Mixing installation for fluid mixtures, educt container, product container and mixing system therewith

Abstract

A mixing plant (1) for the production of fluid mixtures for use, comprising a reactant vessel (30) having a first coding (31) and a product vessel (40) having a second coding (41), wherein the mixing plant (1) comprises: a solvent connection (2), a dispensing valve (3), a mixing tube (4), at least one reactant intake (10), each reactant intake (10) comprising a reactant connection (11), a conveying device (12) and a reactant line (13); and a control unit (5), wherein the mixing plant (1) further comprises a detection device (6, 7) which is configured to detect the first coding (31) of the feed container (30) and / or the second coding (41) of the product container (40) as a coding signal, and wherein the control unit (5) is configured to perform the control of the output valve (3) and / or the conveying device (12) based on the coding signal.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a mixing plant for the production of fluid mixtures, in particular cleaning agent solutions, a feed container for fluids, in particular cleaning agent components, for use with the mixing plant, and product containers for fluid mixtures, in particular cleaning agent solutions, for use with the mixing plant. The invention further relates to a mixing system comprising such a mixing plant, at least one feed container, and one product container.

[0002] Mixing systems for fluid mixtures are commonly known to combine a solvent, typically water, with one or more reactants to form a fluid mixture, the product of the mixing process. However, the use of other solvents is also possible. A common approach is to mix concentrated reactants, such as surfactants, acids, alkalis, or the like, in a predetermined ratio within a mixing system and then dilute them with a solvent, such as water, to a predetermined concentration. For this purpose, liquid reactants are dispensed from reactant containers into a solvent stream and then into a product container. Such mixing systems, however, require expertise in handling the respective reactants and products, as well as the operation of the reactant and product containers.

[0003] A mixing plant for ready-to-use rinsing solutions is described, for example, in EP 3 026 020 A1. Another mixing plant is known, for example, from WO 2014 / 078883 A2.

[0004] Fluid mixtures produced using conventional methods are typically transported in large-volume product containers from the mixing plant to the respective application site, where they are then transferred into smaller containers for easier handling. This process involves transporting large quantities of solvent, which is added during the dilution of the reactants in the mixing process. For example, the proportion of dilution water in conventional cleaning solutions is approximately 50 to 90%. Therefore, transporting these cleaning solutions involves handling large volumes of water. Furthermore, storage capacity must be provided for the large product containers both at the production site and at the destination.A further disadvantage is that during the transfer process into smaller containers, it cannot be ensured that the receiving containers are properly labelled and marked.

[0005] It is therefore the object of the present invention to propose a mixing system that enables easier and safer operation.

[0006] This problem is solved according to the invention by the mixing plant according to claim 1, the reactant container according to claim 9, the product container according to claim 12, and the mixing system according to claim 15. Preferred embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the mixing system according to the invention for the production of fluid mixtures, in particular cleaning agent solutions, for use with a reactant container having a first coding and a product container having a second coding, comprises the following: a solvent connection which is configured to be connected to a solvent supply; a dispensing valve which is configured to dispense the fluid mixture into the product container; a mixing tube which establishes a flow connection between the solvent connection and the dispensing valve;The mixing system comprises at least one feed inlet, each feed inlet having a feed port configured to connect to the feed container, a conveying device configured to convey a feed fluid from the feed container, and a feed line establishing a flow connection between the feed port, the conveying device, and the mixing tube; and a control unit configured to control the dispensing valve and the conveying device. Furthermore, the mixing system comprises a detection device configured to detect the first coding of the feed container and / or the second coding of the product container as a coding signal, the control unit being configured to perform the control of the dispensing valve and / or the conveying device based on the coding signal.

[0008] The mixing system may have a housing in which the components of the mixing system may be at least partially contained and which may at least partially enclose the components of the mixing system.

[0009] The mixing system is suitable for use with the feed container according to a second aspect of the invention described below and for use with a product container according to a third aspect of the invention described below. Furthermore, the mixing system according to the first aspect of the invention, the feed container according to the second aspect of the invention, and the product container according to the third aspect of the invention together form the mixing system according to a fourth aspect of the invention.

[0010] The solvent connection is designed to be connected to the solvent supply. The solvent supply can be, for example, a mains water connection, a line connected to a solvent reservoir (such as a pipe or hose), or the like. Preferably, the solvent supplied by the solvent supply can be pressurized. A mains water connection is particularly preferred. The solvent connection can be formed by a coupling component, such as a hose coupling, a flange, or the like. The solvent connection can be connected to the solvent supply in such a way that a sealing connection is established between the solvent connection and the solvent supply.

