Dishwasher and cleaning method with disinfection step

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for cleaning items to be cleaned (114) including dishes in a dishwasher (110). The dishwasher (110) is designed as a programmable machine (112) and has at least one controller (184), wherein the controller (184) is designed to subject the items to be washed (114) stationarily accommodated in a cleaning chamber (116) of the dishwasher (110) by means of at least one dish rack (124) to at least one cleaning program having a plurality of program steps. The method comprises the following steps in the stated order: a. at least one washing step, including at least one application of the items (114) to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber (116) with at least one cleaning fluid in a circulation process; b. at least one disinfection step, involving at least mixing at least two reactive components in order to produce at least one disinfection active ingredient and applying the disinfection active ingredient to the items (114) to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber (116); and c. at least one rinse aid step, involving at least applying at least one rinse aid fluid (142) to the items (114) to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber (116).

Description

[0001] MEIKO467

[0002] - 1 -

[0003] MEIKO Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG August 26, 2025

[0004] ME17211PC ST / KV

[0005] Dishwasher and cleaning process with disinfection step

[0006] Technical field

[0007] The invention relates to a method for cleaning dishes and related items in a dishwasher and to a dishwasher equipped for carrying out the method. Dishwashers and methods of the aforementioned type can be used, for example, in the field of commercial dishwashing technology. However, other areas of application are also conceivable in principle.

[0008] Technical background

[0009] A wide variety of dishwashers for different types of items are known from the prior art. Besides dishwashers for dishes or dishwashing machines, dishwashers for other types of items are also known. Depending on the type of item to be cleaned, ensuring a sanitizing and / or disinfecting effect plays a crucial role in dishwashers. This applies particularly to the cleaning of 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.

[0010] Even with dishwashers, especially in commercial settings, it is essential to ensure that dangerous germs are killed. The hygienic effectiveness is usually measured by the MEIKO467.

[0011] - 2 - of dishwashers in process steps where predetermined minimum temperatures are maintained for predetermined times. Examples include dishwashing processes described in the standards 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 additionally to thermal sanitization processes, sanitization methods that use chemical additives or disinfectants are also known. For example, in the USA, dishwashing processes are used that comply with the NSF / ANSI 3 standard: "Chemical Sanitizer", which includes the addition of chlorine-containing detergents in the dishwashing process.

[0012] 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.

[0013] 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.

[0014] 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 each 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.

[0015] Despite the advantages achieved with these devices and methods, numerous technical challenges remain. In particular, thermal and MEIKO467

[0016] - 3 - Even chemical rinsing processes generally do not kill all types of germs or their life forms. A particular challenge lies, for example, in killing bacterial spores, which have proven to be extremely persistent and sometimes even resistant in practice. Thermal processes and the usual chemical disinfection methods using chlorine-based disinfectants are often insufficient in this regard. This challenge is exacerbated in commercial dishwashers with automatic programs because the contact time of the disinfectant cannot be extended indefinitely without increasing the program duration to an unacceptable level for commercial use.For example, the program durations of commercial dishwashers are typically well under 15 minutes, often well under 10 minutes, such as 5 minutes or less. Therefore, contact times of several minutes for chemical or thermal disinfection processes can significantly impair the practical applicability of these processes in commercial dishwashing technology. Furthermore, the concentration of chemical disinfectants cannot usually be increased indefinitely, as increasing the amount used would necessitate a correspondingly longer subsequent rinse cycle to prevent unpleasant odors or tastes from the disinfectant on the dishes.Chlorine-based disinfectants, in particular, can easily lead to unpleasant odors in the environment and for staff, 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 at all.

[0017] Object of the invention

[0018] It would therefore be desirable to provide a dishwasher for cleaning dishes and a corresponding cleaning process that largely avoids the disadvantages of known devices and methods of this type. In particular, a program-controlled dishwasher should be proposed that is also suitable for commercial use and in which sufficient sanitization can be achieved even with short program durations, especially with regard to, for example, highly resistant germs and bacterial spores.

