Salt dissolving device for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher

Abstract

The invention relates to a salt dissolving device (110) for providing at least one salt solution (138) for a dishwasher (208). The salt dissolving device (110) comprises: · at least one salt-receiving container (112), wherein the salt-receiving container (112) comprises at least one input opening (114) for at least one salt (116), wherein the salt-receiving container (112) is made of at least one fluid-impermeable material, wherein the salt-receiving container (112) has a funnel-shaped base (118), wherein the salt-receiving container (112) has at least one inlet (120) at a lower end of the salt-receiving container (112), wherein the salt-receiving container (112) also has at least one outlet (122) at an upper end (124) of the salt-receiving container (112); · at least one salt-solution container (136) for receiving the salt solution (138), wherein the salt-solution container (136) is fluidically connected to each of the inlet (120) and the outlet (122) of the salt-receiving container (112), wherein the salt-solution container (136) also comprises at least one salt-solution outlet (152) for providing the salt solution (138) for the dishwasher (208); · at least one solvent inlet (158) for feeding at least one solvent into the salt dissolving device (110); and · at least one pump (174), wherein the pump (174) is designed to convey at least one fluid medium from the salt-solution container (136) via the inlet (120) into the salt-receiving container (112) and from the salt-receiving container (112) via the outlet (122) back into the salt-solution container (136), wherein the fluid medium is selected from the group consisting of: the solvent, the salt solution (138).

Description

[0001] Salt dissolving device for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The invention relates to a salt dissolving device for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher, a dishwasher for cleaning items to be cleaned, and a method for producing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher. Salt dissolving devices, dishwashers, and methods of the aforementioned type can be used, for example, in the field of commercial dishwashing technology. The devices and method of the aforementioned type 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 where items to be cleaned, for example trays, dishes, and cutlery, must be cleaned in large quantities.However, other types of cleaning devices can also be modified in principle according to the invention, and / or the invention can be used to clean other types of items to be cleaned.

[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 items to be cleaned. The design of these cleaning devices depends heavily on the various boundary conditions, such as the type of items to be cleaned, the level of soiling, the throughput, or similar conditions. By way of example, reference can be made to cleaning devices described, for example, in DE 10 2004 056 052 A1, DE 10 2007 025 263 A1, DE 10 2015 102 593 A1, EP 2 491 844 A2, or EP 1982631 A2. However, other designs are also possible. In a dishwasher, the items to be cleaned are generally subjected to at least one cleaning fluid. For example, this can take place in a cleaning chamber via at least one application device, in particular with at least one nozzle system.

[0006] To produce the cleaning fluid and / or at least one component of the cleaning fluid, at least one salt solution can be produced. Various salt dissolving devices are known from the prior art.

[0007] DE 1 883 789 U describes a salt container for ion exchangers in washing machines, in particular dishwashers, which has a device for dividing the inflowing water over the upper cross-sectional area of ​​the container.

[0008] DE 33 03 161 A1 describes a water softening device for household appliances, particularly dishwashers, comprising an ion exchange vessel and a salt container with a bottom-to-top flow path. The salt container has a freshwater collection chamber in the bottom area below the salt collection chamber covered by a sieve, and a brine overflow in the upper container area leading to the ion exchange vessel. A mixing channel, bypassing the salt collection chamber and fed by fresh water, opens into the mixing channel. A liquid-permeable salt chamber, which can be filled from the salt collection chamber, is assigned to the mixing channel.

[0009] DE 10 2004 021 197 A1 describes a device for water treatment in household appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, or the like, comprising an ion exchanger and a salt container, which comprises a salt chamber inside for storing salt for the regeneration of the ion exchanger, which reliably supplies a sufficient amount of sufficiently concentrated brine to the ion exchanger even at a low salt fill level and / or at a rapid throughput during displacement of the brine into the ion exchanger. This is achieved by providing a brine chamber for receiving liquid brine, which is separated from the salt chamber by a partition that is impermeable to undissolved solid salt but permeable to liquid brine, so that it contains at least part of the brine quantity required for a regeneration process as a brine reserve.

[0010] EP 1 023 868 A2 describes a device for softening fresh water in a cleaning device for dishes and / or trays, which comprises a closed container in which at least one ion exchange container, a salt container, and a dosing device for saline solution for regeneration are arranged in flow connection. The method comprises the steps of rinsing the at least one regenerated exchange container with water between the steps of washing and rinsing the dishes and / or trays, loading the at least one exchange container with rinsing liquid for softening, and regenerating the at least one exchange container by flowing saline solution through it. During the water softening and the regeneration, the water flows through the exchange container in the opposite direction of flow.

[0011] EP 1 334 688 A2 describes a method for detecting a salt deficiency in a dishwasher or washing machine equipped with a water softener. A salt container of the water softener is connected to fresh water or the like for brine preparation, and an ion exchanger is regenerated with the brine from the salt container. The density of the brine is used to detect a salt deficiency. According to the invention, liquid level differences between the brine and fresh water are derived from the density differences between the supplied fresh water and the brine and used to detect the brine concentration. The device for carrying out the method can be implemented simply and reliably with little construction effort and low cost. A light sensor in the form of an optical light barrier can advantageously be used for this purpose.

[0012] GB 1 493 229 A describes a container for storing a regenerating agent for a water softener in a dishwasher, comprising a hollow body extending below the bottom of the wash tank and a filler neck through which the regenerating agent is supplied to the hollow body, the neck extending into the wash tank and the gap between the filler neck and the hollow body forming an outlet allowing liquid to flow from the hollow body into the wash tank, the arrangement being such that both the filler neck and the outlet can be closed simultaneously by a lid.

[0013] WO 2008 / 125504 A1 describes a water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher or washing machine, with a water softening device, comprising a regenerant container having a regenerant receiving chamber into which a regenerant and water can be introduced and from which a brine formed by the regenerant and the water can be discharged via an overflow channel with a predetermined cross-sectional area, with a brine strainer arranged in the regenerant container and associated with the overflow channel. The brine strainer has a strainer area that is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the overflow channel.

[0014] Despite the numerous advantages achieved with existing devices and methods, numerous technical challenges remain. For example, individual components of salt dissolving devices can easily become encrusted. Furthermore, the salt in the salt storage container can harden or clog.

[0015] Object of the invention

[0016] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a salt dissolving device for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher, a dishwasher for cleaning items to be cleaned, and a method for producing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher, which at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of the type mentioned. In particular, a simple, cost-effective, and reliable salt dissolving device is to be provided.

[0017] General description of the invention

[0018] This object is addressed by a salt dissolving device for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher, a dishwasher for cleaning items to be cleaned, and a method for producing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher having the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are presented in the dependent claims.

[0019] In the following, the terms "have," "have," "comprise," or "include," or any grammatical variations thereof, are used non-exclusively. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, besides the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present, or to situations in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expression "A has B," "A has B," "A comprises B," or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no further element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, for example, element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0020] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be provided singly or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. 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 may be provided singly or multiple times.

[0021] Furthermore, the terms “preferably”, “in particular”, “for example” or similar terms are used hereinafter in connection with optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and these features are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by “in one embodiment of the invention” or by “in an embodiment of the invention” are understood as optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave untouched all possibilities of combining the features introduced thereby with other features, whether optional or non-optional.

[0022] The terms "first" and "second" are to be considered purely descriptive, without indicating any order or ranking, and without, for example, excluding the possibility that several types of first elements or second elements, or precisely one type of each, may be provided. Furthermore, additional elements, such as one or more third elements, may be present.

[0023] In a first aspect of the present invention, a salt dissolving device for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher is proposed. The salt dissolving device comprises at least one salt receptacle. The salt receptacle has at least one inlet for at least one salt. The salt receptacle is made of at least one fluid-impermeable material. The salt receptacle has a funnel-shaped bottom. The salt receptacle has at least one inlet at a lower end of the salt receptacle. The salt receptacle also has at least one outlet at an upper end of the salt receptacle. Furthermore, the salt dissolving device comprises at least one salt solution container for receiving the salt solution. The salt solution container is fluidically connected to the inlet and the outlet of the salt receptacle.The salt solution container further comprises at least one salt solution outlet for providing the salt solution for the dishwasher. Furthermore, the salt dissolving device comprises at least one solvent inlet for supplying at least one solvent to the salt dissolving device. Furthermore, the salt dissolving device comprises at least one pump. The pump is configured to convey at least one fluid medium from the salt solution container via the inlet into the salt receptacle and from the salt receptacle via the outlet back into the salt solution container. The fluid medium is selected from the group consisting of: the solvent, the salt solution.

[0024] The term “dishwasher,” 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 cleaning device designed to at least largely free items to be cleaned in the form of dishes from adhering contaminants and / or to hygienize and / or disinfect the dishes, in particular by applying at least one cleaning fluid. The dishes can in particular comprise items to be cleaned that are designed and intended for serving, preparing or storing food and / or drinks, for example items to be cleaned selected from the group consisting of: plates, cups, bowls, dishes, glasses, pans, pots, trays, cutlery, and catering containers.The dishwasher can be configured as a dishwasher for commercial use in large-scale kitchens or kitchens in communal catering establishments. Furthermore, the dishwasher can be configured to clean heavy and / or bulky items, such as containers and / or pots. Other configurations of the dishwasher and / or the items to be cleaned are also possible in principle. The dishwasher can be selected from the group consisting of: a conveyor dishwasher, in particular a flight-type dishwasher and / or a rack-type dishwasher; a pass-through dishwasher; and a programmable dishwasher. Other configurations are also conceivable in principle.

[0025] The term "item to be cleaned," as used herein, is also a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common 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 items that can be cleaned by means of the dishwasher. This can involve cleaning one item, or multiple items can be cleaned simultaneously or sequentially. In particular, the items to be cleaned can be items that are used directly or indirectly for preparing, storing, containing, or serving food, for example, dishes, cutlery, trays, bowls, glasses, pots, cups, pans, or similar items.

