Conveyor dishwasher and method for cleaning articles to be cleaned

Abstract

The invention relates to a conveyor dishwasher (110) and to a method for cleaning articles (112) to be cleaned. The conveyor dishwasher (110) comprises: a. at least one cleaning chamber (118); b. at least one application device (130) for applying at least one cleaning fluid (132) to the articles (112) to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber (118); c. at least one conveying device (126) for conveying the articles (112) to be cleaned through the cleaning chamber (118) in a conveying direction (128); d. at least one controller (134), - wherein the conveyor dishwasher (110) has at least one wash zone (136), wherein the application device (130) is designed to apply washing fluid (138) to the articles (112) to be cleaned in the wash zone (136), - wherein the conveyor dishwasher (110) also has at least one rinse zone (152) downstream of the wash zone (136) in the conveying direction (128), wherein the application device (130) is designed to apply rinsing fluid (154) to the articles (112) to be cleaned in the rinse zone (152), wherein the conveyor dishwasher (110) also has at least one disinfection zone (170) arranged between the wash zone (136) and the rinse zone (152), wherein the controller (134) of the conveyor dishwasher (110) is designed to control at least one disinfection process in the disinfection zone (170), wherein in the disinfection process at least one disinfecting agent is produced in-situ in the conveyor dishwasher (110) by mixing at least two reactive components and the disinfecting agent is applied to the articles (112) to be cleaned in the disinfection zone (170).

Description

[0001] Transport dishwasher and method for cleaning items

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The invention relates to a conveyor dishwasher and a method for cleaning items. Conveyor dishwashers and methods of the aforementioned type can be used, for example, in the field of commercial dishwashing technology. In particular, the invention can be used in belt conveyor and / or rack conveyor dishwashers. However, other areas of application are also conceivable in principle.

[0004] Technical background

[0005] A wide variety of dishwashers for different types of items are known from the current state of the art. Besides dishwashers for dishes or dishwashing machines, dishwashers for other types of items are also known, for example, dishwashers for industrial goods, for the disinfection of medical devices, or for the reprocessing and disinfection of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators and their accessories.

[0006] The design of these dishwashers depends heavily on various boundary conditions, such as the type of items to be cleaned, the degree of soiling, the throughput, and similar factors. Besides so-called automatic dishwashers, in which the items are cleaned stationary in a cleaning chamber and subjected to one or more cleaning programs with multiple program steps, conveyor dishwashers are also known. In conveyor dishwashers, the items are transported by means of at least one transport device through one or more cleaning chambers and cleaned there in one or more cleaning or treatment zones. For examples of such conveyor dishwashers, reference can be made to DE 10 2021 203 799 A1 and DE 10 2018 217 058 A1. However, other designs are also possible.

[0007] Depending on the type of items being cleaned, ensuring a sanitizing and / or disinfecting effect is generally crucial for dishwashers. This is particularly true for cleaning utensils for care facilities or other medical products. For example, DE 10 2021 201 293 Al describes a method for treating containers for human excrement, in which a disinfection process is integrated into a cleaning sequence. Reference can also be made to the chemical disinfection processes described in WO 2019 / 219220 Al and WO 2019 / 219959 Al.

[0008] Even with dishwashers, especially in commercial settings, it is essential to ensure that dangerous germs are killed. The hygienic effect of dishwashers is typically achieved through process steps that maintain predetermined minimum temperatures for predetermined durations. Examples include dishwashing processes described in standards such as DIN EN 17735 or DIN 10544, or those that comply with the US standard NSF / ANSI 3: "Commercial Warewashing Equipment, Hot water sanitizing machines." Alternatively, or in addition to thermal sanitization processes, methods using chemical additives or disinfectants are also available. For example, in the USA, dishwashing processes comply with the NSF / ANSI 3: "Chemical Sanitizer" standard, which involves the addition of chlorine-based detergents to the dishwashing process.

[0009] Furthermore, WO 2001 / 014625 A2 discloses a rinsing method in which a first agent and a second agent are stored separately and fed directly to the same spray device, so that during one or more rinsing programs in a single wash cycle or wash zone, the agents can be applied to the items to be cleaned sequentially or simultaneously. A dishwasher with a spray device is also described, to which containers for the separate storage of a first agent and a second agent are directly associated. The use of mutually incompatible agents in the method is also described.

[0010] Similarly, EP 1 657 297 Bl describes a method for cleaning dishes in a commercial dishwasher, involving pre-cleaning by spraying with a pre-cleaning solution, a main cleaning, and a final rinsing. At least one enzymatic component and at least one complexing agent are added separately to the pre-cleaning solution.

[0011] Cleaning processes and cleaning devices that include disinfection are also known in the field of conveyor dishwashers. For example, DE 10 2009 024 569 Al, DE 10 2011 007 507 Al, and DE 10 2014 102 970 Al describe conveyor dishwashers in which disinfectants are applied to the items being cleaned. The disinfectant is usually added to a rinse or final rinse solution. WO 2007 / 021577 Al discloses a conveyor dishwasher in which ozone is added to a rinse solution as a disinfectant.

[0012] Despite the advantages achieved with these devices and processes, numerous technical challenges remain, particularly with conveyor dishwashers. Thermal and chemical cleaning processes, in particular, are generally unable to kill all types of germs or their life forms. A particular challenge lies in the elimination of bacterial spores, which have proven extremely persistent and sometimes even resistant in practice. Thermal processes and conventional chemical disinfection methods using chlorine-based disinfectants are often insufficient in this regard. This challenge is exacerbated in conveyor dishwashers because, due to their typically high throughput, the contact time of the disinfectant cannot be extended indefinitely, unlike in automated programs.Since the rinsing process in conveyor dishwashers is generally limited in its effectiveness due to the contact time determined by the machine's geometry and transport speed, the disinfectant concentration cannot usually be increased indefinitely. This is particularly important to avoid unpleasant odors or tastes from the disinfectant, especially on dishes. Chlorine-based disinfectants, in particular, can easily lead to unpleasant odors in the environment and for operating personnel, and may even contaminate the dishes with chlorine. Disinfectants based on hydrogen peroxide also require a correspondingly long contact time to achieve any disinfection effect. While it would theoretically be possible to modify the machine's geometry, for example, by extending the contact distances, this is not practical.However, such an increase in the length of transport dishwashers leads to a significant increase in space requirements and therefore also to increased costs. Object of the invention.

[0013] It would therefore be desirable to provide a transport dishwasher and a corresponding cleaning process that largely avoids the disadvantages of known devices and methods. In particular, sufficient sanitization should be achieved even with high throughput and comparatively small dimensions of the transport dishwasher, especially with regard to, for example, highly resistant germs and bacterial spores.

[0014] General description of the invention

[0015] This task is addressed by a transport dishwasher and a corresponding method for cleaning items, comprising the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are described in the dependent claims.

[0016] In the following, the terms "have," "exhibit," "comprise," or "include," or any grammatical variations thereof, are used in a non-exclusive manner. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, apart from the features introduced by these terms, no other features are present, and to situations in which one or more additional features are present. For example, the expression "A has B," "A exhibits B," "A comprises B," or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no other element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists solely of B) and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more other elements are present in A, such as element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0017] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be present once or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. Upon subsequent mention of the feature or element, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without restricting the possibility that the feature or element may be present once or multiple times.

[0018] Furthermore, the terms "preferably," "in particular," "for example," or similar terms are used in the following text in conjunction with optional features without limiting alternative embodiments. Features introduced by these terms are optional features, and it is not intended that these features limit the scope of protection of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. As the person skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be implemented using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or by "in an exemplary embodiment of the invention" are understood as optional features without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of protection of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave all possibilities of combining the features introduced herein with other features, whether optional or non-optional features, unaffected.

[0019] In a first aspect of the present invention, a transport dishwasher for cleaning items is proposed. The transport dishwasher comprises: a. at least one cleaning chamber, in particular at least one cleaning tunnel; b. at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid, in particular several cleaning fluids, to the items in the cleaning chamber; c. at least one transport device for transporting the items through the cleaning chamber in one transport direction; and d. at least one control unit.

[0020] The conveyor dishwasher has at least one wash zone, and the application device is configured to apply wash fluid to the items being cleaned in the wash zone. The conveyor dishwasher also has at least one rinse zone downstream of the wash zone in the transport direction, and the application device is configured to apply rinse fluid to the items being cleaned in the rinse zone. Furthermore, the conveyor dishwasher has at least one disinfection zone located between the wash zone and the rinse zone. The control system of the conveyor dishwasher is configured to initiate at least one disinfection process in the at least one disinfection zone. In the disinfection process, at least one disinfectant is generated in-situ within the conveyor dishwasher by mixing at least two reactive components.The transport dishwasher is set up in such a way that the items to be cleaned are exposed to the disinfectant in the disinfection zone.

[0021] The term "dishwasher," also generally referred to as a "cleaning device" as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device designed to remove adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants from items being cleaned, or at least to partially remove such contaminants. Additionally, as will be described in more detail below, a disinfection effect can optionally be achieved. The dishwasher can be designed specifically as a dishwashing machine. However, other types of items being cleaned are also conceivable.The term "dishwasher," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device designed to clean dishes, i.e., items intended for the preparation, serving, receiving, or storage of food or beverages.

[0022] Accordingly, the term "conveyor dishwasher," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a dishwasher as defined above, which has at least one transport device. In particular, the conveyor dishwasher can have at least one cleaning chamber, for example, at least one cleaning tunnel, in which the items to be cleaned and / or one or more dishes are exposed to at least one cleaning fluid, in particular by means of at least one application device. The transport device can be configured to transport the items to be cleaned through the cleaning chamber.The items to be cleaned can be placed directly on the transport device, for example, if the transport device has at least one conveyor belt or chain link, perhaps with fingers or compartments for the items. Alternatively or additionally, the items to be cleaned can also be placed in one or more cleaning baskets. Accordingly, the transport dishwasher can be designed, for example, as a belt conveyor dishwasher or a basket conveyor dishwasher. Other configurations are also possible.

[0023] The term "transport device," as used here, is also a broad term, to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a device that is configured to transport at least one other device or at least one other element, especially items to be cleaned and / or one or more dishes, and / or to drive a movement of the other device or element. The transport device can, in particular, comprise at least one drive element, for example, at least one drive element that circulates through the cleaning chamber.In particular, the transport device, for example the drive element, can comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a conveyor belt; transport rollers, in particular driven transport rollers; a link chain; a belt conveyor; a pawl transport system. The transport can be continuous, discontinuous, or intermittent, allowing, for example, the use of continuously operating or intermittently operating transport dishwashers. The transport direction can, for example, be a primary direction of movement of the items being cleaned within a cleaning chamber of the transport dishwasher. The transport direction can be fixed or can change, for example, locally or temporally. For example, the transport direction can be from an inlet of the transport dishwasher to an outlet.

[0024] The term "items to be cleaned," as used here, is also a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without restriction, the term can refer in particular to any objects that can be cleaned in the cleaning device. This can involve cleaning a single object, or cleaning several objects simultaneously or sequentially. In particular, the items to be cleaned can be tableware, i.e., objects that are used directly or indirectly for the preparation, storage, or serving of food or beverages, such as dishes, cutlery, trays, bowls, glasses, cups, pots, pans, or similar items.Accordingly, the cleaning device can, for example, be designed as a dishwasher, such as a commercial dishwasher for use in large-scale kitchens or catering establishments. Alternatively or additionally, the items to be cleaned could also include personal protective equipment, such as respirators or breathing apparatus. Other configurations of the cleaning device and / or the items to be cleaned are also possible. Again, alternatively or additionally, the items to be cleaned could also include industrial goods. Other types of items are also conceivable.

[0025] The term "cleaning," or grammatical variations thereof as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without restriction, the term can refer in particular to a process in which items to be cleaned are freed from adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants and / or in which such contaminants are at least partially removed. Additionally, a disinfection effect can optionally be achieved.

[0026] The term "cleaning chamber," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a fully or partially enclosed chamber, which may be of one piece or of multiple parts and / or modular design, within which the cleaning process can be carried out completely or partially. The cleaning chamber may, in particular, have at least one housing that completely or partially encloses the cleaning chamber. A single cleaning chamber may be provided, or, in principle, several cleaning chambers may be provided, for example, sequentially.The cleaning chamber can, for example, have at least one opening for loading the items to be cleaned, which can also be referred to as the inlet. The cleaning chamber can, for example, be designed wholly or partially as a cleaning tunnel, such as a tunnel with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, also referred to as the outlet. Other configurations are also possible. Accordingly, the terms "inlet" and "outlet" can refer to areas of the conveyor dishwasher and / or the conveyor system of the conveyor dishwasher where the items to be cleaned enter or exit the cleaning chamber. In these areas, the conveyor system can, for example, extend beyond the cleaning chamber and be freely accessible.The cleaning chamber can, for example, be designed as an elongated cleaning tunnel, with an opening on each of opposite end faces, wherein the transport device enters the cleaning tunnel at an inlet-side opening and exits the cleaning tunnel at an outlet-side opening, so that the item to be cleaned can be transported from the inlet to the outlet by means of the transport device.

[0027] The term "application device," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to any device by means of which the items to be cleaned can be exposed to cleaning fluids, especially at least one cleaning fluid, within the cleaning chamber.

[0028] The term "exposure," as well as grammatical variations thereof, can generally be understood as any contact of an object, for example, the item to be cleaned, with at least one medium, for example, the at least one cleaning fluid and / or the at least one disinfectant, in particular external contact. This can be done, in particular, by direct exposure, for example, by spraying, dripping, irradiating, or a combination of the aforementioned and / or other direct exposure methods, in which the cleaning fluid directly impacts the item to be cleaned, preferably with a pulse greater than zero. The exposure can be carried out, in particular, in such a way that the object being exposed, for example, the item to be cleaned, is not immersed in the medium, for example, the cleaning fluid and / or the disinfectant.

