Container, device and method for making a liquid cleaning agent - Patents.com

Abstract

A container (1) for providing a liquid cleaning agent, in particular a cleaning solution for a coffee machine, comprises a container wall (11) defining an interior space (12) of the container, one or more conduits (13a, 13b) opening into the interior space of the container, and at least one connecting member (14) for fluid-tightly coupling the one or more conduits with at least one external fluid conduit (21).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a container and a device for preparing a cleaning solution, a beverage dispenser having such a device or such a container, and a method for preparing a cleaning solution, as set forth in the preambles of the independent claims. [Background technology]

[0002] Beverage dispensers, for example fully automatic coffee machines, must be regularly cleaned, in particular to remove scale and fatty residues, in order to ensure the quality of the produced beverages and to avoid defects. Such cleaning procedures are often expensive and can only be performed by trained personnel or service technicians. Cleaning procedures can take a long time, resulting in downtime during which the beverage dispenser to be cleaned cannot be used.

[0003] In order to minimize such costly cleaning procedures, it is preferable to implement an automatic cleaning step in the beverage vending machine, which can be performed automatically by the machine at regular intervals, in particular outside opening hours and when switching the machine on and off. In the prior art, various kinds of automatic cleaning devices and methods for beverage vending machines are known.

[0004] For example, a container containing a liquid cleaning agent can be provided that can be interchangeably connected to the plumbing system of a coffee machine. For example, US 2017 / 0295991 shows a system in which a cartridge containing a descaling agent can be fluidly connected to a mating adapter of an automatic coffee machine. The coffee machine can then obtain liquid descaling agent from the cleaning cartridge as needed.

[0005] Liquid cleaning agents in cartridges have the advantage that the required cleaning agent is present with defined properties ready for use and can be reliably applied. However, the logistics of such cleaning cartridges, especially the portioning, transportation and disposal, are expensive and the liquid cleaning agent is quickly exhausted due to the limited capacity of the cartridges. Such solutions are therefore often cost-intensive for machines with high throughput and therefore high cleaning needs, for example in the food and beverage industry.

[0006] For larger installations, e.g. with multiple beverage dispensers operating in parallel, the liquid cleaning agent can alternatively be sourced from an external central storage container, such as a canister having a larger capacity, and supplied to the individual machines via piping, allowing low-cost supply to a relatively large number of machines as well as rapid replacement of the storage container regardless of the operating status of the individual beverage dispensers.

[0007] The cleaning agents used are intended for professional use and are correspondingly highly concentrated. This calls for adequate protective measures and appropriate training for the operators in terms of work safety accordingly. Large cans with potentially health-threatening liquid chemicals are even more costly in terms of logistics, since the potential hazards are relatively high and regulations for safe transport must be observed. Proper disposal of emptied containers must also be guaranteed, since such residues may contain corrosive substances.

[0008] It is also possible to use solid cleaning agents. For example, a tablet of cleaning agent can be dispensed into the feed hole of an automatic coffee machine for pre-ground coffee powder to provide cleaning agent for the cleaning cycle. However, this presupposes a manual work step by the operator, which makes automatic operation impossible. Furthermore, users may try to omit the dispense of cleaning tablets for cost reasons or inappropriate products may be used by third parties, which may make it impossible to properly clean the machine and may cause secondary damage.

[0009] EP 3192411 A1 shows a system for automatic beverage machine cleaning. A solid or gel cleaning agent is placed in a container and is sprayed with water from below. The cleaning agent dissolves and the resulting cleaning solution drips back into a collection container. The structure of such a cleaning device is complex and the operating parameters are difficult to control.

[0010] From Swiss Patent Application No. 709738 A1 a descaling agent application device is known, which comprises a reusable container for the descaling agent. The container is connected to a beverage dispenser in order to carry out the descaling process. In one embodiment, the container comprises a bag in which a powdered descaling agent is reserved, rather than a finished descaling solution. The container contains the powdered descaling solution in order to create a volume of descaling solution corresponding to the volume of the container. Water is supplied from above, which dissolves the descaling agent. The finished descaling solution is then pumped out of the container through an outlet pipe located at the bottom. In an alternative embodiment, the outlet pipe located at the bottom is used to pump water into the container. After the descaling agent has dissolved and the finished descaling solution is produced, a valve is switched on the pump side and the descaling solution is pumped into the piping system of the coffee machine.

[0011] There is a general desire for improvement in these areas. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0295991 [Patent Document 2] European Patent Application Publication No. 3192411 [Patent Document 3] Swiss Patent Application Publication No. 709738 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT It is an object of the present invention to provide a container and device for producing a liquid cleaning agent, in particular an aqueous cleaning solution, which avoids the above-mentioned and other disadvantages of the known devices.

[0014] It is a further object of the invention to provide a beverage vending machine which comprises such a device or which utilizes such a container.

[0015] In particular, the container according to the invention should be safe to transport and handle, should have a large capacity in order to avoid frequent replacement, and the device according to the invention should be able to maintain autonomous cleaning operation without manual intervention for as long as possible.

[0016] These and other objects are achieved by the elements of the independent claims. Further preferred embodiments are evident from the dependent claims and the detailed description of the invention.

[0017] The solution according to the invention can be further improved by various embodiments, which are preferred in themselves and which can be combined with one another in any way, unless otherwise stated, and which will be explained below with reference to the associated advantages. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] A first aspect of the invention relates to a container for providing a liquid cleaning agent, in particular an aqueous cleaning solution for a coffee machine. Such a container according to the invention comprises a container wall defining an interior space of the container, one or more conduits opening into the interior space of the container, and at least one connection member for fluid-tightly coupling the one or more conduits with at least one external fluid conduit.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the container according to the invention, there is present in the interior space of the container a quantity of water-soluble material for making up a liquid cleaning agent.