[0026] The term “salt dissolving device,” as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and customary 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 any device configured to dissolve at least one arbitrary salt and thus produce a salt solution. In particular, the salt dissolving device can be configured to hold at least one salt and / or at least one salt mixture. Furthermore, the salt dissolving device can be configured to dissolve the salt and / or the salt mixture in a solvent, in particular in water. Furthermore, the salt dissolving device can be configured to provide a salt solution. In particular, the salt dissolving device can be configured to store the salt solution and / or transfer it to another device.In particular, the salt dissolving device can be configured to provide the salt solution with a desired salt concentration. The salt dissolving device can comprise several components, which are described in more detail below.

[0027] The term "salt," as used herein, 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 any chemical compound which is essentially crystalline and composed of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. The salt can, in particular, be a moderately soluble salt or a sparingly soluble salt. However, soluble, readily soluble, or very readily soluble salts are also conceivable. The salt can, in particular, have a solubility of 50 g / dm 3 up to 1000 g / dm 3in water at 20°C. The salt can in particular be an alkali salt, in particular a sodium salt or a potassium salt. The alkali salt can be selected from the group consisting of: sodium citrate, methylglycinediacetic acid trisodium salt (MGDA), sodium polyacrylate, sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium formate, sodium acetate, potassium citrate, potassium polyacrylate, potassium tripolyphosphate, potassium acetate, tetrasodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)L-glutamate (GLDA), tetrasodium iminodisuccinate (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA). Mixtures of the alkali salts mentioned are also conceivable in principle. Other salts are also conceivable in principle.

[0028] The term "fluid medium," as used here, is also a broad term, which should be given its usual and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a substance in a fluid, in particular gaseous and / or liquid, state. The fluid medium can, for example, be present as a pure substance or as a mixture of substances. In particular, the fluid medium can comprise at least one aqueous liquid, in particular water.

[0029] The term “solvent,” as used herein, 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 limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any substance which can dissolve and dilute gases, liquids and / or solids without any chemical reactions occurring between the solvent, the substance to be dissolved and the dissolved substance during the dissolution process. The solvent can, in particular, be water, preferably fresh water. The term “fresh water,” as used herein, 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 limited to any specific or adapted meaning.The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to unused water. The water can be at least largely free of contaminants. The fresh water can, in particular, be water of drinking water quality. Furthermore, the solvent can be osmosis water. The term “osmosis water,” 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 filtered water that is at least almost free of all contaminants, for example by means of an osmosis system. Due to its high degree of purity, osmosis water can have a water hardness of almost 0° GH. Other types of solvent are also conceivable in principle.

[0030] The term “salt solution,” as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and customary 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 can, without limitation, refer in particular to any solution of at least one salt in at least one solvent, in particular water. The salt solution can be at least one cleaning fluid or at least one component of the cleaning fluid. Alternatively, the salt solution can form a starting material for at least one component of the cleaning fluid. For example, by means of at least one conversion device, the salt solution can be converted into the at least one component of the cleaning fluid, in particular into at least one alkali and / or at least one acid.The conversion device can be, for example, an electrolysis cell or a dialysis cell. Other devices are also conceivable in principle. As explained above, the salt dissolving device is designed to provide the at least one salt solution for the dishwasher. The salt dissolving device can be a device of a dishwasher. The salt solution can therefore be produced in the dishwasher. However, the salt solution does not necessarily have to be produced in the dishwasher.

[0031] 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 fluid, and in particular a liquid, which, upon contact with the item to be cleaned, can exert a cleaning action. In particular, the cleaning fluid can comprise an aqueous fluid, for example water and / or water with one or more additives, for example with one or more cleaning concentrates and / or rinse aids and / or disinfectants. The cleaning device can be designed to use a single cleaning fluid or to use a combination of several cleaning fluids.If multiple cleaning fluids are provided, the items to be cleaned can be exposed to the different cleaning fluids simultaneously or sequentially. For example, as described above, the items to be cleaned can remain stationary within the cleaning chamber and be exposed to the various cleaning fluids one after the other. Alternatively, the items to be cleaned can be transported through the cleaning chamber, for example, through a cleaning tunnel, and there, in successively arranged cleaning zones, be exposed to different types of cleaning fluid and / or cleaning fluids of different purity levels.

[0032] The term “salt receptacle,” as used herein, is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any container designed to hold at least one salt. The salt receptacle can, in particular, completely or partially enclose or close off at least one interior space. The salt receptacle can, in particular, provide mechanical stability. The salt receptacle can, for example, be made of at least one rigid material. As explained above, the salt receptacle comprises at least one inlet opening. The term “inlet opening,” as used herein, is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art.The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any opening in a container designed to introduce a substance, in particular salt, into at least one interior space of the container.

[0033] As stated above, the salt receptacle is made of at least one fluid-impermeable material. The term "fluid-impermeable material," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and customary meaning should be given, as understood by one skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to any material that is impermeable to any fluid. The fluid-impermeable material may, in particular, be a non-porous material. As stated above, the salt receptacle may completely or partially enclose or close off at least one interior space. The salt receptacle may have at least one wall that completely or partially encloses or closes off the interior space. The wall may be made of the fluid-impermeable material.The salt can, particularly after being filled into the salt receptacle, be in direct contact with the wall made of the fluid-impermeable material. The escape of a fluid medium from the interior into an external environment of the salt receptacle through the fluid-impermeable material can be prevented. However, the salt receptacle, particularly the wall made of the fluid-impermeable material, can have one or more openings, particularly recesses, which can form an inlet into the salt receptacle and / or an outlet from the salt receptacle for the fluid medium. The salt receptacle can be made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of: a metal, preferably a stainless steel; a plastic, preferably a thermosetting or thermoplastic plastic. The plastic can be, for example, polypropylene or polyethylene.The plastic can optionally comprise at least one reinforcing material, in particular glass fibers and / or one or more mineral substances. Other materials are also conceivable.

[0034] As stated above, the salt receptacle has a funnel-shaped bottom. The term "bottom," as used herein, is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a region of a master space that, with respect to a direction of gravity normally prevailing in the master space, is located least far in the direction of gravity and / or a region of the master space in which a liquid and / or a solid will normally collect under the influence of gravity. The term "funnel-shaped bottom," as used herein, is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art.The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer to any base that is at least partially funnel-shaped. The funnel-shaped base can taper evenly or irregularly in its cross-section. The funnel-shaped base can have an upper end and an opposite lower end. The funnel-shaped base can taper from the upper end to the lower end. The funnel-shaped base can have the shape of a cone or a truncated cone, in particular a straight cone or a truncated cone. The funnel-shaped base of the salt receptacle can have an opening angle of 20° to 120°, preferably of 60° to 100°, and particularly preferably of 80°. An "opening angle" is generally understood to mean twice the angle between a generatrix and an axis of a cone.Other opening angles are also conceivable in principle.

[0035] The salt receptacle, in particular the funnel-shaped base of the salt receptacle, can in particular have a cross-section selected from the group consisting of: a round cross-section, in particular a circular cross-section; a rectangular cross-section, in particular a square cross-section; and a polygonal cross-section. However, other cross-sections and cross-sectional shapes that vary over the length of the salt receptacle or the funnel-shaped base are also conceivable in principle. Optionally, the salt receptacle can have a region above the funnel-shaped base that has a substantially constant cross-section. This can fundamentally simplify the introduction of salt.

[0036] As stated above, the salt storage container has at least one inlet and at least one outlet. The terms "inlet" and "outlet," as used herein, are broad terms to which the usual and common meanings are to be given as understood by those skilled in the art. The terms are not limited to specific or adapted meanings. The terms can refer, without limitation, in particular to areas, in particular to openings of a container, into which a fluid medium enters an interior of the container or exits from the interior of the container.

[0037] As stated above, the salt receptacle has an upper end and a lower end. The upper end and the lower end may be opposite each other. The funnel-shaped bottom may be located at the lower end. The term "lower end," as used herein, is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, specifically refer to a region of an element which, with respect to a normally prevailing direction of gravity, is located least far in the direction of gravity. The term "upper end," as used herein, is a broad term which should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning.The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a region of an element which, with regard to a usually prevailing direction of gravity, is arranged furthest in the direction of gravity. As explained above, the salt receptacle has the inlet at the lower end. The inlet can be formed in particular by an opening in the funnel-shaped base. As explained above, the outlet is arranged at the upper end of the salt receptacle. The outlet can be arranged in particular on a side wall of the funnel-shaped base. Furthermore, as explained above, the salt receptacle can have the region adjacent to the funnel-shaped base above, which has a substantially constant cross-section, and the outlet can be formed by an opening in the adjacent region. In particular, the outlet of the salt receptacle can have at least one outlet nozzle.The salt dissolution device can be configured such that the fluid medium flows from the salt solution container into the salt receptacle against gravity. In particular, the salt dissolution device can be configured such that the fluid medium flows from the salt solution container substantially axially, i.e., along an axis, via the inlet into the salt receptacle. In particular, the salt dissolution device can be configured such that the fluid medium flows from the salt solution container along an axis of a conduit system between the salt solution container and the salt receptacle, in particular along a longitudinal axis of a pipe or hose between the salt solution container and the salt receptacle, via the inlet into the salt receptacle.

[0038] Due to the described arrangement of the inlet and outlet and the funnel-shaped bottom, the salt can be at least almost completely dissolved, particularly because undissolved salt continuously slides downwards and is constantly loosened and flowed around by the solvent when the pump is switched on. For salt dissolution, the solubility of the salt, the flow rate of the solvent, the duration of flow through the salt holding container, and / or the temperature of the solvent are generally considered or adjusted. The higher the temperature of the solvent and / or the higher the flow rate of the solvent, the faster the salt is dissolved.

[0039] The salt dissolving device can further comprise at least one sieve, in particular a flexible sieve. The sieve can be arranged at the inlet and / or at the outlet of the salt receptacle. The sieve can be designed to at least largely prevent the salt from escaping in the form of solids from the salt receptacle. In particular, the salt can thereby remain in the salt receptacle until all of the salt has dissolved. By means of a flexible design of the sieve, adhering salt deposits can be at least partially removed, in particular broken off, by the inherent movement of a sieve surface of the sieve. The inherent movement of the sieve surface can be caused, for example, by switching the pump on and off. The inherent movement can manifest itself, for example, in the warping of an originally almost flat sieve surface of the sieve.For example, the sieve surface can move by +- 10% of the equivalent diameter.