[0019] General description of the invention MEIKO467

[0020] - 4 -

[0021] This problem is addressed by a method for cleaning dishes and related items in a dishwasher and a dishwasher designed accordingly for carrying out the method, comprising the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are described in the dependent claims.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] Furthermore, the terms "preferably", "in particular", "for example", or similar terms are used in the following in conjunction with optional features without thereby 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. Thus, as the person skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be carried out using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or MEIKO467

[0025] - 5 - introduced by “in an embodiment of the invention”, are to be understood as optional features, without this being intended to limit alternative embodiments or the scope of protection of the independent claims. Furthermore, these introductory phrases are intended to leave all possibilities of combining the features introduced herein with other features, whether optional or non-optional features, unaffected.

[0026] In a first aspect of the present invention, a method for cleaning items in a dishwasher is proposed, wherein the items to be cleaned comprise dishes. The dishwasher is designed as a programmable automatic dishwasher and has at least one control unit. The control unit is configured to subject the items, which are held stationary in a cleaning chamber of the dishwasher by means of at least one dish rack, to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps. The method comprises the following steps, which are carried out in the sequence stated. The method may include further steps, which are not mentioned here and which can be carried out between the method steps and / or in parallel to and / or after one of the several method steps.

[0027] The process comprises the following steps in the order mentioned: a. at least one washing step, comprising at least one application of at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber using a circulation process; b. at least one disinfection step, comprising at least one mixing of at least two reactive components to produce at least one disinfectant and the application of the disinfectant to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber; and c. at least one rinsing step, comprising at least one application of at least one rinsing fluid, in particular water, to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber.

[0028] The term “dishwasher”, also generally referred to as “cleaning appliance”, as used here, is a broad term to which its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by a person skilled in the art, shall be attributed. The term is not limited to any special or adapted meaning. The term can, without restriction, MEIKO467

[0029] - 6 - kung, in particular, refers to a device designed to remove adhering macroscopic or microscopic contaminants from items to be cleaned, or at least to partially remove such contaminants. Additionally, as described in more detail below, a disinfection effect can optionally be achieved.

[0030] The term "item to be cleaned," 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 restriction, the term can refer in particular to any objects that can be cleaned in the cleaning device. This includes cleaning a single object, or cleaning several objects simultaneously or sequentially.

[0031] The term "tableware," 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 restriction, the term can refer in particular to objects 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.

[0032] Accordingly, 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 dishwasher as defined above, which is designed to clean items as defined above, including dishes as defined above. The dishwasher may be designed specifically for commercial use in large-scale kitchens or catering establishments, particularly as a so-called dual-circuit dishwasher, which, as will be described in more detail below, unlike so-called single-circuit dishwashers, has, in addition to at least one wash tank, at least one rinse tank that is separate from the wash tank.During at least one washing step, which is usually carried out in recirculation mode, rinse aid can already be prepared in the rinse aid tank, in particular tempered, so that according to MEIKO467.

[0033] - 7 -

[0034] The at least one washing step and the at least one disinfection step are completed immediately and without any time loss by requiring the reheating of the rinse aid fluid in the wash tank, with at least one rinse aid step being carried out using the rinse aid fluid. This makes the program durations described above of less than 15 minutes, in particular less than 10 minutes, and especially less than 5 minutes, achievable. The procedure can be carried out in such a way that steps a.-c. take less than 15 minutes, in particular less than 10 minutes, and especially less than 5 minutes.

[0035] 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.

[0036] The term "programmable automatic 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, especially a dishwashing machine, as defined above, which is designed such that the items to be cleaned, especially dishes, are stationary in a cleaning chamber and are subjected to at least one cleaning program with several program steps. In the present case, these program steps comprise at least the steps a., b., and c. mentioned above and explained in more detail below.

[0037] The term “control system,” as used here, is a broad term and should be understood to have its ordinary 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 single-part or multi-part device of the dishwasher, which is configured to fully or partially control and / or regulate the operation of the dishwasher. In particular, the control system may be configured to control one or more operating parameters of the dishwasher.