[0029] The application device can, in particular, comprise at least one nozzle system, for example, at least one nozzle arm, for example, at least one rotatably mounted or at least one rigid nozzle arm. For example, at least one nozzle arm, for example, a rigid or rotatably mounted nozzle arm, can be arranged below the item to be cleaned, for example, below the transport device, and at least one nozzle arm, for example, a rotatably mounted or rigid nozzle arm, can be arranged above the item to be cleaned, for example, above the transport device. Separate nozzle arms for washing fluid and rinsing fluid can be provided above and below the item to be cleaned, for example.

[0030] Furthermore, the application device can comprise at least one pump and at least one piping system for supplying cleaning fluid to the nozzle system. For example, a nozzle system and a piping system for supplying cleaning fluid from at least one tank, such as at least one wash tank, can be provided, along with at least one pump, such as at least one wash pump. Alternatively or additionally, at least one nozzle system can be supplied directly from a supply line without requiring a pump.

[0031] Furthermore, at least one nozzle system and at least one piping system for supplying cleaning fluid from at least one optional rinse tank or clear rinse tank can be provided, which is preferably designed separately from the wash tank and in which the rinse fluid or clear rinse fluid can be treated separately from the wash tank, as well as at least one rinse pump. For example, the rinse tank or clear rinse tank can be designed as a boiler and / or can have a flow heater.

[0032] As will be explained in more detail below, the cleaning device can incorporate several cleaning zones, which the items being cleaned can pass through sequentially. The items can thus be transported through several cleaning zones one after the other, each receiving a different type of cleaning fluid application. For example, one or more cleaning zones can be selected from the group consisting of: a pre-cleaning zone; a washing zone; and a rinsing or clearing zone, which can be further subdivided into a pumped clearing zone and a downstream fresh water clearing zone.Furthermore, at least one drying step can be provided, which, for example, can be located in one chamber after the cleaning item is stationary and subjected to the cleaning fluid, or which, for example, can take place in a drying zone downstream of the liquid cleaning zones in the transport dishwasher.

[0033] In this context, a "nozzle" can generally be understood as a subunit of the nozzle system that has at least one outlet opening. In particular, the nozzle system can be configured to direct the fluid in at least one predetermined direction, for example, at a predetermined angle, onto a workpiece or other object to be treated. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzle system can also be configured to set a pressure, for example, a force, with which the workpiece or other object to be treated is exposed to the fluid.

[0034] The term "fluid," as used here, is also a broad term, to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a substance in a fluid state, especially a gaseous and / or liquid state. The fluid can, for example, be a pure substance or a mixture. In particular, the fluid can comprise at least one aqueous liquid, especially water, and / or at least one cleaning fluid.

[0035] The term "cleaning fluid," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood according to its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer to any fluid, and in particular any liquid, which, upon contact with the item being cleaned, can exert a cleaning effect. Specifically, the cleaning fluid can be aqueous, for example, water and / or water with one or more additives, such as one or more concentrated cleaners and / or rinse aids and / or disinfectants. In the following, the terms "cleaning fluid" and "cleaning liquid" are generally used largely synonymously, without excluding the possibility that at least one cleaning fluid may also be, for example, a gaseous fluid and / or an aerosol.

[0036] The transport dishwasher can be configured to use a single cleaning fluid or a combination of several cleaning fluids. If multiple cleaning fluids are used, the items to be cleaned can be treated with the different fluids simultaneously or sequentially. This allows the items to be treated successively in different locations, such as different cleaning zones or chambers, with different types of cleaning fluids.

[0037] The cleaning fluid may, in particular, comprise at least one cleaning fluid selected from the group consisting of: an aqueous cleaning fluid; a cleaning fluid with at least one cleaning solution; a cleaning fluid with at least one rinse aid; a cleaning fluid with at least one disinfectant; a rinsing fluid; demineralized water; a heated cleaning fluid, in particular a cleaning fluid heated to a temperature of 30 °C to 70 °C and especially preferably to 60 °C. Other types of cleaning fluids or other fluids may also be used in principle.

[0038] The term "control system," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a single-part or multi-part device of the conveyor dishwasher, which is configured to fully or partially control and / or regulate the operation of the conveyor dishwasher. In particular, the control system can be configured to change, in particular to control and / or regulate, one or more operating parameters of the conveyor dishwasher, for example, at least one temperature, at least one pressure, at least one heating output, at least one pump output, at least one valve position, or a combination of two or more operating parameters.The control system can, in particular, comprise at least one data processing device, for example, at least one processor. The control system can, in particular, be configured programmatically, for example, to control or execute at least one cleaning program of the conveyor dishwasher. Accordingly, the control system can be implemented partly by hardware and / or, alternatively or additionally, completely or partially by software. Furthermore, the control system can comprise at least one volatile and / or non-volatile data storage device. The control system can also comprise at least one interface, for example, a human-machine interface for inputting commands and / or outputting information, and / or a wireless or wired interface for the unidirectional or bidirectional exchange of data and / or commands between the conveyor dishwasher and at least one other device.The control system can, in particular, comprise at least one computer and / or at least one processor. The control system can, in particular, be a centralized or decentralized machine control system for the conveyor dishwasher. The control system can also be connected to at least one sensor of the conveyor dishwasher and, for example, process one or more sensor signals programmatically. The term "processor," as used here, is also a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can, in particular, refer to any logic circuit configured to perform basic operations of a computer or system, and / or to a device configured to perform calculations or logical operations.In particular, the processor can be configured to execute basic instructions that control a computer or a computer system. For example, the processor can have at least one component selected from the group consisting of: an arithmetic logic unit (ALU); a floating-point unit (FPU), such as a mathematical coprocessor or a numeric coprocessor; a plurality of registers, in particular registers configured to supply operands to the ALU and to store the results of operations; and a memory, in particular a data memory, such as an L1 and / or L2 cache. In particular, the processor can have a single core or multiple cores. In particular, the processor can be a central processing unit (CPU) or comprise such a central processing unit.Additionally or alternatively, the processor may be a microprocessor or comprise a microprocessor, such that, in particular, the components of the processor may be contained in a single integrated circuit chip. Alternatively or additionally, however, the processor may also comprise one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and / or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or similar components. The processor may, in particular, be configured, especially by software programming, to perform one or more evaluation operations.

[0039] The term "washing," as well as grammatical variations thereof as used here, is also a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a cleaning process as defined above, in which the item to be cleaned is exposed to at least one cleaning fluid, also called a washing fluid, thereby removing coarse soiling and stubborn dirt. Accordingly, the cleaning fluid used during the washing process is referred to as the "washing fluid." The at least one washing fluid can, in particular, be or comprise an aqueous fluid containing one or more additives in the form of one or more cleaning concentrates.For example, this could be at least one additive selected from the group consisting of: a detergent, an alkali, an acid, a surfactant, a complexing agent, an oxidizing agent, a preservative, a threshold substance, or an enzyme. The washing fluid can, in particular, have a temperature of 40 °C to 85 °C, for example, a temperature of 45 °C to 65 °C. Accordingly, a "washing zone" can be understood as at least one area within the cleaning chamber, defined, for example, by coordinates along an axis parallel to the transport direction, within which the at least one washing process takes place. For the purpose of washing, one or more washing nozzles can, for example, be provided within the washing zone, which can be supplied with the at least one washing fluid from at least one washing tank by means of at least one washing pump.The washing process can be carried out in a recirculating mode, so that the washing fluid, for example, is repeatedly circulated from the washing tank via the washing pump to the washing nozzle system with at least one washing nozzle, is collected completely or partially in the washing tank after the items to be cleaned, and is then returned to the washing nozzle system via the washing pump.

[0040] The term "rinse" or "rinse after," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood according to its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without restriction, it can refer in particular to a cleaning process as defined above, in which the item being cleaned is treated with at least one cleaning fluid, also called a rinse fluid or final rinse fluid, thereby removing light solid and / or liquid contaminants, such as washing fluid and / or disinfectant previously applied to the item.The purpose of the rinsing process is, in particular, to remove substances or components applied to the items during the entire cleaning process to such an extent that the items can be safely used for their intended purpose, such as serving, preparing, or storing food or beverages. Accordingly, the cleaning fluid used during the rinsing process is referred to as "rinsing fluid" or "post-rinse fluid." The rinsing fluid can be, in particular, an aqueous fluid. This can be, for example, pure water, or water with one or more additives, such as one or more rinse aid concentrates.For example, this could be at least one additive selected from the group consisting of: a surfactant, an acid, a base, a complexing agent, a softening agent, an antifoaming agent, a preservative, or a threshold substance. The rinse fluid can, in particular, have a temperature T > 55 °C, for example, a temperature T of 65 °C < T < 85 °C. Accordingly, a "rinse zone" can be understood as at least one area within the cleaning chamber, defined, for example, by coordinates along an axis parallel to the transport direction, within which the at least one rinse process takes place. For the purpose of rinsing, one or more rinse nozzles can be provided within the rinse zone. Several possibilities exist for supplying the at least one rinse nozzle with the at least one rinse fluid.The at least one rinse zone can, for example, include at least one fresh water rinse zone, in which the at least one rinse nozzle is supplied directly via a fresh water supply line with rinse fluid in the form of fresh water and / or fresh water with one or more rinse aid additives. In this case, the items being cleaned can be treated simply, i.e., not in a recirculating mode. Alternatively or additionally, the rinse zone can also include at least one pump rinse zone, with at least one rinse tank and at least one rinse pump. The rinse fluid from the rinse tank can then be used to treat the items being cleaned in a recirculating mode. The rinse pump can pump the rinse fluid from the at least one rinse tank to the at least one rinse nozzle.After the items being cleaned have been treated with the rinse fluid, the latter can then be collected completely or partially in the rinse tank and fed back to the rinse nozzle via the rinse pump. Various options are discussed in more detail below.

[0041] Furthermore, as described above, the conveyor dishwasher has at least one disinfection zone located between the wash zone and the rinse zone. The conveyor dishwasher's control system is configured to initiate at least one disinfection process within the disinfection zone. In this disinfection process, at least one disinfectant is generated in-situ within the conveyor dishwasher by mixing at least two reactive components. The conveyor dishwasher is configured such that the items being cleaned are exposed to the disinfectant within the disinfection zone.

[0042] The term "disinfect," as well as grammatical variations thereof as used here, is also a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without restriction, the term can refer in particular to germ reduction. Specifically, the term "disinfect" can refer to a process in which an item to be cleaned is completely or partially freed from adhering germs and / or in which germ reduction occurs on and / or within the item being cleaned. This germ reduction can be achieved, for example, through chemical treatment of the item being cleaned, optionally supplemented by thermal treatment, as will be explained in more detail below.In general, disinfection can include a process that reduces germs by a factor of at least 10 in a defined test procedure with specific test bodies. 5 This results in a situation where, for example, out of an original 1,000,000 viable germs, so-called colony-forming units (CFU), no more than ten survive. Standardized test procedures and / or standardized CFU or test organisms, as described, for example, in the European standard EN 17735, can be used to test the disinfection efficacy and germicidal effect.

[0043] The disinfection effect can be checked and / or monitored, for example, by random sampling. Alternatively or additionally, the process conditions can also be monitored, for example, by appropriate sensors and / or the control system. The process conditions can be adjusted to achieve the desired disinfection effect. For example, to achieve the desired disinfection, certain technical conditions may need to be met, such as specific conditions selected from a group consisting of temperature profiles, heat equivalents, concentrations of chemical agents, and exposure times. These technical conditions for achieving the disinfection effect can also be standardized, for example, in standards that specify minimum standards and test procedures for certain equipment groups and / or applications. Germ reduction beyond disinfection is also referred to as sterilization.Sterilization typically results in a germ reduction of at least 1000 units. 6 required.

[0044] The term "disinfectant," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by experts, should be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to a chemical compound, a chemical substance, or a mixture of several chemical substances, especially in liquid and / or gaseous form, which has a germicidal effect, in particular a disinfecting effect or a sterilizing effect. In particular, the disinfectant can have at least one effect selected from the group consisting of: a sporicidal effect; a virucidal effect, in particular a fully virucidal effect; a fungicidal effect; a bactericidal effect; a mycobactericidal effect.

[0045] Accordingly, a "disinfection zone" can be understood as at least one area within the cleaning chamber, defined, for example, by coordinates along an axis parallel to the transport direction, within which at least one disinfection process takes place. For the purpose of disinfection, one or more disinfection nozzles can be provided within the disinfection zone, as described in more detail below. The at least two reactive components and / or the disinfectant can be applied to the items being cleaned by means of the at least one disinfection nozzle. Various examples are described in more detail below.

[0046] The term "reactive component," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to chemical compounds that are designed to undergo a chemical reaction with each other, alone or in the presence of one or more additives, such as catalysts. For example, the reactive components may comprise at least one component A and at least one component B, which can react with each other as reactants, alone or in the presence of one or more additives, whereby, for example, at least one component or compound AB or C may be formed as a product, as well as, optionally, further products or byproducts. The reaction may be homogeneous or heterogeneous.The reaction can proceed spontaneously as soon as the reactants come into contact, or it may require additional initiation, such as chemical, thermal, photochemical, or catalytic initiation. For example, the course of the reaction may depend on specific environmental conditions. These conditions can be determined by temperature, pH value, the presence of one or more catalysts, or other parameters or combinations thereof. For instance, the pH value can be deliberately adjusted so that no reaction occurs initially, and then, for example, on the item being cleaned, the pH value is adjusted to allow the reaction to proceed.For example, the reactive components can be mixed and applied to the item being cleaned. Mixing can occur before, during, or after application, in a state where the pH value inhibits the reaction. The pH value on the item being cleaned can then be adjusted to initiate the reaction, for example, by the targeted application of acid and / or alkali. Alternatively or additionally, initiation can also be achieved, for example, by targeted illumination with UV light or by other means. Alternatively or additionally, initiation can also be achieved through mechanical action, such as the application of ultrasound.Ultrasound can be used, for example, to break down or dissolve separations between reactive components, such as encapsulations, so that the reactive components can be brought into contact and reacted by the ultrasound. The reaction can be single-stage or multi-stage.