[0040] As explained above, the saline dissolution device further comprises at least one saline solution container for holding the saline solution. The term "saline solution container," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a completely or partially closed container which is designed to hold at least one fluid, in particular at least one liquid, in particular a saline solution. A wall of the saline solution container can, for example, be made completely or partially from at least one metallic material and / or from at least one plastic material. Other materials are also conceivable in principle.

[0041] As explained above, the saline solution container is fluidically connected to the inlet and outlet of the salt receptacle. The term “fluid connection,” as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to an arrangement that enables an exchange of fluids between at least two fluid-conducting elements. The fluid connection can, in particular, establish a fluidic connection between two or more components of the fluid system, in the present case in particular between the inlet or outlet of the salt receptacle and the saline solution container.The fluid connection may, for example, comprise one or more channels and / or pipes and / or two or more corresponding openings in the elements to be fluidically connected. The term "fluid connection" may also encompass the presence of one or more valves between two or more components of the fluid system.

[0042] In particular, the salt receptacle and the saline solution container can be arranged spatially separated from one another. The salt receptacle and the saline solution container can be designed as containers spaced apart from one another. In particular, the salt receptacle can be arranged outside the saline solution container. The saline solution container can be fluidically connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle via at least one first line system, and the saline solution container can be fluidically connected to the outlet of the salt receptacle via at least one second line system. The first and second line systems can be fluidically separated from one another. The saline solution container can have at least one saline solution container outlet, which is fluidly connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle, in particular by means of at least one pipe and / or by means of at least one hose.Furthermore, the saline solution container can have at least one saline solution container inlet, which is fluidly connected to the outlet of the salt receptacle, in particular by means of at least one pipe and / or at least one hose. The saline solution container can, in particular, be arranged below the salt receptacle. However, designs are also conceivable in which the saline solution container is not arranged below the salt receptacle. In this case, one or more pumps may be required.

[0043] Other configurations of the salt receptacle and the saline solution container are also conceivable in principle. For example, the salt receptacle can be integrated into the saline solution container. The salt receptacle can, in particular, be completely or at least partially enclosed by the saline solution container. A fluidic connection between the salt receptacle and the saline solution container can be established via an overflow of the salt receptacle.

[0044] As stated above, the salt solution container has at least one salt solution outlet for providing the salt solution to the dishwasher. In particular, the salt dissolving device can be a device of a dishwasher. The salt solution can therefore be produced in the dishwasher. However, the salt solution does not necessarily have to be produced in the dishwasher. A produced salt solution can be removed from the salt solution container through the salt solution outlet. In particular, the produced salt solution can be transferred from the salt solution container to a downstream system.

[0045] As explained above, the salt dissolution device comprises at least one solvent inlet for supplying the at least one solvent to the salt dissolution device. The solvent inlet can, in particular, be an inlet of the salt solution container. However, other arrangements of the solvent inlet are also conceivable in principle. The solvent inlet can, in particular, be fluidically connected to at least one solvent supply. The term "solvent supply" 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 an element or device configured to supply the solvent to at least one further element fluidically connected to the solvent supply.The solvent supply may, for example, comprise at least one solvent-carrying pipe and / or pipe system. In particular, the solvent supply may be a fresh water supply.

[0046] As stated above, the salt dissolving device comprises at least one pump. The term "pump," as used herein, 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 refer, without limitation, in particular to a device for conveying fluid media, in particular liquids, which is configured to provide a volume flow or mass flow of the fluid medium and / or to provide a quantity of the fluid medium. The pump can, for example, be connected directly to the salt receptacle via a fluidic connection, for example to the inlet of the salt receptacle, and / or can be connected to the salt receptacle via at least one intermediate fluidic element, for example at least one valve.The pump can in particular be connected to a substantially fail-safe energy storage device, in particular a battery or a capacitor.

[0047] The pump can preferably be arranged upstream of the inlet of the salt receptacle. In particular, the pump can be arranged between the saline solution container and the salt receptacle. However, other pump arrangements are also conceivable. Alternatively, the pump can be arranged downstream of the outlet of the salt receptacle.

[0048] As stated above, the pump is configured to convey the at least one fluid medium from the saline solution container via the inlet into the salt receiving container and from the salt receiving container via the outlet back into the saline solution container, wherein the fluid medium is selected from the group consisting of: the solvent, the saline solution. In particular, the pump can be configured to repeatedly convey the fluid medium from the saline solution container via the inlet into the salt receiving container and from the salt receiving container via the outlet back into the saline solution container. In particular, the pump can be configured to repeatedly circulate the fluid medium between the salt receiving container and the saline solution container.

[0049] The pump can be configured to return fluid medium located in the salt receptacle, in particular fluid medium that cannot be discharged via the outlet of the salt receptacle. The pump can be configured, in particular, to convey the fluid medium in two directions. Alternatively, the pump can be configured to incompletely close a line system between the salt receptacle and the saline solution container, in particular, such that gravity causes the fluid medium to drain from the salt receptacle and flow back into the saline solution container. The saline solution container can be arranged below the salt receptacle.

[0050] The salt dissolution device can further comprise at least one controller. The controller can, in particular, be configured to control the pump. In particular, the controller can be configured to control the pump such that the fluid medium is repeatedly circulated between the salt holding container and the saline solution container, in particular at time intervals. For example, the pump can be alternately switched on for a period of 5 minutes to 20 minutes, in particular from 10 minutes to 15 minutes, and switched off for a period of 1 minute to 10 minutes, in particular from 2 minutes to 5 minutes. For example, the pump can be switched on for a period of 15 minutes, then switched off for a period of 3 minutes, and then switched on again for a period of 15 minutes. Other intervals are also conceivable in principle.

[0051] The term “controller” 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 refer, without limitation, in particular to a one-part or multi-part device of the salt dissolving device, which is configured to completely or partially control and / or regulate operation of the salt dissolving device. In particular, the controller can be configured to change, in particular to control and / or regulate, one or more operating parameters of the salt dissolving device, for example at least one pump output and / or at least one valve position. The controller can in particular comprise at least one data processing device, for example at least one processor. The controller of the salt dissolving device can be designed independently.Alternatively or additionally, however, the control system can also be fully or partially integrated into a higher-level control system, for example, into a control system of the dishwasher, of which the salt dissolving device can be a component. The control system of the dishwasher can, for example, be a centralized or decentralized machine control system. The control system of the dishwasher can, in particular, be a single-part or multi-part device of the dishwasher, which is configured to fully or partially control and / or regulate the operation of the dishwasher.In particular, the dishwasher control system can be configured to change, in particular to control and / or regulate, one or more operating parameters of the dishwasher, for example at least one temperature, at least one pressure, at least one heating output, at least one pump output, at least one valve position, or a combination of two or more operating parameters. The dishwasher control system can, in particular, comprise at least one data processing device, for example at least one processor. The dishwasher control system can, in particular, be configured using programming, for example to control or execute at least one cleaning program of the dishwasher.

[0052] The salt receptacle can be configured to hold the salt. The salt dissolving device, in particular the salt solution container, can be configured to hold the solvent. The salt dissolving device can be configured to flow the fluid medium through the salt in the salt receptacle, in particular from below, in particular such that the salt solution collects in an upper region of the salt receptacle. The salt dissolving device can be configured to transfer the salt solution from the salt receptacle into the salt solution container. The salt dissolving device can be configured to repeatedly transfer the fluid medium, in particular the salt solution, from the salt solution container into the salt receptacle and from the salt receptacle into the salt solution container. The salt solution container can be configured to store the salt solution.With increasing dissolution time, the concentration of the salt solution may increase, in particular up to a maximum value, which may essentially result from an amount of salt and an amount of solvent.

[0053] Salt residues or undissolved salt can generally combine to form larger aggregates if the flow rate is too low or if the solvent is at a standstill. The salt can be partially or completely contained in the solvent. In particular, to prevent or at least largely avoid such a buildup of salt in the salt collection container, it can be ensured that the amount of salt filled into the salt collection container is at least largely completely dissolved. To this end, it can be ensured, in particular, that the pump between the salt collection container and the salt solution container circulates the solvent or salt solution until the entire amount of salt filled in is at least almost dissolved.To ensure this even during an unfavorable constellation and / or condition, such as a power outage or a machine shutdown, the pump can optionally be connected to the essentially fail-safe energy storage device, as described above. Furthermore, it can be ensured that there is sufficient solvent in the salt dissolving device, in particular to at least almost completely dissolve the added amount of salt. This can depend in particular on the solvent temperature and the solubility of the salt. The flow at intervals described above can contribute to at least almost complete dissolution of the salt.

[0054] Furthermore, the salt dissolving device can have at least one salt receptacle solvent supply, in particular a nozzle, which is configured for cleaning the salt receptacle. The salt receptacle solvent supply can be configured, in particular, for cleaning the salt receptacle and / or the first line system and / or the second line system and / or the saline solution container. The salt receptacle solvent supply can be configured to spray at least one solvent into the salt receptacle. The salt receptacle solvent supply can be arranged, in particular, above the end of the salt receptacle opposite the funnel-shaped bottom. However, other arrangements are also conceivable in principle.

[0055] The term “nozzle,” 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 any device configured to dispense at least one fluid in a defined manner, in particular as jets or drops. In particular, the nozzle can be configured to apply the fluid to at least one object to be acted upon in a defined manner. Accordingly, the nozzle can have at least one outlet opening through which the fluid can exit and act upon the object to be acted upon. In particular, the nozzle can be configured, for example, to direct the fluid in at least one predetermined direction, for example at a predetermined angle, toward the object to be acted upon.

[0056] In particular, after each process in which the salt is at least almost completely dissolved, the salt dissolving device can be cleaned. This can be done via the salt container's solvent supply. This rinsing step can ensure that an operator never comes into contact with any residue of the salt or salt solution. This rinsing step can also at least largely prevent the crystallization of salt residues in the salt dissolving device outside of a dissolving process. A typical period until the salt solution from the salt solution container is used up can be one week, for example.

