Removal module and method for removing dishes

Abstract

The invention relates to a removal module (124) for removing dishes from a multi-lane conveyor device (122) of a conveyor dishwasher (114). The removal module (124) comprises at least two removal units (148), each of the removal units (148) being assigned to a lane (150) of the conveyor device (122), and each of the removal units (148) comprising: at least one slide (152); and at least one removal tongue (154) which extends from the slide (152) toward the conveyor device (122), wherein the removal tongue (153) has at least one gap (158) at its free end (156), wherein the removal tongue (154) is positioned relative to the associated lane (150) of the conveyor device (122) such that the dishes (112) can slide via the removal tongue (154) onto the slide (152), wherein the removal tongues (154) are fastened at their fixed end (160) to the slides (152) respectively associated with the removal tongues. The invention also relates to a cleaning system (110) for cleaning dishes (112), to a method for removing dishes (112) by means of at least one removal module (124), and to a use of the removal module (124).

Description

[0001] Removal module and method for removing wash ware

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The invention relates to a removal module for removing wash ware and to a cleaning system comprising the removal module. The invention further relates to a method for removing wash ware and to a use of the removal module for stacking cleaned wash ware. The devices, systems, methods and uses 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 wash ware, for example drinking vessels, 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, for example at the outlet or downstream of the outlet of these conveyor dishwashers, in particular to remove cleaned wash ware, in particular to stack it.However, other areas of application are also conceivable in principle.

[0004] Technical background

[0005] A variety of cleaning devices, also referred to as cleaning appliances, are known from the prior art, which can clean and / or disinfect washware. The design of these cleaning devices depends heavily on the various boundary conditions, such as the type of washware to be cleaned, the level of soiling, the throughput, or similar conditions. Examples include cleaning devices described in DE 10 2004 003 797 A1 or DE 102014202818 A1. In many cases, cleaning devices in commercial kitchens are combined with transport devices or transport systems for the automatic transport and / or removal of washware.For example, many communal catering facilities, such as canteens in schools, hospitals, or other facilities serving large numbers of people, have cleaning systems in which trays of contaminated dishes and cutlery are placed on a conveyor belt. This conveyor belt transports the items to the actual cleaning device, such as a dishwasher. There, the items are usually sorted by personnel, waste is disposed of, and the dishes, cutlery, and trays are appropriately fed to the cleaning device, such as a flight-type dishwasher, a rack-type dishwasher, a hood-type dishwasher, or a pass-through dishwasher.

[0006] DE 102009016245 B4 describes a device for cleaning plastic containers, in particular plastic cups, comprising a washing unit for removing impurities and a drying unit for drying the plastic containers, wherein the plastic containers are guided through the devices on a conveyor belt. According to the invention, it is proposed that a stacking device be arranged behind the drying unit in the conveying direction, said stacking device having at least one inclined chute whose angle of inclination to the horizontal is selected depending on the container size and the container weight such that a container standing on the conveyor belt with the opening facing downwards is rotated about a horizontal axis transverse to the conveying direction so that the bottom points downwards.

[0007] GB 271 377 A describes a bottle rinsing machine in which the bottles, advanced by means of a step-by-step endless chain, are positioned in front of stationary jet pipes which rinse the outer and inner surfaces of the bottles, whereupon the bottles are fed to a continuously advancing conveyor.The bottle washer is characterized by the combination of a bottle-supporting chain equipped with transverse rows of short open tubes on which the bottles are placed so that the outer surfaces of the bottles are fully exposed to the outer jets, and through which the inner jets enter the bottles, with internal jet tubes arranged in groups, each of which is individually adjustable according to the extension of the bottle conveyor chain, and with means for transferring the washed bottles in an upright position to the conveyor, such that the bottles are positively supported by the chain during the entire transfer to the conveyor. Despite the advantages achieved with the devices described, numerous technical and organizational challenges remain.In particular, the cleaned items often become jammed between the cleaning device's outlet and the stacking device, requiring primarily manual sorting and intervention at the cleaning device's outlet, and the items must still be manually sorted into appropriate transport devices or storage devices, such as a tray trolley or a plate trolley. This generally requires a high level of personnel deployment at the cleaning device and places high and / or adverse physical strain on the personnel deployed.

[0008] Automating the collection and sorting of cleaned dishes is also technically difficult in many cases. For example, the so-called free-fall device is the longest-known. The cleaned dishes fall independently, i.e. automatically, from the dishwasher's conveyor system. However, this device and method has several disadvantages. Firstly, the dishes are dispensed unsorted and not evenly aligned. Further processing of the cleaned and dispensed dishes is only possible manually, i.e. by operating personnel, which creates extremely unfavorable ergonomic conditions. Furthermore, this method carries a high risk of dishware breakage. Alternatively, for automated collection of the dishes, especially at high throughput in the dishwasher, the machines would have to be moved at high speeds, which would be associated with high acceleration rates.However, these high accelerations would push automated machines, such as robots, to the limits of their mechanical resilience, which would typically require a stable and therefore very solid frame construction. Furthermore, the individual items being washed would also be subjected to high forces, which also poses the risk of dish breakage. The desired prevention of accident hazards for operating personnel in the vicinity of the dishwasher also presents a particular challenge for automation solutions.

[0009] Object of the invention

[0010] It would therefore be desirable to provide devices, systems, methods, and uses that at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices, systems, methods, and uses of the type described above. In particular, the devices, systems, methods, and uses should be suitable for removing cleaned dishes. The devices, systems, methods, and uses should ensure, on the one hand, a high throughput of dishes and, on the other hand, flexible, at least partially automated, and equally hygienic handling of the cleaned dishes.

[0011] General description of the invention

[0012] This object is addressed by a removal module for removing washware, by a cleaning system comprising the removal module, by a method for removing washware, and by using the removal module for stacking cleaned washware 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.

[0013] In the following, the terms "have", "have", "comprise" or "include" or any grammatical variations thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, apart from the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B", "A has B", "A comprises B" or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no further element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, for example element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0014] 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 can be provided singly or multiple times, are generally only used once, for example when the feature or element is first introduced. When the feature or element is subsequently mentioned again, the corresponding term “at least one” or “one or more” is generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element can be provided singly or multiple times. Furthermore, the terms “preferably”, “in particular”, “for example” or similar terms are used below in connection with optional features, without this limiting alternative embodiments.Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and these features are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or "in an embodiment of the invention" are understood to be optional features, without this being intended to limit alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims. Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave unchallenged all possibilities of combining the features introduced thereby with other features, be they optional or non-optional.

[0015] In a first aspect of the present invention, a removal module for removing washware from a multi-lane transport device of a conveyor dishwasher is proposed. In particular, the removal module can be configured for the automated removal of washware from a multi-lane transport device of a conveyor dishwasher. The removal module comprises at least two removal units, each of the removal units being assigned to a lane of the transport device. Each of the removal units comprises at least one chute and at least one removal tongue extending from the chute in the direction of the transport device. The removal tongue has at least one gap at its free end. Furthermore, the removal tongue is positioned relative to the assigned lane of the transport device such that the washware can slide over the removal tongue onto the chute.