[0011] Preferably, the solvent connection includes a pressure reducer. By providing a pressure reducer, the inlet pressure from the solvent supply can be limited using simple means. Furthermore, the solvent connection can include a pressure sensor, which may be configured to measure the applied pressure. The pressure sensor is particularly preferably arranged downstream of the pressure reducer in the flow direction. In addition, the solvent connection may preferably include a proportional valve, which may be configured to adjust the solvent flow rate.

[0012] Furthermore, the mixing system according to the invention includes a mixing tube. The mixing tube is formed, for example, by a hollow cylindrical body, such as a pipe. The mixing tube has, for example, a round cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, or the like. The mixing tube can be permeated by a solvent supplied from the solvent feed. The mixing tube functions as a volume through which solvent can flow and into which reactants can be introduced in a solvent stream to produce a fluid mixture of solvent and reactant(s).

[0013] Furthermore, the mixing system includes a dispensing valve. The dispensing valve can be formed by any valve device designed to selectively interrupt a fluid flow. Such a valve device is, for example, a solenoid valve, a shut-off valve, or the like. Preferably, the dispensing valve can have a fluid guide designed to direct the outflowing fluid in sections. Such a fluid guide can be formed, for example, by a nozzle, a section of hose, or the like. By providing a fluid guide, the outflowing fluid can be guided, thus preventing unwanted splashing of fluid during the filling process. Particularly preferably, the fluid guide can be designed such that it projects into a filling opening of the product container.

[0014] The product container can be a fluid receptacle suitable for holding a fluid. Such a receptacle can be, for example, a bottle, a canister, a drum, or the like. Preferably, the product container can be made of plastic, glass, metal, or the like. The product container can have a filling opening. Preferably, the filling opening is located on the top of the product container. Particularly preferably, the filling opening can be closed by a suitable closure device. Such a closure device is, for example, a screw cap, a lid, a stopper, a valve, or the like. Preferably, the product container is suitable for holding cleaning agents.The product container's coding (secondary coding) can be, for example, optical, mechanical, electronic, or similar. For instance, the secondary coding can be provided by an RFID transponder, particularly an NFC chip, or a two-dimensional optical code, particularly a QR code. Providing this secondary coding allows information to be linked to the product container. Furthermore, it enables the mixing system to access this linked information in a way that allows it to be detected.Such information may relate, for example, to the contents of the product container, such as a predetermined mixture of starting materials and solvents, to characteristics of the product container itself, such as container numbers, capacity, container shape or the like, and / or to characteristics of the contents of the product container, such as a batch number, a manufacturing date, an expiry date, a use-up date, a customer number, a place of manufacture or the like.

[0015] Furthermore, the mixing system has at least one reactant inlet. However, the mixing system can also have two, three, four, or any other number of reactant inlets. In a preferred embodiment, the mixing system can have five reactant inlets. Each reactant inlet has a reactant connection, a conveying device, and a reactant line. The reactant connection establishes the connection to a reactant container. The reactant connection ensures that reactant fluid can be conveyed from the reactant container. A reactant connection can, for example, be formed by a hose or a pipe that projects into an opening of the reactant container. It is also conceivable that a reactant connection is formed by a connectable element, such as a hose coupling, which can be connected to a counterpart arranged on the reactant container. The conveying device can, for example, be a pump that conveys a fluid from the reactant container.Preferably, the pumping device can be a hose pump or a peristaltic pump. The reactant port and the pumping device are connected to the mixing tube via the reactant line. In other words, fluid pumped by the pumping device can flow from the reactant port through the reactant line to the mixing tube and enter it. The flow of reactant into the solvent stream in the mixing tube ensures thorough mixing of the reactant fluid(s) and solvent.

[0016] The reactant container can be a fluid receptacle suitable for holding a fluid. Such a container can be, for example, a bottle, a canister, a drum, or the like. Preferably, the reactant container can be made of plastic, glass, metal, or the like. The reactant container can have a filling opening. Preferably, the filling opening can be located on the top of the reactant container. Particularly preferably, the filling opening can be closed by a suitable closure device. Such a closure device can be, for example, a screw cap, a lid, a stopper, a valve, or the like. Preferably, the reactant container can be suitable for holding components of cleaning agents, such as acids, alkalis, complexing agents, dispersants, solvents, surfactants, or the like.The coding of the feed container (first coding) can, for example, be optical, mechanical, electronic, or similar. For instance, the first coding can be provided by an RFID transponder, particularly an NFC chip, or a two-dimensional optical code, particularly a QR code. Providing the first coding enables the association of information with the feed container. Furthermore, providing the mixing plant with this associated information allows it to be detected by the mixing plant.Such information may relate, for example, to the contents of the starting material container, to characteristics of the starting material container itself, such as container numbers, capacity, container shape or the like, and / or to characteristics of the contents of the starting material container, such as a batch number, a manufacturing date, an expiry date, a use-up date, a customer number, a place of manufacture or the like.

