Drying machine and method for operating same

Abstract

The invention relates to a drying machine (10) and a method for operating such a drying machine. The drying machine has a machine housing (12) in which an inner housing sealed relative to an air exit opening (24) is arranged, a heating device, an air delivery device and a filter device being stacked one on top of the other inside the inner housing.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Drying device and method for operating such a device

[0003] The invention relates to a drying device for an object, in particular a hand drying device, comprising a device housing whose interior is delimited by head, bottom, front and side walls, a heating device arranged in the device housing, a filter device, an air conveying device, a first opening passing through the bottom wall for air to flow through to dry the object and a second opening which is connected to the first opening via the air conveying device.

[0004] The invention also relates to a method for operating a drying device for an object, in particular a hand dryer, comprising a device housing whose interior is defined by top, bottom, front, and side walls, a heating device arranged in the device housing, a filter device, an air conveying device, a first opening passing through the bottom wall for the flow of air to dry the object, and a second opening connected to the first opening via the air conveying device. The subject of the invention is a device in the form of a hand dryer or an air conditioning device with a receptacle, such as a housing, accommodating a filter cartridge containing a filter, a fan, and optionally a heater.

[0005] The invention further relates to a method for guiding a person to facilities to be used in a sequence, in particular facilities of a washroom, wherein at least some of the facilities each have at least one sensor for triggering a function of a facility and optionally a signaling means, such as lighting means or acoustic transmitter, wherein a facility triggering or executing a function is connected to a mesh network.

[0006] A hand dryer, for example, can be found in EP 2 693 927 B1. Several intake openings are located in the base of a device housing. The air is drawn in via a fan and then flows through a fan and a heater to exit via a nozzle located between the intake openings. The air can be filtered using a coarse filter and a HEPA filter.

[0007] A device for drying hair and skin is known from DD 270 860 A1, in which aromatic substances can be added to the air.

[0008] In a hand dryer according to WO 2010 / 089927 A1, the front of the dryer housing has an opening from which a chamber dedicated to the hands to be dried extends. Air, conveyed by a fan, flows through nozzles. Air is drawn in through the rear of the housing. Furthermore, the hand dryer has a drip tray at the bottom for dripping liquid.

[0009] A housing of a hand dryer according to DE 10 2012 008 253 A1 has a chamber referred to as a cavity, into which hands to be dried are placed. Air is supplied to the chamber via nozzles integrated into the side walls, which circulates. This causes the air to become saturated with moisture relatively quickly, which impedes the drying process. Disinfectants may also be present in the flow path. The drying device according to DE 20 2020 005 803 U1 has at least one sensor for germ detection, which is connected to a control element. If a set threshold value of the germ load is detected, a pump is activated by the control device to extract air. The device can also be used as an air purifier in continuous operation.

[0010] CN 213721677 U refers to a drying device that can also be used for air disinfection. The base wall has an air inlet and an air outlet through which warm air is released.

[0011] A filter unit is provided above the air inlet. A fan is installed in a sound- and heat-insulating shell located in the lower part of the housing.

[0012] The subject of DE 102020 131 057 A1 is a hand drying and cleaning device that has an opening for inserting hands. Air outlets for heated air are located in the edges surrounding the interior for accommodating the hands to be dried.

[0013] The present invention is based, inter alia, on the object of developing a drying device and a method for operating such a device in such a way that drying can be carried out to the desired extent using structurally simple measures.

[0014] According to a further aspect, the saturation of the air used for drying should be avoided to such an extent that the drying process is not affected.

[0015] Another aspect is that the air flowing in the device housing is exposed to only low air resistance.

[0016] Another aspect is to ensure that the required amount of filtered air always flows out of the housing for drying.

[0017] One aspect is to ensure that the device is only operated with approved filters. Another aspect is to prevent germ formation when hands are dried in a chamber.

[0018] Another aspect is to enable visually impaired people to use the drying device without any problems.

[0019] To solve one or more of these aspects, the invention provides that an inner housing is arranged in the device housing, which is sealed or substantially sealed with respect to the first opening and in which the heating device, the air conveying device, and the filtering device are arranged one above the other. The air conveying device, also referred to simply as a fan, is in particular an axial fan. A diagonal fan, for example, could also be considered.

[0020] According to the invention, the heating device, the air conveying device, and the filter device are arranged in an inner housing within the interior of the device housing of the drying device, which in turn is sealed or substantially sealed with respect to the first opening. This allows for a targeted flow through the filter device into the heating device without the need for additional guide elements in the interior. At the same time, it is ensured that the air conveyed by the air conveying device can flow optimally through the heating device, thus enabling energy-efficient use.

[0021] The inner housing should have a cuboid shape, with the top and bottom walls removed. A tower-like design with a rectangular, particularly square, cross-section is preferred, with the filter device, the air conveyor device, and the heating device, or levels in which these components extend from the side walls, running perpendicular to the side walls. These can be, for example, sheet metal plates with openings such as slots or holes that can be used to mount the components.

[0022] In particular, it is provided that the heating device is arranged on the bottom wall side of the inner housing. The air conveying device, in particular in the form of an axial fan, is adjacent to it, above which the filter device is arranged. Thus, the filter device faces directly towards the interior of the device housing, allowing for easy replacement.

[0023] The heating device is, in particular, a surface heating element in the form of a finned heating element, in particular a PTC finned heating element, whose fins extend in the direction of flow. This results in a compact design.

[0024] The heating element is preferably controlled by a thyristor circuit. The operating point is determined by the heat balance of the heating element, i.e., supplied heat power, heat dissipated by the air flow, and air flow rate.

[0025] The first opening of the device housing is shielded from the heating element by a grid, thus preventing burns.

[0026] The device housing can be closed at the back via a rear panel to which the housing is pivotably connected.

[0027] The rear panel serves to secure the inner housing and can be hung into it. The mounting and the underside of the inner housing are aligned with the device housing in such a way that, when the housing is closed, the underside of the inner housing forms a seal against the inside of the base wall or an inner wall surrounding the opening.

[0028] This prevents any intake or escape of false air.

[0029] In particular, it is provided that the second opening extends in the base wall area, in particular, being bounded by the rear wall and the base wall. For this purpose, the base wall ends at a distance from the rear wall to form a desired gap to the rear wall, which acts as a second opening.

[0030] Thus, the side, head, and front walls can have a closed surface, allowing for easy cleaning. To facilitate a sort of guidance to the drying device, the invention, in a particularly inventive embodiment, provides for a passive first sensor that detects heat radiation to be located in the front area.

[0031] If the drying device is designed as a hand drying device and a person enters the room in which the hand drying device is arranged, the passive sensor detecting the person's heat radiation sends out a signal by means of which a radiation source, such as an LED light or strip, present in or on the device housing, in particular in the area of ​​the first opening, is activated to emit radiation in a first wavelength range.

[0032] In particular, it is planned to use multicolor LEDs, allowing the light color to be tuned across the entire visible spectrum and a desired wavelength range to be selected. A similar result could also be achieved using multiple LEDs.

[0033] If the hands are in the area of ​​the first opening, this position is detected by an active second sensor, which switches on the hand drying device.

[0034] At the same time, radiation in a wavelength range that differs from the first wavelength range can be emitted by a second radiation source or the first radiation source.

[0035] The hand dryer can automatically shut off or be deactivated when hands are outside the second sensor. At the same time, radiation can be emitted with a wavelength that deviates from the first and second wavelength ranges.

[0036] Different light colours make it possible to see how the hands are being guided towards the hand drying device, how they are being dried and how they are being removed from the area of ​​the first opening.

[0037] Active and passive sensors are primarily infrared sensors. Active sensors emit beams to detect reflected radiation, which triggers signals.

[0038] The sensors can be connected via an AND connection.

[0039] Independent of this, the device can also be operated exclusively with the active sensor.

[0040] The following should be noted regarding sensors: Passive sensors, such as passive infrared sensors, only detect movement, whereas active sensors, such as active infrared sensors, provide a distance measurement. However, there may or may not be a connection between the sensors and the actions triggered by the signals they generate.

[0041] The passive sensor switches on ambient light and can be used to guide visually impaired people.

[0042] The passive sensor can turn the cleaning mode on or off (configurable) when people are detected in the room. It can be turned off to reduce noise pollution. It can be turned on to filter the air when people are present.

[0043] The active sensor switches the drying mode on and off.

[0044] It is noteworthy and inventive that the device housing comprises a housing part spaced apart from the first opening, which has a housing part bottom wall and a housing part side wall, and which, together with the side walls of the device housing, defines a drying chamber for the object that is open at the front. The housing part is connected to the housing in a particularly detachable manner, preferably by sliding it transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the rear wall.

[0045] The housing part can thus be designed as a pull-out element. The housing part's bottom wall extends relative to the rear wall in such a way that the gap required to form the intake opening is present between the housing part's bottom wall and the rear wall. The housing part's side walls can extend to the rear wall.

[0046] Designing the housing as a pull-out section is particularly advantageous if there is a receptacle for moisture, such as liquid, in the housing's base wall and below the opening. A replaceable insert should be located in the receptacle to absorb the moisture or liquid.

[0047] The filter device should contain at least one filter from the group consisting of activated carbon filters, coarse filters, fine filters, high-efficiency particulate filters (HEP), high-efficiency particulate filters (EPA), and high-efficiency particulate filters (ULPA). Preferably, several filters are arranged in the filter device; in particular, the filter device comprises several filters that differ in filter type.

[0048] If the drying device has a chamber below the first opening, the air used for drying should be drawn in through the second opening. The air is then conveyed to the first opening via the elements located in the inner housing (filter device, air conveying device, and heating device) arranged one above the other, so that the air exits the chamber defined by the housing part and enters the room in which the drying device is located. Thus, saturation of the air is fundamentally impossible, and the drying process is not negatively affected.

[0049] A corresponding flow path is also preferable if no drying chamber is available.