[0020] Such water-soluble materials may include water-soluble solids, water-soluble liquids, water-soluble gels, water-soluble pastes, or mixtures thereof.

[0021] Such solutions allow for the dissolution of water-soluble substances in portions, thereby providing a larger amount of liquid cleaning agent than would be available if the liquid cleaning agent were provided directly in a container of the same size.

[0022] A further advantage, particularly in the case of highly viscous or solid substances, is that the corresponding chemical compounds in solid or highly viscous form are significantly safer to handle, transport and generally safer in terms of potential hazards to humans and the environment than liquid compounds that may, for example, be spilled or splashed, and regulatory requirements regarding transport and workplace safety are correspondingly less stringent.

[0023] The water-soluble substance preferably comprises a water-soluble solid, particularly preferably in the form of granules or a free-flowing powder.

[0024] The water-soluble substance can include more than one chemical compound.

[0025] When the water-soluble substances are dissolved in water, an aqueous cleaning solution is produced. If necessary, this solution can be further diluted. For example, the concentration of the cleaning solution can be adapted to the parameters of the beverage dispenser to be cleaned, for example to the operating time, the maintenance status, the hardness of the tap water supplied or the type and number of beverages to be prepared. Likewise, it is possible to determine the actual concentration of the aqueous solution, for example through a pH or conductivity measurement. From there, the further necessary dilution required to achieve the target concentration can be determined.

[0026] In order for the cleaning solution to be safe for use in beverage dispensing machines and preferably capable of being disposed of in normal drains in diluted form after use, the cleaning solution should pose no concerns for humans and the environment in diluted concentrations.

[0027] To create a liquid descaling agent, the water-soluble material preferably comprises an acid that is a solid at room temperature, such as tartaric acid, citric acid, amidosulfonic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, or mixtures thereof. When the water-soluble material dissolves in water, an acidic aqueous solution is produced which, when delivered to the plumbing system of the beverage dispenser, breaks down the scale deposits.

[0028] To create a liquid alkaline cleaner, the water-soluble material can include a group, such as sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, or mixtures thereof. When the water-soluble material dissolves in water, an alkaline aqueous solution is produced, which, when delivered to the plumbing system of a beverage dispenser, breaks down grease deposits.

[0029] The water-soluble substances can additionally contain suitable anionic and / or nonionic surface-active compounds in order to improve the cleaning action. Anionic surfactants are preferably used, particularly preferably anionic surfactants having sulfonic acid groups, such as sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate.

[0030] In another preferred variation, the interior space of the container may be filled with a certain amount of water-insoluble material, such as sand, ceramic granules, or plastic granules, which can reduce the likelihood of agglomeration and prevent the blocking of flow paths within the flexible container when it is crushed.

[0031] In another preferred variant of such a container according to the invention, one of the lines or lines opens out at one end of the container into the interior space of the container.

[0032] Additionally, one of the one or more pipes can open into an interior space of the vessel at a central region of the vessel.

[0033] Preferably, one of the one or more pipes is arranged inside the vessel, where the pipe arranged in the interior space of the vessel may be configured to be rigid or flexible.

[0034] Preferably, one of the lines of the one or more lines of a container according to the invention is removably connected or connectable to the container.

[0035] Such an embodiment has the advantage that the container according to the invention can be constructed in a modular manner, for example the container may be reusable by being able to remove the tubing and then refill with new water-soluble substance, as well as reusing the releasably connectable tubing.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment of the container according to the invention, a first of the one or more pipes opens into the interior space of the container at a first end of the container, and a second of the one or more pipes opens into the interior space of the container at a second end of the container facing away from the first end.

[0037] Such a solution has the advantage, inter alia, that water can be supplied at one end of the container and cleaning solution can be removed at the other end of the container.

[0038] A container according to the present invention may have a first connection member for fluid-tightly coupling a first piping of the container to an external fluid piping, and may have a second connection member for fluid-tightly coupling a second piping of the container to an external fluid piping.

[0039] In such a container according to the invention, the first connecting member and the second connecting member are preferably arranged at a first end of the container, and the first piping extends from the first connecting member within the interior space of the container to an opposite second end of the container.

[0040] Such a solution has in particular the advantage that all connections can be provided at one end of the container, while nevertheless there are access points inside the container at two different ends of the container.

[0041] It is particularly preferred that such a first connecting element and a second connecting element according to the invention are configured as a common connecting element.

[0042] The container wall of the container according to the invention may be made entirely or partly from plastic or a multi-layer composite material.

[0043] In a container according to the invention, the volume of the interior space of the container may remain unchanged.

[0044] When water is dispensed or cleaning solution is withdrawn in such an embodiment, the pressure inside the container will change if the container is hermetically closed to the atmosphere. To avoid or reduce such effects, a permanent or temporary connection of the interior space of the container to the atmosphere or to a pressure compensation container may be provided.

[0045] Alternatively, in a container according to the invention, the volume of the interior space of the container may be reversibly variable between a first volume and a second volume.

[0046] In such a variant, when water is supplied or when cleaning solution is removed, the pressure inside the container can be kept constant either passively or actively.

[0047] In this case, in such a container according to the invention, the container wall is preferably made entirely or partly of a flexible material, for example a flexible film.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, the container according to the invention may be configured as a hose bag or a film bag.

