed such that one of the two packaging halves (11, 12) of the one-piece folding packaging (10) can be received at least partially or in regions on both sides of the at least one retaining strut (3); and / or wherein the at least one retaining strut (3) of the dishwashing basket (1) extends at a horizontal distance from the outer frame (2) of the dishwashing basket (1) and is designed such that one of the two packaging halves (11, 12) of the one-piece folding packaging (10) can be received at least partially or in regions in a region between the retaining strut (3) and the outer frame (2) of the dishwashing basket (1);and / or wherein the at least one holding strut (3) is designed such that, in a state in which a folding packaging (10) is held by the holding strut (3) via its hinge region (13), there is no further contact point with the washing basket (1) except for the hinge region (13); and / or wherein the at least one holding strut (3) running in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the washing basket (1) has a segmentation along a direction of extension of the holding strut (3), which divides the holding strut (3) into individual regions, wherein in each region preferably a single folding packaging (10) can be received via its hinge region (13), wherein the segmentation is preferably formed by at least one region, in particular a pin-shaped region, extending perpendicular to the direction of extension of the holding strut (3);and / or wherein the washing basket (1) has a first holding strut (3) running in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the washing basket (1) and at least one second holding strut (3) running parallel to the first holding strut (3), wherein the first holding strut (3) runs at a horizontal distance from a holding strut (3) running immediately adjacent to the first holding strut (3) such that in a region between the first holding strut (3) and the second holding strut (3) running immediately adjacent thereto, one of the two packaging halves (11, 12) of the folding packaging (10) supported by the first holding strut (3) and one of the two packaging halves (11, 12) of the folding packaging (10) supported by the second holding strut (3) can be received;and / or wherein the at least one holding strut (3) of the washing basket (1) extends at a vertical distance from the bottom region of the washing basket (1) defined by the outer frame (2) and is designed such that the one-piece folding packaging (10) can each be received hanging from the at least one holding strut (3) such that the packaging halves (11, 12) of the folding packaging (10) do not intersect a plane spanned by the bottom region of the washing basket (1); 5. Washing basket (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer frame (2) of the washing basket (1) has an at least substantially rectangular base frame defining the base region of the washing basket (1) and an at least substantially rectangular upper edge frame which is vertically spaced from the base frame and forms an upper edge region of the washing basket (1), which upper edge frame preferably has the same size and in particular also the same shape as the base frame.

6. Dishwasher basket (1) according to claim 5, wherein the base frame has two parallel longitudinal struts (14.1) and two parallel transverse struts (15.1) as well as at least one and preferably exactly one horizontal intermediate strut (16.1) connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts (14.1) and at least one horizontal intermediate strut (16.2) connecting the two parallel transverse struts (15.1) of the base frame, wherein the at least one horizontal intermediate strut (16.2) connecting the two parallel transverse struts (15.1) of the base frame runs at a distance from and parallel to the at least one holding strut (3), wherein a number of the horizontal intermediate struts (16.2) connecting the two parallel transverse struts (15.1) of the base frame is preferably identical to a number of the holding struts (3) of the dishwashing basket (1); and / or wherein the upper edge frame of the washing basket (1) has two parallel longitudinal struts (14.2) and two parallel cross struts (15.2), wherein each of the two cross struts (15.2) of the upper edge frame is connected to the correspondingly parallel cross strut (15.1) of the floor frame via at least one vertical intermediate strut (17), wherein on the parallel cross struts (15.1) of the floor frame or in a region of the parallel cross struts (15.1) of the floor frame, an end region of the at least one vertical intermediate strut (17) is connected to an end region of the at least one horizontal intermediate strut (16.1) connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts (14.1) of the floor frame or adjoins an end region of the at least one horizontal intermediate strut (16.1) connecting the two parallel longitudinal struts (14.1) of the floor frame, wherein each of the two longitudinal struts (14.2) of the upper edge frame is preferably connected to the correspondingly parallel longitudinal strut (14.1) of the floor frame via at least one vertical intermediate strut (17).