[0016] The term “removal module” as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and current meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any multi-part device which is configured to remove objects and / or elements from an outlet of a machine and / or from an outlet of a system. For example, the removal module can be configured for this purpose to be positioned at the outlet of the machine and / or the system, for example to be arranged at its end. In the present case, the removal module can in particular be configured to remove washware from a multi-lane conveyor device, for example at the end and / or outlet of a conveyor dishwasher.In particular, the removal module can be configured to transfer the washware, for example, during removal, into a storage device. Such storage devices can be, for example, another transport device, a tray trolley, a plate trolley, a storage unit for drinking vessels, a transport basket, and / or a transport box. Other storage devices into which the washware can be transferred after or during removal are also conceivable. Furthermore, the removal module can be attached, for example, to an outlet of the conveyor dishwasher, for example, via a fastening element.

[0017] The term “washware” as used here is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any objects with at least one hollow space. In particular, these can be objects which are used directly or indirectly for the preparation, storage or presentation of food and drinks, for example objects selected from the group consisting of cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses and pots or similar objects. For example, washware can be stackable objects, i.e. stackable washware. In the following, the term “washware item” shall refer to an individual item of the washware.

[0018] The term “transport device” as used here is also 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 a device which is configured to transport at least one other device or at least one other element, in particular washware, 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 running in a circuit through a dishwasher.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 device can preferably comprise a plurality of transport fingers, alternatively also referred to as belt fingers, on which the washware can be held, in particular with an upwardly facing base. For example, the washware item can be placed on at least one transport finger in such a way that cleaning fluid penetrating a cavity in the washware item during cleaning can run and / or drip out of the cavity under the effect of gravity. In particular, the washware can be placed on at least one transport finger during the entire transport on the transport device.The transport can be continuous, for example, in a continuously operating conveyor dishwasher. The transport direction can be a primary direction of movement of the washware within a cleaning chamber of the conveyor dishwasher. The transport direction can be fixed or can change, for example, locally or temporally. For example, the transport direction can be directed from an inlet of the conveyor dishwasher to an outlet.

[0019] The term "conveyor dishwasher," 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 device designed to free wash ware, for example one or more items of crockery, from adhering macroscopic or even microscopic contaminants or to at least partially remove such contaminants, wherein the wash ware is transported on a conveyor device during cleaning. In addition, a disinfection effect can optionally be exerted. The conveyor dishwasher can, in particular, be designed as a conveyor dishwasher.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 washed are exposed to at least one cleaning fluid, in particular by means of at least one application device. The transport device can be configured to transport the items to be washed through the cleaning chamber, in particular to the outlet. Thus, the removal module can be configured, in particular, to remove the items to be washed from the outlet of the multi-track transport device of the conveyor dishwasher.

[0020] The term “multi-lane transport device of a conveyor dishwasher,” as used here, is 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 restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a transport device within the meaning of the above definition which is divided into several tracks. The tracks of the transport device can, for example, each be individually designed for a type of washware. For example, one track can be provided for glasses, one track for bowls, and one or more further tracks for different types of washware. The arrangement and design of the tracks can, in particular, be tailored to the operational requirements of the conveyor dishwasher.

[0021] The term "track," as used herein, is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and customary 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 a receiving device of the transport device arranged in a line parallel to the transport direction of the transport device.A track can result directly from a physical design of the transport device, for example by arranging similar belt fingers in a continuous row on the transport device or in a non-physically predetermined manner, for example by placing similar items to be washed one after the other at the beginning of the transport device at the same point, transverse to the transport direction, on the transport device and thereby lining up the items to be washed in a line, thus forming a track.

[0022] The removal module can, for example, be configured to remove the wash ware from at least some of the lanes, i.e. either from some of the lanes or from all of the lanes, of the conveyor dishwasher's transport device. For example, the removal module can comprise two or more removal units for this purpose, wherein, for example, each removal unit can be configured to remove wash ware from one lane. For example, the number of removal units of the removal module can be the same as the number of lanes of the transport device. For example, in order to remove the wash ware from all of the lanes of the transport device. Alternatively, the number of removal units of the removal module can also be fewer than the number of lanes of the transport device. For example, in order to only remove the wash ware from some of the lanes of the transport device.

[0023] The term "removal unit," as used here, 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 a device assigned to a track of the transport device for removing at least one type of washware, for example from the track assigned to it. The removal units of the removal module can, for example, be arranged offset from one another transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the transport direction.

[0024] The term “chute,” as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning should be given, as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to an element comprising an inclined and / or sloping surface configured to allow at least one object to slide on its surface, for example also referred to as a sliding surface, driven by a force, for example gravity. In particular, the chute may have an inclined surface, for example a sliding surface made of metal and / or ceramic and / or plastic, down which washware can slide, driven by gravity, for example into the storage device. In particular, the chute may be made of pattern-rolled sheet metal.The patterned rolled sheet can, for example, reduce friction and counteract the adhesion effect between the chute and the dishes, even with wet dishes.

[0025] The term "removal tongue," 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 any element whose surface, similar to the surface of the chute, is configured to allow at least one object, such as a dishware, to slide thereon. For example, the removal tongue may be configured to at least partially lift a dishware item.The lifting can, for example, in combination with the transport movement of the transport device, transmit a rotational momentum to the item to be washed, whereby the item to be washed is rotated about a horizontal axis, in particular transversely to the transport direction of the transport device, for example in such a way that the item to be washed tilts earlier and further with its base than with its opening and thus slides easily from the transport device first over the removal tongue and then also over the chute.

[0026] The extraction tongues can be attached at one of their fixed ends to the slides assigned to them. For example, the extraction tongues can merge into the sliding surfaces of the slides at their respective fixed ends. In particular, the extraction tongues can be formed integrally with the sliding surfaces of the slides, for example, forming a single common component. The extraction tongue has at least one gap at its free end, whereby the term "gap" as used here 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 a longitudinal slot. For example, the gap can divide the extraction tongue such that the extraction tongue has two parallel tongue ends.

[0027] In particular, the gap in the removal tongue can be designed to enable the removal tongue to engage in the transport device, for example to engage between the transport fingers and / or the belt fingers. The two parallel tongue ends, separated from one another by the gap, can thus be designed in particular to engage and / or dip between the transport fingers of the transport device in at least one track. The engagement and / or dipping of the tongue ends can in particular simplify and / or bring about a lifting of the item to be washed. For example, the engagement and / or dipping of the tongue ends between the transport fingers of the transport device in combination with the transport movement of the transport device can give the item to be washed a rotational impulse, which causes the item to slide off the at least one transport finger.For example, the gap, in particular the depth of the gap, in the removal tongue can determine a contact area of ​​the tongue ends with the respective item to be washed. The gap can be configured to define an area for contact of the tongue ends with an outer side, for example near an edge, of the item to be washed. A preferred embodiment of the gap of the removal tongue, in particular a preferred depth of the gap, enables contact of the tongue ends as close as possible to an edge of the item to be washed, for example far from the bottom of a cup, in order to ensure the item to be washed slides off the transport fingers as reliably as possible, for example to achieve the best possible effect and / or leverage.

[0028] The removal tongues can, in particular, be curved. For example, the removal tongues can have a curvature, i.e., they can be curved elements. For example, a curved design of the removal tongues, in particular their curvature, can contribute to the item to be washed being at least partially lifted during removal. Additionally or alternatively, a component, such as a sheet metal, can be provided that protrudes from the chute, in particular from the sliding surface. For example, the removal module can further comprise an edge at a right angle away from the sliding surface. In particular, the component that protrudes from the chute, for example protrudes at a right angle, can contribute to the item to be washed being at least partially lifted during removal.