[0057] The saline solution container may further comprise at least one sensor. The term "sensor," as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to a device configured to detect at least one property of another device, a substance, or an environment, for example at least one physical, chemical, or biological property. The sensor may, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of: a level sensor for detecting a volume of the fluid medium, in particular a float with a switching contact; a pressure sensor for detecting a fill level; a sensor for measuring a pH value; and a sensor for measuring electrical conductivity.Other types of sensors are also conceivable in principle. For example, the at least one sensor can be connected to the control system of the salt dissolving device and / or the control system of the dishwasher.

[0058] Furthermore, the saline solution container can have at least one additional saline solution outlet for supplying the saline solution to a wastewater system, in particular via at least one pump and / or at least one valve. This allows, for example, excess saline solution and / or liquid generated during cleaning to be disposed of. Furthermore, this provides the option of emptying the saline solution device in the event of a fault or an unfavorable condition.

[0059] The salt receptacle can, in particular, have at least two outlets. The salt dissolving device can further comprise at least two saline solution containers. The saline solution containers can each be fluidically connected to the inlet and one of the at least two outlets of the salt receptacle. Furthermore, the salt dissolving device can comprise at least two pumps. The at least two pumps can each be configured to transport the fluid medium from one of the saline solution containers via the inlet into the salt receptacle and from the salt receptacle back into one of the saline solution containers, in particular repeatedly. In particular, one of the at least two pumps can be assigned to each of the at least two saline solution containers.The at least two saline solution containers can in particular comprise a saline solution container and a further saline solution container, wherein the further saline solution container has at least one further solvent inlet for supplying solvent to the further saline solution container. The saline solution container can be fluidically connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle via a line system. The further saline solution container can be fluidically connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle via a further line system. A T-piece can be arranged at the inlet of the salt receptacle. However, other connecting elements, such as Y-pieces, are also conceivable in principle. The line system and the further line system can be decoupled from one another by at least one active or passive switching element.The active or passive switching element can be selected from the group consisting of: a valve; a slide; a flap; a tap. However, other switching elements are also conceivable. The at least two salt solution containers allow two or more salts to be dissolved consecutively in one salt container. The switching element can be connected, for example, to the control of the salt dissolving device and / or to the control of the dishwasher.

[0060] In a further aspect of the present invention, a dishwasher for cleaning items to be cleaned is proposed.

[0061] The dishwasher comprises at least one salt dissolving device as already described or as will be described below.

[0062] Furthermore, the dishwasher comprises at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber.

[0063] The term “cleaning chamber,” 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 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 be provided, for example sequentially. In particular, it can be a single cleaning chamber, so that the cleaning device can be designed, for example, as a so-called programmable automatic machine, as described above.

[0064] The term "application device," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to any device by means of which the items to be cleaned within the cleaning chamber can be exposed to the cleaning fluid, in particular to at least one cleaning liquid. "Exposure" can generally be understood as any contacting of the items to be cleaned with the cleaning fluid.This can be done in particular in the form of direct impingement, for example by spraying, dripping, irradiating or a combination of the above-mentioned and / or other direct impingement types in which the cleaning fluid impinges directly on the item to be cleaned, preferably with a pulse greater than zero.

[0065] The application device can in particular comprise at least one nozzle system, for example at least one nozzle arm, for example at least one rotatably mounted nozzle arm.

[0066] The dishwasher can further comprise at least one saline solution reservoir for receiving the saline solution from the saline solution container. The saline solution reservoir can in particular be arranged beneath the saline solution container. The term “saline solution reservoir,” as used herein, 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 completely or partially closed container designed to receive at least one fluid, in particular at least one liquid, in particular a saline solution. A wall of the saline solution container can, for example, be made completely or partially from at least one metallic material and / or from at least one plastic material.The saline solution storage container can be configured to store the saline solution. The saline solution storage container can be fluidly connectable or connected to the saline solution container. The saline solution storage container can have at least one saline solution storage container outlet for providing the saline solution to the dishwasher. The dishwasher can further have at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a valve, a feed pump. The element can be configured to transfer the saline solution from the saline solution container to the saline solution storage container. The element can be controllable by the control of the salt dissolving device or the dishwasher.In this way, for example, the saline solution can be transferred from the saline solution container to the saline solution storage container as required, or a fluidic separation can be carried out between the saline solution container and the saline solution storage container as required.

[0067] The at least one salt solution storage container allows two or more salts to be dissolved consecutively in the salt storage container. After dissolution, these salts can then be transferred to a salt solution storage container for the respective salt solution. The transfer can be accomplished either by gravity and at least one valve, and / or by at least one pump. For example, a salt solution can be transferred from one salt solution container to the salt solution storage container for further storage, and another salt solution can be transferred from a salt solution container directly to a downstream system, for example, to a treatment zone of the dishwasher.

[0068] The dishwasher can in particular have at least one housing. The salt dissolving device can be integrated into the dishwasher. In particular, the salt dissolving device can be arranged within the housing of the dishwasher. However, other embodiments are also conceivable. The salt dissolving device can be located entirely or at least partially in a salt dissolving device housing. The salt dissolving device housing can be attached to a housing of the dishwasher or arranged at a distance from the housing of the dishwasher. For example, the salt dissolving device housing can be attached beneath an inlet table of the dishwasher. Furthermore, the salt dissolving device can be located in an auxiliary device of the dishwasher. The term “housing,” as used herein, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art.The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to an element that completely or partially encloses or closes off at least one other element or at least one interior space. The housing can, in particular, provide mechanical stability. The housing can, for example, be made of at least one rigid material, for example of at least one metallic material and / or at least one plastic. In particular, the housing in the present case can be made entirely or partially of metal, in particular of stainless steel, preferably of rust-proof stainless steel.

[0069] The salt dissolving device can further comprise at least one display device for user guidance. The display device can be controlled by the control system of the dishwasher and / or by the control system of the salt dissolving device. The display device can be configured to instruct a user of the dishwasher to enter the at least one salt into at least one input opening of the salt dissolving device. The display device can comprise at least one visual display, in particular a visual display selected from the group consisting of: a text display, a color display. In particular, the display device can comprise a display and / or a light element that can be illuminated with different colors. The display device can be arranged on at least one operating element of the dishwasher, in particular on a door handle of at least one door of the input opening.For example, the light element that can be illuminated in different colors can be arranged on the door handle of the input opening door. This light element can be completely or partially transparent and illuminated in different colors by the control system depending on the user information to be communicated to the user. The lighting can be permanent or only when the user requires action. For example, a specific color can prompt the user to add new salt to the salt container. In particular, a salt package can be marked with a specific color, and a specific color can prompt the user to add new salt, the packaging of which is marked in a corresponding color, to the salt container.

[0070] The control system of the dishwasher and / or the control system of the salt dissolving device can accordingly be configured, in particular, to prompt a user to perform at least one action via the display device. However, other user information is also possible as an alternative or in addition. The control system can, in particular, be configured to unlock the door of the input opening for the action, so that, for example, the door of the input opening is unlocked, simultaneously or with a time delay from a corresponding display of user information, allowing the user to fill the salt container with new salt.

[0071] The salt dissolving device can have at least one reader for reading at least one piece of information from at least one identifier of a packaging of the salt. For example, the packaging of the salt can have at least one barcode, at least one QR code, or at least one RFID label. The term "identifier," as used herein, 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 an element that can be connected, for example, to an object and that contains at least one readable piece of information, for example at least one readable piece of information about the object.The at least one readable piece of information can, for example, comprise at least one piece of information selected from the group consisting of: a type of object; an identity of the object; a property of the object; and an intended or intended use or processing of the object. The identifier can, for example, be readable in at least one way selected from the group consisting of: an electronic readout; an optical readout; a magnetic readout. The identifier can, in particular, have at least one connecting element for connecting to the object, for example at least one adhesive surface. Accordingly, the identifier can, in particular, be designed as a label. However, other designs are also possible in principle.

[0072] Accordingly, the term "reader" as used herein 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 a device configured to read the at least one piece of information stored in the identifier. Depending on the type of identifier, the reading device may, for example, comprise at least one optical reading device, in particular a barcode reader, for example a barcode scanner. Alternatively or additionally, the reading device may, for example, also comprise an electronic reading device, in particular an electromagnetic reading device, for example for wirelessly reading an electronic identifier, in particular an RFID reader, for example according to the NFC standard.Alternatively or in addition to one or both of the aforementioned options, the reading device can also comprise a magnetic reading device, in particular a magnetic stripe reader. For example, the reading device can generally be selected from the group consisting of: an optical reading device for reading at least one optical identifier, in particular a barcode and / or QR code; an electronic reading device for reading at least one electronic identifier, in particular an RFID chip; and a magnetic reading device for reading at least one magnetic identifier.

[0073] The controller of the salt dissolving device and / or the dishwasher can generally be configured to control the at least one reading device. For example, the controller can be configured to start a reading process. Alternatively or additionally, the controller can also be configured to process and / or forward the information read from the identifier. For example, at least one action can be triggered by the controller based on the at least one piece of information read.

[0074] For example, the control of the salt dissolving device and / or the dishwasher can be further configured to carry out at least one action based on the information read out, in particular at least one action selected from the group consisting of: a visual display of at least one notification to a user; an unlocking of the door of the input opening; a blocking of the door of the input opening. In this way, it is possible to prevent, for example, incorrect salts from being added to the salt container, for example salts that are not intended for the dishwasher. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to prevent, for example, salts from being added to the salt container at the wrong time.Alternatively or additionally, additional information about the salt can be determined and taken into account during processing, such as the required amount of solvent that needs to be added to the salt. Various other options are conceivable.

[0075] In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for producing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher is proposed.

[0076] The method comprises the steps listed below. The steps can, in particular, be performed in the order listed. Furthermore, individual or multiple steps can be performed simultaneously, overlapping in time, or repeatedly. The method may include additional, unspecified steps.The method comprises the following steps: a) providing the salt dissolving device as already described or as will be described below; b) filling the at least one salt into the salt receptacle; c) supplying the at least one solvent into the salt solution container; d) conveying the solvent from the salt solution container via the inlet into the salt receptacle by means of the pump, so that a salt solution is formed; e) returning the salt solution to the salt solution container via the outlet of the salt receptacle by means of the pump; and f) repeatedly circulating the salt solution between the salt receptacle and the salt solution container by means of the pump.