[0038] - 8 - to modify, in particular to control and / or regulate, a dishwasher, for example, at least one temperature, at least one pressure, at least one heating power, at least one pump output, at least one valve position, or a combination of two or more operating parameters. The control system may, in particular, include at least one data processing device, for example, at least one processor. The control system may, in particular, be configured programmatically, for example, to control or execute at least one cleaning program of the dishwasher. Accordingly, the control system may be implemented partly by hardware and / or, alternatively or additionally, completely or partially by software. Furthermore, the control system may include at least one volatile and / or non-volatile data storage device.Furthermore, the control system can include 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 dishwasher and at least one other device. The control system can, in particular, include 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 dishwasher. The control system can also be connected to at least one sensor of the dishwasher and, for example, process one or more sensor signals programmatically.

[0039] The term "processor," as used here, is also a broad term, and its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be applied. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer, in particular, 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 implement basic instructions that control a computer or computer system.For example, the processor may 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, which are set up to supply operands to the ALU and to store results of operations; a memory, in particular a data memory, such as an LI and / or L2 MEIKO467.

[0040] - 9 -

[0041] Cache data storage. In particular, the processor may have a single core or multiple cores. In particular, the processor may 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.

[0042] 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 within which the cleaning process can be carried out completely or partially. The cleaning chamber may, in particular, have at least one housing that fully or partially encloses it. Specifically, a dishwasher may have exactly one cleaning chamber. The cleaning chamber may, for example, have at least one opening for loading the cleaning chamber with the items to be cleaned and for removing the cleaned items from the cleaning chamber.For example, this could be an opening with a flap or door located on the front and / or top of the cleaning chamber. Alternatively, hoods can also be used to close the cleaning chamber, for example, in so-called hood-type cleaning machines, such as hood-type dishwashers. The cleaning chamber can, for example, be designed to accommodate at least one cleaning basket, as will be explained in more detail below. For this purpose, the cleaning chamber can, for example, have at least one basket holder, such as at least one rail into which the cleaning basket can be inserted.The dishwasher can be designed in particular according to one of the following possibilities: a front-loading dishwasher, in particular with at least one front flap; a hood-type dishwasher with at least one hood that can be moved upwards or at least one hood segment that can be moved upwards, wherein the cleaning chamber is in a lower position of the hood or hood segment MEIKO467.

[0043] - 10 - is closed and wherein the cleaning chamber is open in an upper position of the hood or hood segment and can be loaded or unloaded.

[0044] The term "dish basket," also referred to as "cleaning basket" or "dishwashing basket," 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 a receiving device, for example, a portable receiving device, in which items to be cleaned, in the form of dishes, can be placed into a cleaning device, for example, a dishwasher, and in particular a dishwashing machine, and subsequently removed from the cleaning device in a clean state. The receiving device can be detachably connected to the cleaning device. Alternatively, the dish basket can also be permanently installed in a cleaning device.For example, the dish rack can be attached to a rail system in the dishwasher and inserted into the cleaning chamber via this system, and then pulled out again after cleaning. Alternatively or additionally, the dishwasher can also have at least one guide element, such as at least one rail and / or at least one flat support surface, by means of which the dish rack can be inserted into or pulled out of the cleaning chamber. Again, alternatively or additionally, the dish rack can also be permanently installed in the cleaning chamber. Furthermore, dish racks can also be used for the temporary storage of dishes.

[0045] The dish basket can have a variety of openings to allow liquid to drain away. For example, the dish basket can generally have at least one frame. The dish basket can have a substantially cuboid shape, with a base that may be square or rectangular, and a support surface, particularly a flat surface, for placing the dish basket on a flat work surface. Optionally, one or more sides can extend upwards from the base, for example, with a raised rim, and optionally with other elements such as handles. Furthermore, the dish basket can have multiple holders for the dishes, for example, holders selected from the following: compartments for plates; fingers for plates, cups, or glasses; and cutlery holders.Other configurations are also possible. The MEIKO467.

[0046] - 11 -

[0047] The term "basket frame," 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 basic mechanical structure of the dish basket, which may include a basket base and, additionally, one or more basket walls, which may extend from the basket base. The basket frame may, in particular, be made entirely or partially of at least one material selected from the group consisting of plastic and metal. The basket frame may, for example, be designed entirely or partially as a wire frame, such as a wire mesh.Alternatively or additionally, the basket frame can also be made entirely or partially of plastic, for example, as a plastic frame with multiple openings, such as a plastic grid. The basket frame can, for example, have one or more openings to allow cleaning fluid to flow out of its interior. The basket frame can, for example, have a cuboid base structure, either entirely or partially, such as with a rectangular support surface.