[0049] Such a container according to the invention also preferably has a first flexible wall and a second rigid wall, the first wall and the second wall being sealingly joined to one another, thus defining an interior space of the container.

[0050] Another preferred variant of the container according to the invention has a first rigid wall and a second rigid wall, the first wall and the second wall being sealingly connected to one another via a flexible intermediate member, thus defining the interior space of the container.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of such a container according to the invention, the container wall comprises a tubular cartridge and a piston slidably arranged within said tubular cartridge along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, which sealably closes the cartridge at one end.

[0052] In another preferred embodiment of such a container according to the invention, the container wall comprises a bellows.

[0053] The container of the present invention is preferably provided with a structure within the interior space of the container for establishing a fluid connection between the connecting member and the entire interior space of the container with a minimal volume of the container.

[0054] In such a container according to the invention, it is particularly preferred that the fluid connection structure comprises grooves and / or ribs arranged on the inner surface of the container wall. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid connection structure comprises an insert, for example an inserted grid, arranged in the interior space of the container.

[0055] Such an embodiment has the advantage that overlapping walls of the flexible container do not pinch any part of the container, particularly as the flexible container collapses under external pressure as liquid is dispensed.

[0056] The interior space of the container according to the invention is preferably partially or completely evacuated.

[0057] In another preferred embodiment of the container according to the invention, the one or more connection members comprise a pierceable membrane or a septum.

[0058] Such an embodiment of the container according to the invention has the advantage that the contents of the container according to the invention, which may be corrosive and therefore hazardous to health, cannot come out unintentionally.

[0059] One or more connection members of a container according to the present invention may include a quick disconnect coupling.

[0060] The one or more connection members of the container according to the invention may further comprise at least one non-return valve.

[0061] Such an embodiment of the container according to the invention has the advantage that, for example, water and cleaning solution can be guided through the same piping section, making it possible to avoid the need for costly controlled valve arrangements.

[0062] In another preferred embodiment of the container according to the invention, the one or more connecting members comprise an overpressure valve which, when activated, connects the interior space of the container with the atmosphere or with an external overflow line.

[0063] This embodiment of the container according to the invention has the advantage that if an unpredictable overpressure occurs in the container, it can be released in a controlled manner, thus preventing uncontrolled bursting of the container. The external overflow line can be connected, for example, to a drip tray or a drainage outlet, in order to contain or lead off the washing liquid that may have escaped without danger.

[0064] In yet another preferred embodiment of the container according to the invention, the one or more connecting members comprise an exhaust valve, by means of which the interior space of the container can be connected to the atmosphere or to an external exhaust line.

[0065] A second aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for making a liquid cleaning agent, such an apparatus according to the invention comprising at least one container according to the invention, a first external pipe for supplying water to the container, a second external pipe for removing the liquid cleaning agent from the container, a first external connection member fluidly connectable to the container connection member, such that the first external pipe is in fluid connection with the container's first pipe, and a second external connection member fluidly connectable to the container connection member, such that the second external pipe is in fluid connection with the container's first pipe or another second pipe.

[0066] In such a device according to the invention, the first external piping and the second external piping are preferably identical.

[0067] Such an embodiment of the device according to the invention has the advantage in particular that only one external pipe has to be provided between the at least one container and, for example, a delivery pump of the device, through which the pump not only delivers water to the container but also the cleaning solution from the container and further into the piping system of the beverage dispenser.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the connection member of the device is mechanically operatively connectable with the connection member of the at least one container by means of a threaded connection or by means of a bayonet connection.

[0069] In another preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the connecting element of the device has a hollow needle which is fluidly connected to an external piping associated therewith, and by means of which the puncture membrane or septum of the connecting element of at least one container can be pierced, thus establishing a fluid connection between the external piping and the container piping associated with the connecting element of the container.

[0070] Another preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention comprises a sensor for measuring the liquid flow through the piping from and / or to the container and / or a sensor for measuring the conductivity of the liquid in the piping and / or a sensor for measuring the pH value of the liquid in the piping and / or in the container.

[0071] The device according to the invention preferably comprises a pumping device set up for pumping liquid through piping to the at least one container and / or for pumping liquid from the container through piping.

[0072] Another preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention comprises a weighing device set up to determine the weight of at least one container including its contents.

[0073] The device according to the invention may be configured as a separate unit capable of supplying cleaning solution to one or more beverage vending machines or may be configured as an integral part of the beverage vending machine.

[0074] A third aspect of the invention relates to a beverage dispenser comprising a device according to the invention for preparing a cleaning solution.

[0075] A fourth aspect of the invention relates to a beverage dispenser comprising a container according to the invention for providing a cleaning solution.

[0076] The concept of beverage dispensers within the meaning of the present invention includes machines and devices, in particular coffee machines, hot drink preparation machines, cold drink preparation machines, etc., which are capable of automatically or semi-automatically preparing beverages and / or of supplying beverages in portions to the customer.

[0077] A fifth aspect of the invention relates to a method for preparing a liquid cleaning agent, in particular a cleaning solution for a coffee machine. Such a method according to the invention comprises the following steps: At least one container according to the present invention is provided, the container having an interior space therein containing a quantity of a water-soluble substance for forming a liquid cleaning agent; A specific amount of water is supplied to the interior space of the vessel through the vessel's piping; the added amount of water dissolves at least a portion of the water-soluble material in the container, thereby producing a liquid cleaning agent in the form of an aqueous solution; A specific amount of liquid cleaning agent is withdrawn from the container through the container's piping.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, after a specific amount of liquid cleaning agent has been removed from at least one container, a second specific amount of water is provided to the container.