[0029] The extraction tongues can be segmented, i.e., comprise at least two segments. In particular, the extraction tongues can have a plurality of segments. Thus, the curved configuration of the extraction tongues, for example, the curved configuration of each individual extraction tongue, can be achieved by arranging the segments at an angle. In particular, the curved configuration of the extraction tongues can be achieved by arranging adjacent segments at angles of less than 180°. The individual segments can, for example, be straight and / or flat. The curved configuration of the extraction tongues can thus be created by arranging adjacent, straight and / or flat segments at an angle.

[0030] The removal tongues can, in particular, be curved upwards relative to surfaces of the slides, for example, relative to the sliding surfaces of the slides. In particular, the removal tongues extending from their respective slides toward the transport device can be curved upwards relative to a surface of the slides of the same removal unit, i.e., in the direction out of the sliding surface.

[0031] The free ends of the removal tongues can have a bend that is essentially orthogonal to the transport direction of the washware, for example, a bend with a bend line perpendicular to the transport direction. Thus, the free ends of the removal tongues can be formed by another segment of the removal tongues. For example, the free ends, in particular the segments forming the free ends, can also be arranged at an angle to their respective adjacent segments of the removal tongues. The bend line can be aligned essentially orthogonal to the transport direction of the washware, as can also be the case with the other angular arrangements of the segments, for example.

[0032] In general, when specifying angles or details regarding a vertical or parallel alignment and / or orientation, an exact orientation of the type mentioned can be provided, or the term "substantially" can also include angular tolerances, for example, of no more than 10°, in particular of no more than 5°. Accordingly, the term "substantially orthogonal", as used here, can in particular refer to a situation in which the fold line is aligned vertically relative to the transport direction of the washware or, alternatively, exhibits slight deviations from the vertical alignment, for example of no more than 10°, in particular of no more than 5°.

[0033] The bend between the free ends of the extraction tongues and the remaining parts of the extraction tongues can, in particular, be directed opposite to the bend of the extraction tongues, for example, such that the free ends each have an orientation that is opposite to the bend of the extraction tongues. For example, the bend, i.e., the angle, between the segments forming the free ends and the adjacent segments of the extraction tongues can be greater than 180°. For example, a sliding surface of at least one extraction tongue can comprise a concave bend, and the free end of this extraction tongue can have a convex bend.

[0034] Each dispensing unit can be enclosed on both sides by partition walls. In particular, each dispensing unit can be enclosed on both sides by partition walls in such a way that the chute and the partition walls together form a channel through which the wash ware can slide. The partition walls can be connected, for example, to the respective chutes. In particular, the partition walls can be connected individually and / or on both sides to the chutes. The chutes can therefore be connected, for example, to a single partition wall, for example having an L-profile. The dispensing units, in particular the chutes of the dispensing units, can be arranged next to one another with the partition walls in such a way that the partition wall of one dispensing unit, for example as part of the L-profile of the chute of one dispensing unit, also forms a partition wall for an adjacent dispensing unit, for example as part of the L-profile of the chute of the adjacent dispensing unit.Alternatively or additionally, the slides can also be connected to a partition wall on both sides, for example having a U-profile. The removal units, in particular the slides of the removal units, can be arranged next to one another with the partition walls in such a way that two partition walls of adjacent removal units lie next to one another. A mixed design of the removal units, i.e. a mixture of L-profiles and U-profiles, is also possible. The partition walls can, for example, be aligned essentially perpendicular to the surfaces of the slides, for example to the sliding surfaces of the slides. In particular, adjacent removal units of the removal module can be separated from one another by the partition walls, in particular by partition walls arranged essentially perpendicular to the sliding surface of the slide. For example, each removal unit can be delimited on one side by a partition wall.In particular, each dispensing unit can be delimited on one side by a partition wall such that its own partition wall and the partition wall of an adjacent chute together form a channel through which the washware can slide. For example, the chute of a first dispensing unit can comprise a first partition wall, and the chute of a second dispensing unit arranged next to the first dispensing unit can comprise a second partition wall, wherein the partition walls are arranged such that the first partition wall and the second partition wall, together with either the chute of the first dispensing unit or the chute of the second dispensing unit, form a channel through which the washware can slide.

[0035] The slide can, in particular, have a flat sliding surface. For example, the sliding surface of the slide can be a flat and / or a curvature-free surface. Alternatively or additionally, the slide, for example the sliding surface, can have an angle of inclination relative to a transport plane of the transport device. In particular, an angle of inclination between the slide and the transport plane of the transport device, for example between the sliding surface and a plane parallel to the transport direction of the transport device, can be an angle between 10° and 60°. For example, the angle of inclination can be an angle between 15° and 55°. For example, the angle of inclination can be an angle between 45° and 50°. In particular, the angle of inclination can correspond to or define a predetermined position of the slide.For example, the position of the slide at the angle of inclination relative to the transport plane of the transport device can be a rest position of the slide. The rest position can be specified, for example, via a bracket of the removal module. The bracket can be attached at the angle of inclination, for example, and can specify the angle of inclination of the slide and thus also the rest position.

[0036] The chutes can have different widths. In particular, chutes of different widths can enable at least two different track widths in the removal module. For example, chutes with different widths can be used to remove wash items from tracks of different widths of the transport device. For example, the widths of the chutes can be adapted to the respective track width of the transport device. Alternatively or additionally, the widths of the chutes can be adapted to the wash items preferably transported on the respective track, for example to an outer diameter of the wash items. The removal module can comprise at least one axis of rotation. The axis of rotation can preferably be arranged longitudinally to the removal module and thus preferably transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the transport direction. In particular, the chutes can be rotatable about the at least one axis of rotation in at least one limited area.For example, the slides can be rotatable individually or in groups within the at least one restricted area about the at least one rotation axis. The slides can be mounted at least partially on the at least one rotation axis, for example. For example, the slides can be mounted at least partially on the rotation axis, in particular by at least one bracket, for example by the bracket being suspended in and / or around the rotation axis. The slides can be individually rotatable about the rotation axis. For example, at least one slide can be rotatable about the rotation axis independently of other slides.

[0037] A distance between the rotation axis and the transport device can be adjustable via at least one elongated hole in the removal module. Thus, the removal module can comprise at least one elongated hole, preferably for adjusting a distance between the rotation axis and the transport device. For example, the distance between the rotation axis and the transport device can be adjustable via at least two elongated holes in the removal module. The removal module can therefore also comprise at least two elongated holes. In particular, a distance between the holder, for example the holder fastened at the angle of inclination, and the transport device can also be adjustable via the at least one elongated hole, preferably via two elongated holes.

[0038] The slides can further each have at least one pin and / or a centering pin and / or a centering tab. For example, the slides can have the at least one pin and / or centering pin and / or the centering tab to limit and / or prevent lateral twisting of the slides. In particular, the pin and / or centering pin and / or the centering tab can be configured to limit and / or prevent rotation of the slides orthogonal to the rotation of the slides about the axis of rotation. For example, the pin and / or the centering pin and / or the centering tab can engage in a groove and / or a hole in the removal module to limit the twisting of the slides. For example, the removal module can comprise at least one element comprising the hole and / or the groove into which the pin and / or the centering pin and / or the centering tab of the slides can be inserted.

[0039] The removal module can have at least one triggerable safety switch. In particular, the triggerable safety switch can be configured, for example, to generate a shutdown signal when triggered. The shutdown signal can be an acoustic signal, for example, to notify an operator. Alternatively or additionally, the shutdown signal can also be an electrical and / or mechanical signal and cause the transport device of the conveyor dishwasher to be switched off, for example by forwarding the signal to a control system, in particular to a control module, of the transport device and / or the conveyor dishwasher, or by cutting off a power supply to the transport device and / or the conveyor dishwasher.