[0048] The process, in particular the cleaning program, comprises at least the steps mentioned above, which can be program steps of the cleaning program. Specifically, the cleaning program includes at least one washing step (a), in which the items to be cleaned are exposed to at least one cleaning fluid in the cleaning chamber using a circulation process. The cleaning fluid used in the washing step can also be referred to as "washing liquid" or "wash fluid".

[0049] 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 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. The medium can be MEIKO467

[0050] - 12 - after application, in particular, the liquid should immediately flow or drip off the item being cleaned.

[0051] The dishwasher may include at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid, also referred to as a cleaning agent, to the items being cleaned. The term "application device," 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 any device by which the items being cleaned can be applied to cleaning fluids, especially at least one cleaning agent, within the cleaning chamber.

[0052] The spraying 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 items to be cleaned, for example, below the dish rack, and at least one nozzle arm, for example, a rotatably mounted or rigid nozzle arm, can be arranged above the items to be cleaned, for example, above the dish rack. Separate nozzle arms for washing liquid and rinse liquid can be provided above and below the items to be cleaned, for example.

[0053] Furthermore, the supply device can include 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.

[0054] 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 separate 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, MEIKO467

[0055] - 13 - the rinse tank or rinse tank may be designed as a boiler and / or may have an instantaneous water heater.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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 synonymously, without excluding the possibility that at least one cleaning fluid may also be, for example, a gaseous fluid and / or an aerosol.

[0059] The dishwasher can be set up to use a single cleaning fluid or a combination of several cleaning fluids. If multiple cleaning fluids are used, the dishes can be treated with the different fluids simultaneously or separately. MEIKO467

[0060] - 14 - sequentially. This allows the items to be cleaned to be treated with different types of cleaning fluids one after the other.

[0061] The cleaning fluid can, 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 can also be used in principle.

[0062] The term "washing," as well as grammatical variations thereof 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 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 referred to as a washing fluid or washing liquid, whereby the item is freed from coarse impurities and heavily adhering dirt. 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, threshold substances, 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 and / or a temperature of 70 °C to 85 °C. For the purpose of washing, the dishwasher can, in particular, have one or more washing nozzles, which can be supplied with the washing fluid from at least one washing tank, for example, by means of at least one washing pump.In particular, at least one washing nozzle, for example at least one rotatably mounted washing nozzle arm, can be arranged above the at least one dish basket, and at least one washing nozzle, for example at least one rotatably mounted washing nozzle arm, can be arranged below the at least one dish basket.

[0063] The washing step, as described above, takes place in recirculation mode. The term "recirculation mode," as well as grammatical variations thereof as used here, is MEIKO467

[0064] - 15 - 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 a specific or adapted meaning. The term can, without limitation, refer in particular to the application of cleaning fluid to items to be cleaned, in which each quantity of cleaning fluid is repeatedly applied to the items to be cleaned. Thus, the washing step can, in particular, be carried out in such a way that the washing fluid, for example, is repeatedly circulated from the at least one washing tank via the at least one washing pump to the at least one washing nozzle system with the at least one washing nozzle, is collected completely or partially in the at least one washing tank after the items to be cleaned, and is then returned to the washing nozzle system via the washing pump.The at least one wash tank can be located, in particular, on the floor below the cleaning chamber.

[0065] Furthermore, the above-described procedure includes at least one disinfection step (b). In this disinfection step, at least two reactive components are mixed in the dishwasher to produce at least one disinfectant. This mixing can take place inside or outside the cleaning chamber of the dishwasher, as will be explained in more detail below. In this disinfection step, the items to be cleaned are also treated with the disinfectant in the cleaning chamber. The dishwasher's control system can be configured to trigger this at least one disinfection step. In the disinfection process, the at least one disinfectant is produced in-situ within the dishwasher by mixing at least two reactive components.The dishwasher is set up in such a way that the items to be cleaned are exposed to the disinfectant in the cleaning chamber.