[0047] The control system of the conveyor dishwasher is configured, as described above, to control at least one disinfection process in at least one disinfection zone. For this purpose, the control system can, for example, control at least one pump and / or at least one valve of at least one disinfection system, so that the disinfection process is started, carried out, and, if necessary, stopped. The disinfection process can, in particular, be a continuous disinfection process.

[0048] In the disinfection process, as described above, the at least one disinfectant active ingredient is generated in situ within the transport dishwasher by mixing the at least two reactive components. The term "mixing," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood in its usual and common sense, as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer, in particular, to a process in which the at least two reactive components are brought into contact with one another so that they can react to form the disinfectant active ingredient, either directly in one step or indirectly in several steps, alone or with the involvement of one or more auxiliary substances and / or carrier substances. Various possibilities are conceivable and will be explained in more detail below.

[0049] The reactive components can be in the same or different states of matter, and after mixing, they can be homogeneously or heterogeneously mixed, or they can share at least one interface. For example, mixing the reactive components can produce a liquid, particularly one selected from a liquid mixture, solution, suspension, emulsion, or dispersion, containing the reactive components, which can react further with the at least one disinfectant, either immediately or after a time lag. The reactive components can be brought into contact with each other in their pure form. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the reactive components can be incorporated into at least one excipient and / or carrier substance, such as at least one solvent.The auxiliary material or carrier material, both terms being synonymous, can be, for example, solid, liquid, or gaseous. The same carrier material can be used for the at least two reactive components, or different carrier materials can be used.

[0050] Mixing can thus include, for example, bringing the reactive components, each in the form of liquids or contained in liquids, into contact with or combining them, for example in a mixing chamber, a mixing container, a mixing vessel, a pump, a mixing section, and / or in a jet. Alternatively or additionally, however, mixing can also include introducing at least one of the reactive components into at least one other reactive component, each, for example, in liquid form.Alternatively or additionally, mixing can also involve, for example, applying at least one of the reactive components to at least one surface, such as at least one surface of the item to be cleaned, and then either applying at least a second reactive component to the surface and / or exposing the surface to an atmosphere, such as a gas or vapor atmosphere, containing at least one other reactive component. Alternatively or additionally, mixing can also be achieved, for example, by alternately introducing the reactive components into the cleaning chamber and / or applying them to the item to be cleaned, either once or several times. Thus, as described above, mixing can take place inside or outside the cleaning chamber.Mixing within the cleaning chamber can be achieved, for example, by alternately applying the reactive components to the item being cleaned, as described above, or by other means. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one carrier material can also be, for example, entirely or partially in solid form, and at least one of the reactive components can be embedded in the carrier material. For example, tablets made of a soluble carrier material with at least two chambers containing the reactive components are conceivable. Upon contact with at least one solvent, such as water, for example, before or during the cleaning process, the tablets can then dissolve, and the reactive components can mix. Various possibilities are conceivable and will be described in more detail below.

[0051] As explained above, the item to be cleaned is exposed to at least one disinfectant. As will be explained in more detail below, this exposure generally involves bringing the item to be cleaned into contact with the disinfectant on at least one surface, preferably over a large area. Several methods exist for this, which will be explained in more detail below. For example, the disinfectant itself can be applied to the item to be cleaned. Alternatively, at least one of the reactive components can be applied to the item, and the chemical reaction of the reactive components described above can then take place on the item itself, producing the disinfectant.It is therefore possible that the at least one disinfectant agent is formed wholly or partially spatially separated from the item being cleaned and then applied to the item, for example, to the at least one internal or external surface of the item described above, and / or that the at least one disinfectant agent is formed wholly or partially on the item itself, for example, on the at least one internal or external surface of the item described above. Regardless of the method used, contact between the item and the disinfectant agent means that the item is wholly or partially in contact with the disinfectant agent at least once.

[0052] Both methods – forming the disinfectant outside the item being cleaned and then applying it to the item, or forming the disinfectant directly on the item itself – offer advantages that can be utilized depending on the situation. Both methods, however, fall under the category of "exposure." For example, when the disinfectant is formed outside the item being cleaned, the mixing ratio can be precisely controlled, and the reaction leading to the formation of the disinfectant can be more accurately monitored.

[0053] If, however, the disinfectant is formed wholly or partially directly on the item being cleaned, for example, by the reaction of at least two reactive components taking place on at least one surface of the item, this can offer the particular advantage that the components can be applied separately, sequentially, or simultaneously. In the case of rapid reactions with subsequent rapid decomposition of the disinfectant, the lifespan of the disinfectant formed directly on the surface can be better utilized in this way, since the disinfectant does not first have to be applied to the item being cleaned, which could result in a loss of valuable time.Furthermore, unwanted gas formation, which can occur, for example, when the disinfectant decomposes, can be better controlled if the disinfectant is formed directly on the surface of the item being cleaned, so that gases are either not produced at all or are reduced, or the disinfectant can be rinsed off the surface of the item being cleaned before it decomposes and gas forms.

[0054] The process can therefore generally involve the formation of the disinfectant from at least two reactive components within the conveyor dishwasher used for the process. The term "in-situ" can refer to the fact that the disinfectant is formed within the conveyor dishwasher itself. Several possibilities exist: formation within the conveyor dishwasher but outside the cleaning chamber, formation within the cleaning chamber of the conveyor dishwasher but before contact with the items being cleaned, or formation on the surface of the items being cleaned. Combinations of these are also conceivable.

[0055] The reactive components can, in particular, include at least one oxidizing agent and at least one anion of at least one acid.

[0056] The reactive components may, in particular, comprise at least one first reactive component selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3); nitrite (NOα'); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CHsCOO); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (CIOα'); and chlorate (CIOs'). For example, the transport dishwasher may comprise at least one first storage container with the first reactive component.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the reactive components may include at least one second component selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); ozone (O3); H +; and an acid, in particular at least one acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and acetic acid. For example, the transport dishwasher may include at least one second storage container with the second reactive component.

[0058] As explained above, the at least one disinfectant active ingredient can be contained in at least one carrier substance. The disinfectant active ingredient and the carrier substance can form at least one active solution. The items to be cleaned can be exposed to the active solution. The transport dishwasher can be configured to mix at least one of the reactive components with the carrier substance. The term "active solution," as used here, is a broad term and should be understood to have its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can, in particular, generally refer to a fluid medium, especially a liquid, which may comprise the at least one disinfectant active ingredient and at least one carrier substance, as well as optionally one or more additives.For example, this carrier substance can comprise at least one solvent. The active solution can be, for example, a solution of the at least one disinfectant active ingredient in the at least one carrier substance, a dispersion of the at least one disinfectant active ingredient in the at least one carrier substance, a suspension of the at least one disinfectant active ingredient in the at least one carrier substance, or an emulsion of the at least one disinfectant active ingredient in the at least one carrier substance. The items to be cleaned can generally be treated with the at least one active solution.

[0059] At least one of the reactive components can be mixed with or be mixed with at least one carrier substance. This can be the same carrier substance in which the disinfectant active ingredient is also contained, for example, the same solvent. Alternatively, it can also be, for example, only at least one component of this carrier substance containing the disinfectant active ingredient, such as at least one component of a multi-component solvent. If both reactive components are contained in at least one carrier substance each, these can be the same carrier substances or different carrier substances.

[0060] Further possible configurations concern the reactive components. In particular, the reactive components can comprise at least one oxidizing agent and at least one acid anion. The term "oxidizing agent," as used here, is a broad term and should be interpreted according to its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer, in particular, to a substance that can accept other substances and is itself reduced in the process. Alternatively or additionally, the term can refer to a substance that can accept at least one electron, i.e., that can act as an electron acceptor. The term "acid anion," as used here, is a broad term and should be interpreted according to its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art.The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without restriction, the term can refer in particular to a singly or polyply negatively charged ion, i.e., an anion, which can be formed when an acid reacts with one or more positively charged hydrogen ions or protons, i.e., H. + -ions, releases.

[0061] In particular, reference can be made to the documents WO 2019 / 219220 Al and WO 2019 / 219959 Al described above for possible reactive components as well as possible disinfectants that can also be used within the scope of the present invention. However, other reactive components and / or disinfectants are also possible in principle. For example, alternatively or in addition to peroxynitric acid, other active ingredients with corresponding reactive components can be used as disinfectants. For instance, chlorine-based disinfectants and / or peroxycarboxylic acids could be used.

[0062] Through the reaction of the at least two reactive components, the process, as described above, can include the zzz-.sz / zz generation of the disinfectant agent within the conveyor dishwasher. Thus, the at least one disinfectant agent is preferably generated only during operation of the conveyor dishwasher, specifically within the dishwasher itself. This allows the use of unstable, aggressive, or flammable disinfectants that would be difficult or impossible to use without the zzz-.sz / zz generation. This expands the spectrum of activity with regard to germicidal efficacy and / or improves the germicidal effect. Furthermore, storage and handling are safer and easier with comparatively harmless starting materials than would be the case with unstable, aggressive, or flammable disinfectants.For example, the disinfectant may have a lifetime or half-life of less than 1 minute, in particular less than half a minute or even less than 1 second.

[0063] In particular, the disinfectant active ingredient may comprise at least one active ingredient selected from the group consisting of: a reactive nitrogen oxide species (RNOS), in particular a reactive nitrogen oxide species selected from the group consisting of: peroxynitritic acid (ON00H); peroxynitrite (ONOO-); a reactive oxygen species (ROS), in particular H2O2; a peroxycarboxylic acid, in particular peroxyacetic acid (CH3COOOH); an anion of a peroxycarboxylic acid, in particular peroxyacetic acid (CH3COOO); and a chlorine compound, in particular a chlorine compound selected from the group consisting of hypochlorous acid (HC1O), an anion of hypochlorous acid (CIO'), chlorous acid (HCIO2), an anion of chlorous acid (CIO2), chloric acid (HCIO3), an anion of chloric acid (CIOs'), a chlorine oxide, in particular chlorine dioxide.

[0064] The reactive components, or at least one of the reactive components, may include, for example, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and / or ozone (O3), or generate them in a chemical reaction, especially as an oxidizing agent.

[0065] At least one of the reactive components, in particular another reactive component, may further comprise at least one component selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3); nitrite (NO2-); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COO); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (C1O2); chlorate (CIO3).

[0066] The reactive components may in particular comprise at least one combination, especially a combination of at least one first reactive component and at least one second reactive component, selected from the group consisting of:

[0067] Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitrite (NO2);

[0068] Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitrate (NO3); a carboxylic acid and an oxidizing agent, in particular hydrogen peroxide, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); hypochlorite (CIO') and an acid, in particular hypochlorite (CIO') and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, sulfuric acid, citric acid, phosphoric acid and nitric acid;

[0069] Chlorite (CIO? ) and an acid, in particular chlorite (CIO?') and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, sulfuric acid, citric acid, phosphoric acid and nitric acid;

[0070] Chlorate (CIOs') and an acid, in particular chlorate (CIOs') and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, sulfuric acid, citric acid, phosphoric acid and nitric acid.

[0071] For example, the disinfectant peroxynitritic acid (ON00H) can be produced by a reaction of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitrite (NO?') as reactive components, especially in acidic medium, by the reaction:

[0072] H2O2 + NO?' + H3O + 0N00H + 2 H2O.

[0073] Regarding possible concentrations and parameters of the mixture of reactive components, reference can also be made to the documents described above, WO 2019 / 219220 Al and WO 2019 / 219959 Al. In particular, reference can be made to these documents regarding the concentrations of the reactive components, the pH value of the disinfectant and / or a solution containing the disinfectant on the item being cleaned, as well as the preferred mixing times. However, other compositions, concentrations, and / or parameters are also possible.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, the disinfectant peracetic acid (CH3COOOH) can also be produced by a reaction of acetic acid (CH3COOH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as reactive components through the reaction:

[0075] CH3COOH + H2O2 CH3COOOH + H2O

[0076] Furthermore, for example, as an alternative or in addition to one or both of the above-mentioned options, the disinfectant chlorine dioxide (CIO?) can be produced by a reaction of chlorate (CIOs') and an acid, in particular citric acid (CH3COOH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as reactive components, through the reaction: C1O3- + H C1O2+ H2O

[0077] Furthermore, alternatively or additionally to one or more of the above-mentioned options, the disinfectant hypochlorous acid (HC1O) can be produced by a reaction of hypochlorite (CIO') and an acid, for example citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid or acetic acid, as reactive components by the reaction:

[0078] CIO' + H HC1O

[0079] The hypochlorite ions can be provided, for example, in a first reactive component or solution comprising a salt of hypochlorous acid in alkaline solution. This first reactive component can then be mixed, for example, with a second reactive component comprising the acid.

[0080] Other representations of disinfectant agents consisting of several reactive components are also possible.

[0081] In contrast to the direct introduction of disinfectants, the reactive components can be selected for their relative ease of handling. For example, peracetic acid, peroxynitric acid, and chlorine dioxide are unstable, highly flammable, and extremely reactive, making them difficult to handle and unsuitable for use in cleaning and disinfection equipment. By generating zzz-.sz / zz, particularly within the cleaning chamber, from two or more reactive components that are easier to handle individually, the aggressive and potentially short-lived disinfectants are created within the cleaning chamber, specifically on the surface of the items being cleaned, where they exert their targeted effect.