[0077] The salt can be supplied as a powder, granules, and / or tablets. The salt can be supplied in solvent-permeable or solvent-impermeable packaging. Alternatively, the salt can be supplied loose.

[0078] The salt can, in particular, be a moderately soluble or a poorly soluble salt. However, soluble, readily soluble, or very readily soluble salts are also conceivable. The salt can, in particular, have a solubility of 50 g / dm 3 up to 1000 g / dm 3in water at 20°C. The salt can in particular be an alkali salt, in particular a sodium salt or a potassium salt. The alkali salt can be selected from the group consisting of: sodium citrate, methylglycinediacetic acid trisodium salt (MGDA), sodium polyacrylate, sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium formate, sodium acetate, potassium citrate, potassium polyacrylate, potassium tripolyphosphate, potassium acetate, tetrasodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)L-glutamate (GLDA), tetrasodium iminodisuccinate (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA). Mixtures of the alkali salts mentioned are also conceivable in principle. The solvent can in particular be water, preferably fresh water. Other solvents such as osmosis water are also conceivable in principle.

[0079] In step f), the fluid medium can flow through the salt collection container and the saline solution container at time intervals. For example, the pump can be alternately switched on for a period of 5 to 20 minutes, in particular from 10 to 15 minutes, and switched off for a period of 1 to 10 minutes, in particular from 2 to 5 minutes. Other intervals are also conceivable in principle. After performing step f), the following step can be performed: g) the saline solution is removed from the saline solution container.

[0080] The term "removal" can encompass actively conveying the saline solution out of the saline solution container, for example, by means of at least one pump. Furthermore, the term "removal" can encompass passively transferring the saline solution from the saline solution container to another device, for example, by opening a valve. Through step g), the saline solution can be provided to another device, in particular to another device of the dishwasher.

[0081] The method may further comprise at least one cleaning step. During the cleaning step, the salt dissolving device may be rinsed with at least one solvent. The cleaning step may comprise supplying solvent to the salt receptacle by means of at least one salt receptacle solvent supply, preferably by means of at least one nozzle. Furthermore, the cleaning step may comprise supplying solvent via the solvent inlet to the salt dissolving device, wherein the solvent is repeatedly circulated between the salt receptacle and the saline solution container by means of the pump. This allows salt residues to be dissolved. The solvent may then remain in the salt dissolving device for a subsequent dissolving cycle.

[0082] The method can be fully or partially computer-implemented and / or computer-controlled. In particular, computer control can be effected by prompting a user to carry out method step b). Control of one or more pumps and / or valves can also be computer-controlled, so that, for example, one or more of method steps c) to f) can be carried out in a computer-controlled manner. Accordingly, corresponding computer programs are proposed which, when run on a computer or computer network, for example the control of the salt dissolving device and / or the control of the dishwasher, carry out corresponding method steps. The computer program can in particular be stored on a computer-readable data carrier, in particular a non-volatile data carrier.

[0083] In a further aspect, a package for at least one salt is proposed. The package is designed to accommodate the at least one salt. The package comprises at least one pouring opening for the salt. The pouring opening is closed with at least one first closure element and optionally with at least one second closure element.

[0084] The first closure element can be or comprise a transport closure. In particular, the first closure element can comprise a weld, for example, at least one weld seam. The first closure element can be configured to be opened by an operator, for example, by opening or removing a welded area.

[0085] The second closure element can be arranged below the first closure element, in particular further towards the interior of the packaging. The second closure element can either be closed after the packaging has been filled, in particular “at the factory”, or can be closed manually by the operator before the first closure element is opened. If the packaging is inserted into the input opening for emptying and is rotated so that the discharge opening is at the bottom, the second closure element can be opened by a sudden upward movement of the packaging. The second closure element can increase the operator’s working safety. However, emptying the packaging is generally also possible without using the second closure element.

[0086] Regarding the term “salt”, please refer to the above description.

[0087] The term “packaging,” 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 restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a partial or complete wrapping of at least one object, in particular for its protection or handling. In particular, the packaging can be designed to hold the salt. The packaging can have at least one cavity into which the object, in particular the salt, can be introduced. The packaging can have at least one sleeve which partially or completely encloses the cavity. The sleeve can in particular be made of a flexible material. The sleeve can in particular be or comprise at least one plastic film. The packaging can in particular be or comprise a bag.As explained above, the packaging comprises at least one pouring opening. The term “pouring opening” 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 any opening of a packaging which is designed for removing the object from the packaging, in particular for pouring the object out of the packaging. The pouring opening can in particular be arranged at one end of the packaging. The pouring opening can in particular be arranged on a long side of the packaging. The pouring opening can extend transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to an axis, in particular to a longitudinal axis, of the packaging.

[0088] The term "closure element," as used herein, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning should be given, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, refer in particular to any element that reversibly or irreversibly closes an opening of an article, in particular a package, in particular in such a way that the escape of an object from an interior of the article through the opening is prevented.

[0089] The first closure element can, in particular, be a weld with perforation. The term “perforation,” 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 restricted to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer, in particular, to a regular, linear arrangement of holes on a substantially flat object. The perforation can therefore also be referred to as a punch or punch line. The perforation can be designed to subdivide the object and to at least partially separate parts of the object under the application of force. Other types of first closure elements are also conceivable in principle. The first closure element can be or comprise at least one predetermined breaking point of the packaging.For example, the perforation can be designed as a predetermined breaking point. Furthermore, the predetermined breaking point can be or include a notch or a scratch mark. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0090] The second closure element can be or comprise a hook-and-loop fastener or, more preferably, a mushroom-shaped hook-and-loop fastener. All closure elements that can be used here generally have in common that they are and / or comprise an element with a defined opening characteristic, in particular with a defined opening force. The opening force is generally configured such that a slightly greater force than that exerted by the weight of the contents of the packaging is sufficient to open the closure element. For example, the second closure element is configured such that, in the event of a sudden upward movement of the packaging, the weight of the contents opens the closure element.

[0091] The first closure element can, in particular, be a seal. The seal can, in particular, comprise a film with at least one adhesive surface. The first closure element can completely or at least partially cover the pouring opening and / or the second closure element. The first closure element can be designed to close the pouring opening during sale and / or transport and / or handling of the packaging.

[0092] In a further aspect, a method for filling at least one salt into a device having at least one input opening is proposed.

[0093] Regarding the terms "salt" and "inlet opening," reference is made to the above description. In particular, the inlet opening may be the inlet opening of the salt dissolving device, as already described or as described below.

[0094] The method comprises the following steps: i. Providing the at least one salt, wherein the salt is located in at least one package as already described or as will be described below; ii. Removing the first closure element from the package, in particular tearing or peeling the first closure element from a surface of the package, iii. Inserting the package into the input opening, and optionally rotating the package so that the pouring opening is located on an underside of the package, in particular so that the pouring opening is oriented near an interior of the input opening; iv. Moving the package upwards such that the pouring opening opens; and v. Filling the salt into the input opening.

[0095] During step iv, the package can be held by a user at an end opposite the end where the pouring opening is located. During step iv, the package can be held with the pouring opening facing downward. The movement can be a jerky movement, especially a short, rapid movement.

[0096] By means of the proposed method for filling the at least one salt into the device with the at least one input opening, a substantially dust-free handling can be achieved before and during the filling of the salt into the input opening.

[0097] The proposed devices and methods have numerous advantages over known devices and methods of the type mentioned.

[0098] The devices and method can be used in particular for producing chemicals for cleaning items to be cleaned. The required starting materials can be present, in particular, as powders. Using the devices and methods according to the invention, the starting materials can be converted into an aqueous solution.

[0099] The salt introduced into the salt receiving tank can be dissolved quickly and stored in the salt solution tank or the salt solution storage tank. A bottom-to-top flow direction through the salt receiving tank can improve the dissolution mechanism. A substantially axial flow of the fluid medium into the salt receiving tank allows for a reduction in the number of components of the salt dissolving device. This can lead to cost reduction.

[0100] In summary, without limiting further possible embodiments, the following embodiments are proposed:

[0101] Embodiment 1: Salt dissolving device for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher, the salt dissolving device comprising:

[0102] • at least one salt receptacle, wherein the salt receptacle has at least one inlet opening for at least one salt, wherein the salt receptacle is made of at least one fluid-impermeable material, wherein the salt receptacle has a funnel-shaped bottom, wherein the salt receptacle has at least one inlet at a lower end of the salt receptacle, wherein the salt receptacle further has at least one outlet at an upper end of the salt receptacle;

[0103] • at least one salt solution container for receiving a salt solution, wherein the salt solution container is fluidically connected to the inlet and the outlet of the salt receiving container, wherein the salt solution container further comprises at least one salt solution outlet for providing the salt solution for the dishwasher;

[0104] • at least one solvent inlet for supplying at least one solvent into the salt dissolving device; and

[0105] • at least one pump, wherein the pump is configured to convey at least one fluid medium from the saline solution container via the inlet into the salt receiving container and from the salt receiving container via the outlet back into the saline solution container, wherein the fluid medium is selected from the group consisting of: the solvent, the saline solution.

[0106] Embodiment 2: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the salt dissolving device is configured such that the fluid medium flows from the salt solution container substantially axially via the inlet into the salt receiving container.

[0107] Embodiment 3: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt dissolving device is configured such that the fluid medium flows from the salt solution container into the salt receiving container against the force of gravity.

[0108] Embodiment 4: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outlet of the salt receptacle has at least one outlet nozzle.

[0109] Embodiment 5: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt solution container is fluidically connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle via at least one first line system, wherein the salt solution container is fluidically connected to the outlet of the salt receptacle via at least one second line system, wherein the first and the second line systems are fluidically separated from one another.

[0110] Embodiment 6: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt dissolving device further comprises at least one controller, wherein the controller is configured to control the pump, wherein the controller is configured to control the pump such that the fluid medium is repeatedly circulated between the salt receiving container and the salt solution container.