[0079] In the method according to the invention, it is preferred that the amount of water-soluble substance dissolved in the amount of water provided is sufficient to produce a saturated solution, which has the advantage that the concentration of the cleaning solution is maximized.

[0080] To provide a ready-to-use cleaning solution, the aqueous solution removed from the at least one container can be diluted with water prior to use to obtain a desired concentration of the cleaning solution.

[0081] This has the advantage in particular that the concentration of the cleaning solution can be adapted to the parameters of the beverage dispenser to be cleaned, such as the operating time, the maintenance state, the hardness of the tap water supplied or the type and number of beverages to be prepared, etc. Likewise, the further necessary dilution of the aqueous solution can be determined, with which the desired concentration of the cleaning solution is achieved.

[0082] The actual concentration of the aqueous solution can be estimated based on empirical values ​​and operating parameters, or can be quantitatively determined, for example, through measurements of the pH value and / or conductivity of the aqueous solution.

[0083] In the method according to the invention, it is preferred that at least the concentration of the aqueous solution removed from the container is measured, which can be done, for example, by measuring the conductivity or the pH value.

[0084] In the method according to the invention, the same piping of the at least one container can be used for the supply of water to the container and for the removal of the liquid cleaning agent from the container.

[0085] In the method according to the invention, preferably, for the withdrawal of the liquid cleaning agent, a negative pressure is applied to the withdrawal line of at least one container.

[0086] In yet another preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, depending on the expected dissolution rate of the water-soluble substance, the amount of water injected into the container, the residence time of the water in the container, the amount of aqueous solution removed, as well as the optional subsequent dilution of the removed aqueous solution, are selected in such a way that a certain amount of cleaning solution can be provided in each case at a specific time point.

[0087] Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description.

[0088] For a better understanding of the present invention, the following drawings are referred to, which are merely illustrative of examples of the subject matter of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention to the components disclosed therein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0089] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a container according to the invention having a connecting member and two pipes connected to pipes external to the device (a) in an initial state before a first filling, (b) after a first filling of water, (c) after a first withdrawal of a cleaning solution, and (d) after several filling-removal cycles. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows diagrammatically another embodiment of a container according to the invention having two connecting members and two piping connected to piping external to the device (a) in the initial state before the first filling, (b) after the first filling with water, and (c) after the first removal of the cleaning solution. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows diagrammatically another embodiment of a container according to the invention having one connection and two lines in an initial state before the first filling. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows diagrammatically yet another embodiment of a container according to the invention with one connection and one piping in an initial state before the first filling. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows diagrammatically a further embodiment of a container according to the invention with one connection and one piping in an initial state before the first filling. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of a different embodiment of a container according to the invention having one connecting member and two pipings, together with a schematic piping diagram inside the connecting member. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows diagrammatically another embodiment of a container according to the invention having one connecting member and two pipings, together with a schematic piping diagram inside the connecting member. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 again shows diagrammatically an embodiment of a container according to the invention, also having one connecting member and two pipings, together with a schematic piping diagram inside the connecting member. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of a container according to the invention, with flexible tubing inside the container. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 shows diagrammatically another embodiment of a container according to the invention having a bellows-like container wall, (a) with a first volume and (b) with a smaller second volume. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows in a perspective view another embodiment of a container according to the invention in the form of a stand-up bag having rigid piping disposed in the interior space. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows a drawing of another embodiment of a container according to the invention in the form of a stand-up bag, having piping in the form of a metal tube arranged in the interior space. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0090] In the following description, the same or similar reference numerals are used for the same or identically functioning parts. The upper and lower sides in space correspond to the upper and lower sides in the drawings.

[0091] A possible embodiment of a container 1 according to the invention for providing a cleaning agent is shown diagrammatically in Fig. 1. This container 1 comprises a container wall 11 which defines an interior space 12 of the container. In the illustrated embodiment, the container wall is of flexible design. For example, the container wall may be made from a film, in particular in the form of a hose-like bag.

[0092] Figure 1(a) shows a container 1 according to the invention in its basic state, as it arrives to the user after manufacture. The bag is filled with a water-soluble substance in the form of a granulated solid 31, from which a liquid cleaning solution 32 can be produced by the addition of water. In its basic state, the container 1 according to the invention shown does not contain any water.

[0093] The container is preferably evacuated or depressurized, thus minimizing volume, which optimizes shipping and storage costs.

[0094] The container 1 is operatively connected to external pipes 21, 22 of an apparatus (not shown) for preparing the cleaning agent.

[0095] A connecting member 14 is disposed at the upper end 41 of the vessel 1. A pipe 13a extends from the connecting member 14 downwardly within the vessel to the lower end of the vessel 1, where it opens into the interior space 12 of the vessel 1 at an open end 131a of the pipe.

[0096] In the illustrated example, the pipe 13a is constructed as a rigid pipe. This pipe may be constructed, for example, as a plastic or metal pipe; such a rigid pipe is also called a lance. A rigid pipe has the advantage, in particular, that the spatial arrangement of the opening 131a of the pipe 13a relative to the container is clearly defined. The pipe 13a is partially arranged inside the solid body 31. In particular, the end 131a of the pipe is located inside the solid body.

[0097] Another short length of piping 13 b extends from the connecting member 14 to an opening 131 b where it opens into the interior space 12 at the upper end 41 of the container 1 .

[0098] The tubing 13b may, in an alternative embodiment, be short enough to extend entirely inside the connecting member, with the opening 131b opening directly into the interior space 12 at the connecting member 14.