[0017] The control unit is designed to control the conveying device and the dispensing valve. To this end, the control unit can selectively control the conveying device, switching it between a conveying state and a non-conveying state. Furthermore, the control unit can selectively control the dispensing valve, switching it between an open state and a closed state. Such a control unit can be implemented, for example, by a microprocessor, a programmable logic controller (PLC), or similar device. The control unit can be connected to the conveying device and the dispensing valve, for example, via a wired or wireless connection. The control unit can also include a memory unit configured to store data for later retrieval.Furthermore, the control unit may include a communication device configured to establish a communication link with another device. Such a communication device could, for example, be a modem. The control unit may also include an output device, such as a screen, a speaker, or the like, and / or an input device, such as a button, a keyboard, a microphone, or the like. It is also conceivable that the control unit includes a combined input / output device, such as a touchscreen.

[0018] The mixing system also includes a detection device. This device is designed to detect the first code on the feed container and / or the second code on the product container as a coding signal. Detection of the first and / or second code can occur through mechanical interaction between the detection device and the respective code. For example, the first and / or second code could be a mechanical marking, such as an indentation, a pattern of indentations, or the like, and the detection device could have a sensor capable of detecting such a mechanical marking. It is also conceivable that the detection of the first and / or second code could occur without physical contact.For example, the first and / or second encoding can be an optical encoding, such as a QR code, and the detection device can include a camera capable of capturing the image of the QR code. Alternatively, the first and / or second encoding can be an NFC chip, and the detection device can include an NFC receiver capable of reading the NFC chip. The detection device can have one means for detecting the first and / or second encoding, or it can have multiple means for detecting the first and / or second encoding. Preferably, the detection device can have one means (reactant detection device) for each reactant receptacle for detecting the first encoding and / or one means (product detection device) for detecting the second encoding.

[0019] The first and / or second encoding is detected as an encoding signal. This signal can contain information resulting from the interaction between the first and / or second encoding and the detection device. For example, the encoding signal can be generated by a voltage increase or current flow during mechanical interaction with a button that closes a circuit. It is also conceivable that the encoding signal contains image information generated by a camera. Furthermore, the encoding signal can also be generated by a digitally coded signal produced when reading an NFC chip. The encoding signal can contain information from multiple first and / or second encodings. Preferably, the detection device can be connected to the control unit via a wired or wireless connection.

[0020] According to the invention, the control unit is configured to execute the control of the dispensing valve and / or the conveying device(s) based on the coding signal. This can be achieved, for example, by assigning a coding signal or part of a coding signal to a specific control of the dispensing valve and / or the conveying device. In this context, a specific control can be understood as the activation of a control mechanism, the activation of a control mechanism for a specific duration, or the like. For example, based on a coding signal, the control unit can activate various conveying devices for a predetermined duration and activate the dispensing valve for a specific duration to generate a predetermined volume of a fluid mixture.

[0021] By enabling interaction between the mixing system and the feedstock and / or product container, the respective containers can communicate directly with the mixing system, thus facilitating information exchange. This allows, for example, the output of work instructions to the mixing system. This can be achieved, for instance, via a second code on a product container, containing information regarding the desired fluid mixture and the container's fill level. The required feedstock can also be derived from this information. By detecting initial codes, it can then be determined, for example, whether the necessary feedstocks are present in the mixing system.The direct interaction of the first and / or second coding with the control system, based on the coding signal, simplifies the operation of the mixing plant and avoids potential safety-related errors that can occur during operation. This reduces the need for skilled personnel to operate the mixing plant and allows it to be operated decentrally, for example, directly at the point of use of the fluid mixtures. This eliminates the need to transport ready-to-use fluid mixtures and the associated increased carbon dioxide emissions.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the detection device can be configured to detect both the first and second coding. Providing such a detection device makes it possible to detect both the first and second coding, thus deriving information from both the feed container(s) and the product container. This allows for control of the dispensing valve and / or the conveying device(s) based on the first and second coding.