[0082] For example, at least one of the reactive components can generally include hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and / or ozone (O₃), particularly as an oxidizing agent. Other oxidizing agents can also be used in principle. However, hydrogen peroxide is generally easy to handle in cleaning and disinfection equipment and is a very effective oxidizing agent. The acids mentioned are also easy to handle. Nitrates, nitrites, chlorates, chlorites, or hypochlorites are also readily available in the form of their respective salts, such as sodium salts, for example, as aqueous solutions of these salts. For instance, nitrite salts can be provided according to the formula MₓNCh, such as NaₓNCb.

[0083] In addition to the reactive components, other substances may be present. These can include, for example, excipients such as surfactants, foaming agents, fragrances, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, other excipients such as acids, bases, or buffers may be included.

[0084] The disinfection process can be carried out or controlled by the transport dishwasher, in particular by its control system, such that the time between mixing the at least two reactive components and contact with the items being cleaned (unless the mixing already takes place on the surface of the items) is no more than 75 seconds, in particular no more than 20 seconds, and in particular no more than 15 seconds. The time window can, for example, be between 1 and 20 seconds. For example, a time of 2-3 seconds can elapse between mixing the at least two reactive components and contact with the items being cleaned, for example, in the reaction of the reactive components hydrogen peroxide and nitrate and / or nitrite ions described above. The control system can achieve this, for example, by adjusting the timing accordingly.Furthermore, the geometry of the transport dishwasher can be adjusted accordingly, including distances between nozzles, flow velocities, pump capacities or similar measures that the expert will recognize.

[0085] Furthermore, the disinfectant can be present as an active solution or in an active solution, for example, as a true solution, a dispersion, a suspension, or an emulsion. Water, for example, can be used as a carrier, particularly as a solvent. As explained above, this carrier can also act as a carrier for one or more of the reactive components, especially hydrogen peroxide and / or nitrate and / or nitrite ions, which are mixed either outside the surface of the item being cleaned or only on its surface. Particularly when water is used as a carrier for the disinfectant and / or for one or both of the reactive components, the conditions can be adjusted such that the pH of the active solution containing the carrier and the disinfectant is between 2.1 and 6.8.In particular, in the reaction of the reactive components hydrogen peroxide and nitrate and / or nitrite ions described above, the concentration of the nitrate and / or nitrite ions, especially in the mixed working solution with both reactive components before the reaction, can be in a range of 5 to 500 mM (corresponding to 5 to 500 x 0.001 mol / l), especially in a range of 8 to 200 mM, especially in a range of 10 to 100 mM, for example 50 mM.

[0086] In general, the effectiveness can be assessed, for example, by considering the concentration of the disinfectant agent on the surface of the item being cleaned over time, and from this the so-called Haber efficacy parameter H can be defined with:

[0087] H = £ 5 c o dt (1)

[0088] c Dthe concentration of the disinfectant on the surface of the item being cleaned, and H is determined from the integral of this concentration over time t in the application interval (ti, t?).

[0089] Specifically for the above-described use of peroxynitritic acid, the Haber efficacy parameter H can be calculated, for example, as ff = f^ ONOOH]dt (2)

[0090] [O NO Off ] is the concentration of peroxynitric acid on the surface of the item being cleaned.

[0091] In general, the conveyor dishwasher can be configured such that the cleaning process carried out within it is designed to achieve a Habersche efficacy parameter H in the range of 10 mM s to 400 mM s, particularly in the range of 10 mM s to 200 mM s, and especially in the range of 20 mM s to 100 mM s, particularly when using peroxynitric acid as a disinfectant. The desired efficacy parameter for the cleaning process can be adjusted, in particular, by the concentration of the disinfectant and / or the contact time. The contact time can be influenced, for example, by the geometry of the conveyor dishwasher and / or the transport speed of the conveyor system.For example, the contact time can be the time between applying the disinfectant and / or both reactive components to the surface of the item being cleaned and rinsing the disinfectant off the surface. Monitoring can be carried out, for example, using at least one sensor, as described in more detail below.

[0092] The item to be cleaned can be exposed to at least one disinfectant active ingredient and / or at least one active solution, which may contain at least one carrier substance, at least one disinfectant active ingredient, and optionally one or more additives, for a specified contact time. This contact time can begin, for example, with contact between the item and the disinfectant active ingredient and / or the active solution, and can end, for example, by rinsing off the disinfectant active ingredient or in some other way. The contact time can be limited, for example, to 90 seconds or less, 50 seconds or less, 30 seconds or less, or 15 seconds or less. For example, the contact time can be from 1 second to 90 seconds. For example, the contact time can be from 1 second to 10 seconds, in particular from 2 seconds to 3 seconds.

[0093] Further optional possibilities concern the application of the items to be cleaned with the at least two reactive components and / or with the disinfectant itself. In particular, the application can include at least one application method selected from the following: spraying; irradiation; dripping; fumigation; vaporization; fogging, especially cold fogging. If the reactive components are mixed only in the cleaning chamber, for example, in the atmosphere of the cleaning chamber and / or on the surface of the items to be cleaned, the reactive components can also be applied using different application methods. For example, one of the reactive components can be sprayed onto the items to be cleaned, while another reactive component is fogged and applied to the items as a precipitate from the fog.The mixing of the reactive components can then take place, for example, entirely or partially on the surface of the item to be cleaned, or entirely or partially in the atmosphere of the cleaning chamber. The mixing process can be further supported by additional devices, such as at least one blower to circulate the mist.

[0094] The application device may, in particular, comprise at least one disinfection application device with at least one disinfection nozzle. The term "disinfection application device," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, shall be attributed. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term may, in particular, refer to any device designed to apply the disinfectant to the items to be cleaned. As explained above, the application may be carried out by directly applying the disinfectant to the items to be cleaned, either in pure form or in at least one carrier substance.Alternatively or additionally, the disinfection can also be carried out by applying the at least two reactive components to the item being cleaned, for example, independently of each other in pure form and / or mixed with at least one carrier substance, where they react and form the disinfectant. Reference can be made to the above possibilities. Accordingly, the term "disinfection nozzle," as used here, is a broad term to which its usual and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning.The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to a nozzle as defined above, which is part of a disinfection application device and by means of which at least one of the reactive components, in pure form and / or contained in at least one carrier substance, and / or the disinfectant agent can be applied to the item being cleaned.

[0095] The disinfection application device may, in particular, have at least one carrier material supply line for the supply, especially for the continuous supply, of at least one stream of at least one carrier material to the disinfection nozzle. The term "carrier material," also referred to as "auxiliary material," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, shall be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can, in particular, refer to any substance whatsoever, especially a liquid material, into which at least one of the reactive components and / or the disinfectant can be introduced in order to be transported together, especially to flow together.In particular, the at least one reactive component and / or the disinfectant, together with the at least one carrier substance, can form a solution, a suspension, an emulsion, a dispersion, or a mixture. The carrier substance can be, in particular, at least one aqueous carrier substance. For example, this can be water or water with one or more additives, such as one or more rinse aid concentrates. The carrier substance supply can, in particular, comprise at least one pipeline. Specifically, the carrier substance supply can comprise at least one fresh water supply line and / or at least one rinse aid supply line. For example, fresh water can be supplied directly or indirectly to the disinfection nozzle from a fresh water supply, such as a building connection.Alternatively or additionally, at least one rinse aid liquid can be used as a carrier or as at least one of the carriers, for example water with the addition of one or more rinse aid concentrates.

[0096] The transport dishwasher can in particular be designed such that the disinfection application device further comprises at least one component dosing unit which is set up to dose at least one component into the stream of the carrier substance, in particular by means of at least one dosing element selected from the group consisting of a dosing pump and a Venturi nozzle.

[0097] The at least one component that can be dosed into the at least one carrier substance in the carrier substance supply line may in particular be selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one further carrier substance

[0098] The at least two reactive components can, for example, be mixed before being added to the carrier substance using component dosing. In this way, the resulting disinfectant can be added to the carrier substance using component dosing. Alternatively or additionally, the reactive components can be added to the carrier substance independently, either to the same carrier substance or to separate carrier substances. In particular, the reactive components can be added to the carrier substance separately, with the carrier substance being the same or similar for both reactive components, and the reactive components can be added separately to the carrier substance via different lines.

[0099] To implement the first option, the component dosing system can, for example, include at least one mixer. This mixer can be a mixing section, particularly a flow mixer. The mixer can be configured to generate the disinfectant by mixing the at least two reactive components. The component dosing system can be configured to add the disinfectant to the flow of the carrier fluid.

[0100] Alternatively or additionally, the component dosing system can also have at least two separate component feed lines for the separate introduction of the at least two reactive components into the at least one stream of the carrier substance. This allows the at least two reactive components to be mixed within the stream of the carrier substance, so that, for example, the disinfectant agent is formed there. Alternatively or additionally, the reactive components can also be introduced into different streams of the at least one carrier substance.This is useful, for example, if, as will be explained in more detail below, the mixing only takes place on the item being cleaned, so that, for example, a first reactive component, contained in at least one first carrier substance, can first be applied to the item being cleaned, followed by a second reactive component, contained in at least one second carrier substance, so that the reactive components can mix on the item being cleaned and form the disinfectant there.

[0101] The disinfection device can, in particular, have at least two disinfection nozzles for the separate application of the reactive components to the item being cleaned. Alternatively or additionally, in addition to the possibility that at least two of the multiple disinfection nozzles are arranged at the same coordinate of an axis running parallel to the transport direction, for example, above and below the item being cleaned, disinfection nozzles can also be arranged offset from one another in the transport direction. For example, the arrangement can be designed such that at least one of the reactive components can be applied to the item being cleaned upstream of at least one of the reactive components with respect to the transport direction.The at least two disinfection nozzles can in particular have at least one first disinfection nozzle and at least one second disinfection nozzle, wherein the first disinfection nozzle is arranged upstream in the transport direction to the second disinfection nozzle.

[0102] The disinfection nozzle, or at least one of the nozzles if multiple nozzles are provided, may also include at least one mechanical foam generator. The foam generator may be configured to foam at least one medium applied to the item being cleaned during disinfection by adding air and / or another gas to this medium, particularly the liquid medium, thereby generating foam. The medium may include one or more of the reactive components and / or the disinfectant. Furthermore, the medium may include at least one carrier substance, such as water. A foamy medium can adhere to the item being cleaned for a longer period than, for example, a liquid medium, thus increasing the medium's residence time on the item.In this way, for example, the contact time can be increased, or the mixing of the reactive components can be promoted by first applying the first component in the form of a foam and then, after a time delay, applying the second component onto the foam of the first component. The second active component can be applied as a liquid component onto the foam of the first component. The second, liquid component could, for example, also contain a defoaming component. Since the first component in foam form runs off the item being cleaned less quickly than in liquid form, a larger quantity of the first component can be mixed with the second component, thus generally improving the mixing. Furthermore, the second component can also be applied as a foam.Alternatively, the two previously mixed active ingredients can be applied together as a foam to the dishes.

[0103] The at least two disinfection nozzles, as described above, can in particular comprise at least one first disinfection nozzle and at least one second disinfection nozzle, wherein the first disinfection nozzle is arranged upstream of the second disinfection nozzle in the transport direction. The first disinfection nozzle can in particular comprise at least one mechanical foam generator. The mechanical foam generator can be configured to mix the first of the reactive components with air and to generate at least one foam containing the first component and to apply the foam to the item being cleaned.In particular, this first reactive component (also referred to as the “N” component) can be selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NGL’); nitrite (NO₂); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH₃COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH₃COO₂); hypochlorite (CIO’); chlorite (CIO’’); and chlorate (CIOs’), in particular chlorite (CIO’’) and / or chlorate (CIOs’). The second reactive component (also referred to as the “H” component) can be selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂); ozone (O₃); H₂. +; and an acid, in particular at least one acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and acetic acid, in particular hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Reference can also be made here to the component pairings already described above. The first reactive component or N-component can be applied to the item to be cleaned, in particular in a foamed state, for example by means of at least one mechanical foam generator. The subsequently applied second reactive component or H-component can comprise at least one chemical defoamer.

[0104] As explained above, the at least one carrier material can, in particular, comprise at least one liquid. The liquid can, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse fluid. This configuration can be used in a particularly resource-efficient manner. For example, the rinse zone of the conveyor dishwasher can, in particular, have at least one fresh water rinse. At least one liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse fluid can be collected in at least one tank in the fresh water rinse after the items being cleaned have been treated and fed, in whole or in part, to the carrier material supply line via at least one line, in particular a line selected from the group consisting of a fresh water line and a rinse fluid line. A portion of the liquid taken from the tank can also be used for other purposes.Thus, a portion of the liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse liquid from the fresh water rinse tank can be supplied to at least one further zone of the transport dishwasher, in particular at least one zone selected from a pre-rinse area upstream of the disinfection zone in the transport direction and a pre-cleaning area upstream of the washing zone.