[0050] The invention also relates to a device in the form of a hand dryer or an air conditioning device with a receptacle accommodating a filter cassette having a filter, such as a housing, a fan and optionally a heater.

[0051] An air conditioning device is understood to mean, for example, a room air purification device, a room air heating device, or a fragrance dispenser for room air. The invention also relates to a method for operating a device for filtering gaseous fluids, in particular air, comprising at least one filter, a storage element associated with the filter, and a control unit, between which a communication connection is established and the storage element.

[0052] Filter devices are well known. For example, DE 10 2018 118 698 B4 describes a filtration device and a filter element containing a transponder. The device has a reader for activating the transponder and detecting a transponder signal. The interaction between the transponder and the reader serves to determine whether a manufacturer-specific filter element is used in the device.

[0053] An air filter assembly for cleaning and disinfecting air is known from WO 2022 / 161902 A2. The air filter assembly includes a sensor that detects particles in the air. The sensor signals are transmitted to an external unit. For this purpose, the sensor has an interface for communication with commercially available mobile devices.

[0054] DE 10 2008 009 242 A1 discloses a filter element and a filter device comprising such a filter element, which are intended for the filtration of liquid, gaseous, and pasty media, such as hydraulic media, process fluids, or even foodstuffs such as beverages. The filter element has a data storage device whose data can be read using a read and / or write device. To transmit the data, an antenna is provided that extends at least partially around a longitudinal axis of the filter element.

[0055] EP 3 233 243 B1 relates to an air purification filter system. A machine-readable chip can be assigned to a filter to provide information about the filter type, performance profile, or service life depending on the pollutants to be filtered.

[0056] CN 109818745 A discloses a security chip used in connection with the exchange of information between objects. The present invention is based on the object of further developing a device and a method of the type described above in such a way that it is ensured that the filter present in the device in the form of the hand dryer or the air conditioning device meets the desired requirements, in particular that it can be operated properly and performs the required filtering function.

[0057] To achieve the object, it is essentially proposed that a memory element is assigned to the filter, that a control unit is assigned to the memory element, which control unit is designed such that the memory element and the control unit can be coupled bidirectionally via a communication connection, that the control unit provides at least one piece of use-specific information of the filter and that at least one piece of filter-specific information is stored in the memory element assigned to the filter.

[0058] A bidirectional communication connection is established so that not only the filter-specific data stored in the memory element assigned to the filter, such as manufacturer, serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, maximum usage time, expiry date, can be read out, but information can also be written into the memory element, for example, relating to the current air volume passing through, the service life of the filter or the type of gaseous fluid flowing through the filter.

[0059] The filter-specific data serves primarily to ensure that a filter is used in the facility that fulfills the task it is intended to perform—for example, the correct filter is used depending on the filtration grade. The date of manufacture and service life can also be relevant to the facility's function.

[0060] Reading data into the memory has the advantage of ensuring that when the filter needs to be replaced and used in another hand dryer, the filter can function properly.

[0061] A corresponding device can be, for example, a room filter arrangement, in particular for sanitary rooms, such as toilet rooms, preferably a device relating to a hand-held fan for drying hands, or a device for conditioning air, in particular for dispensing fragrance.

[0062] The invention is particularly characterized in that the filter-specific information is at least one piece of information, preferably several pieces of information, from the group of manufacturer of the filter, serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, air flow rate, in particular maximum permissible air flow rate corresponding to saturation.

[0063] In particular, it is provided that the device further comprises at least one device, such as a fan, which conveys the gaseous fluid through the filter, and that the at least one piece of use-specific information is an air flow rate and / or operating time calculated from the speed of the device and its running time by means of the control unit.

[0064] Relevant information stored in the memory element ensures that proper operation can occur when the filter is replaced and installed in another device.

[0065] The invention is further characterized in that the control unit is designed to compare the use-specific information in the form of the air volume flowing through the filter with the filter-specific information stored in the memory element in the form of the maximum permissible air volume, wherein when a threshold value of the air volume flowing through is reached, the operation of the filter is deactivated and / or a message, such as a signal, in particular a warning signal, is generated.

[0066] These measures ensure that the filter only works if the gas to be filtered can be properly filtered.

[0067] While a physical communication connection is preferably provided, a wireless one can also be implemented.

[0068] In particular, the invention is characterized in that the control unit is designed to read a code stored in the memory element and to compare it with a code stored in the control unit, wherein if the codes match, the filter is enabled to operate.

[0069] This measure ensures that operation can only take place if the filter required for the function has been installed in the device.

[0070] The filter is arranged in a filter cartridge, which is inserted into a receptacle, such as a housing, for filter operation and has first electrical contacts connected to the storage element. The receptacle has second electrical contacts that are connected to the first contacts when the filter cartridge is properly inserted. Only then is communication with the control unit possible, allowing the device to operate.

[0071] The housing preferably has a hollow cuboid shape, with two opposite sides omitted. A plane spanned by the filter cartridge runs parallel to these sides. The side walls can be sheet metal elements to which the filter cartridge is connected. Openings such as slots or holes, or other connection options in the sheet metal walls can be used for this purpose.

[0072] Furthermore, the invention is characterized in that the memory element is designed such that the consumption-specific information or information is or are deleted or reset after replacing or regenerating the filter.

[0073] This provides a filter into whose memory element consumption-specific information can be read again.

[0074] A method for operating a corresponding device for filtering gaseous fluids, in particular air, comprising at least one filter, a storage element associated with the filter and a control unit between which and the storage element a communication connection is formed, is characterized in that the communication connection is bidirectional.

[0075] In particular, it is provided that the bidirectional communication connection is designed in such a way that the control unit reads at least one item of filter-specific information from the memory element and stores at least one item of use-specific information for the filter in the memory element.

[0076] As usage-specific information, at least one piece of information, preferably several pieces of information, is selected from the group of manufacturer of the filter, serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, air flow rate, in particular maximum permissible air flow rate.

[0077] The usage-specific information, such as air flow rate, can be deleted or reset after regeneration has been completed.

[0078] In particular, it is provided that the memory element or an electronic chip containing it is provided with a code which, when the filter or a filter cassette containing it is inserted into a receptacle, such as a housing, is read by the control unit and compared with a stored code, whereby, if there is a match, the operation of the device is enabled.

[0079] Preferably, communication is encrypted using a HASH algorithm.

[0080] Examples of possible options include: symmetric encryption with a symmetric key per device group, asymmetric encryption with exchange of public keys (hashes are also required for this), and encryption using convolutional code.

[0081] To ensure that a filter installed in the device, such as a hand dryer, can function properly, it is intended that the filter is only switched into operational mode by the control unit if the control unit detects that the filter has the correct coding and the usage-specific information of the filter is below a specified threshold value, which takes into account in particular the service life of the filter.

[0082] The coding can include a device compatibility key and / or a manufacturer key. In particular, the usage-specific information is an air flow rate calculated from the fan speed and fan running time. The calculated air flow rate is compared with a filter-specific maximum air flow rate read from the memory element. If a threshold value is exceeded or the maximum permissible air flow rate is reached, a message is generated and / or the filter's operation is deactivated.

[0083] It can also be provided that the usage-specific information is continuously stored in the memory element during operation of the filter.

[0084] In particular, it is provided that the device according to the invention is integrated into a hand dryer or an air conditioning device. The receptacle accommodating the filter cartridge can be an inner housing of the hand dryer or air conditioning device, in which, in addition to the filter and a fan, a heating device is also arranged. In an air conditioning device, the heating device is not necessarily required.

[0085] The inner casing should be sealed or essentially sealed against the hand dryer's air outlet, so that the air drawn in by the fan must first pass through the filter and then flow through the heater located on the outlet side. The fan is thus located between the heater and the filter.

[0086] However, the device can also be used as a fragrance dispenser. In this case, it is not necessary for the device to have a heating device. Instead, a fragrance source can be provided in the receptacle, such as the housing or inner casing, which is located, in particular, between the air outlet and the fan.

[0087] In a cuboid-shaped housing of the type described above for an air conditioning device, which houses the filter or filter cassette, the air conveying device, such as an axial fan, should be arranged downstream of the filter device. This device draws the air through the filter and then exposes it to a fragrance medium. For this purpose, it is particularly provided that the housing has a receptacle, such as a cassette, for a medium, e.g., a fleece or other suitable absorbent medium that nevertheless allows the necessary amount of air to pass through, onto which a fragrance medium is applied, e.g., drop by drop. The fragrance medium is pumped from a storage container, such as a bottle, to the fleece via a pump. The storage container itself should also be positioned in the device.

[0088] In particular, the invention also provides that by means of a first sensor present in or on the device housing of the device, such as a hand dryer, upon detection of radiation in a first wavelength range emitted by a first radiation source present in or on the device housing, that upon detection of the object present in the region of the first opening, radiation in a second wavelength range deviating from the first wavelength range is emitted in the region of the first opening, wherein the radiation in the second wavelength range is only emitted if thermal radiation has previously been detected by the first sensor.

[0089] If the drying device has a chamber for receiving the object to be dried, the invention can also be characterized in that a temperature suitable for disinfection is generated in the chamber or room by means of the heating device.

[0090] The chamber or room should be closed during disinfection.

[0091] The invention also provides for the use of a drying device with one or more of the features described above as an air purification device. In particular, it is provided that when the drying device, such as a handheld fan, is arranged in a room in which no detected person is present, the drying device switches to the operation of an air purification device.

[0092] If the device is intended solely for air purification, it is not necessary to have a heater integrated. The same applies if the device functions as a fragrance dispenser.

[0093] The speed of the air conveyor is lower than when operating as a drying device. It should be noted that air purification operation does not necessarily have to be interrupted if the passive sensor detects a person entering the room in which the device is installed. However, hand drying, triggered by a signal from the active sensor, always takes priority over air purification.

[0094] It is also possible to convert the drying device, such as a hand dryer, into an air purification device remotely or using an app.