[0099] An external pipe 21 is operatively connected to the connecting element 14 to connect the pipes 13a, 13b of the container 1 with the pipe system of a device (not shown) for preparing the cleaning agent, in particular with a pump for pumping water and cleaning solution. Via this pipe 21, not only is water for preparing the cleaning solution pumped into the container, but also the finished cleaning solution is pumped out of the container. The connecting element 14 forms a system boundary 44 between the container 1 according to the invention and the various external elements 21, 22.

[0100] The internal piping of the connection member 14 is not shown, and possible embodiments for this will be described in the following examples.

[0101] In the illustrated example, an external overflow pipe 22 is further shown, which is connected to the connection element 14 of the container 1 and discharges to a drip tray 24 or alternatively to a storage container or a wastewater outflow. The overflow pipe 22 is connected to the internal space 12 via an overpressure valve (not shown) provided in the connection element 14. This serves to connect the internal space 12 to the external space via one of both pipes 13a, 13b or via a separate pipe (not shown) of the container when a certain pressure threshold value inside the container 1 is exceeded. In this way, overpressure inside the container, which could damage the container, can be avoided. Possibly escaping liquid is reliably contained or led off.

[0102] The overflow line 22 is preferably connected to the second line 13b by an overpressure valve.

[0103] Yet another preferred use of the overpressure valve and the overflow line 22 connected thereto is the evacuation of the container 1. When water is introduced into the container, the pressure inside the container rises, either immediately in the case of a rigid container or when the maximum volume is reached in the case of the flexible container 1 shown. When the internal pressure exceeds a threshold value, gas possibly present in the container, for example air or an inert gas, escapes to the outside through the overpressure valve. The container can be filled with water until it is partially or completely evacuated. Evacuation of the container has the advantage that, in particular, no compressible gas phase is present during the intended operation, which avoids undesired intake of inert gas or air by the pump.

[0104] The overpressure valve and the overflow line connected thereto are optional and may be omitted.

[0105] After the container 1 according to the invention is prepared for use and connected to the external components 21, 22, in a first filling step, water is pumped through the external pipe 21 and the first pipe 13a into the interior space 12 of the container 1, as shown in Figure 1(b), where the arrows indicate the direction of water flow. The water leaves at an opening 131a at the lower end 42 of the container. The liquid level 33 rises upwards to the upper end 41 of the container 1. The entire solid material 31 is covered with water. The liquid level 33 should reach at least the opening of the second pipe 13b as shown in the drawing. It is preferred that the container 1 is completely filled with liquid.

[0106] In the case of the illustrated flexible container 1, water can be filled until the interior space 12 reaches its maximum volume, as shown in Figure 1(b). Since the container and the fill volume are known in advance, the amount of water to be dispensed can be predetermined.

[0107] The water-soluble substances 31 then dissolve in the water, resulting in an aqueous solution 32. After a certain time, the maximum possible concentration of dissolved compounds is reached. The solution is saturated.

[0108] In a subsequent removal step, the finished cleaning solution is removed from the container 1 (see FIG. 1(c)). The arrows indicate the flow direction of the cleaning solution. Via the external pipe 21, negative pressure is applied to the second pipe 13b, e.g. by a pump of the same device that previously pumped the water into the container, so that the cleaning solution is conveyed out through the pipe 13b and the external pipe 21. As the container wall 11 is flexible and not constructed to be pressure-resistant, the container 1 gradually collapses under the external pressure until the pump is stopped.

[0109] In principle, the cleaning solution 32 can be pumped out of the container 1 until the remaining granular solids 31 prevent further collapse of the flexible container 1. However, it is preferable not to completely empty the container 1, since the solid granules being pushed upwards could reach the second line 13b and be sucked in.

[0110] Such cycles of filling with water and removing cleaning solution can then be repeated multiple times, with the amount of solids remaining after each cycle being reduced by the amount that has been dissolved and converted into the cleaning solution. For example, in FIG. 1(d), after multiple cycles, less than half of the original amount of solids 31 remains.

[0111] This process can continue until no water-soluble material 31 is present in the container, and after the remaining aqueous solution has been pumped out, the emptied container 1 can be removed and safely disposed of.

[0112] The advantage of such a container according to the invention is in particular that it allows the container to provide a much larger amount of washing solution than would be possible if the washing solution were already prepared in the container from the start and ready for use, i.e. the container has to be replaced much more rarely.

[0113] After removal of the cleaning liquid, which is usually used immediately, it is preferable to immediately subsequently fill the container again with water so that the water-soluble substances have sufficient time to dissolve, thereby creating a saturated solution, i.e. a solution having maximum concentration.

[0114] In an alternative preferred embodiment, fresh water is added to the container some time prior to the scheduled withdrawal to make up the cleaning solution.

[0115] To ensure that no residues of chemicals remain in the container, it may be provided that one or more flushing cycles are carried out before the container is disposed of, for which purpose water is filled into the container and pumped out again, the solution being delivered directly to a wastewater outlet rather than being used for cleaning.

[0116] Such a flushing step may also be utilized to flush the internal piping of the preparation device or the piping of a beverage dispenser connected thereto, to remove any debris from the flushing volume.

[0117] Another embodiment of the container according to the invention is shown in Fig. 2. Here, the container 1 is shown in Fig. 2(a), also in the basic state before the first filling. The container has two connections, each with a pipe arranged in the interior space 12. The interior space is filled with a water-soluble substance in the form of a granulated solid 31 for the preparation of a cleaning solution.