[0105] Alternatively or additionally, the disinfection device can include at least one line for supplying fresh water, in particular heated fresh water, to the carrier supply line. For example, as explained above, the rinsing zone can have at least one fresh water rinsing section. The line for supplying fresh water to the carrier supply line can be configured to divert a portion of the fresh water from the fresh water rinsing section and supply it to the carrier supply line. Preferably, heated fresh water can be used. For example, the line for supplying fresh water to the carrier supply line can include a branch after an exhaust air heat recovery unit and before a heating device for the fresh water rinsing section, thus supplying a portion of the heated fresh water from the fresh water rinsing section to the carrier supply line.Fresh water, especially heated fresh water, that has not yet been used in another process step can be used as the carrier medium. The reactive components can be metered directly from their respective containers into the two carrier medium supply lines using a metering pump. Alternatively, fresh water could be used directly from a fresh water supply line. Using fresh water as the carrier medium is particularly advantageous for optimizing or minimizing the consumption of the disinfectant or the reactive components. This allows for the optimization or minimization of the carrier medium quantity. With a correspondingly low throughput, e.g., 40 liters per hour of carrier medium comprising at least one disinfectant or one of the two reactive components, the nozzles generally need to be selected accordingly.However, with smaller nozzles and the use of rinse fluid from the pump rinse system, there is a risk of nozzle clogging, as the previously used rinse fluid may contain suspended particles. Using fresh water as a carrier fluid can avoid this problem, as it does not contain any suspended particles that could clog the nozzles. Using pre-heated fresh water is particularly energy-efficient, as it prevents the rinse zone downstream of the disinfection zone from cooling down.

[0106] The conveyor dishwasher may further comprise at least one pre-rinse zone upstream of the disinfection zone in the transport direction for applying at least one pre-rinse fluid to the items being cleaned, in particular at least one pump-operated rinse zone. The term "pre-rinse zone," as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to an additional rinse zone as defined above and with the possibilities described above, which is arranged downstream of the at least one wash zone and upstream of the at least one disinfection zone in the transport direction.Accordingly, the term "at least one pre-rinse fluid" can be understood to mean at least one rinse fluid as defined above, which is used in the pre-rinse zone. In particular, this can be an aqueous rinse fluid, optionally with the addition of at least one rinse aid concentrate. This additional rinse zone can serve, in particular, to rinse off wash fluid from the upstream wash zone before the items to be cleaned are exposed to the reactive components and / or the disinfectant in the disinfection zone. Since the wash fluid is often alkaline, it could otherwise neutralize an acidic reactive component before it can react with a second reactive component and form the disinfectant. The conveyor dishwasher can also have at least one bypass line for supplying pre-rinse fluid to at least one pre-cleaning zone upstream of the wash zone.For example, the pre-rinse zone can include at least one pre-rinse tank in which pre-rinse fluid can be collected and from there at least partially fed into the pre-cleaning zone upstream of the washing zone. Pre-rinse fluid from the pre-rinse tank can also be used for pre-rinsing in a recirculating system if the pre-rinse zone is at least partially designed as a pumped rinsing system. The term "pre-cleaning zone" can refer in particular to an additional washing zone upstream of the washing zone, which serves the purpose of rinsing off coarse contaminants from the items being cleaned before the actual washing process is carried out in the at least one washing zone.

[0107] As explained above, the mixing of the reactive components can be carried out in various ways. In particular, the conveyor dishwasher can be designed such that the mixing of the reactive components includes at least one mixing process selected from the group consisting of: the reactive components are mixed, whereby the disinfectant is formed in the mixture and the mixture is applied to the items being cleaned in the disinfection zone; the reactive components are applied to the items being cleaned in the disinfection zone and mixed on the items being cleaned, whereby the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the items being cleaned.

[0108] During the formation and / or decomposition of the disinfectant, components may be produced that could potentially lead to odor problems in the vicinity of the conveyor dishwasher. To prevent this, the conveyor dishwasher can, for example, include at least one extraction system to remove gases from the cleaning chamber. This extraction system can, for instance, be connected to at least one existing exhaust system.

[0109] The transport dishwasher can further comprise at least one conversion device by means of which gases from the cleaning chamber can be processed. The conversion device can, in particular, comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of a chemical conversion device, a physical conversion device, and a biological conversion device. The transport dishwasher can be configured to carry out a conversion process by means of the conversion device. In the conversion process, gases from the cleaning chamber, for example, gases containing nitrogen oxides, can be fed to the at least one conversion device for the chemical and / or physical and / or biological processing of at least a portion of the gases.The conversion device can, for example, comprise at least one device selected from the group consisting of a catalyst, a filter, and a gas scrubber. The filter can, for example, comprise activated carbon, particularly since activated carbon is able to bind nitrogen oxides, and especially NO2, effectively. The conversion process can also be carried out in such a way that it includes at least one step in which the catalyst and / or the filter are regenerated and / or made reusable. This can be achieved, for example, by applying temperature, such as to a zeolite material as a catalyst and / or to the filter material, and / or in other ways, such as chemically. For example, nitrogen oxide-containing gases can be converted into gaseous nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and water in a humid atmosphere by means of a catalyst, such as a platinum-containing and / or a palladium-containing catalyst.The conversion process can take place within the cleaning chamber itself, or gases can be extracted from the cleaning chamber during the conversion process, for example by displacement and / or extraction, and fed to the conversion device, such as the filter and / or catalyst and / or gas scrubber. After processing by the conversion device, the gases can be transferred in at least one way, selected from the group consisting of: the gases are returned to the cleaning chamber, in particular in a recirculation or circulation process; the gases are released into an environment; the gases are discharged into an exhaust system. The first option can be carried out, for example, in recirculation mode, such as by repeatedly passing the gases through the conversion device.The recirculation process can be carried out, for example, until the processed gases meet certain quality requirements, such as until at least one gas component no longer exceeds a concentration threshold, for example, in the purification chamber. These quality requirements can be monitored by at least one sensor. After the disinfection step, the gases can also be broken down in a recirculation process using one or more catalysts. Alternatively or additionally, they can be bound to water in a gas scrubber. The water can then be used in a subsequent purification process, such as a subsequent washing step and / or a washing step in a subsequent rinsing cycle. Alternatively or additionally, the water can also be disposed of, for example, via at least one drain.

[0110] As stated above, the conversion device can include at least one filter. The filter can also be referred to as an exhaust air filter. The filter can have at least one base material. The base material can also be referred to as a carrier material. The base material can be selected, in particular, from the group consisting of: untreated activated carbon; treated activated carbon; a zeolite; a textile material, in particular a nonwoven fabric. In particular, the filter can be provided as a wound cartridge made of at least one nonwoven fabric. If the base material is made of untreated or treated activated carbon, the filter can also be referred to as an activated carbon filter. Other materials are also conceivable in principle.

[0111] The term "activated carbon" generally refers to any porous, especially fine-grained, carbon, particularly one with a large internal surface area. Activated carbon can therefore be used, in particular, as an adsorbent. Specifically, gases and other molecules can be adsorbed using activated carbon. The pores of activated carbon can be open-pored. The internal surface area of ​​activated carbon can be between 300 m². 2 / g and 2000 m 2 The density of activated carbon can be in the range of 0.2 g / cm³. 3 up to 0.6 g / cm³ 3 lie. However, other designs are also conceivable in principle.

[0112] Particularly when untreated activated carbon is used as the base material, nitrogen dioxide can be degraded and / or removed through physical adsorption. In this process, nitrogen dioxide molecules can adhere to the surface of the activated carbon.

[0113] Particularly when using untreated activated carbon as the base material, the conversion device may be designed to be replaced and / or renewed, especially after a certain period. Loaded and / or spent activated carbon can be reactivated, in particular by thermal treatment.

[0114] The term "treated activated carbon" generally refers to any activated carbon that has been chemically modified, particularly to improve its adsorption properties and / or to enable a chemical reaction that converts nitrogen dioxide into less harmful products. Specifically, the treated activated carbon may be activated carbon that has been treated with at least one basic compound. This basic compound may be sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH). The treated activated carbon may, in particular, contain deposits of the at least one basic compound, especially on the internal surface of the activated carbon. This internal surface may also be referred to as the active surface. These deposits, in particular, can improve the adsorption or conversion of acidic components in a fluid stream being treated.For example, a reaction of nitrogen dioxide with potassium hydroxide can lead to the formation of potassium nitrite (KNO₂) and potassium nitrate (KNO₃), as well as water. The resulting reaction products, or salts, are generally highly water-soluble and can be discharged from the treated activated carbon, along with the water already present in the exhaust air being treated, and then discharged into a wastewater system. Furthermore, additional water can be added to the exhaust air stream or the treated activated carbon, particularly if the regularly available amount of water is insufficient. Typically, the sodium hydroxide and / or potassium hydroxide are consumed by the reaction. The consumed sodium hydroxide and / or potassium hydroxide can be replenished, and the treated activated carbon can be regenerated.

[0115] The term "zeolite" generally refers to any aluminosilicate material, especially a mineral, which may have a microporous structure. Zeolites can have a specific surface area of ​​300 to 1000 m². 2 The zeolite can exhibit a porosity of at least 20%, and in particular at least 30%. Other porosities are also conceivable. Due to its high specific surface area and porosity, the zeolite may be capable of adsorbing gases such as nitrogen dioxide. Generally, the pore size and chemical composition of the zeolite influence its ability to adsorb nitrogen dioxide molecules.

[0116] The conversion device can be configured, in particular, for scrubbing, especially exhaust air scrubbing, and / or wet chemical treatment of exhaust air, especially gases from the cleaning chamber, particularly for the reduction of nitrogen dioxide. The conversion device can be arranged directly in the cleaning chamber or in an exhaust gas treatment chamber, especially a separate one, into which the gases from the cleaning chamber, especially the exhaust gas, are introduced. In particular, the conversion device can be configured to provide sodium sulfite, especially an aqueous sodium sulfite solution, and to spray it onto the gases from the cleaning chamber, especially gases containing nitrogen dioxide. If the conversion device is configured to provide sodium sulfite, the nitrogen dioxide content in the exhaust air can be reduced by 50% to 95%.Furthermore, the conversion device can be set up to provide hydrogen peroxide.

[0117] The reduction of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is generally a chemical method for reducing nitrogen dioxide into less harmful compounds. Hydrogen peroxide typically acts as an oxidizing agent and can convert nitrogen dioxide into nitrate. The reaction between nitrogen dioxide and hydrogen peroxide generally leads to the formation of nitric acid (HNO3).

[0118] To monitor the disinfection process, the conveyor dishwasher can be equipped with at least one sensor. Specifically, one or more sensors can be used to directly monitor the disinfection process and / or to monitor one or more parameters that play a role in and / or characterize this disinfection process. In particular, one or more sensors can be used to monitor the disinfection process itself or one or more of its sub-steps. For example, the mixing of the reactive components and / or the application of the disinfectant to the items being cleaned can be monitored by one or more sensors. This monitoring can be used, for example, to control the disinfection process, especially for regulation.Alternatively or additionally, this monitoring system can also detect malfunctions that could particularly affect the disinfection of the items being cleaned. For example, upon detecting a malfunction, the conveyor dishwasher can issue a warning signal to the user.

[0119] The at least one sensor may be configured in at least one way, selected from the group consisting of: the sensor is configured to detect at least one property of at least one component, selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one carrier substance; at least one by-product formed in a reaction of the reactive components; and / or the sensor is configured to detect at least one property of at least one reaction product within the cleaning chamber or on the surface of the item to be cleaned, selected from the group consisting of: an acid formed; a gas formed from the reaction; a reaction by-product.

[0120] The control system can be configured, in particular, to control the disinfection process by means of at least one sensor signal, specifically to influence at least one parameter of the disinfection process according to that sensor signal. For example, at least one parameter can be controlled or even regulated, in particular by means of at least one valve and / or at least one dosing pump, selected from the group consisting of: a quantity of at least one of the reactive components; a volumetric flow rate of at least one of the reactive components; a mass flow rate of at least one of the reactive components; a concentration of at least one of the reactive components in at least one carrier substance; a mixing ratio of the at least two reactive components; a quantity of the at least one disinfectant; a volumetric flow rate of the at least one disinfectant.a mass flow rate of at least one disinfectant active ingredient; a concentration of at least one disinfectant active ingredient in at least one carrier substance; a concentration of at least one disinfectant active ingredient on the item being cleaned; an exposure time of at least one disinfectant active ingredient on the item being cleaned.

[0121] A standard ratio of the two reactive components can be selected depending on the form, quantity, and / or concentration of the reactive components provided. Preferably, the two reactive components can be provided and dosed in such a way that their respective containers can be emptied simultaneously. For example, the reactive components can be provided in identical or coordinated container sizes, and the dosage can be selected so that their respective containers can be emptied at the same time. Alternatively, the two reactive components can be provided in identical container sizes and dosed at the same flow rate.

[0122] Alternatively and / or additionally, the parameter(s) to be controlled can be selected so that a specific concentration and contact time of at least one disinfectant agent achieves a predetermined effect on the items being cleaned. For example, the parameter(s) to be controlled can be selected such that the at least one disinfectant agent has a fully sporicidal effect or a weaker effect, such as a purely bactericidal effect. The effect can be specifically tailored to the requirements of the operator of the transport dishwasher regarding the items being cleaned, for example, according to any existing risk of disease transmission.

[0123] In particular, the sensor can be at least partially configured as described above and can, for example, be located in at least one conduit system through which the component flows. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor can also be located in a separate conduit through which the disinfectant flows. This separate conduit can separate a portion of the carrier stream enriched with the disinfectant or the carrier streams enriched with the two reactive components and supply it to the sensor. For example, partial streams of the two reactive components can be separated and mixed within a conduit system, allowing the sensor to detect a parameter of the disinfectant, in particular its concentration.Thus, even if the reactive components are applied separately to the items being cleaned, the sensor can detect a parameter of the disinfectant, such as its concentration. The sensor can, in particular, include at least one optical absorption sensor.

[0124] The transport dishwasher may further include, in particular, at least one mixing device. The mixing device may be configured to mix the reactive components. In particular, the mixing device may be configured to mix the reactive components before they are applied to the items to be cleaned.