7. Dishwasher basket (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the at least one support strut (3) of the dishwashing basket (1) extends in a horizontal plane parallel to the longitudinal struts (14.2, 14.1) of the upper edge frame and the base frame; or wherein the horizontal plane in which the at least one support strut (3) extends lies between a horizontal plane in which the base frame of the dishwashing basket (1) lies and a horizontal plane in which the upper edge region of the dishwashing basket (1) lies.

8. Dishwashing basket (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one holding strut (3) has at least one holding device (18) which is designed to releasably hold a folding packaging (10) placed on the at least one holding strut (3), wherein the at least one holding device (18) is preferably designed to hold the folding packaging (10) placed on the at least one holding strut (3) at least partially via a positive connection.

9. Dishwashing basket (1) according to claim 8, wherein the at least one holding device (18) is designed as a clamping device having two clamping jaws, between which a region of the folding packaging (10) and in particular the hinge region (13) of the folding packaging (10) can be received at least in part; or wherein the at least one holding device (18) has holding fingers designed such that a region of the folding packaging (10) and in particular the hinge region (13) of the folding packaging (10) can be received at least in part between two adjacent holding fingers, wherein the holding fingers of the holding device (18) are preferably arranged obliquely with respect to a longitudinal direction of the at least one holding strut (3) of the dishwashing basket (1).

10. Dishwashing basket (1) according to claim 8, wherein the at least one holding device (18) has a plurality of holding finger pairs, wherein a region of the folding packaging (10) and in particular the hinge region (13) of the folding packaging (10) can be received at least in part between the holding fingers of each holding finger pair.

11. Dishwashing basket (1) according to claim 10, wherein the holding fingers of the holding device (18) are arranged obliquely with respect to a longitudinal extension direction of the at least one holding strut (3) of the dishwashing basket (1); and / or wherein the holding fingers are connected to the at least one holding strut (3) in such a way that a receiving area, in particular a gap- or slot-shaped receiving area, is formed between two adjacent holding fingers and in particular between the two holding fingers of a holding finger pair, wherein a region of the folding packaging (10) to be held by the adjacent holding fingers and in particular by the holding finger pair, and in particular the hinge region (13) of the folding packaging (10), can be inserted from above or obliquely from above into the receiving area, in particular a gap- or slot-shaped receiving area.

12. Washing basket (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the washing basket (1) has at least one retaining element (8) which can preferably be transferred manually into a position in which a folding packaging (10) received by the washing basket (1) is received at least partially or in regions between the at least one holding strut (3) and the retaining element (8).

13. Dishwashing basket (1) according to claim 12, wherein, in the position of the at least one retaining element (8), in which a folding packaging (10) received by the dishwashing basket (1) is received at least partially or regionally between the at least one retaining strut (3) and the retaining element (8), the retaining element (8) runs parallel to the retaining strut (3) and preferably spaced apart from the retaining strut (3) across a gap region; and / or wherein the at least one retaining element (8) is designed as a retaining rod which is connected via a bearing region and in particular via a joint region to the outer frame (2) of the dishwashing basket (1) and preferably to an upper edge region of the dishwashing basket (1) so as to be movable and in particular pivotable relative to the outer frame (2).

14. Dishwashing basket (1) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the at least one retaining element (8) is connected, in particular in an articulated manner, to the outer frame (2) of the dishwashing basket (1) and preferably to the upper edge region of the dishwashing basket (1) in such a way that the at least one retaining element (8) can preferably be manually transferred into a position and, in particular, pivoted relative to the outer frame (2) of the dishwashing basket (1) such that the retaining element (8) then rests on a retaining strut (3) or runs directly adjacent to a retaining strut (3); and / or wherein each retaining strut (3) is assigned two and, in particular, exactly two retaining elements (8), wherein each retaining element (8) is connected, in particular in an articulated manner, to the outer frame (2), in a region of the outer frame of the dishwashing basket (1) in which the retaining strut (3) is also connected to the outer frame (2) of the dishwashing basket (1).

15. Dishwasher basket (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the outer frame (2) with the at least one retaining strut (3) is designed as a dishwashing basket attachment that can be placed and, in particular, plugged onto a flat basket; and / or wherein the dishwashing basket (1) has a code that can be read by a sensor system of a dishwasher and by means of which the dishwashing basket (1) or at least the type of dishwashing basket (1) can be identified.

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