[0118] The connecting piece 14b is arranged at the upper end 41 of the vessel 1. The connecting piece 14b is operatively connected to the external pipe 21' as well as to the external overflow pipe 22. The overflow pipe 22, connected to an overpressure valve (not shown), has the same function as in the vessel according to the invention shown in FIG. 1, the description of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0119] A short length of piping 13b originates from the connecting member 14b and communicates with the interior space 12 at an opening 131b. As a further alternative, the piping may be located entirely within the connecting member 14b, so that the opening 131b is located directly in the connecting member.

[0120] Another connecting member 14a is disposed at the lower end 42 of the vessel 1 and is connected to an external pipe 21". A short pipe 13a originating from the connecting member 14a communicates with the interior space 12 at the lower end 41 of the vessel 1 through an opening 131a. The pipe 13a and its opening are located within the solid material 31.

[0121] Also alternatively, the tubing 13a may be located entirely within the connecting member 14a, such that the opening 131a is located directly in the connecting member.

[0122] An external pipe 21'' connected to the connection member 14a and an external pipe 21' connected to the connection member 14b join together to form a common pipe 21 that extends to a device (not shown) for preparing a cleaning solution.

[0123] The first filling step is shown in FIG. 2(b). Water is pumped into the vessel 1 via the external pipes 21, 21″ (flow direction is indicated by the arrows) and enters the interior space 12 through the pipe 13a and the opening 131a, where it dissolves the water-soluble material in the form of granulated solids 31 to form a cleaning solution 32. The liquid level 33 rises towards the upper end 41 of the vessel 1. The vessel volume is at its maximum. This process corresponds to the filling step shown in FIG. 1(b) described above.

[0124] The subsequent removal step of the cycle is shown in Fig. 2(c). Negative pressure is applied to line 13b via external lines 21, 21'. The cleaning liquid 32 is sucked in through opening 131b and pumped to the device via lines 21, 21' (flow direction shown by arrows). This process corresponds to the removal step shown in Fig. 1(c) described above.

[0125] A proper flow of water or cleaning liquid in the lines 21, 21', 21'' can be achieved, for example, by appropriate valves (not shown).

[0126] The illustrated embodiment of the vessel according to the invention has the advantage that no piping passes through the interior of the vessel, which simplifies construction.

[0127] Figure 3 shows yet another preferred embodiment of the container according to the invention in a basic state before the first filling with water. The container 1 shown corresponds to the container 1 of Figure 1(a) in a 180° upside down position with respect to the structure.

[0128] In such an embodiment, the respective functional roles of the long rigid tubing 13a and the short tubing 13b are swapped: water is delivered to the lower region 42 of the vessel 1 through the short tubing 13b, and cleaning solution is removed at the upper end 41 of the vessel 1 through an opening 131a in the long rigid tubing 13a.

[0129] The overflow pipe 22 is connected to the pipe 13a via an overpressure valve (not shown).

[0130] Yet another preferred embodiment of the container 1 according to the invention is disclosed in figure 4 in a basic state before the first filling with water. The container has at its upper end 41 a connection 14 which is connected to an external pipe 21. A short pipe 13b runs away from the connection 14 in the interior space and communicates 131b with the interior space 12 at the upper end 41 of the container 1.

[0131] To fill the vessel with water, water is pumped through the external pipe 21 and pipe 13b and flows from above onto the water-soluble material in the form of granulated solids 31, where it permeates up to the lower end 42 of the vessel 1. To remove the cleaning solution, it is sucked out of the vessel 1 through the same pipe 13b.

[0132] This embodiment is easy to manufacture, but has the disadvantage, compared to the previously described embodiments, that there is no liquid flow through the base layer of granulated solid material 31. As a consequence, it takes a long time for a saturated solution to form in the head region 41, since the saturated solution can only reach the top from the region of the granulated solid material 31 by relatively slow diffusion.

[0133] Yet another preferred embodiment of the container 1 according to the invention is shown in Fig. 5 in a basic state before the first filling with water. This container also has at its upper end 41 a connection piece 14 connected to the external piping 21. A piping 13c runs in the interior space away from the connection piece 14 to a central region 43 of the container 1 where it communicates with the interior space 12 by an opening 131c.

[0134] Figures 6 and 7 show two possible embodiments of the piping diagram, in which the connecting member 14 of the container 1 according to the invention and the two pipes 13a, 13b connected thereto, as well as the external connecting member 25 operatively connected thereto, ensure a proper flow of water or cleaning solution during both the filling and unloading operating steps without active control.

[0135] In a first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 6, two oppositely spring-biased check valves 15a, 15b are arranged in the connecting member 14, which check valves connect each one of the two lines 13a, 13b with a common line 13d. This line 13d is fluid-tightly connected to an external line 21 at an interface, only diagrammatically shown, of both connecting members 14, 25. This interface is preferably arranged so that when both connecting members 14, 15 are disconnected, one or both lines 13d, 21 are automatically closed to prevent unwanted liquid spillage. Such fluid connections are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0136] During a given operation, when water is pumped into the container 1 through the lines 21 and 13d, the valve 15b is closed, whereas the valve 15a is open. The water flows into the interior space 12 of the container 1 through the line 13a as set. When a negative pressure is created by the pump in the lines 21 and 13d, the valve 15a is closed and the valve 15b is open. The cleaning solution can then be pumped out of the container through the line 13b.

[0137] In a second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, both lines 13a, 13b in the connecting member 14 are extended to an interface to the connecting member 25 where they are fluid-tightly connected to corresponding lines 21′, 21″. These lines are connected to a common line 21 via oppositely facing check valves 26a, 26b.