[0095] In general, it should be noted that the device according to the invention can be parameterized by means of a mobile terminal, in particular a mobile radio terminal, whereby in particular the heating power and / or the fan speed and / or the light color can be varied.

[0096] By parameterizing this, it is possible to set a temperature corresponding to the user group and a fan speed corresponding to the filter resistance, whereby the pressure loss through the filter can be compensated by changing the speed.

[0097] The device according to the invention can also be used in addition to or in addition to air purification as an additional heating or frost protection system. The heating output is adjusted accordingly.

[0098] The invention also relates to a method for guiding a person to facilities to be used in a sequence, in particular facilities of a washroom, wherein at least some of the facilities each have at least one sensor for triggering a function of a facility and optionally at least one signal generator, such as lighting means and / or acoustic signal generator, wherein a facility triggering or executing a function is connected to a mesh network.

[0099] DE 10 2014 222 415 B4 discloses a method and system for illuminating a vehicle's washroom. The room is illuminated by several lights, with local lighting being possible in a predefined sequence. The user's position can be detected by sensors permanently installed in the walls of the washroom to switch the lights on, off, or dim them.

[0100] The subject of US 2023 / 0004881 A1 is a system and method for managing the consumption of products from dispensers in a washroom. Each dispenser has a sensor coupled to a controller. The user is guided according to the fill level of a dispenser. If a dispenser is empty, the user is directed to a dispenser with sufficient fill level.

[0101] WO 2015 / 165731 A1 relates to a system comprising at least one base station and devices that can be wirelessly connected to the base station. These devices can be material dispensers, dosing devices, or environmental monitoring devices. Each of these devices has at least one sensor for detecting fill or operating status and transmitting data to a central control center.

[0102] A system for supporting hygienic behavior is known from EP 2 885 776 B1. The system uses illuminated indicators to indicate to the user which device to use next. The user must operate the devices themselves. The devices are connected to a central control unit.

[0103] US 2021 / 0203520 A1 describes a room with multiple facilities, such as bathrooms or kitchens, in which existing facilities are intelligently connected. Sensors are assigned to the facilities so that after one facility has been used, another facility can be used. The facility to be used is illuminated, highlighting it.

[0104] DE 10 2020 123 314 A1 relates to a user guidance system for a sanitary fitting. It shows the user how to use the sanitary fitting to perform proper handwashing. A similar technique can be found in CN 1 13 611 092 A. It suggests how to use a sanitary facility to ensure proper handwashing. A specific sequence should be followed.

[0105] US 2009 / 0119142 A1 relates to a monitoring system for a restroom. It checks the consumables and forwards information to a central location if necessary so that supplies can be delivered.

[0106] US 2003 / 0004881 A1 concerns the monitoring of a toilet room, whereby, depending on consumption, instructions are given to a user as to which of the toilets or washbasins can be used.

[0107] The present invention is also based on the object of developing a method of the type described above in such a way that a person is safely guided to the facilities to be used.

[0108] To solve at least this aspect, the invention essentially provides that the device triggering or executing a function is a node of the mesh network, that the nodes are programmed in such a way that functions are triggered and / or executed by these devices exclusively in the order of the devices to be used, wherein in the event of a device failing or its use not being possible or not being able to be used, the device is disregarded in the order and, if appropriate, if an identical or correspondingly acting device is available, the device is directed to this device which performs the function of the disregarded device.

[0109] According to the invention, a mesh network is used in which the devices are interconnected and form branches to other devices or nodes. The network is designed to efficiently transmit data between the devices. Regardless of the communication between the individual devices, which corresponds to a full-mesh topology, a command level exists in which the devices can be activated in the desired order.

[0110] According to the invention, mesh communication, preferably based on Bluetooth / Bluetooth Low Energy, is used to implement comfort and support functions, such as user guidance and other comfort functions (room monitoring), control of external actuators, and recording of consumption data.

[0111] This mesh network contains features for the realization of an application-appropriate fail-safe behavior, which, for example, detects the failure (or temporary disruption, e.g. due to missing consumables) of individual devices and - if technically available - ensures the use of replacement devices.

[0112] The individual devices are nodes integrated into this mesh network. The preferred implementation is ESP-BLE-Mesh, which has Bluetooth certification and thus offers extensive compatibility with other implementations using BLE-enabled smartphones.

[0113] The mesh specification describes standardized methods for adding nodes to a mesh (provisioning), assigning group addresses, and basic communication transactions.

[0114] In the mesh network, different forms of communication exist between the nodes to realize different actions.

[0115] According to the invention, fail-safe parameterization can be implemented. Without fail-safe parameterization, devices that can no longer perform a function, e.g., no paper or soap dispensing or no power supply, would confuse the user, or multiple options would have to be offered, which, if multiple devices are present in larger rooms, would quickly lead to a loss of user connection due to too many options. To enable the simplest possible user guidance, each device can communicate with its function follower (function follower can be different devices, e.g., towel dispenser follows soap dispenser, or air hand dryer follows soap dispenser) and have a prioritized list of function follower.

[0116] The mesh network tool can include, for example, soap dispensers, towel dispensers, trash cans and, if necessary, a camera mode, as well as air hand dryers, fragrance dispensers or a feedback device that collects, for example, the status of a toilet and / or the consumption data of the facility.

[0117] The feedback device can serve as a gateway for monitoring the condition of the washroom, i.e. it can perform the function of remote monitoring or detection of the necessary replenishment of consumables.

[0118] The use of a camera module can be used, for example, to detect people who have a sudden disability.

[0119] The devices communicate in a directed manner, meaning, for example, after using a soap dispenser, a paper towel dispenser or hand dryer is used. If a paper towel dispenser is used, communication is established from this dispenser to a trash can. If multiple trash cans are available in the washroom, failsafe behavior is automatically activated. However, it is also possible to address the trash cans individually, if desired by the user.

[0120] When parameterizing devices with the same function, such as paper dispensers, the “best-placed” one is contacted first and if it does not respond, e.g. if the dispenser has run out of consumables or has a malfunction, the “second-placed” dispenser is contacted.

[0121] The list of follower devices can also contain different device types, such as paper dispensers and hand dryers, which are interchangeable in function.

[0122] Provisioning, i.e. setting up the participants in a mesh group (assigning a group ID, adding devices that are not yet in a group, removing nodes) as well as parameterizing the devices can be controlled by a mobile phone app.

[0123] The teaching of the invention does not provide for a fixed structure, as is the case in the prior art. A flexible network is provided, allowing for any expansion, such as removal or addition of equipment, without having to accept any loss of control over a person. A central unit or gateway is not required.

[0124] Failsafe parameterization of the command level is possible. Multiple sequences of devices that can perform alternative control processes are possible if, for example, the intended sequence, i.e., order, cannot be implemented. This can be the case, for example, if a paper dispenser has failed. A hand dryer located in the mesh network or another paper dispenser installed in the room can then be integrated into the sequence, preferably with visual emphasis.

[0125] In particular, if several additional paper dispensers are available, the one closest to the one not being used will be integrated. This optimizes the route. This measure applies to, or should apply to, every facility.

[0126] It is also possible that, due to the mesh topology, the sensors of one unit can be used by other units and vice versa.

[0127] The devices can be installed in any room without much preparation. No internet connection is required.

[0128] The devices can be operated actively, whereby the operation itself generates an action pattern.

[0129] Regardless of this, facilities can be actively operated by the user to activate their function, or they can be operated without operator intervention, depending on the facility. Operator-free means that the user does not have to actively interact with a facility to use it. For example, a paper towel dispenser might already be available when the user approaches the towel dispenser.

[0130] For example, if a device is a soap dispenser, it can be activated for use by means of an active sensor integrated into it. The same applies to a hand dryer, for example, although the possibility cannot be ruled out that it will be activated after the device upstream of it has been used.

[0131] Irrespective of this, however, provision should be made for each device to be assigned or integrated with at least one signalling device, such as lighting or acoustic signalling devices, in such a way that the device to be used is visually and / or acoustically highlighted from the other devices.

[0132] This ensures that the person is guided from facility to facility in the desired order.

[0133] Although we generally refer to lighting devices below, this is a synonym for any signaling device, including acoustic signaling devices. These are intended especially for visually impaired people. Different signaling devices can be assigned to different frequencies within the devices, or signaling devices with different frequencies can be assigned to a single device to differentiate devices from one another or to indicate the functions to be performed by a device.

[0134] To trigger a function, a first sensor is integrated into the device. This is an active sensor, such as an active infrared sensor.

[0135] Furthermore, a second sensor is integrated into the facility such that, when the facility is used, the lighting of a subsequently used facility is activated and, if necessary, its function is triggered. This is the case, for example, when a towel dispenser is used. Thus, after or while washing hands, when the soap dispenser is used, the towel dispenser can be activated by the soap dispenser to dispense a paper slip. If this is torn off, a subsequent waste bin is visually highlighted to guide the user to it. At the same time, the waste bin can be opened. Alternatively, the opening can be initiated when the person approaches the waste bin.

[0136] Independently of this, the invention is characterized in that at least one of the devices is assigned a passive sensor, such as a passive infrared sensor, or a passive sensor is present in the room or assigned to it, via which the lighting means of the device to be used first and integrated in the mesh network is activated for the visual highlighting of this device.

[0137] If the facilities are located in a room, such as a washroom or sanitary room, the passive sensor detects a person entering the room and then visually highlights the facility to be used first and integrated into the mesh network.

[0138] For example, if a person's hand is in the area of ​​a soap dispenser that dispenses liquid soap, the soap dispenser is triggered by an active sensor that detects the distance of the hand to the dispenser.

[0139] In particular, it is intended that at least two of the following devices are selected from the group of soap dispenser, towel dispenser, hand drying device, fragrance dispenser, waste bin, room fan, thermostat.