[0125] As described above, the conveyor dishwasher has several zones. In particular, the conveyor dishwasher can have the following zones in the direction of transport, in the order mentioned: at least one wash zone with at least one wash nozzle system; at least one disinfection zone with at least one disinfection nozzle system; at least one rinse zone with at least one rinse nozzle system, in particular a fresh water rinse zone; and optionally at least one of the following zones: at least one pre-rinse zone arranged between the wash zone and the disinfection zone with at least one pre-rinse nozzle system; at least one pre-cleaning zone upstream of the wash zone with at least one pre-cleaning nozzle system; at least one drying zone downstream of the rinse zone with at least one drying fan.

[0126] In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for cleaning items is proposed. The method utilizes a transport dishwasher according to the invention, for example, according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below. The method comprises the steps described below. These steps can be carried out, in particular with regard to a single item, in the sequence mentioned, when the item is transported through the cleaning chamber by means of the transport device.Since a continuous cleaning process with numerous items is typically carried out in a conveyor dishwasher, the process steps can be performed in a different sequence depending on the items being cleaned, and / or can be carried out wholly or partially overlapping or simultaneously. The process may also include additional steps not mentioned here. In particular, the options described above can be used to design the conveyor dishwasher and thus adapt the process steps accordingly.

[0127] The process comprises the following steps, in particular sequentially, especially with regard to a single item of cleaning material passing through the cleaning chamber: i. Washing the item of cleaning material in the at least one washing zone with at least one washing fluid; ii. Disinfecting the item of cleaning material in the at least one disinfection zone, wherein the disinfection of the item of cleaning material comprises mixing the at least two reactive components in situ in the transport dishwasher to generate the at least one disinfectant agent and applying the disinfectant agent to the item of cleaning material; and iii. Rinsing the item of cleaning material in the at least one rinsing zone by applying the at least one rinsing fluid, in particular fresh water, to the item of cleaning material. The process may be wholly or partially computer-controlled or computer-assisted.In particular, the individual steps mentioned above can be controlled by means of the control system, which may be wholly or partially software-supported.

[0128] The proposed conveyor dishwasher and cleaning process offer numerous advantages over known conveyor dishwashers and cleaning methods. In particular, the described process, unlike thermal processes or those using chlorine compounds, can kill a wider range of life forms of dangerous germs. Specifically, the described process achieves high efficacy in eliminating bacterial spores. This is accomplished with a comparatively short contact time, resulting in a relatively short cleaning chamber and a high throughput of items. This effectively reduces costs and space requirements. Furthermore, the use of chlorine-based disinfectants can be avoided, thus reducing unpleasant chlorine odors in dishwashing areas.

[0129] In the proposed transport dishwasher and the proposed process, two or more basic components, which are harmless and easy to store when used individually and unmixed, can be employed as reactive components. The disinfectant can then be generated in-situ from these components within the transport dishwasher. During use, the disinfectant can degrade into one or more ineffective and harmless substances after a short contact time.

[0130] This allows for the simple insertion of a disinfection process between the washing and rinsing processes. Specifically, an additional zone, the disinfection zone, can be introduced between a main wash zone (HWZ) or a pre-rinse zone, such as a pumped rinse zone (PKSP), and the rinse zone, such as a fresh water rinse zone (FKSP). The disinfection zone can be equipped with a special spray system that uses previously used rinse fluid, for example, collected in the FKSP, or sprays it with its own pump. Premixed disinfectant can be dosed into the supply line to the disinfection zone's spray system. Alternatively or additionally, the individual reactive components can be dosed separately into the supply line to the disinfection zone's spray system.To minimize the consumption of the disinfectant, the quantity and / or flow rate of the rinse fluid from the fresh water rinse, which is sprayed onto the items being cleaned during the disinfection step, can be throttled. For example, an adjustable throttle can be provided for this purpose. For instance, 50% to 100%, preferably 60% to 90%, of the total rinse fluid collected from the rinse zone, particularly the fresh water rinse, can generally be used in the disinfection zone. The remaining portion of the rinse fluid can, for example, be fed to the optional pre-cleaning zone, as described above.

[0131] As explained above, the disinfection device can include at least one foam generator. For example, at least one foam generator can be provided in or upstream of a spray system of the disinfection device. Using this at least one foam generator, the disinfectant itself and / or at least one of the reactive components can be applied to the item being cleaned as a foam. As explained above, this can increase the dwell time on the item being cleaned, thus extending the contact time compared to a liquid application.

[0132] The ready-to-use disinfectant can be produced in various ways, as described above. For example, the at least two reactive components can each be fed separately into a supply line to the disinfection device, such as a supply line to the disinfection nozzles. The flow in this supply line mixes the reactive components. To verify that the reactive components are properly mixed, at least one sensor can be provided in this supply line, for example, at least one optical sensor, which can detect and monitor proper mixing by, for example, detecting a color change in the solution.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, the at least two reactive components can be mixed separately. For example, they can be combined in at least one mixing section. This mixing section can be located upstream of the feed to the disinfection nozzles. At the end of the mixing section, before the feed to the disinfection nozzles, at least one sensor can be provided, for example, at least one optical sensor, which can, for example, monitor a color change. In any case, when the reactive components are mixed, even when using a mixing section, at least one additional static mixer can be provided to improve the mixing of the two reactive components.

[0134] It is also conceivable that a dilute solution is first prepared from a highly concentrated form of the reactive components. Using such intermediate steps can simplify dosing because, for example, the accuracy requirements for dosing devices and / or dosing pumps may be lower.

[0135] An alternative or additional method for applying the disinfectant to the items being cleaned, as described above, involves applying the reactive components separately. For example, as mentioned above, at least one nitrogen component can be applied as a foam, followed by at least one hydrogen component as a liquid. The hydrogen component can optionally include at least one defoamer. This method offers the particular advantage that the nitrogen component can be dosed from at least one separate tank, allowing for easy control of its quantity. The order in which the reactive components are applied is freely selectable. For instance, instead of applying the reactive components as described above, the hydrogen component can be applied first as a foam, followed by the nitrogen component. Both options are feasible.

[0136] In many cases, particularly when using peroxynitrite acid, which decomposes very quickly as preferred in the present invention, the reacted solution is acidic. Therefore, the liquid collected in the disinfection zone, for example from a tank within the disinfection zone, can also be used, for instance, to descale the items being cleaned. Alternatively or additionally, this liquid can also be used, for example, in the pre-cleaning zone for pre-cleaning. This can lead to improved cleaning in the subsequent cleaning zones.

[0137] Overall, the proposed conveyor dishwasher enables simple and efficient disinfection. This process utilizes safe and easy-to-store basic components. Active germs and germs in their resistant life forms, such as bacterial spores, can be killed simply and efficiently. The latter is particularly difficult or impossible to achieve with many other methods. This improves the hygiene performance of the dishwashing process. Furthermore, the required contact time can be reduced compared to other methods. For example, the time required to inactivate spores can be reduced to less than 20 seconds. This short contact time allows the contact path within the conveyor dishwasher to be kept short, meaning that the machine length only needs to be increased relatively slightly due to the additional disinfection zone.At the same time, a high throughput can be achieved.

[0138] Since a highly efficient chemical disinfection process is now available, the thermal impact on the items being cleaned can be comparatively reduced. In particular, temperatures in the other cleaning zones can be lowered compared to situations without a disinfection zone, which can lead to reduced energy consumption by the conveyor dishwasher and a lower thermal load on the surrounding area, such as the dishwashing area.

[0139] In summary, without limiting further possible embodiments, the following embodiments are proposed:

[0140] Embodiment 1: A transport dishwasher for cleaning items, comprising: a. at least one cleaning chamber, in particular at least one cleaning tunnel; b. at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid, in particular several cleaning fluids, to the items in the cleaning chamber; c. at least one transport device for transporting the items through the cleaning chamber in a transport direction; d. at least one control system, wherein the transport dishwasher has at least one washing zone, wherein the application device is configured to apply washing fluid to the items in the washing zone, and wherein the transport dishwasher further comprises at least one rinsing zone downstream of the washing zone in the transport direction, wherein the application device is configured to apply rinse fluid to the items in the rinsing zone.wherein the conveyor dishwasher further comprises at least one disinfection zone arranged between the wash zone and the rinse zone, wherein the control system of the conveyor dishwasher is configured to control at least one disinfection process in the disinfection zone, wherein in the disinfection process at least one disinfectant is generated in situ in the conveyor dishwasher by mixing at least two reactive components and the items to be cleaned in the disinfection zone are exposed to the disinfectant.

[0141] Embodiment 2: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the reactive components comprise at least one first reactive component selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3); nitrite (NO?); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COO); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (CIO?'); and chlorate (CIOs').

[0142] Embodiment 3: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reactive components comprise at least a second component selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); ozone (O3); H + ; and an acid, in particular at least one acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and acetic acid.

[0143] Embodiment 4: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the disinfectant is contained in at least one carrier substance, wherein the disinfectant and the carrier substance form an active solution, and wherein the items to be cleaned are exposed to the active solution.

[0144] Embodiment 5: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the transport dishwasher is configured to mix at least one of the reactive components with the carrier material.

[0145] Embodiment 6: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reactive components comprise at least one oxidizing agent and at least one anion of an acid.

[0146] Embodiment 7: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the disinfectant comprises at least one active ingredient selected from the group consisting of: a reactive nitrogen compound, in particular a reactive nitrogen compound selected from the group consisting of: peroxynitric acid (ONOOH); peroxynitrite (ONOO); a reactive oxygen compound, in particular H2O2; a peroxycarboxylic acid, in particular peroxyacetic acid (CH3COOOH); an anion of a peroxycarboxylic acid, in particular peroxyacetic acid (CH3COOO-); and a chlorine compound, in particular a chlorine compound selected from the group consisting of hypochlorous acid (HC1O), an anion of hypochlorous acid (CIO'), chlorous acid (HCIO2), an anion of chlorous acid (CIO2), chloric acid (HCIO3), an anion of chloric acid (CIOs'), a chlorine oxide, in particular chlorine dioxide.

[0147] Embodiment 8: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the application device has at least one disinfection application device with at least one disinfection nozzle, wherein the disinfection application device has at least one carrier material supply line for the continuous supply of at least one stream of at least one carrier material to the disinfection nozzle, in particular a fresh water supply line and / or a rinse aid supply line.

[0148] Embodiment 9: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the disinfection application device further comprises at least one component dosing unit, wherein the component dosing unit is configured to dose at least one component into the stream of the carrier substance, in particular by means of at least one dosing element selected from the group consisting of a dosing pump and a Venturi nozzle.

[0149] Embodiment 10: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the component is selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one further carrier substance.

[0150] Embodiment 11: A conveyor dishwasher according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the component dosing system comprises at least one mixer, in particular a mixing section, in particular a flow mixer, wherein the mixer is configured to generate the disinfectant active ingredient by mixing the at least two reactive components, and wherein the component dosing system is configured to supply the disinfectant active ingredient to the flow of the carrier substance. Embodiment 12: A conveyor dishwasher according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the component dosing system comprises at least two separate component feed lines for the separate supply of the at least two reactive components to the flow of the carrier substance.

[0151] Embodiment 13: Transport dishwasher according to one of the five preceding embodiments, wherein the disinfection application device has at least two disinfection nozzles for the separate application of the reactive components to the items to be cleaned.

[0152] Embodiment 14: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the at least two disinfection nozzles are arranged offset from each other in the transport direction, so that at least one first of the reactive components is applied upstream with respect to the transport direction to at least one second of the reactive components.

[0153] Embodiment 15: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the at least two disinfection nozzles comprise at least one first disinfection nozzle and at least one second disinfection nozzle, wherein the first disinfection nozzle is arranged upstream in the transport direction to the second disinfection nozzle, wherein the first disinfection nozzle comprises at least one mechanical foam generator, wherein the mechanical foam generator is configured to mix the first of the reactive components with air and to produce at least one foam containing the first component and to apply the foam to the items being cleaned.

[0154] Embodiment 16: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the first reactive component is selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3); nitrite (NO₂); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COO); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (CIO2); and chlorate (CIOs'), in particular chlorite (CIO?') and / or chlorate (CIOs'), and wherein the second reactive component is selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); ozone (O3); H +; and an acid, in particular at least one acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and acetic acid, in particular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Embodiment 17: Transport dishwasher according to one of the nine preceding embodiments, wherein the carrier material comprises at least one liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse aid.

[0155] Embodiment 18: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the rinse zone has at least one fresh water rinse, wherein at least one liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse liquid is collected in at least one tank in the fresh water rinse after contact with the items being cleaned and is supplied to the carrier material supply line via at least one line, in particular a line selected from the group consisting of a fresh water line and a rinse liquid line.

[0156] Embodiment 19: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein a portion of the liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse liquid from the fresh water rinse tank is supplied to at least one further zone of the transport dishwasher, in particular at least one zone selected from a pre-rinse area upstream of the disinfection zone in the transport direction and a pre-cleaning zone upstream of the washing zone.

[0157] Embodiment 20: Transport dishwasher according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the disinfection application device comprises at least one line for supplying fresh water, in particular heated fresh water, to the carrier material supply line.

[0158] Embodiment 21: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the transport dishwasher further comprises at least one pre-rinse zone upstream of the disinfection zone in the transport direction for applying at least one pre-rinse fluid to the items being cleaned, in particular at least one pump rinse zone.

[0159] Embodiment 22: Conveyor dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the conveyor dishwasher further comprises at least one bypass line for supplying pre-rinse fluid to at least one pre-cleaning zone upstream of the wash zone. Embodiment 23: Conveyor dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the conveyor dishwasher is configured such that the mixing of the reactive components comprises at least one mixing operation selected from the group consisting of: the reactive components are mixed, wherein the disinfectant is formed in the mixture and the mixture is applied to the items to be cleaned in the disinfection zone; the reactive components are applied to the items to be cleaned in the disinfection zone and mixed on the items to be cleaned, wherein the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the items to be cleaned.