[0023] Preferably, the control unit can be configured to compare the coding signal with at least one predefined reference coding information. This reference coding information can, for example, be stored in a memory unit of the control unit and loaded from the memory unit for comparison. The reference coding information can, for example, contain a portion of a coding signal or a part thereof. By comparing the coding signal to a reference coding, the control unit of the mixing plant can recognize a specific first coding and / or second coding by comparing it with the reference coding information and, based on this, control the output valve and / or the conveying device(s).

[0024] In one embodiment, the control of the dispensing valve and / or the conveying device(s) can only occur if the coding signal matches one of the at least one reference coding information. The additional requirement that the coding signal matches one of the stored reference coding information ensures that the dispensing valve and / or the conveying device(s) can only be controlled if a previously stored reference coding information matches the coding signal and thus the first coding and / or the second coding. Such a comparison allows differentiation between those first codings and / or second codings whose derived coding signal is identified as known during the comparison and those whose derived coding signal is not identified as known during the comparison.Such discrimination can prevent the use of unauthorized or undesired product containers and / or feedstock containers.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, each reactant receptacle can have a reactant detection device configured to detect the first code only within the area of ​​the respective reactant receptacle. Such a limitation of the detection range can be achieved, for example, by limiting the transmission power of the reactant detection device. The advantage of such an arrangement is that a reactant container inserted into a reactant receptacle can be uniquely assigned to that receptacle based on its first code. This reliably prevents the unintentional exchange of reactant containers in the mixing plant. Consequently, operational safety is increased.

[0026] In one embodiment, the at least one reference coding information can have an assignment to a specific reactant receptacle. This assignment to a specific reactant receptacle allows it to be determined whether a first coding of a reactant container inserted into a reactant receptacle matches a reference coding information for that reactant receptacle. This enables discrimination between permissible and impermissible reactants for each reactant receptacle.

[0027] Furthermore, it is preferred that if a match is found with at least one reference coding information, this reference coding information is no longer considered in a subsequent comparison. Disregarding reference coding information can be achieved, for example, by adding an attribute to the reference coding information, deleting the reference coding information, or a similar operation. By consuming reference coding information after a successful comparison, it is possible to ensure that a feed container and / or product container can only be used once in the mixing system. This, for example, prevents feed containers from having to be manually refilled after the feed fluid has been used up and then reinserted into the mixing system.Furthermore, it can be avoided, for example, that product containers intended for single use are used multiple times.

[0028] In one embodiment, reference coding information consumed during a comparison can be re-stored so that it can be considered again in a subsequent comparison. By re-enabling previously consumed reference coding information in this way, it is possible to release a previously used feedstock container and / or product container for use again in the mixing plant.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the mixing system can include a level sensing device configured to determine the fill level of the product container, and the control unit can be configured to control the dispensing valve and / or the conveying device based on the fill level. A level sensing device can be, for example, an optical sensor such as a camera, a photodiode, or the like, a conductivity sensor, or the like. The level sensing device can be connected to the control unit via a wired or wireless connection. By sensing the fill level of the product container, it can be ensured that the product container is only filled when it has not yet exceeded its maximum fill level.Furthermore, it can be prevented that the product container is filled when it has already reached or exceeded its maximum fill level. This reliably prevents overfilling of the product container.

[0030] Preferably, the level sensing device includes a scale configured to measure the weight of the product container, and the control unit can be configured to determine the product container's fill level based on the coding signal and the container's weight. The control unit may derive information from the coding signal, for example, by comparing it to a reference coding information that includes the product container's empty weight. By comparing the empty weight of the product container with the weight determined by the scale, the current fill level of the product container can be ascertained.In a preferred embodiment, the control unit can derive information from the coding signal, for example by comparing it with reference coding information that includes the density of the fluid mixture in the product container. This additional information about the density of the fluid mixture in the product container allows for a highly precise determination of the volume already present in the product container and the volume that can still be added to reach a maximum fill level.

[0031] Furthermore, it is preferred that the control unit be configured to determine the fill level of at least one reactant container based on the coding signal and the control of the conveying device. The control unit may derive information from the coding signal, for example, by comparing it with reference coding information that includes the fill quantity of the at least one reactant container. The fill level can be determined, for example, by considering the fill quantity and consumption of the reactant, which can be calculated, for example, from the operating time of the conveying device at a known flow rate (fill quantity minus consumption). Determining the fill quantity of the at least one reactant container can make it possible to ascertain whether the current reactant stock is sufficient for the production of a specific quantity of a specific fluid mixture.Furthermore, determining the fill level can provide an early indication that a feedstock container needs to be replaced. It can also enable the detection of discrepancies between the actual fill level and the calculated fill level.