[0138] During a given operation, when water is pumped through the line 21 into the vessel 1, the valve 26b is closed, whereas the valve 26a is open. The water flows as set through the lines 21' and 13a into the interior space 12 of the vessel 1. When negative pressure is created by the pump in the line 21, the valve 26a is closed and the valve 26b is open. The cleaning solution can then be pumped out of the vessel through the lines 13b and 21'.

[0139] The embodiment of FIG. 7 has the advantage that no mechanical components are integrated into the connecting member 14, which significantly reduces the manufacturing costs of the connecting member 14 and thus also of the container 1 according to the invention.

[0140] In contrast, the embodiment of FIG. 6 has the advantage that the interface between each connecting member involves only one tube, which allows for a much simpler construction.

[0141] A possible embodiment of such a container 1 is shown diagrammatically in Fig. 8. The interface between interfaces 14 and 25 is resolved here via a septum 16 and a hollow needle 27. In the coupled state, hollow needle 27, which is fluidly connected with external line 21, pierces septum 16, which sealingly closes line 13 towards the outside. Lines 13d and 21 are fluidly connected.

[0142] Such an embodiment can be advantageously manufactured, for example, by multi-component injection molding. In the disconnected state, the container is securely closed and cannot be opened even by accidental misoperation of the closure.

[0143] Such a connection by a septum and a hollow needle can also be implemented for two or more tubing connections to be established at the interface. For example, the connection of the connecting members of FIG. 7 can be implemented in this way.

[0144] In figure 9, an embodiment of the container according to the invention as shown in figure 1 is disclosed, in the following only the differences will be described. There is no overflow line 22. The line 13a is configured as a flexible hose which is significantly longer than the container 1 and which can be bent and compressed accordingly in terms of its length. The end of the hose 13a with the opening 131a is placed at the lower end 42 of the container.

[0145] Optionally, the end of the hose at the lower end 42 may be fixed to the container wall 11, for example by adhesive.

[0146] Such a solution using a flexible hose 13a has the advantage, when compared with rigid piping, in particular that the container 1 according to the invention can be embodied very flexibly, since no rigid piping is present.

[0147] Another embodiment of a container according to the invention with variable volume is shown in figure 10(a) after a first filling process. The container 1 is similar in structure to the container of figure 9, with a flexible hose 13a, but the container wall 11 has a bellows 111 followed by a rigid cylindrical section 112 on the side of the connecting member 14. When the cleaning liquid 32 is removed, the contraction of the bellows 111 causes the flexible container to collapse.

[0148] When the amount of water-soluble material in the form of granulated solids 31 decreases in the vessel 1 after several operating cycles, in one preferred mode of operation the amount of water supplied is reduced so that the bellows area continues to be filled with solids 31 while the cylindrical section 112 is filled with cleaning solution, as shown in Figure 10(b). In this way a constant amount of cleaning solution can be reserved.

[0149] FIG. 11 shows in a perspective view a container 1 according to the invention configured as a stand-up bag. The container is similar to the stand-up bags commonly used as refill containers for liquid soap, shampoo and other viscous products, for example. The container wall 11 is made of a piece of film that is hermetically welded 18 along three sides and folded, whereas the film at the lower end forms the stand bottom 19. At the upper end a holding part 17 is assembled with an opening into the interior space of the container 1. At this opening a piping is assembled in the form of a connecting element 14 and a tapered lance 13a integrally molded therewith, the lance 13a with an opening 131a being in the interior space of the container 1. The connecting element 14 has two openings 132a, 132b on its flat outer surface. The opening 132a is connected to the piping 13a and the opening 132b is connected to another piping (not visible) that opens directly into the interior space (not visible) at the downwardly facing end of the connecting element 14.

[0150] Functionally, such a container corresponds to the schematic shown in FIG.

[0151] The holding part 17 has a thread 171 which can be used to reversibly connect the external connecting element 25 in a form-fitting manner to the connecting element 14. Furthermore, a screw cap can be provided for hermetically closing the container before first use when the container is in the basic state.

[0152] The container 1 according to the invention in the form of a stand-up bag in a basic state, shown in Figure 12, is similar in construction to the one shown in Figure 11. A connecting piece 14 having a tubing 13a in the form of a rigid metal tube can be reversibly coupled to the container by being screwed into the thread of a holding part 17.

[0153] Such a solution has the advantage that the connection 14 and the pipe 13a can be reused.

[0154] The present invention is not limited in scope to the specific embodiments described herein. Rather, those skilled in the art will understand from the detailed description of the invention and the accompanying drawings that, in addition to the examples disclosed herein, various other modifications of the invention will also fall within the scope of protection of the claims. In addition, various documents are cited in the detailed description of the invention, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 1 container 11 Container Wall 111 Bellows 112 Cylindrical Area 12 Interior Space 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d Piping 131a,131b opening 132a,132b opening 14, 14a, 14b Connection members 15a, 15b Spring biased check valve 16 Diaphragm 17 Holding part 171 Thread 18 Welded seams 19 Bottom of stand 21,21',21” External piping 22 Overflow piping 23a, 23b Check valve 24 Droplet dish 25 External connecting members 26a, 26b Spring biased check valve 27 Hollow Needle 31 Water-soluble substances, granulated water-soluble solids 32 liquid 33 Liquid Level 41 Upper end of container 42 Lower end of container 43 Central region of the container 44 System Boundary

Claims

1. A container (1) for providing a liquid cleaning agent, in particular a cleaning solution for coffee machines, comprising: a container wall (11) defining an interior space (12) of said container; one or more pipes (13a, 13b, 13c) opening into the interior space of the vessel; at least one connecting member (14, 14a, 14b) for fluid-tightly coupling said one or more pipes with at least one external fluid pipe (21, 21', 21"); A vessel, wherein one of the one or more pipes (13a, 13c) is arranged in the interior space (12) of the vessel (1).