[0160] Embodiment 24: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising at least one extraction system, wherein gases are extracted from the cleaning chamber by means of the extraction system.

[0161] Embodiment 25: Transport dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising at least one conversion device, wherein gases from the cleaning chamber are processed by means of the conversion device, wherein the conversion device is selected from the group consisting of a chemical conversion device, a physical conversion device and a bio- ogi see conversion device .

[0162] Embodiment 26: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the conversion device comprises at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a catalyst, a filter, a gas scrubber.

[0163] Embodiment 27: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the filter has at least one base material selected from the group consisting of: untreated activated carbon; treated activated carbon; a zeolite; a textile material, in particular a nonwoven fabric.

[0164] Embodiment 28: Conveyor dishwasher according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the conversion device is configured for wet-chemical treatment of gases from the cleaning chamber. Embodiment 29: Conveyor dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the conveyor dishwasher further comprises at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is configured in at least one way selected from the group consisting of: the sensor is configured to detect at least one property of at least one component, selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant agent; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant agent; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one carrier substance; at least one byproduct formed in a reaction of the reactive components;The sensor is designed to detect at least one property of at least one reaction product within the cleaning chamber or on the surface of the item being cleaned, selected from the group consisting of: an acid produced; a gas produced by the reaction; a reaction by-product.

[0165] Embodiment 30: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the control is set up to control the disinfection process by means of at least one sensor signal from the sensor, in particular to influence at least one parameter of the disinfection process in accordance with at least one sensor signal from the sensor.

[0166] Embodiment 31: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the sensor is at least partially configured in the first-mentioned manner, wherein the sensor is arranged in at least one piping system through which the component flows.

[0167] Embodiment 32: Transport dishwasher according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the sensor is at least partially configured in the first-mentioned manner, wherein the sensor is arranged in at least one separate line through which the disinfectant flows.

[0168] Embodiment 33: Conveyor dishwasher according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the sensor comprises at least one optical absorption sensor. Embodiment 34: Conveyor dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising at least one mixing device, wherein the mixing device is configured to mix the reactive components.

[0169] Embodiment 35: Transport dishwasher according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the mixing device is set up to mix the reactive components before being applied to the items to be cleaned.

[0170] Embodiment 36: Conveyor dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the conveyor dishwasher has the following zones in the transport direction, in the order mentioned: at least one wash zone with at least one wash nozzle system; at least one disinfection zone with at least one disinfection nozzle system; at least one rinse zone with at least one rinse nozzle system, in particular a fresh water rinse zone, and optionally at least one of the following zones: at least one pre-rinse zone arranged between the wash zone and the disinfection zone with at least one pre-rinse nozzle system; at least one pre-cleaning zone upstream of the wash zone with at least one pre-cleaning nozzle system; at least one drying zone downstream of the rinse zone with at least one drying fan.

[0171] Embodiment 37: A method for cleaning items, wherein a conveyor dishwasher according to one of the preceding embodiments is used, comprising the following steps: i. Washing the items in the at least one washing zone with at least one washing fluid; ii. Disinfecting the items in the at least one disinfection zone, wherein the disinfection of the items comprises mixing the at least two reactive components in situ in the conveyor dishwasher to generate the at least one disinfectant and applying the disinfectant to the items; and iii. Rinsing the items in the at least one rinsing zone by applying the at least one rinsing fluid, in particular fresh water, to the items.

[0172] Brief description of the characters

[0173] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, particularly in conjunction with the dependent claims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments are shown schematically in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures denote identical or functionally equivalent elements, or elements that correspond to one another with respect to their functions.

[0174] Specifically, we show:

[0175] Figures 1A and 1B show different sectional views of an embodiment of a transport dishwasher according to the invention for cleaning items;

[0176] Figures 2A and 2B show different embodiments of a disinfection application device;

[0177] Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of a transport dishwasher according to the invention for cleaning items;

[0178] Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of a transport dishwasher according to the invention for cleaning items; and

[0179] Figure 5 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method according to the invention for cleaning items.

[0180] Description of the exemplary implementations

[0181] Figures 1A and 1B show a first embodiment of a transport dishwasher 110 according to the invention for cleaning items 112 in various sectional views. The transport dishwasher 110 can, for example, be designed as a basket transport dishwasher or as a belt transport dishwasher 114 and can be configured to transport the items 112 directly on the transport device 126, for example on a conveyor belt, or in transport baskets 116 that are placed on the conveyor belt, as shown here in this embodiment.

[0182] The conveyor dishwasher 110 comprises at least one cleaning chamber 118. As illustrated in this exemplary embodiment, the conveyor dishwasher 110 can, in particular, comprise at least one cleaning tunnel 120. For example, the cleaning chamber 118 can have at least one opening for loading the cleaning chamber 118 with the items to be cleaned 112, which can also be referred to as the inlet 122. The cleaning chamber 118 can furthermore have an outlet opening, also referred to as the outlet 124, through which the items to be cleaned 112 exit the cleaning chamber 118.

[0183] The transport dishwasher 110 further comprises at least one transport device 126 for transporting the items to be cleaned 112 through the cleaning chamber 118 in a transport direction 128. In this embodiment, the cleaning chamber 118 is designed as an elongated cleaning tunnel 120, with an opening at each of its opposite end faces. The transport device 126 can, for example, enter the cleaning tunnel at an inlet-side opening and exit the cleaning tunnel 120 at an outlet-side opening, so that the items to be cleaned 112 can be transported from the inlet 122 to the outlet 124 by means of the transport device 126.

[0184] The conveyor dishwasher 110 further comprises at least one application device 130 for applying at least one cleaning fluid 132, in particular several cleaning fluids 132, to the items to be cleaned 112 in the cleaning chamber 118, and at least one control unit 134. The conveyor dishwasher 110 has at least one washing zone 136, wherein the application device 130 is configured to apply washing fluid 138 to the items to be cleaned 112 in the washing zone 136.

[0185] The application device 130 can, in particular, comprise at least one nozzle system 140, for example, at least one nozzle arm 142, for example, at least one rotatably mounted or at least one rigid nozzle arm. For example, in the cleaning chamber 118, at least one nozzle arm 142 can be arranged below the item to be cleaned 112, for example, below the transport device 126, and at least one nozzle arm 142 above the item to be cleaned 112, for example, above the transport device 126.

[0186] Furthermore, the supply device 130 can comprise at least one pump 144 and at least one piping system 146 for supplying cleaning fluid 132 to the nozzle system 140. As shown in this embodiment, the nozzle system 140 and the piping system 146 for supplying cleaning fluid 132 from at least one tank, for example at least one wash tank 148, and at least one pump, for example at least one wash pump 150, can be provided.

[0187] The conveyor dishwasher 110 further comprises at least one rinse zone 152 downstream of the wash zone 136 in the transport direction 128. The application device 130 is configured to apply rinse fluid 154 to the items to be cleaned 112 in the rinse zone 152. For the purpose of rinsing, one or more rinse nozzles 156 may be provided within the rinse zone 152. For the supply of the at least one rinse fluid 154, the at least one rinse zone 152 may, for example, include at least one fresh water rinse zone 158, in which the at least one rinse nozzle 156 is supplied, for example, directly via a fresh water supply line 160 with rinse fluid in the form of fresh water and / or in the form of fresh water with one or more rinse aid additives. In this case, the application of the rinse fluid 112 may, for example, be a single application, i.e., not in recirculation mode.As shown in Figure 1A, the supply of the rinse fluid 154 via the fresh water supply line 160, which is connected to a fresh water connection 162, can be controlled by means of a supply valve 164. The rinse fluid 154 can also optionally be provided in heated form, for example by means of a heating device 166 and / or via waste heat from a heat recovery device 168 or an extraction system, by means of which gases can be extracted from the cleaning chamber 118.

[0188] The conveyor dishwasher 110 further comprises at least one disinfection zone 170 arranged between the wash zone 136 and the rinse zone 152, wherein the control unit 134 of the conveyor dishwasher 110 is configured to control at least one disinfection process in the disinfection zone 170, wherein in the disinfection process at least one disinfectant is generated in-situ in the conveyor dishwasher 110 by mixing at least two reactive components, and the items to be cleaned 112 in the disinfection zone 170 are exposed to the disinfectant. The application device 130 may, in particular, comprise at least one disinfection application device 172 with at least one disinfection nozzle 174.The disinfection application device 172 can, in particular, have at least one carrier material supply line 176 for supplying, in particular for the continuous supply, at least one stream of at least one carrier material to the disinfection nozzle 174. The carrier material supply line 176 can, in particular, comprise at least one pipe. As shown in this exemplary embodiment, the carrier material supply line 176 can comprise at least one rinse aid supply line. For example, at least one rinse aid can be used as the carrier material or as at least one of the carrier materials, for example, water with the addition of one or more rinse aid concentrates.

[0189] The transport dishwasher 110 can be designed, in particular, such that the disinfection application device 172 further comprises at least one component dosing unit 178, which is configured to dose at least one component into the carrier fluid stream, in particular by means of at least one dosing element selected from the group consisting of a dosing pump and a Venturi nozzle. The at least one component that can be dosed into the at least one carrier fluid in the carrier fluid supply line 176 can, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one further carrier fluid.

[0190] The at least two reactive components can, for example, be mixed before being added to the carrier substance using component dosing 178. In this way, the resulting disinfectant can be added to the carrier substance using component dosing 178. Alternatively or additionally, the reactive components can also be added to the carrier substance independently of each other, either to the same carrier substance or to separate carrier substances.

[0191] Exemplary embodiments of such a disinfection application device 172, in particular the component dosing unit 178, are shown in Figures 2A and 2B. Figure 2A shows a first embodiment of the component dosing unit 178 comprised of the disinfection application device 172, which, in this example, has at least one mixer 180. In particular, this can be a mixing section 182, especially a flow mixer. The mixer 180 can be configured, in particular, to generate the disinfectant by mixing the at least two reactive components. The two reactive components can be dosed into the mixer 180 by a first component dosing unit 184 for the at least one first reactive component and by a second component dosing unit 186 for the at least one second reactive component.The component dosing unit 178 can still be set up to supply the disinfectant agent to the stream of the carrier substance.

[0192] Alternatively, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 2B, the component dosing unit 178 can also have at least two separate component supply lines 188 for the separate supply of the at least two reactive components to the at least one stream of the carrier substance. This allows the at least two reactive components to be mixed in the stream of the carrier substance, so that, for example, the disinfectant agent is formed there. The mixer 180 can be provided in the carrier substance supply line 176, particularly at a point where both reactive components are already present in the stream of the carrier substance. Alternatively or additionally, the reactive components can also be supplied to different streams of the at least one carrier substance, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0193] As can also be seen in Figures 2A and 2B, the transport dishwasher 110 can further comprise at least one sensor 190. The at least one sensor 190 can, in particular, be configured to detect at least one property of at least one component selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant agent; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant agent; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one carrier substance; at least one byproduct formed during a reaction of the reactive components. The sensor 190 can, for example, be arranged in at least one piping system through which the component flows, in particular in the carrier substance supply line 176. The sensor 190 can, for example, comprise at least one optical absorption sensor.

[0194] Figure 1A further shows that the conveyor dishwasher 110 has several zones. In particular, the conveyor dishwasher 110 can have the following zones, as explained above, in the transport direction 128 in the order mentioned: at least one washing zone 136 with at least one washing nozzle system 140; at least one disinfection zone 170 with at least one disinfection nozzle system 174; and at least one rinsing zone 152 with at least one rinsing nozzle system 156, in particular a fresh water rinsing zone 158.

[0195] Furthermore, the transport dishwasher 110 can optionally have at least one pre-rinse zone 192 arranged between the wash zone 136 and the disinfection zone 170, with at least one pre-rinse nozzle system 194. The pre-rinse zone 192, located upstream of the disinfection zone 170 in the transport direction 128, can be configured, in particular, to apply at least one pre-rinse fluid to the items to be cleaned 112. The pre-rinse zone 192 can, in particular, be a pump-operated rinse zone. This additional rinse zone can, in particular, serve to rinse off wash fluid from the upstream wash zone 136 before the items to be cleaned 112 are exposed to the reactive components and / or the disinfectant in the disinfection zone 170.

[0196] The transport dishwasher 110 can also optionally have at least one pre-cleaning zone 196 upstream of the washing zone 136 with at least one pre-cleaning nozzle system 198, as well as at least one drying zone 200 downstream of the rinsing zone 152 with at least one drying blower 202.

[0197] Details of the pre-cleaning zone are shown in detail in Figure 1B: The transport dishwasher 110 can furthermore have at least one bypass line 204 for supplying pre-rinse fluid to the pre-cleaning zone 196 located upstream of the wash zone 136. For example, the pre-rinse zone 192 can have at least one pre-rinse tank 206 in which pre-rinse fluid can be collected and from there at least partially fed into the pre-cleaning zone 196 located upstream of the wash zone 136. Pre-rinse fluid from the pre-rinse tank 206 can also be used for pre-rinsing in a recirculating system if the pre-rinse zone 192 is at least partially designed as a pumped rinsing system.

[0198] Figure 3 shows a further, second embodiment of a transport dishwasher 110 according to the invention for cleaning items 112. The embodiment shown in Figure 3 corresponds largely to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1A and 1B. Therefore, for a detailed description of the transport dishwasher 110 in Figure 3, reference can be made to the description of Figures 1A and 1B. The embodiment shown in Figure 3 has a double or extended washing zone 136.