[0032] In one embodiment, the at least one reactant receptacle can have at least one partition. Such a partition can be arranged in such a way that the reactant receptacle is spatially separated from other reactant receptacles and / or other areas of the mixing system. Providing such a partition can reduce the accessibility of the reactant receptacle(s) and can therefore make contact between different reactants more difficult.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the control unit can request a release command from the output device before initiating control of the output valve and / or the conveying device(s). Control of the output valve and / or conveying device(s) can only be executed if the release command has been acknowledged via the input device. A release command can be implemented, for example, by a message on a screen specifying a fluid mixture and volume and requesting release. Acknowledgement of the release command can be implemented, for example, by pressing a button, selecting an element in a graphical user interface, or the like. By providing a query and confirmation process, it can be ensured that a fluid mixture cannot be unintentionally produced by the mixing system.

[0034] In one embodiment, the at least one reactant intake can further comprise a collection basin designed to completely contain the filling volume of the reactant container. Such a collection basin can, for example, be arranged below the reactant container. The collection basin preferably comprises a grid element that is spaced from the bottom of the collection basin by feet. By providing a collection basin, it can be ensured that even in the event of a defect in a reactant container, no reactant fluid escapes from the reactant intake and thus from the mixing system. Furthermore, it can be ensured that uncontrolled mixing of reactants is prevented.

[0035] In one embodiment, the mixing system can also include a flushing valve, which can be arranged between the feed port and the discharge valve, and the control unit can be configured to selectively perform a cleaning routine by actuating the flushing valve to open it. Performing the cleaning routine ensures that residues of a fluid mixture are flushed out of the mixing tube. For example, a cleaning routine can be performed after the production of a fluid mixture is complete. It is also conceivable that a cleaning routine can be performed after the production of several identical fluid mixtures.

[0036] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a feed container for fluids, in particular cleaning agent components, for use with the mixing system according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the feed container has a first encoding. Preferably, the feed container can have a capacity of 10 liters to 30 liters, particularly preferably 20 liters. Preferably, the first encoding comprises an optical encoding, a mechanical encoding, and / or an electronic encoding. According to a preferred embodiment, the first encoding can comprise an RFID transponder, in particular an NFC chip, and / or a two-dimensional optical encoding, in particular a QR code. For a further description of the features of the feed container and the advantages associated with these features, reference is made to the above descriptions in connection with the first aspect of the present invention.

[0037] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a product container for fluid mixtures, in particular cleaning agent solutions, for use with the mixing system according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the product container has a second coding system. Preferably, the product container can have a capacity of 1 liter to 5 liters. Preferably, the second coding system can be optical, mechanical, and / or electronic. According to a preferred embodiment, the second coding system can be an RFID transponder, in particular an NFC chip, and / or a two-dimensional optical coding system, in particular a QR code. For a further description of the features of the product container and the advantages associated with these features, reference is made to the above descriptions in connection with the first aspect of the present invention.

[0038] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a mixing system comprising the mixing plant according to the first aspect of the invention, at least one reactant container according to the second aspect of the invention and a product container according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0039] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to an exemplary embodiment and the drawing. All features described and / or illustrated, individually or in any combination, constitute the subject matter of the invention, irrespective of their compilation in the claims or their cross-references.

[0040] They show schematically: Figure 1 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of the mixing system according to the invention; Figure 2 shows a view of the front of the embodiment of the mixing system; Figure 3 shows a view of the top of the in Fig. 2The mixing system shown with the section plane E; Figure 4 a top view of the section plane E; and Figure 5 a schematic block diagram of the embodiment of the mixing system.

[0041] In Fig. 1Figure 1 schematically shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of the mixing system according to the invention. The solvent connection 2 is sealedly connected to a solvent supply 70. The solvent supply 70 is formed by a fixed water connection. The solvent connection 2 and the solvent supply 70 each have a coupling element that is sealedly connected to each other. The solvent connection 2 has a pressure reducer 21, a pressure sensor 22, and a proportional valve 23 in the direction of flow (the flow direction extends from the solvent supply 70 towards the dispensing valve 3). The solvent connection 2 opens into the mixing tube 4. The mixing tube 4 is designed as a hollow cylindrical metal tube and extends in the direction of flow.