2. Container according to claim 1, wherein the interior space (12) of the container (1) contains a quantity of water-soluble substance (31) for the preparation of a liquid cleaning agent.

3. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of the one or more pipes (13a, 13b) opens at one end (41, 42) of the container (1) into the interior space (12) of the container.

4. 3. A vessel according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of said one or more pipes (13c) opens into the interior space (12) of said vessel (1) in a central region (43) of said vessel.

5. 3. The container according to claim 1, wherein the piping (13a) arranged in the interior space (12) of the container is rigid.

6. 3. The container according to claim 1, wherein the piping (13a) arranged in the interior space (12) of the container is flexible.

7. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of said one or more pipes (13a, 13b, 13c) is removably coupled or coupleable to said container (1).

8. 3. The container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a first pipe (13a) of one of the one or more pipes opens into the interior space (12) of the container (1) at a first end (41) of the container (1) and a second pipe (13b) of the one or more pipes opens into the interior space of the container at a second end (42) of the container facing away from the first end.

9. 3. The container according to claim 1, further comprising a first connecting member (14a) for fluid-tightly connecting the first pipe (13a) of the container (1) to an external fluid pipe, and a second connecting member (14b) for fluid-tightly connecting the second pipe (13b) of the container to an external fluid pipe.

10. 10. The container according to claim 9, wherein the first connecting member (14a) and the second connecting member (14b) are arranged at a first end (41, 42) of the container (1), and the first piping (13a) extends from the first connecting member to an opposite second end (42, 41) of the container within the interior space of the container.

11. 10. The container of claim 9, wherein the first connecting member and the second connecting member are configured as a common connecting member (14).

12. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the volume of the interior space (12) of the container (1) is constant.

13. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the volume of the interior space (12) of the container (1) is reversibly variable between a first volume and a second volume.

14. Container according to claim 13, wherein the container wall (11) consists entirely or partly of a flexible material, for example a flexible film.

15. Container according to claim 13, characterized in that the container (1) is configured as a hose bag or a film bag.

16. 14. The container according to claim 13, comprising a first flexible wall and a second rigid wall, said first wall and said second wall being hermetically joined to one another and thus defining an interior space (12) of said container (1).

17. 14. The container according to claim 13, comprising a first rigid wall and a second flexible wall, said first wall and said second wall being sealingly connected to each other via a flexible intermediate member, thus defining an interior space (12) of said container (1).

18. 14. The container according to claim 13, wherein the container wall (11) comprises a tubular cartridge and a piston slidably disposed within the tubular cartridge along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, the piston sealingly closing the cartridge at one end (42).

19. Container according to claim 13, wherein the container wall (11) comprises a bellows (111).

20. 14. The container according to claim 13, wherein a structure is provided within the interior space of the container to establish a fluid connection between the connecting member and the entire interior space of the container under a minimum volume of the container.

21. 21. The container of claim 20, wherein the fluid connection structure comprises grooves and / or ribs arranged on the inner surface of the wall and / or comprises an insert, such as an inserted grid, arranged in the interior space of the container.

22. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the interior space (12) of the container (1) is partially or completely evacuated.

23. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more connecting members comprise a piercing membrane or septum (16).

24. 3. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more of the connection members comprises a quick disconnect coupling.

25. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more of said connecting members comprises at least one non-return valve (15a, 15b).

26. 3. The vessel of claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more of the connecting members comprises an overpressure valve that, when activated, connects the interior space of the vessel with the atmosphere or an external overflow line.

27. 3. The container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more of the connecting members includes an exhaust valve by which the interior space of the container can be connected to the atmosphere or to an external exhaust pipe.

28. 1. An apparatus for preparing a liquid cleaning agent, comprising: At least one container (1) according to claim 1, a first external line for supplying water to the vessel; a second external line for removing liquid cleaning agent from the container; a first external connection member that is connectable in a fluid-tight manner to the vessel connection member, such that the first external piping is fluidly connected to the vessel first piping; a second external connecting member connectable in a fluid-tight manner to the connecting member of the container, such that the second external piping is fluidly connected to the first piping or another second piping of the container.

29. 30. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the first external piping and the second external piping are the same.

30. 30. A beverage dispenser comprising an apparatus for making a cleaning solution according to claim 28.

31. A beverage dispenser comprising a container (1) for providing a cleaning solution according to claim 1.

32. A method for preparing a liquid cleaning agent, in particular a cleaning solution for coffee machines, comprising the steps of: At least one container (1) according to claim 1 is provided, wherein the interior space (12) of said container contains a quantity of a water-soluble substance (31) for creating a liquid cleaning agent (32), A specific amount of water is supplied to the interior space of the container through the piping of the container; the added amount of water dissolves at least a portion of the water-soluble substances in the container, thereby producing a liquid cleaning agent in the form of an aqueous solution; and A method wherein a specific amount of liquid cleaning agent is removed from said container through piping of said container.

33. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein a specific amount of water is provided to at least one of the containers after another specific amount of liquid cleaning agent is removed from the container.

34. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the same piping of at least one of the containers is used for the supply of water to the container and for the removal of liquid cleaning agent from the container.

35. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein negative pressure is applied to the outlet line of at least one of the containers for the withdrawal of liquid cleaning agent.

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