[0140] Preferably, it is provided that one device is a dispenser of material and another device is a receptacle for the material, that when the material is removed from the dispenser, the receptacle for the material is made visually visible and accessible, and that after the material has been introduced into the receptacle, the receptacle is closed.

[0141] The dispenser is specifically a towel dispenser in which paper is drawn from a roll.

[0142] The primary application of the teaching according to the invention is a washroom or sanitary room, so that the invention is particularly characterized in that a soap dispenser is designed as a first device, a towel dispenser as the dispenser of the material or a hand drying device is designed as a second device and, if the towel dispenser is present, a waste container is designed as the receptacle as a third device.

[0143] In order to ensure that the facilities remain functional or that hygiene concerns are taken into account through the use of one or more facilities, it is particularly provided that at least one of the facilities, preferably several of the facilities, are provided with a sensor by means of which proper use of the facility and / or consumption of the facility and / or use is determined and, if a malfunction is detected and / or a predetermined threshold is reached, a signal is stored and then sent to a service facility.

[0144] For example, based on empirical data that indicates that a sink becomes undesirably dirty after a certain number of uses of the soap dispenser, this number of uses can be set as a threshold, and a signal can be sent to a service center once this threshold is exceeded. The same applies if a facility issues an error message.

[0145] It is also possible to integrate a door of a corresponding room into the mesh network, for example to open it after using a waste bin or, if a hand dryer is used, to open a door after it has been used.

[0146] It is also possible to equip a door with a passive sensor to enable it to be opened if a unit that would otherwise be used to activate the door opener is not in use or has failed.

[0147] Furthermore, if a hand dryer is used as a device, it may operate as an air purifying device if it has not been activated as a hand dryer function.

[0148] In particular, it is intended that the hand dryer operates as an air purifier when the presence of a person in the room is not detected. Furthermore, it is intended that at least some of the devices, preferably all devices integrated into the mesh network, can be parameterized using a mobile device.

[0149] According to a further aspect of the invention, the device with the filter and fan arranged one above the other in a holder can also be used as a fragrance dispenser without a heater in the holder, such as the inner housing. Instead of the heater, a fragrance-emitting medium can be present. This can be, for example, a fleece to which a liquid fragrance is added in the required amount so that it evaporates when air flows through and reaches the room in which the device is located. The liquid fragrance can be delivered drop by drop onto the fleece via a conveying means, such as a hose roller pump.

[0150] A corresponding arrangement can also be provided in a device in which the filter, fan, and heater are arranged one above the other. Preferably, on the side of the heater facing away from the fan, a fragrance medium can be arranged in the receptacle, such as the inner housing. This can also be in the form of a fleece held by a frame, onto which a fragrance is applied as required. Thus, when the hand dryer is used as an air purifier, the room can be scented simultaneously.

[0151] If the device is designed exclusively as a fragrance dispenser, it can also be integrated into the mesh network, whereby the parameters are configured in such a way that the fragrance dispenser is switched on according to specifications or requirements. Continuous operation is of course also not excluded.

[0152] Further details, advantages and features of the invention emerge not only from the claims and the features derived therefrom - individually and / or in combination, but also from the following description of preferred embodiments.

[0153] Shown are: Fig. 1 a first embodiment of a drying device,

[0154] Fig. 2 shows a second embodiment of a drying device,

[0155] Fig. 3 is a sectional view, partly in perspective, of the drying device according to Fig. 1,

[0156] Fig. 4 the drying device according to Fig. 1, with the housing partially removed,

[0157] Fig. 5 the drying device according to Fig. 1 with the housing removed,

[0158] Fig. 6 is a sectional view, partly in perspective, of the drying device according to Fig. 2,

[0159] Fig. 7 the drying device according to Fig. 2 with the housing partially removed,

[0160] Fig. 8 is an exploded view of the drying device according to Fig. 2,

[0161] Fig. 9a a device for filtering gaseous fluids,

[0162] Fig. 9b a filter cassette,

[0163] Fig. 10 the device according to Fig. 9 arranged in a hand dryer,

[0164] Fig. 11 networked facilities of a washroom,

[0165] Fig. 12 Communication of the facilities in the washroom and

[0166] Fig. 13 a fragrance dispenser.

[0167] Using Figures 1-8, in which essentially identical elements are provided with identical reference numerals, drying devices in the form of an electrically operated belt dryer are explained. In some configurations, these devices can also be used as air purification devices. The possibility of using them as fragrance dispensers should also be considered.

[0168] In other words, the respective hand dryer can be used for drying hands and, when this function is not required, for purifying the air. The air purifier function can be activated, for example, using an app. At least one sensor can detect whether the hand dryer function is to be used.

[0169] What all designs have in common is that air is sucked in at the rear of the hand dryer and, after cleaning and heating, flows out through an opening in the base of the device to dry hands or other objects located there.

[0170] The air flows through an inner housing inside the hand dryer, in which a filter, an air conveying device in the form of an axial fan, and a heating device are arranged one above the other. The inner housing is sealed off from the air outlet opening, preventing any unwanted air from being drawn into this area.

[0171] Furthermore, the hand dryer can be equipped with sensors to detect a person in the room where the hand dryer is installed. A light source, such as an LED or LED strip, can be installed in or on the hand dryer to emit light to visually guide the person to the hand dryer. If the hand to be dried is located near the air outlet, this is detected by another sensor, and the hand dryer is switched on.

[0172] Preferably, a light is then also emitted that differs in color from the first light. If two sensors are present, they are linked, for example, with an AND link, meaning that the hand dryer is only switched on when a person is detected by the first sensor, e.g., by thermal radiation. Of course, the invention does not depart from the scope of the invention if only one sensor is present that detects the position of a hand or hands in the area of ​​the first opening.

[0173] Of course, it is also possible to make no connection, an AND connection, an OR connection or any meaningful connection separated in time.

[0174] If no one is in the room, the hand dryer can serve as an air purifier. In this case, the air flow device, i.e., the fan, operates at a lower speed than when drying hands. The heating is also turned off.

[0175] Such operation generally only occurs if a person is not detected in the room by the first sensor.

[0176] A cleaning operation can be particularly useful when people are in the room. The function is configurable.

[0177] It is also possible that after use of the hand dryer, i.e., when the sensor detecting the position of the hand no longer detects it, a fragrance dispenser is activated or scented air is released through the hand dryer.

[0178] The hand dryer can be integrated into a mesh network to activate other devices in the mesh network based on the hand dryer's use, or to adjust the hand dryer's operation if, for example, a soap dispenser has been used previously. Switching on can be delayed for use of the soap dispenser. In this regard, reference is made to the explanations in connection with Figures 11 and 12.

[0179] In particular, it is also provided that the filter device contains at least one storage element that can be coupled to a control unit that reads filter-device-specific information from the storage element and transfers, i.e., stores, usage-specific information from the filter device to the storage element. These measures ensure that only suitable filters can be used and that the "aging" of the filters can be detected, i.e., the air flow rate is recorded. If it is apparent that the air purification function of the filter is impaired to an unacceptable extent due to the air flow rate, a signal is given that a replacement is required.

[0180] Data can be stored to ensure that a filter device that has been deemed worn out cannot be immediately reused for filtering, but rather that the filters must first be replaced.

[0181] Further features can be found in the explanations of Figs. 9 and 10.

[0182] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a drying device in the form of a hand dryer 10. The hand dryer 10 has a housing 12 with a bottom wall 14, side walls 16, 18, a top wall 20, and a front or end wall 22. Located in the bottom wall 14 is a first opening 24, which is covered, for example, by a grille 26 to prevent reaching into the housing 12. Heated air for drying hands exits through the first opening 24.

[0183] Bottom wall 14, side walls 16, 18, head wall 20 and front wall 22 form a hood which can be closed at the rear by a rear wall 30.

[0184] The rear wall 30 has an inwardly offset section 31. From this, an inner housing 34 extends, in particular by means of a hook, as can be seen self-explanatory, for example, in Fig. 4.

[0185] The hood can be pivoted about an axis 29 passing through the rear wall 30.

[0186] The bottom wall 12 is recessed at the rear to provide a gap 36 through which supply air can be drawn into the housing 12, i.e., its interior space 38, as symbolized by the arrows. The gap 36 serves as a second opening. Starting from the gap 36, the air is drawn in by an axial fan 40 arranged in the inner housing 34. The axial fan 40 is accommodated by mounting plates 42, 44 (see Fig. 6), which in turn can be inserted into slots in the inner housing 34 by means of webs projecting from the edges, one of which is designated by the reference numeral 46 as an example.

[0187] The inner housing 34 consists of assembled sheet metal walls, two of which are marked with the reference numerals 48, 50.

[0188] Below the fan 40, i.e., on the pressure side, a heater 52 is arranged, which is connected via angle elements 54, 56 to a mounting plate 58, which can also be inserted into slots in the sheet metal walls 48, 50 of the inner housing 34. Purely by way of example, a slot is designated by the reference numeral 60.

[0189] The heater 52, which is in particular a fin heater with fins running along the longitudinal axis of the inner housing 34, i.e., in the direction of flow, is preferably a PTC heater, i.e., a heater with a temperature-dependent resistance whose positive temperature coefficient allows the current to flow more easily at low temperatures than at high temperatures. Thus, self-regulation occurs, preventing overheating. The grid 26 is located below the PTC heater.

[0190] It is also possible to use a heater with a thyristor controller, for example to use simple heating registers.

[0191] The inner housing 34 is sealed against the inside of the bottom wall 14 or against inner walls extending from the bottom wall, which in turn enclose the opening 24, so that the inner housing 34 is sealed against the opening 24 to be designated as the first opening.

[0192] Fig. 6 shows a corresponding, preferably circumferential seal 62. Above the air conveying device, i.e., the fan 40, a filter cartridge 64 is arranged in the inner housing 34, which partially protrudes beyond the upper edge of the inner housing 34.