[0042] Five reactant lines 13 are connected in series to the mixing tube 4 in the direction of flow. Each reactant line 13 is part of a reactant intake 10. Each reactant intake 10 has a collection basin 14, a reactant connection 11, and a conveying device 12. A reactant container 30 is also arranged in the collection basin 14 of each reactant intake 10. The reactant container 30 is a plastic canister with a capacity of 20 liters. The reactant container 30 has a substantially cuboid shape. The reactant container 30 has an opening at the top that can be closed with a screw cap. The collection basin 14 has a substantially cuboid shape with an open top. The collection basin 14 has a capacity of, for example, 25 liters. The reactant connection 11 is designed as a screw cap that is screwed onto a thread located at the opening of the reactant container 30.Furthermore, the reactant port 11 has a suction lance that extends into the reactant container 30 and terminates near the bottom of the reactant container 30. The suction lance ensures reliable intake of reactant fluid even when the reactant container 30 is low. The reactant line 13 establishes a flow connection between the reactant port 11 and the mixing tube 4. A pumping device 12 is arranged between the reactant port 11 and the point where the reactant line 13 enters the mixing tube 4. The pumping device 12 is, for example, designed as a peristaltic pump. The peristaltic pump can draw in reactant fluid via the suction lance and pump it towards the mixing tube 4. The peristaltic pump is preferably wired to the control unit 5 and can be controlled by the control unit 5. For clarity, the diagram shows... Fig. 1The control unit 5 and connections to the control unit 5 are not shown. Each of the five input receivers 10 is constructed as described above.

[0043] Downstream of the mixing tube 4, a changeover valve 60 is arranged. The changeover valve 60 is designed as a 3 / 2-way valve, which can selectively connect the mixing tube 4 to the output valve 3 or the mixing tube 4 to an outlet 61. The changeover valve 60 is wired to the control unit 5 and can be switched between the two described switching positions by the control unit.

[0044] Further downstream of the changeover valve 60, in the direction of flow, is the dispensing valve 3. The dispensing valve 3 is designed as a solenoid valve that can be either open or closed. In the open position, fluid can exit the dispensing valve 3 in the direction of flow. In the closed position, no fluid exits the dispensing valve 3. The dispensing valve 3 is preferably connected to the control unit 5 by a wire and can be switched between the two described positions by the control unit. The dispensing valve 3 also has a nozzle 19 that concentrates and directs the exiting fluid. The nozzle 19 extends into the product container 40 located below it, thus preventing splashing of the exiting fluid. The product container 40 is held in a product collection basin 18, which is designed as a drip tray with a capacity of 2 liters.The product collection basin 18 has a drain that is connected via a hose to a drain canister 18a. The drain canister 18a collects the fluid mixture that flows from the product collection basin 18 into the drain canister 18a. A scale 17 is arranged in the product collection basin 18 and measures the weight of the product container 40 located on the scale 17. The product container 40 is designed as a substantially cuboid plastic canister with a capacity of, for example, 1 or 5 liters. The product container 40 has a filling opening on its top, which can be closed with a screw cap.

[0045] Each of the reactant containers 30 has a self-adhesive label on one side of the canister, which contains a first code 31. The first code 31 is designed as an NFC chip, which is arranged in an intermediate layer of the self-adhesive label. Furthermore, each reactant receptacle 10 is assigned a reactant detection device 6. The reactant detection device 6 is, for example, designed as an NFC receiver that can read an NFC chip arranged on a reactant container 30. Each reactant detection device 6 can only read one NFC chip that is located in its assigned reactant receptacle 10. The product container 40 has a self-adhesive label on one side of the canister, which contains a second code 41. The second code 41 is, for example, designed as an NFC chip, which is arranged in an intermediate layer of the self-adhesive label.Furthermore, a product detection device 7 is located in close proximity to the product collection basin 18. The product detection device 7 is designed as an NFC receiver that can read an NFC chip located on a product container 40.

[0046] In Fig. 2Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a mixing system 100 according to the invention in a frontal view. For clarity, the product container 40 has been omitted from the illustration to show the components behind it. The mixing system 100 comprises a mixing unit 1, which has a cuboid housing 24. In the lower right half of the housing 24, two feed receptacles 10 are arranged on the front, each containing a feed container 30. A cover 25 is arranged over the feed containers 30. Furthermore, the dispensing valve 3 and the nozzle 19 are arranged in the left half of the housing. Below the nozzle 19, the product detection device 7, designed as an NFC receiver, is arranged. Below the product detection device 7, the scale 17 is arranged. At the upper left end of the housing 24, a combined input and output device 54, 55 in the form of a touchscreen is arranged.