[0040] The safety switch can, for example, comprise at least one safety mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a rocker, for example a magnetic switch rocker, an electro-mechanical button, a roller-toggle lever, a light barrier, an inductive proximity switch.

[0041] The safety switch can be configured, in particular, to be triggered, i.e., for example, to generate the shutdown signal, as soon as a single one of the removal units changes its predetermined position. In particular, the safety switch can be configured to generate the shutdown signal as soon as a predetermined position of at least one of the chutes changes, for example, when it leaves its rest position. For example, the safety switch can be triggered when a removal unit performs a rotational movement, i.e., for example, when it is rotated about the rotation axis, and / or performs a translational movement, i.e., for example, when it is moved from its rest position.

[0042] For example, the safety switch can be configured to trigger when a triggering event occurs selected from the group consisting of: an operator interfering with a predefined, limited space in front of the dispensing module, for example, a space between the transport device and the dispensing module; an interfering object, such as a napkin or other object, entering a predefined, limited space in front of the dispensing module; or a wash item entering a predefined, limited space in front of the dispensing module. Other triggering events are also conceivable.

[0043] For example, one of the triggering events listed can lift and / or move the removal unit from its rest position, for example so that it rotates about the rotation axis. This change in the position of the removal unit can trigger and / or actuate the safety switch, either directly or indirectly, for example by means of a rocker lever and / or a trigger pin on the rotation axis. In a further aspect of the present invention, a cleaning system for cleaning washware is proposed. In particular, the cleaning system can be configured for cleaning stackable washware and / or washware with at least one cavity and / or objects selected from the group consisting of cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses and pots or similar objects.The cleaning system comprises: at least one conveyor dishwasher, comprising at least one cleaning chamber, at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed in the cleaning chamber, and at least one multi-track transport device for transporting the items to be washed through the cleaning chamber; and at least one removal module 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, wherein the removal module is configured to remove the items to be washed cleaned in the conveyor dishwasher from the multi-track transport device.

[0044] The term “cleaning chamber,” as used here, is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and customary meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a completely or partially closed chamber within which the cleaning process can be carried out in whole or in part. The cleaning chamber can in particular have at least one housing which completely or partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A single cleaning chamber can be provided, or in principle several cleaning chambers can also be provided, for example for the sequential passage of washware. The cleaning chamber can, for example, have at least one opening for loading the cleaning chamber with the washware, which opening can also be referred to as an inlet.For example, the cleaning chamber can be designed entirely or partially as a tunnel, 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 washware enters or exits the cleaning chamber. In these areas, for example, the transport device can protrude beyond the cleaning chamber and be freely accessible.

[0045] The conveyor dishwasher is designed to apply at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be washed in the cleaning chamber. For this purpose, the conveyor dishwasher may in particular comprise at least one application device, in particular within the cleaning chamber. The term “application device,” as used here, 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 may, without limitation, refer in particular to any device by means of which the items to be washed within the cleaning chamber can be applied with the cleaning fluid, for example with the cleaning liquid. The application device may in particular comprise at least one nozzle system.Furthermore, the application device can comprise at least one pump and at least one line system for supplying cleaning fluid, in particular cleaning liquid, to the nozzle system. In this case, a nozzle system and a line system for applying 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 be applied directly from a supply line, without the need for a pump. One or more cleaning zones can be provided in the conveyor dishwasher, through which the wash items pass, for example, sequentially. For example, the wash items can be transported successively through one or more cleaning zones, in which different types of application of cleaning fluid take place.For example, the one or more cleaning zones can be selected from the group consisting of: a pre-clearing zone; a washing zone; and a final rinse or final rinsing zone, which 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 take place, for example, in a drying zone downstream of the liquid cleaning zones.

[0046] The term “cleaning fluid,” as used here, 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 a liquid which, upon contact with the washware, can exert a cleaning action. The cleaning fluid can, for example, also be referred to as a cleaning liquid. In particular, the cleaning fluid can comprise an aqueous liquid, for example water and / or water with one or more additives, for example with one or more detergent concentrates and / or rinse aids and / or disinfectants. The conveyor dishwasher can be configured to use a single cleaning liquid or to use a combination of several cleaning liquids.If multiple cleaning liquids are provided, the items to be washed can be exposed to the different cleaning liquids simultaneously or sequentially. For example, as explained above, the items to be washed can be transported sequentially through several cleaning zones, in which, for example, they are exposed to different types of cleaning liquid and / or cleaning liquids with different purity levels. Different purity levels can be achieved, for example, by a cascade overflow between different tanks of the conveyor dishwasher, with a purity level preferably increasing in the direction of transport.

[0047] With regard to possible definitions and optional configurations of the removal module, reference can be made to the above description or to the embodiments and examples described in more detail below.

[0048] The transport device can comprise a plurality of transport fingers. For example, the transport device can comprise a plurality of transport fingers, as already described above with regard to the transport device. In particular, the washware can be plugged onto the transport fingers. The transport fingers can engage in the respective gaps of the removal tongues of the removal module, for example, when removing the washware from the transport device. In particular, for this purpose, the gaps of the removal tongues of the removal module can have a depth and / or width adapted to at least one of the belt fingers of the transport device.

[0049] The cleaning system can further comprise at least one storage device for storing the wash ware removed by the removal module. In particular, the removal module can remove the wash ware from the transport device and then transfer it, for example by sliding and / or gliding over the sliding surfaces of the chutes, into the at least one storage device. The storage device can, for example, be a further transport device, for example for transporting the wash ware away. Alternatively or additionally, the storage device can also be a tray trolley, a plate trolley, or a storage device for drinking vessels. Further alternatively or additionally, the storage device can also be and / or comprise a transport basket and / or a transport box, for example to enable the storage of a plurality of wash ware items.

[0050] In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for removing washware is proposed. In particular, the method can be configured for removing stackable washware and / or washware with at least one cavity and / or objects selected from the group consisting of cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses and pots or similar objects. The method comprises the use of at least one removal module 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. For definitions and explanations relating to the method, reference is therefore made to the above definitions and explanations relating to the removal module.

[0051] The method comprises the steps detailed below. These steps can be performed in the order specified. However, a different order is also conceivable. Furthermore, two or more of the specified steps can be performed simultaneously or at an overlapping time. Furthermore, one or more of the specified steps can be performed singly or repeatedly. In addition to the steps specified, the method can comprise further steps not specified.

[0052] The method comprises the following steps: a) feeding the wash ware to the removal module; b) at least partially lifting the wash ware, in particular an individual wash ware part, of each lane by means of the removal tongue of the removal unit assigned to the respective lane; c) sliding the wash ware down due to the action of gravity; d) directing the sliding movement of the wash ware through the chute of the removal unit assigned to the respective lane; e) depositing the wash ware in a predetermined position by means of the chute of the removal unit assigned to the respective lane.

[0053] In particular, the method can comprise the use of the cleaning 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. For example, in step a), the washware can be fed to the removal module by means of the multi-track transport device. In particular, in step c), the washware can slide off the transport device due to the action of gravity. For example, in step e), the washware can be deposited in a predetermined position in a storage device via the chute of the removal unit assigned to the respective track.