[0193] The filter cassette 64 can be made of plastic and consists of a lower part 66, referred to as the filter cover, and a filter pan 68, which in turn can be formed in one piece and consists of a peripheral wall 70 and a bottom wall 72, which has an opening 74 for the passage of the air to be cleaned and heated. Both the bottom wall 72 and the filter cover have a honeycomb structure to achieve the desired rigidity.

[0194] The lower part 66 of the filter cassette 68 is called the filter cover because the filters are inserted in such a way that, with the filter tray 68 resting on a base, the filter(s) are placed into the base and then sealed by the filter cover 66. The filter cassette 64 with the filters is then rotated and clipped into the inner housing 34. For this purpose, projections protrude from the peripheral wall 70 of the filter tray 68, which penetrate into corresponding recesses in the sheet metal or side walls 48, 50 of the inner housing 34. Two of these openings are identified by reference numerals 76, 78, for example.

[0195] Filter cover 66 and filter pan 68 are also connected by clips.

[0196] One or more filters of the desired efficiency can be inserted into the filter cassette 64. Examples include coarse filters, fine filters, HEPA filters, high-performance particle filters, high-performance HEPA filters, or activated carbon filters.

[0197] A grid should be arranged between the filter cassette 64 and the fan 40 to avoid injuries when replacing the filter cassette 64.

[0198] A power supply unit 80 and a mainboard or control unit 82 extend from the opposite side walls 50, 150 of the inner housing 34 in the exemplary embodiment. In this case, an inventive design provides that the filter device 84, which in the exemplary embodiment consists of the filter cassette 64 and the inserted filter(s), has an electronic chip with a memory element(s) that can be coupled to the control unit 82 via a bidirectional communication connection.

[0199] The control unit 82 is designed such that filter device-specific information is read from the memory element and use-specific information of the filter device is stored in the memory element.

[0200] The filter device-specific information or information comprises one or more pieces of information from the group: manufacturer of the filter device, serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, and air flow rate. This ensures that only filter cassettes 64 that are suitable and intended for the hand dryer 10 can be used.

[0201] In particular, this makes it possible to check whether the air flow rate does not exceed a threshold value, as otherwise proper cleaning is no longer possible. For this purpose, the speed of fan 40 and the air volume drawn in via fan 40 are taken into account. In other words, the air volume or operating time is calculated from the speed of fan 40 and its running time by means of the control unit 82.

[0202] If the permissible airflow rate is reached, the hand dryer 10 is deactivated and / or a signal is generated. Communication with a service department can also be initiated.

[0203] In particular, the communication link has an I 2 C interface.

[0204] Furthermore, the control unit 82 can be configured such that a code stored in the memory element is read and compared with a code stored in the control unit 82. If the codes match, operation of the hand dryer 10 is enabled. The filter cassette 64 has electrical contacts that, when properly inserted, are connected to corresponding contacts of the inner housing 34 or the control unit 82.

[0205] The memory element should be designed such that the usage-specific information or information is deleted or reset after replacement or regeneration of the filter device 84 or the filter(s).

[0206] Figures 3 and 4 further illustrate that air is drawn into the rear wall area (arrows 28). As shown in Figure 4, this air is drawn in through the opening 74 of the filter cartridge 64 by means of the fan 40. After passing through the heating device 52, it then flows out through the first opening 24 (arrows 32). The flow path within the housing 12 is symbolized by the arrows 86, 88.

[0207] Further features of the drying device according to the invention are to be noted in connection with Figs. 1 and 5. A first passive sensor 90 is embedded in the front wall 22. This is, in particular, an infrared sensor for detecting heat radiation perceived by a person approaching the hand dryer 10 or entering a room in which the hand dryer 10 is located.

[0208] Furthermore, there are one or more second sensors 92 in the base wall 14 or in an opening behind it, which actively work, such as active infrared sensors, to detect a hand to be dried by reflecting radiation from this hand to the sensors 92. The sensors 90, 92 can activate light sources to emit radiation, in particular of different colors, in order to guide a person to the hand dryer 10 and to indicate that the hand dryer 10 is in operation. The second sensors are or are essential here. If first sensors are present, they are AND-linked with the second sensor(s) 92, ie the hand dryer 10 can only be switched on if the first and second sensors 90, 92 switch.

[0209] A second embodiment of a drying device in the form of a hand dryer 100 can be seen in Figs. 2 and 6-8. Basically, identical elements are identified with the same reference numerals as in the hand dryer 10. The hand dryer 100 has a bottom wall 114, side walls 116, 118, a top wall 120, and a rear wall 130. Unlike the hand dryer 10, the side walls 116, 118 extend beyond the bottom wall 114 to accommodate a housing part 230, which is designed as a drawer (see arrow 228), i.e., can be pushed out of or pushed into the housing 112. In Figs. 6 and 7, the housing part 230 is pushed completely into the housing 112.

[0210] The housing part 230 has side walls 216, 218 and a bottom wall 214 connecting them. The bottom wall 214 ends at a distance from the rear wall 130 of the housing 112 in order to form the required clearance for the gap 236, which can be referred to as the second opening, through which air is sucked in, as indicated by the arrows 240. The air flows into the interior 138 of the housing 112 via the gap 236, which extends between the rear wall 130 and a housing intermediate wall 242 running along the rear wall and delimiting a space 232 at the rear, and flows through the filter cassette 64, fan 40, and heater 52, as previously explained. In this respect, reference is made in full to the previous description. The same reference numerals are used accordingly to avoid repetition.

[0211] The air flowing out of the first opening 24 in the bottom wall 114 is symbolized by the arrows 184.

[0212] The side walls 116, 118 extending beyond the bottom wall 114 are surrounded by the housing part side walls 216, 218 and the

[0213] Housing part bottom wall 214 and the housing intermediate wall 212 form the space 232, which can also be referred to as a chamber or drying space, in which hands to be dried must be positioned when the hand dryer 100 is in operation to dry the hands.

[0214] The housing part bottom wall 214 is double-walled to define a slot-shaped free space extending from its rear side, into which a slide 237 can be inserted, serving as a collecting tray for liquid. This slide 237 has a recess or receptacle 238 into which an absorbent pad can be inserted. The pad is covered on the top side by a grid 244. The lower wall 246 of the double wall of the housing part bottom wall 214 has ribs to ensure sufficient rigidity.

[0215] The drip tray can be described as a cassette that contains a collecting fleece called the pad to collect dripping water.

[0216] As can be seen in particular from Fig. 8, the housing part side walls 216, 218 are designed to be double-walled in sections to form a slot 248, 250 in order to engage in corresponding webs projecting from the inner sides of the side walls 116, 118 of the housing 112 so that the housing part 214 can be properly inserted and used.

[0217] The housing 112, which also forms a hood, can be pivoted about an axis 128 extending through the rear wall 130, similar to the hand dryer 10. Like the hand dryer 10, the hand dryer 100 can also be locked (lock 111). The same is possible for the housing part 230.

[0218] With regard to the function of the hand dryer 100 in the structure of the inner housing 34 and the heating device 52 and air conveying device 40, filter device 84 accommodated therein as well as with regard to the power supply unit 80 and mainboard 82, reference is made to the explanations given in connection with the hand dryer 10.

[0219] Regarding the hand dryer 100, it should be noted that the chamber 232, i.e., the space into which hands to be dried are placed, can be disinfected by heating the air flowing through the inner housing 34 using the heater 52. To avoid the risk of burns, the chamber 232 is then closed on the open side, for example, with a grille.

[0220] Furthermore, it is possible to aromatize the air flowing through the hand dryer 10, 100. For this purpose, a fragrance cartridge can be incorporated in the housing 12, 112 or in the filter cassette 64, just to show existing possibilities by way of example. In particular, if the device is to be used exclusively as a fragrance dispenser, a device is arranged instead of the heater to emit the fragrance. This can be a frame, for example, arranged in the inner housing instead of the heater, which holds a fleece or other absorbent medium into which a fragrance is added in portions, such as drop by drop. This fragrance is then pumped from a container, e.g. via a pump, such as a hose roller pump, to the fleece.

[0221] In general, it is possible to use the hand dryer's design as a fragrance dispenser without significant manufacturing effort. In this case, a heater is not required, so a fragrance source can be arranged in the inner housing instead of the heater. The other elements of the hand dryer are retained, so reference is made to the relevant disclosure.

[0222] With reference to Figs. 9 and 10, a further teaching according to the invention will be explained, on the basis of which it is ensured that a filter 310 meets predetermined requirements with regard to filter function and use. The filter 310 is arranged in a filter cassette 312, which in turn is inserted into a housing 314. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing 314 also contains a device for conveying gas, i.e., a fan 316, and a heater 318, although these are not mandatory features. In fact, a heater is not necessarily required. The fan also does not have to be arranged in the same housing as the filter cassette 312. However, this is not necessarily advantageous from a structural point of view.

[0223] According to arrow 320, the air drawn in by fan 316 first flows through filter 310 and then, in the exemplary embodiment, through heater 318. A corresponding arrangement 300 is intended for a hand dryer 340, as shown purely by way of example in Fig. 10.

[0224] A characteristic feature of one of the inventions is that the filter 310 is assigned a memory element 324, which can be designed as an electronic chip with memory. For simplicity, the following will therefore refer to the electronic chip or chip that contains the memory element according to the teachings of the invention. The chip 324, which can be arranged in or on the frame of the filter cassette 312, is connected to the filter cartridge 312 via a communication connection, such as I 2C interface, connected to a control unit, such as microcontroller 328. While a physical connection is provided in the diagram, a wireless connection can of course also be used. It is also not necessary for the microcontroller 328 to be located directly next to the housing 314. Furthermore, a power supply (not shown) is provided.

[0225] According to the graphic representation, the fan 314 and the heater 318 are also communicatively connected to the microcontroller 328.

[0226] The microcontroller 328 can further be connected to a cloud 330 to exchange data or information, as symbolized by the arrow 332.