[0111] Embodiment 7: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the controller is configured to control the pump such that the fluid medium is circulated at time intervals between the salt receiving container and the salt solution container.

[0112] Embodiment 8: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt receiving container and the salt solution container are arranged spatially separated from one another.

[0113] Embodiment 9: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the salt solution container has at least one salt solution container outlet, which is fluidically connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle, in particular by means of at least one pipe and / or by means of at least one hose, wherein the salt solution container further has at least one salt solution container inlet, which is fluidically connected to the outlet of the salt receptacle, in particular by means of at least one pipe and / or by means of at least one hose.

[0114] Embodiment 10: Salt dissolving device according to one of the two preceding A embodiments, wherein the salt solution container is arranged below the salt receiving container.

[0115] Embodiment 11: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the funnel-shaped bottom of the salt receiving container has an opening angle of 20° to 120°, preferably of 60° to 100°, and particularly preferably of 80°.

[0116] Embodiment 12: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt receptacle, in particular the funnel-shaped bottom of the salt receptacle, has a cross-section selected from the group consisting of: a round cross-section, in particular a circular cross-section; a rectangular cross-section, in particular a square cross-section; a polygonal cross-section.

[0117] Embodiment 13: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt receiving container has a region adjacent to the funnel-shaped bottom above, which region has a substantially constant cross-section.

[0118] Embodiment 14: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the pump is arranged in front of the inlet of the salt receptacle.

[0119] Embodiment 15: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the pump is arranged after the outlet of the salt holding container.

[0120] Embodiment 16: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the pump is connected to a substantially fail-safe energy storage device, in particular a battery or a capacitor.

[0121] Embodiment 17: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt dissolving device further comprises at least one sieve, in particular a flexible sieve, which is arranged at the inlet and / or at the outlet of the salt receptacle and which is designed to at least largely prevent the salt from escaping in the form of solid from the salt receptacle.

[0122] Embodiment 18: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the sieve is arranged at the inlet of the salt receiving container.

[0123] Embodiment 19: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt dissolving device further comprises at least one salt receptacle solvent supply, in particular a nozzle, which is configured for cleaning the salt receptacle.

[0124] Embodiment 20: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the salt receptacle solvent supply is configured to spray at least one solvent into the salt receptacle. Embodiment 21: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the salt receptacle solvent supply is arranged above the end of the salt receptacle opposite the funnel-shaped bottom.

[0125] Embodiment 22: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt solution container has at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of: a level sensor for detecting a volume of the fluid medium, in particular a float with a switching contact; a pressure sensor for detecting a fill level; a sensor for measuring a pH value; a sensor for measuring an electrical conductivity.

[0126] Embodiment 23: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt solution container has at least one further salt solution outlet for supplying the salt solution to a wastewater system.

[0127] Embodiment 24: Salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the salt receptacle has at least two outlets, the salt dissolving device further comprising:

[0128] • at least two saline solution containers, wherein the saline solution containers are each fluidically connected to the inlet and one of the at least two outlets of the salt storage container; and

[0129] • at least two pumps, wherein the at least two pumps are each configured to transport the fluid medium from one of the saline solution containers via the inlet into the salt receiving container and from the salt receiving container back into one of the saline solution containers.

[0130] Embodiment 25: Saline dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein each of the at least two saline solution containers is assigned one of the at least two pumps.

[0131] Embodiment 26: Salt dissolution device according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the at least two salt solution containers comprise a salt solution container and a further salt solution container, wherein the further salt solution container has at least one further solvent inlet for supplying solvent to the further salt solution container. Embodiment 27: Salt dissolution device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the salt solution container is fluidically connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle via a conduit system, wherein the further salt solution container is fluidically connected to the inlet of the salt receptacle via a conduit system.

[0132] Embodiment 28: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein a T-piece is arranged at the inlet of the salt receiving container, wherein the salt solution container is fluidically connected via the line system and the further salt solution container is fluidically connected via the further line system to the inlet of the salt receiving container by means of the T-piece.

[0133] Embodiment 29: Salt dissolving device according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the line system and the further line system are decoupled from one another by at least one active or passive switching element.

[0134] Embodiment 30: Salt dissolving device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the active or passive switching element is selected from the group consisting of: a valve; a slide; a flap, a tap.

[0135] Embodiment 31: Dishwasher for cleaning items to be cleaned, the dishwasher comprising:

[0136] • at least one salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments; and

[0137] • at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber.

[0138] Embodiment 32: Dishwasher according to the previous embodiment, wherein the dishwasher further comprises at least one salt solution reservoir for receiving the salt solution from the salt solution container, wherein the salt solution reservoir is fluidically connectable to the salt solution container, wherein the salt solution reservoir has at least one salt solution reservoir outlet for providing the salt solution to the dishwasher.

[0139] Embodiment 33: Dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the dishwasher further comprises at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a valve, a feed pump, wherein the element is configured to transfer the salt solution from the salt solution container into the salt solution storage container.

[0140] Embodiment 34: Dishwasher according to one of the two preceding A embodiments, wherein the salt solution storage container is arranged below the salt solution container.

[0141] Embodiment 35: Dishwasher according to one of the five preceding embodiments, wherein the salt dissolving device is integrated into the dishwasher.

[0142] Embodiment 36: Dishwasher according to one of the six preceding A embodiments, wherein the salt dissolving device is located entirely or at least partially in a salt dissolving device housing, wherein the salt dissolving device housing is attached to a housing of the dishwasher or is arranged at a distance from the housing of the dishwasher.

[0143] Embodiment 37: Dishwasher according to one of the seven preceding embodiments, wherein the salt dissolving device further comprises at least one display device for user guidance, which is controlled by a control system of the dishwasher, wherein the display device is configured to instruct a user of the dishwasher to insert the at least one salt into at least one input opening of the salt dissolving device.

[0144] Embodiment 38: Dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the display device comprises at least one pictorial display, in particular a pictorial display selected from the group consisting of: a text display, a color display.

[0145] Embodiment 39: Dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the display device is arranged on at least one operating element of the dishwasher, in particular on a door handle of at least one door of the input opening.

[0146] Embodiment 40: A method for producing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher, the method comprising the following steps: a) providing the salt dissolving device according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a salt solution; b) filling the at least one salt into the salt receptacle; c) supplying the at least one solvent into the salt solution container; d) conveying the solvent from the salt solution container via the inlet into the salt receptacle by means of the pump, so that a salt solution is formed; e) returning the salt solution to the salt solution container via the outlet of the salt receptacle by means of the pump; and f) repeatedly circulating the salt solution between the salt receptacle and the salt solution container by means of the pump.

[0147] Embodiment 41: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the salt is provided as a powder, as granules and / or in the form of tablets.

[0148] Embodiment 42: Method according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the salt is provided in a solvent-permeable package or in a solvent-impermeable package.

[0149] Embodiment 43: Method according to any one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the salt is provided unpackaged.

[0150] Embodiment 44: Method according to one of the four preceding embodiments, wherein the salt is selected from the group consisting of: a moderately soluble salt; a sparingly soluble salt.

[0151] Embodiment 45: Process according to one of the five preceding embodiments, wherein the salt is an alkali salt, in particular a sodium salt or a potassium salt.

[0152] Embodiment 46: Process according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the alkali metal salt is selected from the group consisting of: sodium citrate, methylglycinediacetic acid trisodium salt (MGDA), sodium polyacrylate, sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium formate, sodium acetate, potassium citrate, potassium polyacrylate, potassium tripolyphosphate, potassium acetate, tetrasodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)L-glutamate (GLDA), tetrasodium iminodisuccinate (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA). Embodiment 47: Process according to one of the seven preceding embodiments, wherein the solvent is water, in particular fresh water, in particular osmosis water.

[0153] Embodiment 48: Method according to one of the eight preceding embodiments, wherein in step f) the salt receiving container and the salt solution container are flowed through with the fluid medium at time intervals.

[0154] Embodiment 49: Method according to one of the nine preceding embodiments, wherein after performing step f), the following step is performed: g) the saline solution is removed from the saline solution container.

[0155] Embodiment 50: Method according to any one of the ten preceding embodiments, wherein the method further comprises at least one cleaning step, wherein during the cleaning step the salt dissolving device is rinsed with at least one solvent.

[0156] Embodiment 51: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the cleaning step comprises supplying solvent into the salt receptacle by means of at least one salt receptacle solvent supply, preferably by means of at least one nozzle.

[0157] Embodiment 52: Method according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the cleaning step comprises a solvent supply via the solvent inlet into the salt dissolving device, wherein the solvent is repeatedly circulated between the salt receiving container and the salt solution container by means of the pump.

[0158] Short description of the characters

[0159] 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 denote identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions. In detail:

[0160] Figures 1A and 1B each show an exemplary embodiment of a salt dissolving device according to the invention for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher in a schematic representation;

[0161] Figure 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a dishwasher according to the invention in a schematic representation; and

[0162] Figure 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a part of a dishwasher according to the invention in a perspective view.

[0163] Description of the embodiments

[0164] Figure 1 A shows an exemplary embodiment of a salt dissolving device 110 according to the invention for providing at least one salt solution for a dishwasher in a schematic representation.

[0165] The salt dissolving device 110 comprises at least one salt receptacle 112. The salt receptacle 112 has at least one inlet opening 114 for at least one salt 116. The salt receptacle 112 is made of at least one fluid-impermeable material. The salt receptacle 112 has a funnel-shaped bottom 118. The salt receptacle 112 has at least one inlet 120 at a lower end 123 of the salt receptacle. The salt receptacle 112 further has at least one outlet 122, which is arranged at an upper end 124 of the salt receptacle 112. The outlet 122 can have at least one outlet nozzle 126.

[0166] The funnel-shaped bottom 118 of the salt receptacle 112 can, in particular, have an opening angle α of 20° to 120°, preferably of 60° to 100°, and particularly preferably of 80°. Furthermore, the funnel-shaped bottom 118 of the salt receptacle 112 can, in particular, have a flank angle β to a horizontal axis 128 of 30° to 80°, preferably of 50°. Other dimensions are also conceivable in principle. An extreme form of the salt receptacle 112 could be a tube, in particular with a flank angle of 90°. The tube can provide good flow of salt over its entire surface.