[0054] Step b) may, in particular, involve initiating at least one rotational movement of the washware. For example, step b) may involve at least partially lifting the washware so that it is rotated about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the conveying direction, so that the bottom faces downward.

[0055] Step e) may in particular comprise stacking items of washing that follow one another in at least one lane.

[0056] In a further aspect, the use of at least one removal module 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, is proposed for stacking items cleaned in a cleaning system, in particular stackable items, in particular drinking cups.

[0057] The term “stacking” as used herein is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and customary meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a process of producing at least one stack of at least two items of washware, for example by successively attaching or adding items of washware to an existing stack or to a single item of washware, so that at least one stack is produced. In this case, the joining can in particular comprise fitting or joining items of washware into one another, for example in such a way that one item of washware is placed on top of another item of washware and / or is guided into one another.In particular, successive items of wash ware in a lane can be guided by the respective removal unit assigned to the lane, in particular by successive sliding and / or gliding on the chute of the removal unit, in such a way that they are stacked one inside the other. In particular, a subsequent item of wash ware can be placed onto a preceding item of wash ware by sliding down the chute of the removal unit assigned to the respective lane and / or can be inserted into the preceding item of wash ware, for example, can be joined together with it. By joining together, the added item of wash ware can be fully or partially taken up by the other item of wash ware or, alternatively, the added item of wash ware can fully or partially take up the other item of wash ware. By stacking individual items of wash ware, a stack of wash ware can thus be created.

[0058] The proposed removal module for removing washware, the proposed cleaning system for cleaning washware, the proposed method for removing washware, and the proposed use offer numerous advantages over known devices, systems, methods, and uses of the type mentioned. In particular, downtimes, congestion, and / or idle times of the conveyor dishwasher can be reduced or even completely eliminated, since the proposed devices, systems, methods, and uses enable continuous removal of the washware.

[0059] Furthermore, damage to and / or destruction of washware can be reduced or even completely avoided, for example. In particular, the proposed devices, systems, methods, and uses can enable a speed when the washware slides down that is adapted to a breaking force, for example by adjusting the angle of inclination of the chute, in order to minimize mechanical stress on the washware during removal. As a result, the proposed devices, systems, methods, and uses can enable increased safety for operators in the dishwashing area, as fewer or even no washware breaks, thus reducing the risk of injury. Furthermore, the safety of operating personnel can also be increased through the use of safety switches.

[0060] Automated removal can further reduce the personnel effort in the dishwashing area and also reduce the workload for the operating staff.

[0061] Furthermore, tool-free replacement of the removal units can enable a high level of flexibility and rapid adaptation to different wash ware. The proposed devices, systems, methods and uses can therefore ensure improved adaptation to different wash ware. For example, the proposed devices, systems, methods and uses can improve ergonomics and / or have a transfer height that is advantageous for operators. For example, the removal units, also referred to as removal scoops, can be very high in relation to the height of a deflection axis of the transport device, for example a deflection axis of the conveyor belt, and can also be attached relatively flat to the outlet of the conveyor dishwasher, for example at the machine outlet. This makes it possible to achieve a high transfer height from the removal scoop to downstream devices such as the storage device, e.g.B. transport boxes and / or collection boxes.

[0062] In summary, the following embodiments are proposed, without limiting further possible configurations.

[0063] Embodiment 1. Removal module for removing, in particular for automated removal, items to be washed, in particular stackable items to be washed, in particular items to be washed with at least one cavity, in particular items to be washed selected from the group consisting of cups, drinking cups, bowls, dishes, containers, glasses and pots or similar objects, from a multi-track transport device of a conveyor dishwasher, comprising at least two removal units, each of the removal units being assigned to a track of the transport device, each of the removal units comprising: at least one chute; and at least one removal tongue extending from the chute in the direction of the transport device, the removal tongue having at least one gap at its free end, the removal tongue being positioned relative to the assigned track of the transport device such that the items to be washed can slide over the removal tongue onto the chute.

[0064] Embodiment 2. The removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein a number of the removal units is equal to or less than a number of the tracks of the transport device.

[0065] Embodiment 3. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the removal tongues are curved.

[0066] Embodiment 4. Removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the removal tongues are segmented, in particular have a plurality of segments, wherein the curved configuration of the removal tongues is implemented by an angular arrangement of the segments, in particular by an arrangement of adjacent segments at angles smaller than 180°.

[0067] Embodiment 5. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the removal tongues are bent upwards relative to surfaces of the slides, for example relative to the sliding surfaces.

[0068] Embodiment 6. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the free ends of the removal tongues have a bend substantially orthogonal to a transport direction of the washware.

[0069] Embodiment 7. Removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the bend is directed opposite to the bend of the removal tongue, so that the free ends each have an orientation that is directed opposite to the bend of the removal tongues.

[0070] Embodiment 8. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a sliding surface of at least one removal tongue comprises a concave bend and the free end of this removal tongue has a convex kink.

[0071] Embodiment 9. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the removal tongues are attached at their fixed end to the slides respectively associated with them.

[0072] Embodiment 10. Removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the removal tongues merge at their fixed end into the sliding surface of the slides, for example are formed integrally therewith.

[0073] Embodiment 11. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein each removal unit is closed off on both sides by partition walls, so that the chute and the partition walls together form a channel through which the wash items can slide.

[0074] Embodiment 12. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein each removal unit is delimited on one side by a partition wall, so that its own partition wall and the partition wall of an adjacent chute together form a channel through which the wash items can slide.

[0075] Embodiment 13. Removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the partition walls are connected to the chutes.

[0076] Embodiment 14. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein adjacent removal units of the removal module are separated from one another by partition walls, in particular by partition walls arranged substantially perpendicular to a sliding surface of the slide.

[0077] Embodiment 15. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the chute has a flat sliding surface.

[0078] Embodiment 16. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the slide, for example the sliding surface, has an angle of inclination relative to a transport plane of the transport device, wherein the angle of inclination is an angle between 10° and 60°, in particular between 15° and 55°, preferably between 45° and 50°.

[0079] Embodiment 17. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the chutes have different widths.

[0080] Embodiment 18. Removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the widths of the chutes are adapted to the items to be washed preferably on the respective track, for example to an outer diameter of the items to be washed.

[0081] Embodiment 19. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the removal module comprises at least one axis of rotation, wherein the chutes are rotatable in at least one restricted area about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0082] Embodiment 20. Removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the slides are at least partially mounted on the at least one rotation axis, for example by at least one tab being suspended in and / or around the rotation axis. Embodiment 21. Removal module according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the slides are individually rotatable about the rotation axis, in particular independently of other slides.

[0083] Embodiment 22. Removal module according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein a distance between the rotation axis and the transport device can be adjusted via at least one elongated hole, preferably via at least two elongated holes, of the removal module.

[0084] Embodiment 23. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the chutes further each have at least one pin and / or centering pin and / or a centering tab to limit and / or prevent rotation of the chutes, for example rotation of the chutes orthogonal to the rotation of the chutes about the axis of rotation.

[0085] Embodiment 24. Removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the removal module has at least one triggerable safety switch.

[0086] Embodiment 25. Removal module according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the safety switch comprises at least one safety mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a rocker, for example a magnetic switch rocker, an electro-mechanical button, a roller-toggle lever, a light barrier, an inductive proximity switch.

[0087] Embodiment 26. Removal module according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the safety switch is configured to trigger as soon as a single one of the removal units changes its predetermined position, in particular a predetermined position of the chute is changed.