[0227] A characteristic feature of the invention is that the communication connection between chip 324, i.e., the memory element, and microcontroller 328 is bidirectional. This is symbolized by arrow 334.

[0228] The bidirectionality provides the advantage that filter-specific information can be read from the memory element 324, but also usage-specific information of the filter 310 can be read into the memory element 324, i.e. stored.

[0229] Filter-specific information includes, for example, the manufacturer of the 310 filter, the serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture or the maximum permissible air flow rate for the 310 filter to work properly.

[0230] Usage-specific information of the filter 310 is the operating time of the filter 310 or the air flow rate, which can be calculated by the microcontroller 328 from the speed of the fan 316 and the running time.

[0231] The filter condition can also be determined by the microcontroller 328 or the controller containing the memory in the filter cassette 312 based on physical parameters such as differential pressure, measured volume flow at a fan speed, required manipulated variable or from a Luenberger or Kalman observer (with dynamic model of the filter flow).

[0232] The microcontroller 328 is configured to compare the corresponding usage-specific information, i.e., the airflow rate, with the filter-specific information in the form of the maximum permissible airflow rate, which is read from the chip 324. If the airflow rate reaches a threshold, the operation of the filter 310 is deactivated or a message, such as a warning signal, can be generated.

[0233] Furthermore, it is possible for the control unit, i.e., in this embodiment, the microcontroller 328, to read a code stored in the electronic chip 324 and compare it with a code stored in the microcontroller 328. If the codes match, the filter 310 is enabled, thus enabling the use of the filter.

[0234] The filter cassette 312, in which the filter 310 is arranged, and the electrical chip 324, respectively, have first electrical contacts 326. The housing 314 has second electrical contacts 327, which are connected to the microcontroller 328. If the electrical contacts 326, 327 correspond to one another, the filter 310 can be operated, i.e., the fan 316 can be activated to convey air.

[0235] If the filter cassette 312 is removed with the filter 310, e.g. when the permissible air flow rate is reached, and the filter 310 is subsequently regenerated or replaced with a new filter, the consumption-specific information in the electronic chip 324 is deleted or reset so that it can be used again under the criteria explained above.

[0236] The teaching of the invention also makes it possible to use the filter 310 with the cassette 312 in another arrangement that has the same requirements as the arrangement 300, since the readable usage-specific information can be read again, so that use can only occur until the permissible airflow rate is reached. If the filter 310 is reused, the serial number can be incremented and stored in the memory element 324. It can be used again.

[0237] Furthermore, it is possible for the memory element 324 to have a code, which, in the exemplary embodiment, is read by the microcontroller 328 when the cassette 312 is inserted into the housing 314 and compared with a stored code. If there is a match, the arrangement 300 can be activated.

[0238] In particular, it is intended that data communication is encrypted using a HASH algorithm.

[0239] In particular, the arrangement 300 is only activated by the control unit, i.e., the microcontroller 328, if the microcontroller 328 detects a filter via the communication connection that has the correct coding and the filter's usage-specific information permits its use. This is particularly the case if the usage-specific information indicates that the maximum permissible airflow rate has not yet been reached.

[0240] Fig. 10 shows a hand-drying device 340, referred to as a hand dryer for short, in which an arrangement 300 according to the invention is arranged. The housing 316 with the filter cassette 312, in which the filter 310 is not shown, is visible. Also visible are the housing of the microcontroller 328 and a power supply 342, which are attached to the housing 316 on opposite sides.

[0241] The hand dryer 340 has a receptacle, referred to as chamber 344, into which hands to be dried can be inserted. Air heated by the heater 318 flows into the chamber 344 through an opening (not shown). When the fan 316 is operating, air is drawn into the bottom area of ​​the housing 346 of the hand dryer 340, i.e., outside the chamber 344 (arrows 348), and then flows inside the housing 346 over the filter (not shown) and the heater arranged between the air outlet opening and the fan 316, which heats the air. The outlet flow is symbolized by the arrows 350. The housing 314 accommodating the filter cassette 312, the fan 316, such as an axial fan or diagonal fan, and the heater 318 is sealed off from the outlet opening present in the head region of the chamber 344, which corresponds to the first opening 24 of the hand dryer 10, so that the air must flow exclusively over the filter.

[0242] The filter 310 is at least one filter from the group of activated carbon filter, low-resistance coarse filter, fine filter, high-efficiency particulate filter (HEPA), high-efficiency particulate filter (EPA), high-efficiency particulate filter (ULPA).

[0243] Depending on the filter type, the hand dryer 340 can also be used as an air purification device. In this case, the heater 318 is deactivated unless heated air is to flow into the room in which the device 340 is located.

[0244] It is also possible to use the hand dryer as a heater (frost protection), e.g. for unheated toilet rooms.

[0245] If the invention has been explained in connection with a hand dryer 340, the arrangement according to the invention can be used wherever purified air is desired, provided the filter 310 has a corresponding filter class.

[0246] In particular, the device 300 is suitable for cleaning room air. It ensures that the device 300 operates until the permissible air flow rate is reached. In this case, heating is not mandatory.

[0247] The arrangement can also be used as a fragrance dispenser by placing a fragrance-releasing medium in the flow path. In this variant, heating is also not absolutely necessary.

[0248] Irrespective of this, it is always ensured that the use-specific information that was previously read into the storage element 324 is / are available when the filter is used. With reference to Figs. 11 and 12, a further teaching according to the invention is explained purely in principle with reference to devices arranged in a sanitary room in the form of a washroom with toilets. This allows the number of devices to be expanded or reduced as desired without impairing communication between the devices and without requiring separate installations for networking the devices or a mandatory internet connection.

[0249] Devices are those that are integrated into a mesh network according to the invention.

[0250] In Fig. 1 1, six devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422 are shown, which are integrated into a mesh network 428. Each device 410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422 is directly connected to all other devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422, wirelessly.

[0251] Thus, data can be exchanged between the individual devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422. At the same time, however, a communication interface is provided that ensures that a user of the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420 is guided through the washroom in such a way that the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420 are used one after the other in the desired order. This is achieved by means of visual visualization.

[0252] Device 410 may be, for example, a soap dispenser, device 412 a towel dispenser, device 414 a waste bin, device 418 a hand dryer and device 420 a door opener.

[0253] The device 422 can be used to record data from the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420 or their proper functioning and to forward the data, for example via a cloud 430, to a service center.

[0254] When a person enters the washroom in which the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420 are installed, the soap dispenser 410 is visually highlighted via a passive sensor 432 that is integrated in one of the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, e.g. in the towel dispenser 412, since the towel dispenser 412 is connected to the soap dispenser 410 by the mesh network 428.

[0255] Therefore, at least one light source 416, such as LEDs, is integrated into every device to be used. Light sources are generally understood as signaling devices, meaning not only a device with a visual but also an acoustic effect.

[0256] An active sensor 434 can be integrated into the soap dispenser 410, by means of which liquid soap is dispensed onto the hand when a hand approaches.

[0257] By triggering the soap dispenser function, the mesh network 428 and the resulting connection between the soap dispenser 410 and the towel dispenser 412 visually highlight the latter by activating illuminants, such as LEDs, in the towel dispenser 412. The color tone may differ from the one initially emitted to guide the person to the soap dispenser 410. A water tap is used before using the towel dispenser 412.

[0258] Visual highlighting also includes, or can be, temporal light modulation. Different wavelength ranges of the emitted radiation and / or temporal light modulations make it possible to display the states of a device depending on the desired or performed user action.

[0259] For this purpose, it is particularly intended that 416 multi-color LEDs are used as light sources, through which the visible wavelength range can be tuned and thus a desired wavelength range can be selected.

[0260] At the same time, the towel dispenser 412 can be provided to dispense a paper portion. Alternatively, an active sensor 436 can be integrated into the towel dispenser 412, which dispenses a paper portion upon approach. A portion can also be pulled out manually without automatically actuating the towel dispenser 412. After tearing off a paper portion, the trash can 414 is visually highlighted by activating the integrated lighting 416. This lighting is preferably also LEDs, such as multicolor LEDs.

[0261] If the waste bin 414 has a closure, this will be opened at the same time.

[0262] The filling of the trash can 414 is detected by a sensor 438, which visually highlights and opens the room door or the door opener 420. This visual highlighting can be achieved by LEDs present in the door opener, i.e., light sources 416. This is only the case if the door opener is integrated into the mesh network.

[0263] For hygiene reasons, the trash can 414 may have a closure that closes after waste is thrown in. If the trash can 414 is not used, i.e., this device is bypassed, it will automatically close after a predetermined period of time, after the upstream device has been used, e.g., the device 412 in the form of a towel dispenser.

[0264] If the trash can 414 does not lead to the door, the door will open regardless when a person approaches, since there is a correspondingly active sensor to open the door.

[0265] There is a failsafe feature that activates if the user does not follow the specified sequence

[0266] In the exemplary embodiment, a hand dryer 418 is also installed in the washroom as a device that generally remains out of operation, so that there is no visual guidance to it. If, for example, the towel dispenser 412 runs out of paper, a user is visually guided to the hand dryer 418 by activating the integrated lighting 416, such as LEDs.

[0267] If a second towel dispenser is located in the washroom, it is activated and a user is visually guided to it. When a hand to be dried is directed toward the air outlet, the hand dryer 418 is switched on by an active sensor 440. It is switched off after the hand is removed or after a specified time. At the same time, communication with the door opener 420 takes place in the manner described above.

[0268] It is also possible for a person to be visually guided to the hand dryer 418 after the soap dispenser 410 when the trash can 414 is full. In this case, there is also no visual visualization of the towel dispenser 412.

[0269] As can be seen from Fig. 11, the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420 are connected to a storage device 422 in order to transmit and store data of the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420, be it with regard to the function of the devices 410, 412, 414, 418, 420, be it according to the scope of use, in order to forward corresponding data to a service center in particular via a cloud 430 in order to carry out service activities in the washroom on the devices 410 and / or 412 and / or 414 and / or 418 and / or 420.