[0047] From above, the Fig. 3 Three further reactant intakes 10 are visible, arranged side by side along the rear of the mixing unit 1. The reactant intakes 10 are separated from each other by partitions 15. Furthermore, the reactant containers 30 held in the reactant intakes 10 are arranged on a grid element 16 located in the collection basin 14. The grid element 16 has four feet that space the upper grid of the grid element 16 away from the bottom of the collection basin 14. In a central section between the two front reactant intakes 10 and the three rear reactant intakes 10, the solvent connection 2, the pressure sensor 22, the proportional valve 23, the mixing tube 4, and the switching valve 60 are arranged. Five conveying devices 12 are arranged along the mixing tube 4 in the direction of flow.

[0048] The in the Fig. 4 top view shown of the in Fig. 3The drawn section plane E further shows two educt detection devices 6, each arranged behind the two front educt receptacles 10.

[0049] Fig. 5Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of the embodiment of the mixing system 100. The control unit 5 comprises a processor 51, a memory unit 51, a modem 53, an input device 54, and an output device 55. The processor 51 is bidirectionally connected to each of these components. The memory unit 51 is, for example, configured as non-volatile flash memory. The modem 53 is, for example, configured as an LTE modem. The input device 54 and the output device 55 are combined to form a touchscreen. Furthermore, the processor 51 of the memory unit 5 is bidirectionally connected to each of the five feed units 12 of the feed hoppers 10, the output valve 3, the five feed detection units 6, the product detection unit 7, the scale 17, the switching valve 60, and the pressure sensor 22. A second encoding 41 is assigned to the product detection unit 7.The interaction between the second encoding 41, designed as an NFC chip, and the product detection device 7, designed as an NFC receiver, occurs wirelessly (dashed line). Likewise, the interaction between the first encodings 31, each designed as an NFC chip, and the respective reactant detection devices 6, each designed as an NFC receiver, occurs wirelessly (dashed line).

[0050] The following example illustrates the mixing process of a fluid mixture using the example in Fig. 1The flow diagram shown describes the process. Solvent inlet 2 is connected to solvent inlet 70. Pressurized water is supplied to the mixing unit 1 via solvent inlet 2. The inlet pressure 21 is limited by pressure reducer 21, and the flow rate is adjusted by proportional valve 23. Opening the outlet valve 3 allows water to flow through the mixing tube 4. A specific quantity of each reactant fluid is dispensed into the mixing tube 4 by actuating the peristaltic pumps 12. The reactant fluids and water mix in the mixing tube to form a fluid mixture. After passing through the mixing tube 4, the fluid mixture exits through outlet valve 3 and flows into the product container 40. Closing outlet valve 3 stops the dispensing of the fluid mixture and the flow through the mixing tube 4. A cleaning routine can then be performed optionally.For this purpose, the diverter valve 60 is controlled in such a way that a connection is established between the mixing tube 4 and the outlet 61. The diverter valve 60 is then switched again when a quantity of water has exited the outlet 61 that corresponds approximately to the volume of the mixing tube 4.

[0051] The following refers to the Figures 1 to 5The detection of product containers 40 and reactant containers 30, as well as the operation of an embodiment of the mixing system 100, is explained. When a reactant container 30 is inserted, the NFC receiver reads the NFC chip of the reactant container 30. The NFC receiver reads the NFC chip and receives a coding signal. The coding signal contains various pieces of information, including the reactant container type, the reactant fluid contained in the reactant container 30, a filling date, a use-by date, a batch number, and an identification number. The coding signal is sent to the control unit 5 and processed there. Similarly, when a product container 40 is inserted, the NFC receiver reads the NFC chip of the product container 40. The NFC receiver reads the NFC chip and receives a coding signal.The coding signal contains various pieces of information. Among other things, it includes the product container type, the fluid mixture intended for product container 40, and an identification number. The coding signal is sent to control unit 5 and processed there. Control unit 5 checks whether the identification numbers contained in the coding signals match a database of reference coding information. If an identification number matches a reference coding entry, the respective product container 40 or feedstock container 30 is released for use, and the corresponding reference coding entry is no longer considered for future comparisons.If an identification number does not match one of the available reference coding information, the respective product container 40 or reactant container 30 is not released for use. The coding signal from the product detection device 7 contains information about which fluid mixture is to be filled into the product container 40. This coding signal also includes information about the product container type. The control unit 5 processes this information and derives from it which reactants are required and in what quantity. The control unit 5 compares the required reactants with the reactants available in the mixing system 100 based on the initial codings 31 that were read in. If all required reactants are available, the control unit 5 controls the respective conveying devices 12 and the dispensing valve 3 so that the fluid mixture associated with the product container 40 is produced as described above.This ensures that the labeling of the product container matches its contents.