[0088] Embodiment 27. A cleaning system for cleaning wash ware, in particular cups and bowls, comprising: at least one conveyor dishwasher comprising at least one cleaning chamber, at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the wash ware, in particular the cups and bowls, in the cleaning chamber, and at least one multi-track transport device for transporting the wash ware, in particular the cups and bowls, through the cleaning chamber; and at least one removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the removal module is configured to remove the wash ware, in particular cups and bowls, cleaned in the conveyor dishwasher from the multi-track transport device.

[0089] Embodiment 28. Cleaning system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the transport device comprises a plurality of transport fingers, wherein the items to be washed can be plugged onto the transport fingers, wherein the transport fingers engage in the respective gaps of the removal tongues of the removal module, wherein the gaps of the removal tongues of the removal module have a depth and / or width adapted to at least one of the belt fingers of the transport device.

[0090] Embodiment 29. Cleaning system according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the cleaning system further comprises at least one storage device for storing the wash items removed by the removal module.

[0091] Embodiment 30. A method for removing washware, in particular stackable washware, in particular washware with at least one cavity, in particular washware selected from the group consisting of cups, drinking cups, bowls, containers and glasses, using at least one removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a removal module, the method comprising the following steps: a) feeding the washware to the removal module; b) at least partially lifting the washware, in particular an individual piece of washware, of each lane by the removal tongue of the removal unit assigned to the respective lane; c) sliding the washware down due to the action of gravity; d) directing the sliding movement of the washware by the chute of the removal unit assigned to the respective lane; e) depositing the washware in a predetermined position by the chute of the removal unit assigned to the respective lane.

[0092] Embodiment 31. Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the method comprises the use of the cleaning system according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a cleaning system, in particular in step a) the wash items can be fed to the removal module by the multi-lane transport device, in step c) the wash items can slide off the transport device due to the action of gravity and in step e) the wash items can be deposited in a storage device.

[0093] Embodiment 32. Method according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein step b) comprises triggering at least one rotational movement of the washware.

[0094] Embodiment 33. Method according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein step e) comprises stacking wash items one inside the other in at least one lane.

[0095] Embodiment 34. Use of the removal module according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a removal module for stacking items to be washed in a cleaning system, in particular stackable items to be washed, in particular drinking cups.

[0096] Short description of the characters

[0097] 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. The same reference numerals in the individual figures designate identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions.

[0098] In detail:

[0099] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a cleaning system for cleaning dishes in a sectional view from the side;

[0100] Figures 2 to 10 show various embodiments of a removal module for removing washware in different views; and Figure 11 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for removing washware.

[0101] Description of the embodiments

[0102] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a cleaning system 110 for cleaning washware 112. The cleaning system 110 comprises at least one conveyor dishwasher 114 comprising at least one cleaning chamber 116, at least one application device 118 for applying at least one cleaning fluid 120 to the washware 112 in the cleaning chamber 116. The conveyor dishwasher 114 further comprises at least one multi-lane transport device 122 for transporting the washware 112 through the cleaning chamber 116. Furthermore, the cleaning system 110 comprises at least one removal module 124, wherein the removal module 124 is configured to remove the washware 112 cleaned in the conveyor dishwasher 114 from the multi-lane transport device 122.For example, the removal module 124 may further be configured to transfer the wash ware 112 into at least one storage device 126, for example following removal from the transport device 122. For this purpose, the cleaning system 110 may further comprise the at least one storage device 126 for storing the wash ware 112.

[0103] The conveyor dishwasher 114 can be configured, in particular, to transport the wash ware 112 through the cleaning chamber 116, for example, by means of the transport device 122, in particular from an inlet 128 to an outlet 130, in particular in a transport direction 132 of the transport device 122. The cleaning chamber 116 can, for example, be designed as a tunnel with a plurality of cleaning zones 134 through which the wash ware 112 passes sequentially. The cleaning zones 134 can, for example, be separated from one another by curtains 136 through which the wash ware 112 can pass. Thus, the wash ware 112 can, for example, pass through the following cleaning zones 134 from the inlet 128 to the outlet 130: a pre-cleaning zone 138, a washing zone 140, a final rinse zone 142, and a drying zone 144.The conveyor dishwasher 114 may, for example, further comprise a controller 146, in particular to transmit control signals to the individual components such as the conveyor device 122 and the loading device 118.

[0104] The transport device 122 can in particular comprise at least two deflection rollers 119 around which a drive element 121 can be unwound. The transport device 122, in particular the drive element 121, can, for example, comprise several transport fingers

[0105] 123. In particular, the washware 112 can be plugged onto the transport fingers. For example, the washware 112 can be received on the transport fingers 123 with a bottom facing upward during transport through the cleaning chamber 116. Such transport fingers 123 are illustrated by way of example in Figures 2 to 4 and 7 to 10.

[0106] Figures 2 to 10 show different embodiments of a removal module

[0107] 124 for removing washware 112 in various views. The removal module 124 is configured for removing, for example, automatically removing, washware 112 from a multi-lane transport device 122 of a conveyor dishwasher 114, for example, from an outlet 130. The removal module comprises at least two removal units 148, each of the removal units 148 being assigned to a lane 150 of the transport device 122.

[0108] The removal units 148 each comprise at least one chute 152 and at least one removal tongue 154 extending from the chute 152 in the direction of the transport device 122. The removal tongue 154 is curved and has at least one gap 158 at its free end 156. Furthermore, the removal tongue 154 is positioned relative to the associated track 150 of the transport device 122 such that the items to be washed 112 can slide over the removal tongue 154 onto the chute 152.

[0109] The removal tongue 154 can be fastened, in particular, at its fixed end 160 to the respective slide 152 assigned to it. In particular, the removal tongues 154 can merge at their fixed ends 160 into sliding surfaces 162 of the slides 152, for example, be formed integrally therewith. In particular, the removal tongues 154 can be bent upward relative to the sliding surface 162 of the slides 152.

[0110] As shown by way of example in Figure 2, the chutes 152 can have different widths. For example, the widths of the chutes 152 can be adapted to the washware 112 preferably transported on the respective track 150, for example, to an outer diameter of the washware 112.

[0111] The removal tongues 154 can be segmented, in particular have a plurality of segments 164. For example, the curved configuration of the removal tongues 154 can be implemented by an angular arrangement of the segments 164. In particular, the curved configuration can be implemented by arranging adjacent segments 164 at angles of less than 180°. However, the free end 156 of the removal tongues 154 can, for example, have a bend directed opposite to the bend of the remaining removal tongue 154, in particular be bent in a direction opposite to the curved configuration of the removal tongue 154. Such a configuration can be seen, for example, in Figures 4 and 5. In particular, three segments 164 of a removal tongue 154 can each be arranged at an angle of less than 180°, and the free end 156 can be arranged at an angle greater than 180° to the adjacent segment of the removal tongue 154.

[0112] Each removal unit 148 can be closed off on both sides by partition walls 166, for example so that the chute 152 and the partition walls 166 together form a channel through which the wash ware 112 can slide, preferably toward the storage device 126. For example, the partition walls 166 can be connected to the chutes 152, for example so that the chutes 152 and the partition walls 166 together form an L-profile and / or a U-profile. In particular, adjacent removal units 148 of the removal module 124 can be separated from one another, for example by the partition walls 166. The partition walls 166 can in particular be arranged substantially perpendicular to the sliding surface 162 of the chute 152.