[0270] Based on the teachings of the invention, it is possible to integrate additional devices, such as fragrance dispensers and one or more flushing systems, into the network. In this case, a person is not guided to a fragrance dispenser, for example, since the fragrance dispenser can be activated, for example, depending on the flushing system.

[0271] It is also possible to first initiate the visual guidance to a facility with a flush when entering the washroom, and then to guide the person through the washroom in the sequence soap dispenser, towel dispenser, trash can or hand dryer, door opener.

[0272] The easy integration of the devices is possible due to the mesh network and the wireless connection of the nodes of the network.

[0273] The washroom can have several devices performing the same function, such as towel dispensers, soap dispensers, etc. Should one of these devices fail, the nearest device with the same function is activated as the device to be used, based on the teachings of the invention. This optimizes the route.

[0274] The teachings of the invention will also be explained using the following exemplary embodiments. For example, in a washroom accessible through two doors, there are three sinks, each of which is assigned a soap dispenser and a hand dryer. Thus, according to the previously configured parameters, the soap dispenser of a sink is highlighted for the user, both visually and acoustically. After the soap dispenser has been used, the primarily assigned paper dispenser—in practice, the one with the shortest walking distance, i.e., directly next to the washbasin—is activated.

[0275] It's possible to have the towel dispenser illuminated only to provide guidance, to have a pre-rolled paper section ready for use after washing, or to have the guidance through the washroom continue visually and / or acoustically after a section is torn off, to name just a few examples. Any combination can be configured via parameterization.

[0276] Since it's up to the user to choose which door to use to exit the room, if there's a trash can in each exit area, each of them will be illuminated and / or opened to allow used paper to be deposited. Once a trash can is used, the trash can lights will be reset. Of course, soap and towel dispensers will no longer be visually or acoustically highlighted.

[0277] In the event of an error, for example, if the nearest paper dispenser runs out of consumables, the nearest paper dispenser is activated. The "spare devices" are activated according to a failsafe list.

[0278] Although the teaching of the invention has been explained with reference to a washroom or sanitary room, this does not limit the invention. Work processes in trades or industry or even targeted tours in sales outlets can also be implemented on the basis of the teaching of the invention. A further independent invention relating to a fragrance dispenser 500 will be explained with reference to Fig. 13. The fragrance dispenser 500 has a housing 502 in which a filter cassette 504 with filter 506, an air conveying device 508 and a cassette 510 with a medium to which a fragrance is supplied are arranged one above the other. This fragrance evaporates or evaporates due to the air flowing through the housing 502 in the direction of arrows 514, 516. The air first flows through the filter 506 and is cleaned, in order to then flow through the medium releasing the fragrance, particularly in the form of a fleece.

[0279] In order to release a fragrance, a fragrance reservoir, such as a bottle 518, is located in particular in the housing 502, from which the fragrance is released drop by drop onto the fleece by means of a pump 520, such as a hose roller pump, via lines not shown, such as hoses.

[0280] With regard to the commissioning of the fragrance dispenser 500 and the possibility of bidirectional communication with a control unit, reference is made to the explanations in connection with Figs. 9 and 10 and the invention underlying them, the features of which can be applied accordingly to the fragrance dispenser 500.

[0281] Thus, the housing 502 can have a cuboid shape, with side walls formed by metal sheets that can be plugged together. The side walls can contain slots, holes, or similar features for securing the filter cassette 504 and the cassette 510. The same applies to the mounting plate 522 for the axial fan 508.

[0282] Accordingly, the bottle 518 and the pump 520 can be connected to one of the side walls. Reference symbols:

Claims

Patent claims 1. Drying device (10, 100) for an object, in particular a hand drying device, comprising a device housing (12, 112), the interior space (38) of which is delimited by top, bottom, front and side walls (14, 114, 16, 116, 18, 118, 20, 120), a heating device (52) arranged in the device housing, a filter device (84), an air conveying device (40), a first opening (24) passing through the bottom wall for air to flow through to dry the object and a second opening (36) which is connected to the first opening via the air conveying device, characterized in that an inner housing (34) which is sealed or substantially sealed with respect to the first opening (24) is arranged in the device housing (12, 112), in which inner housing the heating device (52), the air conveying device (40) and the filter device (84) are arranged one above the other.

2. Drying device according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating device (52) is arranged on the bottom wall side and the filter device (84) is arranged remote from the bottom in the inner housing (34).

3. Drying device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the device housing (14, 114) can be closed at the rear via a rear wall (30, 130) to which the housing (12, 112) is pivotally connected.

4. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second opening (36) extends on the bottom wall side, in particular is delimited by the bottom wall (14, 114) and the rear wall (30, 130).

5. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the heating device (82) is a slatted heater, in particular a PTC slatted heater with slats running in the air flow direction with a surface area which is at least equal to or approximately equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening (24), wherein the heating device is controlled in particular via a thyristor circuit.

6. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inner housing (34) is designed such that it can be detachably connected to the rear wall (30, 130), in particular can be suspended in an inwardly recessed section (31).

7. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a passive first sensor (90) detecting heat radiation is located in the front area of ​​the device housing (12, 112).

8. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drying device, in particular in the bottom wall area, has at least one active second sensor (92), such as an IR sensor, which detects a movement of the object and via which both the air conveying device (40) and the heating device (52) can be activated.

9. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the device housing (12, 112) has a housing part (230) which runs at a distance from the first opening (24), which has a housing part bottom wall (214) and housing part side walls (216, 218) which delimit a drying space (232) for the object which is open at the front.

10. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing part (230) is detachably connected, in particular by displacement transversely to the rear wall (130), to the side walls (116, 118) of the device housing (112), that the housing part (230) is preferably designed as a pull-out element which can be closed at the rear by an intermediate housing wall (242) running parallel to the rear wall (130), and that air to be sucked in can preferably flow through the space between the rear wall and the intermediate housing wall.

11. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axial fan as the air conveying device (40) can be a diagonal fan.

12. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing part bottom wall (214) below the first opening (24) has a receptacle (238) for moisture, such as liquid.

13. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an insert which absorbs the moisture or liquid is removably arranged in the receptacle (238).

14. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by means of the first sensor (90) a first light source present in or on the drying device (10, 100), such as LED or LEDs, in particular multi-color LEDs, which emit radiation in a first wavelength range.

15. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by means of the second sensor (92) a second light source present in or on the drying device (10, 100), in particular in the region of the bottom wall (14, 114) of the device housing (12, 112), or the first light source can be activated, which emits radiation in a wavelength range that deviates from the first wavelength range.

16. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after the object has been detected by the second sensor (92) and the object has then been removed, the second sensor activates a further radiation source, such as LED or LEDs, in particular multi-color LEDs, and / or the first and / or the second radiation source, which emits radiation in a wavelength range that deviates from the first and the second wavelength range.

17. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that air exiting via the first opening (24) is aromatized.

18. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter device (84) contains at least one filter from the group of activated carbon filter, coarse filter, fine filter, particulate matter filter (HEPA), high-performance particle filter (EPA), high-performance particulate matter filter (ULPA).

19. Drying device according to preferably at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that a control unit (82) is arranged in the device housing (10, 100) and the filter device (84) contains at least one storage element, wherein when the filter device is inserted into the inner housing (34) the control unit can be coupled to the storage element via a bidirectional communication connection.

20. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (82) is designed to read filter device-specific information from the storage element and to store use-specific information of the filter device in the storage element.

21. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter device-specific information is at least one piece of information, preferably several pieces of information, from the group of manufacturer of the filter device (84), serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, air flow rate, in particular maximum permissible air flow rate (saturation).

22. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the use-specific information is an air flow rate and / or operating time calculated from the speed of the air conveying device and its running time by means of the control unit (82) or is an aging of the filter device (84) which is estimated by means of an observer (Luenberger, Kalman) from measured data in a model-based manner using a physical filter / fan model.

23. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (82) is designed to read the use-specific information in the form of the air volume flowing through the filter device (84) and the filter-specific information in the form of the maximum permissible air volume from the storage element and to compare them with one another, and that when a threshold value of the air volume flowing through is reached, operation of the filter device deactivated and / or a message such as a signal, in particular a warning signal, is generated.

24. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication connection is an I 2 C interface.

25. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (82) is designed to read a code stored in the memory element and to compare it with a code stored in the control unit, wherein if the codes match, the filter device is enabled to operate.

26. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter device (84) has a filter cassette (64), that the filter cassette has a frame in which the storage element with electrical contacts is arranged, that the receptacle for the filter cassette has electrical contacts which, when the filter cassette is properly inserted, are connected to corresponding contacts of the control unit (82).

27. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter device (84) or the filters are interchangeably accommodated in the filter cassette (64).

28. Drying device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic storage element is designed such that the consumption-specific information or information is or are deleted or reset after replacement or regeneration of the filter device (84) or the filter.

29. A method for operating a drying device (10, 100) for an object, preferably according to at least claim 1, in particular a hand drying device, comprising a device housing (12, 112), the interior space (38) of which is delimited by top, bottom, front and side walls (14, 114, 16, 116, 18, 118, 20, 120), a heating device (52) arranged in the device housing, a filter device (84), an air conveying device (40), a first opening (24) passing through the bottom wall for the flow of air for drying the object and a second opening (36) which is connected to the first opening via the air conveying device, characterized in that the air flowing through the drying device (10, 100) is guided in such a way that it flows via the second opening (36) into an inner housing which is sealed or substantially sealed with respect to the first opening (24). (34) enters, in which the filter device (84) is arranged one above the other,the air conveying device in the form of an axial fan (40) and the heating device (52) are arranged, and then exits from the first opening., 30. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that a bidirectional communication connection is formed between a storage element integrated in the filter device (84) and a control unit (82) arranged in the interior space such that at least one item of filter device-specific information is read from the storage element by the control unit and at least one item of use-specific information for the filter device is stored in the storage element.