[0167] The salt receptacle 112, in particular the funnel-shaped base 118 of the salt receptacle 112, can have a cross-section selected from the group consisting of: a round cross-section, in particular a circular cross-section; a rectangular cross-section, in particular a square cross-section; a polygonal cross-section. The funnel-shaped base 118 can accordingly be conical or pyramid-shaped. The salt receptacle 112 can, as shown in Figure 1A, optionally have a region 130 adjacent to the funnel-shaped base 118 above, which region has a substantially constant cross-section. In particular, the region 130 adjacent to the funnel-shaped base 118 can have a substantially constant diameter d.

[0168] The salt dissolving device 110 can further comprise at least one sieve 132, in particular a flexible sieve 134, which is arranged at the inlet 120 and / or at the outlet 122 of the salt receptacle 112 and which is configured to at least largely prevent the salt 116 from escaping in the form of solid matter from the salt receptacle 112. In the exemplary embodiment according to Figure 1A, a sieve 132 can be arranged at each of the inlet 120 and the outlet 122. As a result, the added salt 116 can remain in the salt receptacle 112 until the entire salt 116 has at least almost dissolved. By designing the sieve 132 as a flexible sieve 134, any adhering salt deposits can be broken off by the movement of a sieve surface.

[0169] Furthermore, the saline dissolution device 110 comprises at least one saline solution container 136 for holding a saline solution 138. The saline solution container 136 can be arranged below the salt receptacle 112. The salt receptacle 112 and the saline solution container 136 can be arranged spatially separated from one another.

[0170] The saline solution container 136 is fluidically connected to the inlet 120 and the outlet 122 of the salt receptacle 112. In particular, the saline solution container 136 can be fluidically connected to the inlet 120 of the salt receptacle 112 via at least one first line system 140. The saline solution container 136 can be fluidically connected to the outlet 122 of the salt receptacle 112 via at least one second line system 142. The first line system 140 and the second line system 142 can be fluidically separated from one another. The saline solution container 136 can have at least one saline solution container outlet 144, which is fluidically connected to the inlet 120 of the salt receptacle 112, in particular by means of at least one tube 146.Furthermore, the saline solution container 136 may have at least one saline solution container inlet 148, which is fluidically connected to the outlet 122 of the salt receptacle 112, in particular by means of at least one tube 150.

[0171] The salt solution container 136 further comprises at least one salt solution outlet 152 for providing the salt solution 138 for the dishwasher. In particular, the salt solution container 136 can be connected to a further system 154, in particular via at least one element 156, which can be a pump 157 and / or a valve. This connection can be controlled depending on the salt solution concentration. The further system 154 can be supplied either with a maximally saturated salt solution or with a less saturated salt solution.

[0172] Furthermore, the salt dissolving device 110 comprises at least one solvent inlet 158 ​​for supplying at least one solvent to the salt dissolving device 110. In the exemplary embodiment according to Figure 1A, the solvent inlet 158 ​​can be located on the salt solution container 136. In particular, the solvent inlet 158 ​​can be fluidically connected to a solvent supply 160, in particular a fresh water supply 162, in particular via at least one valve 164.

[0173] Furthermore, the saline solution container 136 can have at least one further saline solution outlet 166 for supplying the saline solution 138 to a wastewater system 168, in particular via at least one element 170, which can in particular be a pump and / or a valve 172. This allows, in particular, excess saline solution 138 and / or liquid generated during cleaning to be disposed of. Furthermore, this provides the possibility of emptying the saline dissolving device 110 in the event of a fault or an unfavorable condition.

[0174] The salt dissolving device further comprises at least one pump 174. The pump 174 can, in particular, be arranged upstream of the inlet 120. The pump 174 is configured to convey at least one fluid medium from the salt solution container 136 via the inlet 120 into the salt receptacle 112 and from the salt receptacle 112 via the outlet 122 back into the salt solution container 136. The fluid medium is selected from the group consisting of: the solvent, the salt solution. The salt receptacle 112 can be configured to receive the salt 116. The salt 116 can collect in the funnel-shaped bottom 118, as shown in Figure 1A.The salt dissolving device 110 can be configured such that the salt 116 is brought into contact with a solvent by flowing the solvent through the salt 116 from below, so that a salt solution, in particular a concentrated salt solution, accumulates at the top of the salt receiving container 112 and can be transferred there via a connection to the salt solution container 136.

[0175] The salt receptacle 112 can be oriented such that a smaller opening of the salt receptacle 112 is located at the bottom and a larger opening of the salt receptacle 112 is located at the top. The above-described arrangement of the inlet 120 and the outlet 122 in combination with the funnel-shaped bottom 118 can ensure that the added salt 116 can be completely dissolved by continuously sliding undissolved salt 116 downward and, when the pump 174 is switched on, constantly being loosened and flowed around by the solvent. In order to be able to completely dissolve the salt 116, the solubility of the salt 116, the flow rate of the solvent, the duration of the flow, and the temperature of the solvent can be taken into account or adjusted. The salt solution container 136 can be configured to store the salt solution 138.As the dissolution time increases, the concentration of the salt solution can increase up to a maximum value, which basically results from an amount of salt and an amount of solvent.

[0176] Salt residues or undissolved salt 116 can generally combine to form larger structures if the flow velocity is too low or if the solvent is at a standstill. The salt 116 can be partially or completely contained in the solvent. In order to prevent or at least reduce such a settling of the salt 116 in the salt receptacle 112, it can be ensured that the amount of salt filled in the salt receptacle 112 is at least almost completely dissolved. For this purpose, the pump 174 can be configured to circulate the solvent or the salt solution 138 between the salt receptacle 112 and the salt solution container 136 until the entire amount of salt filled in is at least almost dissolved. In order to ensure that this also occurs during an unfavorable constellation orTo ensure an unfavorable condition, such as a power failure or a switched-off machine, the pump 174 can optionally be connected to a fail-safe energy storage device (not shown). Furthermore, it can be ensured that there is sufficient solvent in the salt dissolving device 110 to at least almost completely dissolve the added amount of salt. This depends in particular on a solvent temperature and a solubility of the salt 116 or a salt mixture. Flow at intervals, such as briefly switching off the pump 174, can further improve this function. For example, the pump 174 can be switched on for 15 minutes, switched off for 3 minutes, and then switched on again for 15 minutes.

[0177] After each process in which the salt 116 has been almost completely or completely dissolved, the salt dissolving device 110 can be cleaned. The salt dissolving device 110 can further comprise at least one salt receptacle solvent supply 180, in particular a nozzle 182, which is configured for cleaning the salt receptacle 112 and / or other components of the salt dissolving device 110, such as the salt solution container 136, the first line system 140, and / or the second line system 142. The salt receptacle solvent supply 180 can, in particular, be arranged above the upper end 124 of the salt receptacle 112.

[0178] This can fundamentally ensure that an operator never comes into contact with residues of the salt 116 or the saline solution 138. This step fundamentally prevents salt residues from crystallizing during a break in operation of the saline dissolving device 110. A typical period of time until the saline solution 138 is used up from the saline solution container 136 can be, for example, one week. Other periods are also conceivable.

[0179] Once the saline solution container 136 is emptied, another cleaning process can be performed. For this purpose, a sufficient amount of solvent can be introduced into the saline solution container 136 via the solvent supply 160 and the valve 164, for example, and circulated in the saline dissolving device 110 so that any residual salt is dissolved. The solvent can remain in the saline dissolving device 110 for a subsequent dissolving cycle.

[0180] Figure 1B shows a schematic representation of another exemplary embodiment of a salt dissolving device 110 according to the invention for providing at least one salt solution 138 for a dishwasher. The embodiment according to Figure 1B corresponds at least largely to the embodiment according to Figure 1A, so reference can be made to the description of Figure 1A above.

[0181] In the embodiment according to Figure 1B, the salt receptacle 112 can have at least two outlets 122, in particular a first outlet 184 and a second outlet 186. The salt dissolving device 110 can further comprise at least two saline solution containers 136, in particular a first saline solution container 188 and a second saline solution container 190. The saline solution containers 136 can each be fluidically connected to the inlet 120 and one of the at least two outlets 122 of the salt receptacle 112, in particular by means of valves 171. In particular, the first saline solution container 188 can be fluidically connected to the inlet 120 and the first outlet 184 of the salt receptacle 112. In particular, the second saline solution container 190 may be fluidly connected to the inlet 120 and the second outlet 186 of the salt receptacle 112.

[0182] In the embodiment according to Figure 1B, the saline dissolution device 110 can further comprise at least two pumps 174, in particular at least one first pump 192 and at least one second pump 194. The at least two pumps 174 can each be configured to convey the fluid medium from one of the saline solution containers 136 via the inlet 120 into the salt receptacle 112 and from the salt receptacle 112 back into one of the saline solution containers 136. In particular, the first pump 192 can be configured to convey the fluid medium from one of the first saline solution containers 188 via the inlet 120 into the salt receptacle 112 and from the salt receptacle 112 back into the first saline solution container 188.In particular, the second pump 194 can be configured to convey the fluid medium from the second saline solution container 190 via the inlet 120 into the salt receiving container 112 and from the salt receiving container 112 back into the second saline solution container 190.

[0183] The at least two saline solution containers 136 can each have a solvent inlet 158 ​​for supplying solvent to the saline solution container 136. In particular, the first saline solution container 188 can have a first solvent inlet 196, and the second saline solution container 190 can have a second solvent inlet 198. The first saline solution container 188 can be fluidically connected to the inlet 120 of the salt receptacle 112 via a line system 200, and the second saline solution container 190 can be fluidically connected to the inlet 120 of the salt receptacle 112 via a line system 202. A T-piece 204 can be arranged at the inlet 120 of the salt receptacle 112. The first saline solution container 188 can be fluidically connected to the inlet 120 of the salt receptacle 112 via the line system 200 and the second saline solution container 190 can be fluidically connected to the inlet 120 of the salt receptacle 112 via the line system 202, each by means of the T-piece.The at least two saline solution containers 136 can be decoupled from each other by at least one active or passive switching element, for example by valves 206.