[0113] The removal module 124 can, for example, be fastened to the outlet 130 of the conveyor dishwasher 114, for example via a fastening element 167. For example, a distance between a rotational axis 168 of the removal module 124 and the transport device 122 can be adjustable via at least one elongated hole 170 in the removal module 124. Preferably, as illustrated by way of example in Figure 6, the removal module 124 can have at least two elongated holes 170 for adjusting the distance between the rotational axis 168 and the transport device 122. Furthermore, for example, an inclination of the chute 152, for example an inclination of the sliding surface 162, can also be adjustable, for example about an inclination axis 172. Thus, the chute 152, for example the sliding surface 162, can have an angle of inclination relative to a transport plane of the transport device 122.In Figure 6, the adjustment options of the removal module 124 relative to the transport device 122 are illustrated by arrows.

[0114] In particular, the angle of inclination can correspond to or define a predetermined position of the chute 152. For example, the position of the chute 152 at the angle of inclination relative to the transport plane of the transport device 122 can be a rest position of the chute 152. The rest position of the chute 152 can, in particular, correspond to or predetermine a rest position of the removal unit 148.

[0115] The slides 152 can, for example, be arranged detachably in this rest position. In particular, the slides 152 can, for example, be rotatable about the at least one rotation axis 168 in at least one limited area. In particular, the slides 152 can be rotatable individually or in groups, preferably individually, about the rotation axis 168, in particular independently of other slides 152. This mode of operation can be necessary, in particular, to enable the triggering of a safety switch 174, for example, in a dangerous situation.

[0116] In the rest position, the slide 152 can be secured, for example, via at least one tab 176 and at least one centering pin 178 to a holder 180 of the removal module 124 that defines the rest position. The holder 180 can, for example, have a groove 182 for receiving the centering pin. In a dangerous situation, the at least one slide 152 and thus also at least one removal unit 148 can be moved from its rest position and / or idle position. The safety switch 174 can, in particular, be configured to trigger as soon as a single removal unit 148 changes its predetermined position, i.e., its idle position. Such situations are illustrated by way of example in Figures 7 to 10.

[0117] For example, a foreign body 184, for example a jammed interfering part and / or the hand of an operator or the like, between the removal tongue 154 and the transport device 122, as shown, for example, in Figure 7, or between the chute 152 and the transport device 122, as shown, for example, in Figure 8, can cause a change in the position of the removal unit 148. The safety switch 174, for example a magnetic switch rocker comprising at least one magnet 186 and a switch 188, can be configured in particular to detect a change in the position of the removal unit 148 and generate a corresponding shutdown signal. For example, the change in the position of the removal unit 148 can cause the magnet 186 to detach from the switch 188, thereby triggering the safety switch 174 and generating the shutdown signal.Other types of safety switches 174, for example those not shown here, are also possible.

[0118] For example, intervention by an operator, for example in a movement area of ​​the conveyor belt, can raise the removal unit 148, for example a removal scoop, from its rest position. The safety switch 174 can be triggered and / or actuated by means of a release pin 190, a rotation axis 168, and a rocker lever 192. The shutdown signal generated and / or output by the safety switch 174 can, for example, trigger a stop of the transport device 122, for example a conveyor belt, via the control system 146 of the conveyor dishwasher 114. In the event of a very deep intervention, it is possible that the removal unit 148 can also become completely detached from the rotation axis 168. A completely detached removal unit 148 in which the tab 176 no longer engages the rotation axis 168 is illustrated by way of example in Figures 9 and 10.

[0119] For example, jammed washware can trigger a tilting movement of the removal unit 148, such as the removal scoop, and the conveyor dishwasher 114 and / or the transport device 122 can be stopped by means of the safety switch 174. When the movement of the transport device 122 is stopped, the part that caused the malfunction, such as the foreign object 184, can then be removed safely, for example, by an operator. If necessary, a deflected removal unit 148 can also be completely removed from its mounting to release a jam.

[0120] For example, in a malfunction situation, for example if the items to be washed 112 do not release from the transport finger 123 and are therefore drawn in and / or clamped between the transport device 122 and the removal unit 148, the at least one removal unit 148 can be moved from its rest position, for example rotated into a shut-off position. An underside of the removal unit 148, for example a base of the scoop, can then press on the associated release pin 190 and in the process also cause the rotation axis 168 to rotate. In particular, at least part of the safety switch 174, for example the lever 192 with the magnet 186, can also move. As a result, the safety switch 174 can be triggered and, for example, interrupt a control circuit to the dishwasher control system.The control system 146 of the dishwasher 114 can thus, for example, detect a dangerous situation and subsequently interrupt the drive of the conveyor dishwasher 114 and / or the conveyor device 122. The drawn-in washware 112, in particular the foreign object 184, for example, the hand of an operator, can then be easily and safely removed from the draw-in point.

[0121] Figure 11 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for removing washware 112. The method comprises the use of at least one removal module 124 according to the present invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments shown and described in Figures 2 to 10. However, other designs of the removal module 124 are also possible. The method comprises the steps described in more detail below. These steps can be carried out in the order mentioned. However, a different order is also possible in principle. Furthermore, two or more of the method steps mentioned can be carried out in a temporally overlapping manner or simultaneously. Furthermore, one or more of the method steps mentioned can be carried out once or repeatedly. In addition to the steps mentioned, the method can comprise further method steps which are not mentioned.

[0122] The method comprises the following steps: a) (identified by reference numeral 194) feeding the items to be washed 112 to the removal module 124; b) (identified by reference numeral 196) at least partially lifting the items to be washed 112 of each lane 150 by the removal tongue 154 of the removal unit 148 assigned to the respective lane 150; c) (identified by reference numeral 198) sliding the items to be washed 112 due to the action of gravity; d) (identified by reference numeral 200) directing the sliding movement of the items to be washed 112 by the chute 152 of the removal unit 148 assigned to the respective lane 150; e) (identified by reference numeral 202) depositing the items to be washed in a predetermined position through the chute of the removal unit assigned to the respective track.

[0123] In particular, step b) can comprise initiating at least one rotational movement of the washware 112. For example, a targeted lifting of the washware item 112, for example, a cup, and its removal from the transport device 122, for example, from a conveyor belt, can be effected by the removal tongues 154. The removal tongues 154 can, for example, due to the gap 158, engage widely between the transport fingers 123 of the transport device 122, for example, the belt fingers of the conveyor belt. A contact point and / or contact area 204 between the washware 112 and the removal tongue 154 can, for example, be closer to an upper edge of the washware, for example, at the mouth of the cup, than to the bottom of the washware 112, preferably in an upper third of the washware 112.As a result, a tilting movement 206 of the wash ware 112, for example, the cup, can be initiated together with the movement of the transport device 122, which, for example, allows the wash ware to slide unhindered off the transport finger 123. Overall, this can achieve a very high level of functional safety and reliability when removing the wash ware 112 by the removal module 124. An illustration of the removal of the wash ware 112, in particular with the tilting movement 206 and contact area 204, is given by way of example in Figure 3.