[0199] In this second embodiment, the transport dishwasher 110 is further designed such that the mixing of the reactive components can only take place on the item to be cleaned 112, so that, for example, a first reactive component, contained in at least one first carrier material, can first be applied to the item to be cleaned 112, followed by a second reactive component, contained in at least one second carrier material, so that the reactive components can mix on the item to be cleaned 112 and form the disinfectant there.

[0200] For example, the disinfection application device 172 can have at least two disinfection nozzles 174 for the separate application of the reactive components to the item to be cleaned 112. Alternatively or in addition to the possibility that at least two of the multiple disinfection nozzles 174 are arranged at the same coordinate of an axis running parallel to the transport direction 128, for example above and below the item to be cleaned 112, disinfection nozzles 174 can also be arranged offset from each other in the transport direction 128. For example, the arrangement can be designed such that at least one first of the reactive components can be applied to the item to be cleaned 112 upstream of at least one second of the reactive components with respect to the transport direction 128.The at least two disinfection nozzles 174 can in particular have at least one first disinfection nozzle 208 and at least one second disinfection nozzle 210, wherein the first disinfection nozzle 208 is arranged upstream in the transport direction 128 to the second disinfection nozzle 210.

[0201] The first disinfection nozzle 208 can, in particular, have at least one mechanical foam generator 212. Alternatively and / or additionally, the mechanical foam generator 212 can also be arranged at the first component dosing unit 184. The mechanical foam generator 212 can be configured to mix the first of the reactive components with air and to generate at least one foam containing the first component and to apply the foam to the item to be cleaned 112. In particular, this first reactive component (also referred to as the “N” component) can be selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3); nitrite (NO₂); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COO₂); hypochlorite (CIO₄); chlorite (CIO₄); and chlorate (CIO₄s), in particular chlorite (CIO₄s) and / or chlorate (CIO₄s).The second reactive component (also referred to as the "H" component) can be selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); ozone (O3); H. + ; and an acid, in particular at least one acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and acetic acid, in particular hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Reference can also be made here to the component pairings already described above. The first reactive component or N-component can be applied to the item to be cleaned 112, in particular in a foamed state, for example by means of the at least one mechanical foam generator 212. The subsequently applied second reactive component or H-component can comprise at least one chemical defoamer.

[0202] Figure 4 shows another exemplary embodiment of a conveyor dishwasher 110. The embodiment shown in Figure 4 largely corresponds to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1A and 1B. Therefore, for a detailed description of the conveyor dishwasher 110 in Figure 4, reference can be made to the description of Figures 1A and 1B.

[0203] As shown in Figure 4, fresh water is used as the carrier medium in this embodiment. The disinfection device 172 can comprise at least one line for supplying fresh water, in particular heated fresh water, to the carrier medium supply line 176. For example, as explained in Figures 1A and 1B, the rinsing zone 152 can have at least one fresh water rinsing section. The line for supplying fresh water to the carrier medium supply line 176 can be configured to divert a portion of the fresh water from the fresh water rinsing section and supply it to the carrier medium supply line 176. Heated fresh water is preferably used for this purpose.For example, the line for supplying fresh water to the carrier material supply line 176 can include a branch after the exhaust air heat recovery unit 168 and before the heating device 166 of the fresh water rinsing unit, thus supplying a portion of the heated fresh water from the fresh water rinsing unit to the carrier material supply line 176. In this way, fresh water, particularly heated fresh water, which has not yet been used in another process step, can be used as the carrier material. The reactive components can be metered directly from their respective containers into the two carrier material supply lines 176 by means of a metering pump. Alternatively, fresh water could also be used directly from the fresh water supply line 160. Figure 5 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the invention for cleaning items 112.The method uses a transport dishwasher 110 according to the invention, for example, according to one or more of the embodiments described in Figures 1A to 2 and / or according to another embodiment described herein. The method comprises the steps described below. These steps can be carried out in the sequence mentioned, particularly with regard to a single item 112 to be cleaned, if the item 112 is transported through the cleaning chamber 118 by means of the transport device 126. Since a continuous cleaning process with numerous items 112 is generally carried out in a transport device 126, the process steps can, however, also be carried out in a different sequence with regard to different items 112 and / or can be carried out wholly or partially overlapping or simultaneously.The process may include additional steps not mentioned here. In particular, the options described above regarding the design of the transport dishwasher 110 can be used for corresponding process steps.

[0204] The method comprises the following steps, in particular sequentially, especially sequentially with respect to a single item of cleaning material 112 passing through the cleaning chamber 118: i. (identified by reference numeral 214) washing the cleaning material 112 in the at least one washing zone 136 with at least one washing fluid 138; ii. (identified by reference numeral 216) disinfecting the cleaning material 112 in the at least one disinfection zone 170, wherein the disinfection of the cleaning material 112 comprises mixing the at least two reactive components to generate the at least one disinfectant in situ in the transport dishwasher 110 and applying the disinfectant to the cleaning material 112; and iii. (identified by reference numeral 218) Rinsing the items to be cleaned 112 in the at least one rinsing zone 152 by applying the items to be cleaned 112 with the at least one rinsing fluid 154, in particular with fresh water.

[0205] The process can be wholly or partially computer-controlled or computer-assisted. In particular, the individual steps mentioned above can be controlled by means of the controller 134, which can be wholly or partially software-supported. List of reference symbols

[0206] Transport dishwasher

[0207] items to be cleaned

[0208] Belt conveyor dishwasher

[0209] Transport baskets

[0210] Cleaning chamber

[0211] Cleaning tunnel

[0212] Enema

[0213] Run

[0214] Transport device

[0215] Direction of transport

[0216] Pressurization device

[0217] Cleaning fluid

[0218] steering

[0219] Washing area

[0220] Washing fluid

[0221] Nozzle system

[0222] Nozzle arm

[0223] pump

[0224] Piping system

[0225] Wash tank

[0226] Wash pump

[0227] Rinse zone

[0228] Rinse aid fluid

[0229] Rinse nozzle

[0230] Fresh water clear rinsing zone

[0231] Fresh water supply line

[0232] Fresh water connection

[0233] Supply valve

[0234] Heating device

[0235] Heat recovery device

[0236] Disinfection zone

[0237] Disinfection application device

[0238] Disinfection nozzle

[0239] Carrier material supply

[0240] Component dosing mixer mixing section first component dosing second component dosing component feed sensor

[0241] Pre-rinse zone Pre-rinse nozzle system Pre-clear zone Pre-clear nozzle system Drying zone Drying fan Bypass line Pre-rinse tank First disinfection nozzle Second disinfection nozzle

[0242] Foam generator

[0243] Washing the items to be cleaned, disinfecting the items to be cleaned, rinsing the items to be cleaned

Claims

Claims 1. Transport dishwasher (110) for cleaning items (112), comprising: a. at least one cleaning chamber (118); b. at least one application device (130) for applying at least one cleaning fluid (132) to the items (112) in the cleaning chamber (118); c. at least one transport device (126) for transporting the items (112) through the cleaning chamber (118) in a transport direction (128); d. at least one control unit (134), wherein the conveyor dishwasher (110) has at least one washing zone (136), wherein the application device (130) is configured to apply washing fluid (138) to the items to be cleaned (112) in the washing zone (136), wherein the conveyor dishwasher (110) further comprises at least one rinsing zone (152) downstream of the washing zone (136) in the transport direction (128), wherein the application device (130) is configuredto expose the items to be cleaned (112) in the rinse zone (152) with rinse fluid (154), wherein the conveyor dishwasher (110) further comprises at least one disinfection zone (170) arranged between the wash zone (136) and the rinse zone (152), wherein the control unit (134) of the conveyor dishwasher (110) is configured to control at least one disinfection process in the disinfection zone (170), wherein in the disinfection process at least one disinfectant is generated in situ in the conveyor dishwasher (110) by mixing at least two reactive components and the items to be cleaned (112) in the disinfection zone (170) are exposed to the disinfectant.

2. Transport dishwasher (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the reactive components comprise at least one first reactive component selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3); nitrite (NCE); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular Es- acetic acid (CH3COO); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (CIO?'); and chlorate (CIOs'), wherein the reactive components comprise at least one second component selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); ozone (O3); H + ; and an acid, in particular at least one acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and acetic acid.

3. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the disinfectant comprises at least one active ingredient selected from the group consisting of: a reactive nitrogen compound, in particular a reactive nitrogen compound selected from the group consisting of: peroxynitrite acid (ON00H); peroxynitrite (ONOO-); a reactive oxygen compound, in particular H2O2; a peroxycarboxylic acid, in particular peroxyacetic acid (CH3COOOH); an anion of a peroxycarboxylic acid, in particular peroxyacetic acid (CH3COOO); and a chlorine compound, in particular a chlorine compound selected from the group consisting of hypochlorous acid (HC1O), an anion of hypochlorous acid (CIO'), chlorous acid (HCIO2), an anion of chlorous acid (CIO?'), chloric acid (HCIO3), an anion of chloric acid (CIOs'), a chlorine oxide, in particular chlorine dioxide.

4. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the application device (130) comprises at least one disinfection application device (172) with at least one disinfection nozzle (174), wherein the disinfection application device (172) comprises at least one carrier supply line (176) for the continuous supply of at least one stream of at least one carrier to the disinfection nozzle (174), wherein the disinfection application device (172) further comprises at least one component dosing unit (178), wherein the component dosing unit (178) is configured to dose at least one component into the stream of the carrier, wherein the component is selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant active ingredient; at least one of the reactive components;at least one of the reactive components, mixed with at least one other carrier substance.; 5. Transport dishwasher (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the component dosing (178) has at least two separate component supply lines. (188) for the separate introduction of the at least two reactive components into the stream of the carrier material.

6. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the disinfection application device (172) has at least two disinfection nozzles (174) for the separate application of the reactive components to the item to be cleaned (112), wherein the at least two disinfection nozzles (174) are arranged offset from each other in the transport direction (128), such that at least one first of the reactive components is applied upstream of at least one second of the reactive components with respect to the transport direction (128).

7. Transport dishwasher (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least two disinfection nozzles (174) comprise at least one first disinfection nozzle (208) and at least one second disinfection nozzle (210), wherein the first disinfection nozzle (208) is arranged upstream of the second disinfection nozzle (210) in the transport direction (128), wherein the first disinfection nozzle (208) comprises at least one mechanical foam generator (212), wherein the mechanical foam generator (212) is configured to mix the first of the reactive components with air and to generate at least one foam containing the first component and to apply the foam to the items being cleaned (112), wherein the first reactive component is selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3); nitrite (NOα); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COO); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (CIOα');and chlorate (CIOs'), in particular chlorite (CIO?' ) and / or chlorate (CIOs'), wherein the second reactive component is selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen peroxide (H?O?); ozone (O3); H; + ; and an acid, in particular at least one acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid and acetic acid, in particular hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂).

8. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the four preceding claims, wherein the carrier material comprises at least one liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse liquid.

9. Transport dishwasher (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the rinse zone (152) has at least one fresh water rinse (158), wherein min- at least one liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse liquid is collected in at least one tank in the fresh water rinse after contact with the items to be cleaned (112) and is supplied via at least one line, the carrier supply line (176), wherein a portion of the liquid selected from the group consisting of fresh water and rinse liquid from the fresh water rinse tank (158) is supplied to at least one further zone of the transport dishwasher (110).

10. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the disinfection application device (172) comprises at least one line for supplying fresh water, in particular heated fresh water, to the carrier material supply line (176).

11. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport dishwasher (110) is configured such that the mixing of the reactive components comprises at least one mixing operation selected from the group consisting of: the reactive components are mixed, wherein the disinfectant is formed in the mixture and the mixture is applied to the item to be cleaned (112) in the disinfection zone (170); the reactive components are applied to the item to be cleaned (112) in the disinfection zone (170) and mixed on the item to be cleaned (112), wherein the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the item to be cleaned (112).

12. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one extraction system, wherein gases are extracted from the cleaning chamber (118) by means of the extraction system.

13. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one conversion device, wherein gases from the cleaning chamber (118) are processed by means of the conversion device, wherein the conversion device is selected from the group consisting of a chemical conversion device, a physical conversion device and a biological conversion device.

14. Transport dishwasher (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the conversion device comprises at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a catalyst, a filter, a gas scrubber.

15. Transport dishwasher (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the filter comprises at least one base material selected from the group consisting of: untreated activated carbon; treated activated carbon; a zeolite; a textile material, in particular a nonwoven fabric.

16. Transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the conversion device is configured for wet chemical treatment of gases from the cleaning chamber (118).

17. Conveyor dishwasher (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conveyor dishwasher (110) further comprises at least one sensor (190), wherein the sensor (190) is configured in at least one manner selected from the group consisting of: the sensor (190) is configured to detect at least one property of at least one component, selected from the group consisting of: the disinfectant agent; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant agent; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one carrier substance; at least one by-product formed in a reaction of the reactive components;The sensor (190) is configured to detect at least one property of at least one reaction product within the cleaning chamber (118) or on the surface of the item to be cleaned (112), selected from the group consisting of: an acid formed; a gas formed from the reaction; a reaction by-product.; 18. Method for cleaning items (112) wherein a transport dishwasher (110) according to one of the preceding claims is used, comprising the following steps: i. Washing the items (112) in the at least one washing zone (136) with at least one washing fluid (138); ii. Disinfecting the items to be cleaned (112) in the at least one disinfection zone (170), wherein the disinfection of the items to be cleaned (112) comprises mixing the at least two reactive components in situ in the transport dishwasher (110) to generate the at least one disinfectant agent and applying the disinfectant agent to the items to be cleaned (112); and iii. Rinsing the items to be cleaned (112) in the at least one rinse zone (152) by applying the at least one rinse fluid (154) to the items to be cleaned (112).

Images