[0052] Before the filling process, the control unit 5 determines the type of the respective product container 40 based on the coding signal. From this, the control unit 5 calculates the empty weight of the product container 40 and the maximum weight of the product container 40 containing the required fluid mixture, in comparison with stored data. Furthermore, the scale 17 measures the weight of the product container 40 before the filling process. Filling only occurs if the current weight of the product container 40 does not exceed the maximum weight. During the filling process, the weight of the product container 40 can be continuously measured, thus preventing the maximum weight from being exceeded. This ensures that the product container 40 is not overfilled. Reference symbol list

[0053] 1 Mixing unit 2 Solvent connection 3 Dispensing valve 4 Mixing tube 5 Control unit 6 Efficient detection device 7 Product detection device 10 Efficient intake 11 Efficient connection 12 Conveyor 13 Efficient line 14 Collection basin 15 Partition 16 Grid element 17 Scale 18 Product collection basin 19 Nozzle 21 Pressure reducer 22 Pressure sensor 23 Proportional valve 24 Housing 25 Cover 30 Efficient container 31 First coding 40 Product container 41 Second coding 51 Processor 52 Storage unit 53 Modem 54 Input device 55 Output device 60 Diverter valve 61 Drain 70 Solvent feed 100 Mixing system

Claims

1. Mixing system (1) for the production of fluid mixtures, in particular cleaning solutions, for use with a reactant vessel (30) having a first coding (31) and a product vessel (40) having a second coding (41), wherein the mixing system (1) comprises: a solvent connection (2) configured to be connected to a solvent (50); a dispensing valve (3) configured to dispense the fluid mixture into the product vessel (40); a mixing tube (4) establishing a flow connection between the solvent connection (2) and the dispensing valve (3);at least one reactant intake (10), each reactant intake (10) comprising a reactant port (11) configured to be connected to the reactant reservoir (30), a conveying device (12) configured to convey a reactant fluid (32) from the reactant reservoir (30), and a reactant line (13) establishing a flow connection between the reactant port (11), the conveying device (12), and the mixing tube (4); and a control unit (5) configured to control the output valve (3) and the conveying device (12); characterized by the fact that the mixing plant (1) further comprises a detection device (6, 7) which is configured to detect the first coding (31) of the feed container (30) and / or the second coding (41) of the product container (40) as a coding signal, and the control unit (5) is configured to perform the control of the output valve (3) and / or the conveying device (12) based on the coding signal.

2. Mixing plant (1) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the detection device (6, 7) is designed to detect the first encoding (31) and the second encoding (41).

3. Mixing plant (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the control unit (5) is configured to compare the coding signal with at least one predefined reference coding information.

4. Mixing plant (1) according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that The control of the output valve (3) and / or the conveying device (12) only takes place if the coding signal matches at least one of the reference coding information.

5. Mixing plant (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by the fact that Then, if a match with at least one reference coding information is found, this reference coding information is no longer taken into account in a subsequent comparison.

6. Mixing plant (1) according to one of claims 2 to 5, characterized by the fact that the mixing plant (1) has a level detection device (17) which is configured to determine the level of the product container (40), and the control unit (5) is configured to control the dispensing valve (3) and / or the conveying device (12) based on the level.

7. Mixing plant (1) according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that the level detection device includes a scale (17) configured to measure the weight of the product container (40), and the control unit (5) is configured to determine the level of the product container (40) based on the coding signal and the weight of the product container (40).

8. Mixing plant (1) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by the fact thatthe control unit (5) is configured to determine the fill level of at least one feed container (30) based on the coding signal and the control of the conveying device (12).

9. Feed container (30) for fluids, in particular cleaning agent components, for use with the mixing system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact that the reactant container (30) has a first coding (31).

10. reactant container (30) according to claim 9, characterized by the fact that the first encoding (31) comprises an optical encoding, a mechanical encoding and / or an electronic encoding.

11. reactant container (30) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by the fact that the first encoding comprises an RFID transponder, in particular an NFC chip, and / or a two-dimensional optical encoding, in particular a QR code.

12. Product container (40) for fluid mixtures, in particular cleaning solutions, for use with the mixing system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact that the product container (40) has a second coding (41).

13. Product container (40) according to claim 12, characterized by the fact that the second coding (41) includes an optical coding, a mechanical coding and / or an electronic coding.

14. Product container (40) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by the fact that the second encoding (41) comprises an RFID transponder, in particular an NFC chip, and / or a two-dimensional optical encoding, in particular a QR code.

15. Mixing system (100) for the production of fluid mixtures, in particular cleaning solutions, comprising the mixing system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, at least one reactant container (30) according to one of claims 9 to 11 and a product container (40) according to one of claims 12 to 14.

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