[0184] In particular, the at least two saline solution containers 136 can each be connected to a further system 154, in particular via at least one element 156. Furthermore, the at least two saline solution containers 136 can each have at least one further saline solution outlet 166 for supplying the saline solution 138 to a wastewater system 168.

[0185] Figure 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a dishwasher 208 according to the invention in a schematic representation.

[0186] The dishwasher 208 comprises at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. The cleaning chamber and the application device are not shown in Figure 2.

[0187] Furthermore, the dishwasher 208 comprises at least one salt dissolving device 110. The salt dissolving device 110 according to Figure 2 corresponds at least largely to the embodiment according to Figure 1A, so that reference can be made to the description of Figure 1A above.

[0188] The dishwasher 208 can further comprise at least one saline solution reservoir 210 for receiving the saline solution 138 from the saline solution reservoir 136. The saline solution reservoir 210 can be arranged below the saline solution reservoir 136. The saline solution reservoir 210 can be fluidically connected to the saline solution reservoir 136, in particular by means of at least one line system 212. The saline solution reservoir 136 can comprise at least one outlet 214 for transferring the saline solution into the saline solution reservoir 210. The outlet 214 of the saline solution reservoir 136 and an inlet 220 of the saline solution reservoir 210 can be fluidically connected to one another via the line system 212. In the embodiment according to Figure 2, the dishwasher 208 can in particular have two of the salt solution storage containers 210.The line system 212 can each have a branch for the two inlets 220 of the two saline solution storage containers 210. The dishwasher 208 can further have at least one feed pump 216, which is configured to transfer the saline solution 138 from the saline solution container 136 into the saline solution storage container 210. Furthermore, a valve 218 can be arranged upstream of the inlet 220 of the saline solution storage container 210. The saline solution storage container 210 can have at least one saline solution storage container outlet 222 for providing the saline solution 138 to the dishwasher 208. In particular, the saline solution storage container 210 can be connected to a further system 154, in particular via at least one element 156, which can in particular be a pump 157 and / or a valve.

[0189] Furthermore, the saline solution storage container 210 can have at least one further outlet 224 for supplying the saline solution 138 to the wastewater system 168, in particular via at least one element 170, which can in particular be a pump and / or a valve 172.

[0190] Thus, two or more salts 116 can be dissolved one after the other in the salt dissolving device 110, which, after dissolution, can then be transferred into the respective associated salt solution storage container 210 for the respective salt solution 138. The respective salt solution 138 can be transferred to one of the multiple salt solution storage containers 210 either by gravity and / or the at least one valve 218 and / or by means of the feed pump 216. For example, a salt solution 138 can be directed directly into a treatment zone of the dishwasher 208 or can first be transferred into the associated salt solution storage container 210 and then directed into the treatment zone of the dishwasher 208.

[0191] Figure 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a part of a dishwasher 208 according to the invention in a perspective view. In particular, an inlet 209 of a flight-type dishwasher 211 is shown.

[0192] The dishwasher 208 comprises at least one salt dissolving device 110. The salt dissolving device 110 according to Figure 3 corresponds at least largely to the embodiment according to Figures 1A or 1B, so that reference can be made to the description of Figures 1A and 1B above.

[0193] The salt dissolving device 110 can further comprise at least one display device 226 for user guidance, which is controlled by a controller of the dishwasher 208. The display device 226 can be configured to instruct a user of the dishwasher 208 to add the at least one salt 116 into the at least one input opening 114 of the salt dissolving device 110. The display device 226 can comprise at least one visual display 228, in particular a color display 230, in particular a color illuminated display. The color display 230 can prompt the user to add the salt 116. The display device 226 can be arranged on at least one operating element 232 of the dishwasher 208, in particular on a door handle 234 of at least one door 236 of the input opening 114.

[0194] A package of the salt 116 can be color-coded, and the input opening 114 can be marked in the corresponding color depending on the need for salt 116, either permanently, but preferably with the color display 230, which is only controlled when salt 116 is needed in the corresponding color.

[0195] List of reference symbols

[0196] Salt dissolving device

[0197] Salt container

[0198] Input opening

[0199] Salt funnel-shaped bottom

[0200] inlet

[0201] Outlet lower end upper end

[0202] Outlet nozzle horizontal axis

[0203] Area

[0204] Sieve flexible sieve

[0205] Saline solution container

[0206] Saline solution first line system second line system saline solution container outlet pipe

[0207] Saline container inlet tube

[0208] Saline outlet additional system

[0209] element

[0210] pump

[0211] Solvent inlet

[0212] Solvent supply

[0213] Fresh water supply

[0214] Valve for additional saline solution outlet

[0215] sewage system

[0216] element

[0217] valve

[0218] Valve Pump Smaller opening Larger opening Salt container solvent supply Nozzle First outlet Second outlet First salt container Second salt container First pump Second pump First solvent inlet Second solvent inlet Piping system

[0219] Pipe system T-piece

[0220] valve

[0221] Dishwasher inlet

[0222] Salt solution storage tank, flight conveyor dishwasher, piping system, outlet

[0223] Feed pump valve

[0224] inlet

[0225] Saline reservoir outlet Outlet

[0226] Display device pictorial display color display control element door handle door

Claims

Claims 1. Salt dissolving device (110) for providing at least one salt solution (138) for a dishwasher (208), the salt dissolving device (110) comprising: • at least one salt receptacle (112), wherein the salt receptacle (112) has at least one inlet opening (114) for at least one salt (116), wherein the salt receptacle (112) is made of at least one fluid-impermeable material, wherein the salt receptacle (112) has a funnel-shaped bottom (118), wherein the salt receptacle (112) has at least one inlet (120) at a lower end of the salt receptacle (112), wherein the salt receptacle (112) further has at least one outlet (122) at an upper end (124) of the salt receptacle (112); • at least one salt solution container (136) for receiving the salt solution (138), wherein the salt solution container (136) is fluidically connected to the inlet (120) and the outlet (122) of the salt receiving container (112), wherein the salt solution container (136) further comprises at least one salt solution outlet (152) for providing the salt solution (138) for the dishwasher (208); • at least one solvent inlet (158) for supplying at least one solvent into the salt dissolving device (110); and • at least one pump (174), wherein the pump (174) is configured to convey at least one fluid medium from the saline solution container (136) via the inlet (120) into the salt receiving container (112) and from the salt receiving container (112) via the outlet (122) back into the saline solution container (136), wherein the fluid medium is selected from the group consisting of: the solvent, the saline solution (138).

2. Salt dissolving device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the salt dissolving device (110) is arranged such that the fluid medium flows from the salt solution container (136) substantially axially via the inlet (120) into the salt receiving container (112). Salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the salt dissolving device (110) is configured such that the fluid medium flows from the salt solution container (136) into the salt receptacle (112) against gravity. Salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the salt solution container (136) is fluidically connected to the inlet (120) of the salt receptacle (112) via at least one first line system (140), wherein the salt solution container (136) is fluidically connected to the outlet (122) of the salt receptacle (112) via at least one second line system (142), wherein the first line system (140) and the second line system (142) are fluidically separated from one another.The salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the salt dissolving device (110) further comprises at least one controller, wherein the controller is configured to control the pump (174), wherein the controller is configured to control the pump (174) such that the fluid medium is repeatedly circulated between the salt receptacle (112) and the salt solution container (136). The salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the salt receptacle (112) and the salt solution container (136) are arranged spatially separate from one another. The salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the funnel-shaped bottom (118) of the salt receptacle (112) has an opening angle of 20° to 120°. The salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump (174) is arranged upstream of the inlet (120) of the salt receptacle (112).Salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the salt dissolving device (110) further comprises at least one sieve (132) which is arranged at the inlet (120) and / or at the outlet (122) of the salt receptacle (112) and which is configured to at least largely prevent the salt (116) from escaping in the form of solid from the salt receptacle (112). Salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the salt receptacle (112) has at least two outlets (122), the salt dissolving device (110) further comprising: • at least two saline solution containers (136), wherein the saline solution containers (136) are each fluidically connected to the inlet (120) and one of the at least two outlets (122) of the salt receptacle (112); and • at least two pumps (174), wherein the at least two pumps (174) are each configured to convey the fluid medium from one of the salt solution containers (136) via the inlet (120) into the salt receptacle (112) and from the salt receptacle (112) back into one of the salt solution containers (136). A dishwasher (208) for cleaning items to be cleaned, the dishwasher (208) comprising: • at least one salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims; and • at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. The dishwasher (208) according to the preceding claim, wherein the dishwasher (208) further comprises at least one salt solution reservoir (210) for receiving the salt solution (138) from the salt solution container (136), wherein the salt solution reservoir (210) is fluidically connectable to the salt solution container (136), wherein the salt solution reservoir (210) has at least one salt solution reservoir outlet (222) for providing the salt solution (138) to the dishwasher (208).Dishwasher (208) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the salt dissolving device (110) further comprises at least one display device (226) for user guidance, which is controlled by a control system of the dishwasher (208), wherein the display device (226) is configured to instruct a user of the dishwasher (208) to insert the at least one salt (116) into at least one input opening (114) of the salt dissolving device (110). A method for producing at least one salt solution (138) for a dishwasher (208), the method comprising the following steps: a) providing the salt dissolving device (110) according to one of the preceding claims relating to a salt dissolving device (110); b) filling the at least one salt (116) into the salt receiving container (H2); c) supplying the at least one solvent into the salt solution container (136); d) conveying the solvent from the saline solution container (136) via the inlet (120) into the salt receiving container (112) by means of the pump (174) so ​​that the saline solution (138) is formed; e) returning the saline solution (138) to the saline solution container (136) via the Outlet (122) of the salt receptacle (112) by means of the pump (174); and f) repeatedly circulating the salt solution (138) between the salt receptacle (112) and the salt solution container (136) by means of the pump (174).

15. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the salt (116) is an alkali salt.

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