[0124] In particular, a complete pass of the wash ware 112 through the cleaning system 110 can be described, for example, as follows. For example, the wash ware, for example items to be cleaned, can be placed at the inlet of the conveyor dishwasher 114, with its opening facing downwards, onto the transport device 122, for example onto a conveyor belt, manually or automatically. The conveyor belt can be designed, for example, as a chain and have universal or adapted carriers. The carriers can also have a very elongated shape and can then be referred to as transport fingers 123 and / or as belt fingers. The carriers or the belt fingers can preferably be designed such that the wash ware 112 is securely picked up, i.e., does not fall over or become damaged, and can also be reliably transported through the various treatment zones 128 to 144 of the dishwasher 114 to the outlet 130.Furthermore, due to only a very slight blockage of the opening of the items to be washed 112, for example, the cleaning fluids can penetrate largely unhindered into the cavity of the items to be washed 112 and also flow out again.

[0125] For example, the items to be washed 112, such as the cups, can be held on the transport fingers 123 in such a way that only their bottoms touch the upper end of the transport finger 123. This can be the case in particular with very long transport fingers 123. Furthermore, the transport finger 123 can be designed, for example, such that its upper end comprises several, but each very small, contact surfaces relative to the items to be washed 112. During the washing process, the items to be washed 112, such as the cups, can be repeatedly shifted to a different contact point due to the forces acting on them by the cleaning fluid 120, so that all surface areas of the items to be washed can be reached by the cleaning fluid 120 during the cleaning process. Furthermore, the items to be washed can tilt, for example, on the tip of the transport finger 123, so that as little liquid residue as possible can collect on the outside of the bottom of the items to be washed 112.This allows, for example, both a cleaning effect and a drying effect on the items to be washed 112 in the conveyor dishwasher 112 to be supported in the best possible way. A plurality of similar carriers, for example the transport fingers 123, can be attached to the transport device 122, in particular in a longitudinal direction. This can, for example, form a plurality of tracks 150. In particular, the presence of a plurality of tracks 150 next to one another on the transport device allows the width of the conveyor dishwasher 114 to be optimally utilized. The tracks 150 can, for example, all be equipped with similar carriers, in particular transport fingers 123, or with different, respectively adapted, shapes and / or elements, so that, for example, different items to be washed 112 can be placed next to one another on the transport device 122.

[0126] The removal module 124 can, in particular, be of modular construction, for example, comprising a plurality of removal units 148, e.g., removal scoops. The removal scoops can, for example, be suspended from the modular chute by means of the at least one tab 176 and / or by means of at least one hook on a rotational axis 168, for example, extending across the entire width. The rotational axis itself can, in turn, be rotatably mounted and have a radially arranged pin, for example, the release pin 190, in the region of each removal scoop. This release pin can, for example, rest on the underside of the removal unit 148.

[0127] A lever 192 can be located at one end of the rotation axis, for example as part of the safety switch 174. In particular, if the safety switch 174 comprises a magnetic switch rocker, the magnet 186, for example a permanent magnet, can be attached to the outer end of the lever 192. This permanent magnet can in particular be functionally connected to the switch 188, for example a magnetic switch, which can be fastened, for example, to a frame of the modular removal unit 148. In the rest position or the functional position of the removal unit, the magnetic switch can, for example, close a control circuit for machine control. Instead of the magnet 186 and the magnetic switch 188, other switches would also be conceivable, such as an electromechanical button, a light barrier and / or an inductive proximity switch.Depending on the functional position of the removal unit 148, it can rest on the rotational axis 168 and, for example, with its outer end, be supported on the holder 180, for example on a frame. List of reference symbols.

[0128] cleaning system

[0129] Dishes

[0130] Conveyor dishwasher

[0131] cleaning chamber

[0132] loading device

[0133] pulley

[0134] Cleaning fluid

[0135] drive element

[0136] Transport device

[0137] Transport finger

[0138] Removal module

[0139] storage device

[0140] Enema

[0141] Outlet

[0142] Transport direction

[0143] Cleaning zones

[0144] Curtain

[0145] Pre-clearance zone

[0146] Washing area

[0147] Rinse zone

[0148] Drying zone

[0149] steering

[0150] Withdrawal unit

[0151] track

[0152] slide

[0153] Removal tongue free end of the removal tongue

[0154] Gap fixed end of the removal tongue

[0155] Slide surface

[0156] Segments of the extraction tongue

[0157] partition

[0158] Fastening element

[0159] axis of rotation

[0160] Slotted hole Tilt axis Safety switch Tab Centering pin Bracket Groove

[0161] Foreign body Magnet Switch Release pin Lever Step a) Step b) Step c) Step d) Step e) Contact area Tilting movement

Claims

Claims 1. Removal module (124) for removing wash ware from a multi-lane transport device (122) of a conveyor dishwasher (114), comprising at least two removal units (148), each of the removal units (148) being assigned to a lane (150) of the transport device (122), each of the removal units (148) comprising: at least one chute (152); and at least one removal tongue (154) extending from the chute (152) in the direction of the transport device (122), wherein the removal tongue (154) has at least one gap (158) at its free end (156), wherein the removal tongue (154) is positioned relative to the associated track (150) of the transport device (122) in such a way that the items to be washed (112) can slide over the removal tongue (154) onto the chute (152), wherein the removal tongues (154) are fastened at their fixed end (160) to the chutes (152) respectively associated with them.

2. Removal module (124) according to the preceding claim, wherein a number of removal units (154) is equal to or less than a number of tracks (150) of the transport device (122).

3. Removal module (124) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal tongues (154) are curved.

4. Removal module (124) according to the preceding claim, wherein the removal tongues (154) are segmented, wherein the curved configuration of the removal tongues (154) is implemented by an angular arrangement of the segments (164).

5. Removal module (124) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal tongues (154) merge at their fixed end (160) into a sliding surface (162) of the slides (152).

6. Removal module (124) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein adjacent removal units (148) of the removal module (124) are separated from one another by partition walls (166).

7. Removal module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chute (152) has an angle of inclination relative to a transport plane of the transport device (122), wherein the angle of inclination is an angle between 10° and 60°.

8. Removal module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal module (124) comprises at least one axis of rotation (168), wherein the slides (152) are rotatable in at least a limited range about the at least one axis of rotation (168), wherein the slides (152) are at least partially mounted on the at least one axis of rotation.

9. Removal module (124) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal module (124) has at least one triggerable safety switch (174), wherein the safety switch (174) comprises at least one safety mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a rocker, for example a magnetic switch rocker, an electro-mechanical button, a roller toggle lever, a light barrier, an inductive proximity switch.

10. A cleaning system (110) for cleaning wash ware (112), comprising: at least one conveyor dishwasher (114) comprising at least one cleaning chamber (116), at least one application device (118) for applying at least one cleaning fluid (120) to the wash ware (112) in the cleaning chamber (116), and at least one multi-track transport device (122) for transporting the wash ware (112) through the cleaning chamber (116); and at least one removal module (124) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal module (124) is configured to remove the wash ware (112) cleaned in the conveyor dishwasher (114) from the multi-track transport device (122).

11. A method for removing items to be washed (112) using at least one removal module (124) according to one of the preceding claims relating to a removal module (124), the method comprising the following steps: a) feeding the items to be washed (112) to the removal module (124); b) at least partially lifting the items to be washed (112) in each lane (150) by the removal tongue (154) of the removal unit (148) assigned to the respective lane (150); c) sliding the items to be washed (112) due to the action of gravity; d) directing the sliding movement of the items to be washed (112) by the chute (152) of the removal unit (148) assigned to the respective lane (150); e) depositing the items to be washed (112) in a predetermined position by the chute (152) of the removal unit (148) assigned to the respective lane (150).

12. Use of the removal module (124) according to one of the preceding claims relating to a removal module (124) for stacking items to be washed (112) cleaned in a cleaning system (110).

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