31. Method according to claim 29 or 30, characterized in that at least one piece of information, preferably several pieces of information from the group of manufacturer of the filter device (84), serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, air flow rate, in particular maximum permissible air flow rate (saturation), is selected as use-specific information.

32. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 29 to 31, characterized in that usage-specific information from one or more filters of the filter device (84) is deleted or reset after replacement or regeneration of the latter.

33. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 29 to 32, characterized in that the memory element or an electronic chip containing it is provided with a coding which is read by the control unit when the filter device (84) is inserted into the inner housing and is compared with a stored coding, wherein, in the event of a match, the operation of the filter device is enabled.

34. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 29 to 33, characterized in that the communication is encrypted using a HASH algorithm or symmetrically, e.g. by means of one or more convolutional codes or using shift register methods / pseudo-random generators, or asymmetrically by exchanging public keys, or by means of shuffling methods.

35. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 29 to 34, characterized in that the filter device (84) is only switched to operational readiness by the control unit (82) when the control unit recognizes the filter device, the filter device has the correct coding and the use-specific information of the filter device is below a predetermined threshold value, in particular taking into account the service life of the filter device.

36. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 29 to 35, characterized in that by means of a first sensor (90) present in or on the device housing (12, 112) when detecting thermal radiation, radiation in a first Wavelength range is emitted by a first radiation source present in or on the device housing, that when the object present in the region of the first opening (24) is detected by means of a second sensor (92), the drying device (10, 100) is put into operation and, if appropriate, radiation in a second wavelength range deviating from the first wavelength range is emitted in the region of the first opening, wherein the drying device is optionally only put into operation if thermal radiation has previously been detected by the first sensor.

37. Method according to at least claim 29, wherein the device housing (12) has a space (232) open at the front below the first opening (24) for receiving the object, characterized in that a temperature suitable for disinfection is generated in the space (232) by means of the heating device (52).

38. Method according to claim 37, characterized in that the space (232) is closed during disinfection.

39. Use of a drying device (10, 100) according to at least claim 1 as an air cleaning device and / or additional heating and / or frost protection heating.

40. Device in the form of a hand dryer (340) or an air conditioning device (300, 500) with a receptacle (314, 502) receiving a filter cassette (312, 504) having a filter (310, 506), an air conveying device, such as an axial fan (316, 508), and optionally a heater (318), characterized in that a storage element (324) is assigned to the filter (310), that a control unit (328) is assigned to the storage element, which is designed such that the storage element (324) and the control unit (328) can be coupled bidirectionally via a communication connection, that the control unit (328) provides at least one piece of use-specific information of the filter (310, 506) and that at least one filter-specific information is stored in the memory element (324) assigned to the filter.

41. Device according to claim 40, characterized in that the filter cassette (312) is inserted into the receptacle (314) and has first electrical contacts (326) connected to the storage element (324), and that the receptacle has second electrical contacts (327) which, in the case of a filter cassette suitable for the hand dryer (300), are connected to the first contacts for the possible commissioning of the hand dryer.

42. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (328) is designed to read the at least one item of filter-specific information from the memory element (324) and to store the at least one item of use-specific information of the filter in the memory element.

43. Device according to at least claim 42, characterized in that the filter-specific information is at least one piece of information, preferably several pieces of information, from the group of manufacturer of the filter (310), serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, air flow rate, in particular maximum permissible air flow rate.

44. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one piece of use-specific information is an air flow rate and / or operating time calculated from the speed of the fan (316) and its running time by means of the control unit (328).

45. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (328) is designed to compare the use-specific information in the form of the amount of air flowing through the filter (310) with the amount of air stored in the storage element (324) stored filter-specific information in the form of maximum permissible air volume, wherein when a threshold value of the air flowing through is reached, the operation of the filter is deactivated and / or a message, such as a signal, in particular a warning signal, is generated.

46. ​​Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication connection is an I 2 C interface.

47. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (328) is designed to read a code stored in the memory element (324) and to compare it with a code stored in the control unit, wherein if the codes match, the filter (310) is enabled to operate.

48. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication connection is physical or wireless.

49. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the memory element (324) is designed such that the consumption-specific information or information is or are deleted or reset after replacement or regeneration of the filter (310).

50. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (28) communicates with a cloud.

51. Method for operating a device (340), in particular according to at least claim 40, for filtering gaseous fluids, in particular air, comprising at least one filter (310, 506), a storage element (324) associated with the filter and a control unit (328) between which and the memory element a communication connection is formed, characterized in that the communication connection is formed bidirectionally.

52. Method according to claim 51, characterized in that the filter (310, 506) with the storage element receiving first electrical contacts (326) is arranged in a receptacle (314) having second electrical contacts (327) which are connected to the control unit (328), and that when the first contacts and the second contacts correspond, the device, such as the hand dryer (340), is designed to be put into operation.

53. Method according to at least claim 51 or 52, characterized in that the bidirectional communication connection is designed such that the control unit (328) reads at least one item of filter-specific information from the memory element (324) and stores at least one item of use-specific information for the filter in the memory element.

54. Method according to at least one of claims 51-53, characterized in that at least one piece of information, preferably several pieces of information, is selected as use-specific information from the group consisting of manufacturer of the filter (310, 506), serial number, filter type, filter class, date of manufacture, air flow rate, in particular maximum permissible air flow rate.

55. Method according to at least one of claims 51-54, characterized in that the at least one piece of usage-specific information, preferably all usage-specific information, is / are deleted or reset by the filter (310, 506) after replacing or regenerating it.

56. Method according to at least one of claims 51-55, characterized in that the memory element (324) or an electronic chip containing it is provided with a coding which, when the filter (310, 506) or a filter cassette (312, 504) receiving it is inserted into a receptacle, such as a housing (314, 502), is read by the control unit (328) and compared with a stored coding, wherein, in the event of a match, the operation of the device (300) is enabled.

57. Method according to at least one of claims 51-56, characterized in that the communication is encrypted using a HASH algorithm.

58. Method according to at least one of claims 51-57, characterized in that the filter (310, 506) is only switched to operational readiness by the control unit (328) when the control unit recognizes that the filter has the correct coding and the usage-specific information of the filter is below a predetermined threshold value, in particular one taking into account the service life of the filter.

59. Method according to at least one of claims 51-58, characterized in that the use-specific information or information is or are continuously stored in the storage element (324) during operation of the device (300, 500).

60. Method according to at least one of claims 51 - 59, characterized in that the coding comprises a device compatibility key and / or a manufacturer key.

61. Method according to at least one of claims 51 - 60, characterized in that that the usage-specific information is an air quantity flowing through the filter (310, 506), which is calculated from the speed of the fan and the running time of the fan (316), and that the calculated air quantity is compared with a filter-specific maximum air quantity read from the memory element, wherein when a threshold value is exceeded or the maximum permissible air quantity is reached, a message is generated and / or the operation of the filter is deactivated.

62. A method for guiding a person to facilities to be used in a sequence, in particular facilities of a washroom, wherein at least some of the facilities (410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422) each have at least one sensor for triggering a function of a facility and optionally lighting means, wherein a facility (410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422) triggering or executing a function is connected to one of a mesh network (428), characterized in that the facility triggering or executing a function is a node of the mesh network, that the nodes are programmed in such a way that functions are triggered and / or executed exclusively in the sequence of the facilities (410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422) to be used, wherein in the event of failure of a facility or its use being impossible or impossible, the facility is disregarded in the sequence.

63. Method according to claim 62, characterized in that at least one device (410, 412, 418) is used which is used without operator intervention by the person.

64. Method according to claim 62 or 63, characterized in that the lighting means (416) is assigned to the device (410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422) or is integrated therein in such a way that the device to be used is visually highlighted from the other devices.

65. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 64, characterized in that, in order to trigger a function in the device (410, 412), a first active sensor (434) is integrated in a device (10) arranged upstream of the device (412) in the sequence.

66. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 65, characterized in that when a device (410, 412) is used, the lighting means (416) of a device (412, 414, 418) to be used subsequently is activated and, if necessary, a function of the device is triggered.

67. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 66, characterized in that at least one of the devices (412) is assigned a passive sensor (432), such as a passive infrared sensor, via which the illumination means (416) of the device (410) to be used first and integrated in the mesh network is activated for visually highlighting the latter.

68. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 67, characterized in that all devices performing and / or triggering a function communicate with each other and are linked via a control logic in such a way that the sequence of the devices is ensured.

69. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 68, characterized in that one device (412) is a dispenser of material and another device (414) is a receptacle for the material, that when the material is removed from the dispenser the receptacle for the material is made visually visible and accessible, and that after the material has been introduced into the receptacle the receptacle is closed.

70. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 69, characterized in that that a soap dispenser is formed as a first device (410), a towel dispenser (412) as the dispenser of the material or a hand drying device (418) is formed as a second device and, in the presence of the towel dispenser, a waste container (414) is formed as the receptacle as a third device.

71. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62-70, characterized in that at least one of the devices, preferably several of the devices, are provided with a sensor by means of which the proper functioning of the device and / or consumption of material of the device and / or use of the device are determined and after determining lack of proper functioning and / or reaching a predetermined threshold value, a signal is stored and then sent to a service device.

72. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 71, characterized in that at least some of the devices (410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422) are parameterized by means of a mobile terminal.

73. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62-72, characterized in that the devices (410, 412, 414, 418, 420, 422) are parameterized flexibly in such a way that, of several possible functionally identical devices, the spatially closest device is optically highlighted and / or activated.

74. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 62 - 73, characterized in that at least two devices from the group consisting of soap dispenser, towel dispenser, hand drying device, fragrance dispenser, waste bin, room fan, thermostat are selected as devices (410, 412, 414, 418, 420).

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