[0066] 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 in the item being cleaned. This germ reduction can be achieved, for example, by thermal treatment and / or by chemical treatment of the item being cleaned. MEIKO467

[0067] - 16 - guts, as will be explained in more detail below. In general, disinfection can include a process that achieves a germ reduction by a factor of at least 0 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.

[0068] 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 a 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 contact 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.

[0069] The term "disinfectant" 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 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.

[0070] For disinfection purposes, the dishwasher, for example the spraying device, can have one or more MEIKO467 units within the cleaning chamber.

[0071] - 17 -

[0072] The disinfection nozzles are described in more detail below. The at least one disinfection nozzle allows the application of at least two reactive components and / or the disinfectant to the item being cleaned. Several examples are described in more detail below.

[0073] 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 to be cleaned. Mixing can occur before, during, or after application, in a state where the pH value prevents the reaction from proceeding. The pH value on the item 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, for example, by mechanical action, such as ultrasound. Ultrasound can, for example, break down or dissolve separations between the reactive components, such as encapsulations, so that the MEIKO467...

[0074] - 18 - reactive components can be brought into contact and triggered to react by ultrasound. The reaction can be single-stage or multi-stage.

[0075] The dishwasher's control system can be configured, as described above, to initiate at least one disinfection step. For this purpose, the control system can, for example, activate at least one pump and / or at least one valve of at least one disinfection system, so that the disinfection step is started, carried out, and stopped. The disinfection step can be followed by an exposure time, for example, an exposure time of less than 5 minutes, an exposure time of a maximum of 1 minute, or, in particular, an exposure time of 5 seconds to 1 minute, during which the disinfectant can act on the items being cleaned.

[0076] In the disinfection step, as described above, at least one disinfectant agent is generated in-situ within the dishwasher by mixing 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 each other so that they can react to form the disinfectant agent, 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.

[0077] 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, in particular a liquid selected from a liquid mixture, a solution, a suspension, an emulsion, or a dispersion, which contains the reactive components that 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.

[0078] - 19 - for example, in at least one solvent. The auxiliary substance or carrier substance, whereby both terms can also be used synonymously, can be, for example, solid, liquid, or gaseous. The same carrier substance can be used for the at least two reactive components, or different carrier substances can be used.

[0079] 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.

[0080] As explained above, the items being cleaned are treated with at least one disinfectant. As will be explained in more detail below, MEIKO467 contains

[0081] - 20 - This treatment generally involves bringing the item being cleaned into contact with the at least one disinfectant agent on at least one surface, preferably over its entire surface. Several possibilities exist for this, which are explained in more detail below. For example, the disinfectant agent itself can be applied to the item being cleaned. Alternatively, at least one of the reactive components can be applied to the item being cleaned, and the chemical reaction of the reactive components described above can then take place on the item itself, in which the at least one disinfectant agent is formed.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.

[0082] 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. However, both methods fall under the category of "exposure."

[0083] For example, if the disinfectant is formed outside the item being cleaned, the mixing ratio can be precisely adjusted, and the reaction to form the disinfectant can be controlled more precisely.

[0084] 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. (MEIKO467)

[0085] - 21 - 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 before it decomposes and gases are formed.

[0086] The process can therefore generally involve the formation of the disinfectant from at least two reactive components within the dishwasher used for the process. The term "in-situ" can refer to the fact that the disinfectant is formed within the dishwasher itself. Several possibilities exist: formation within the dishwasher but outside the cleaning chamber, formation within the cleaning chamber before contact with the items being cleaned, or formation on the surface of the items being cleaned. Combinations of these are also conceivable.

[0087] The reactive components can, in particular, include at least one oxidizing agent and at least one anion of at least one acid.

[0088] 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 (CH3COO); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (CIOα'); and chlorate (CIOs'). For example, the dishwasher may comprise at least one first reservoir containing the first reactive component.

[0089] Alternatively or additionally, the reactive components may include at least one second component 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. For example, the dishwasher may include at least one second reservoir containing the second reactive component.

[0090] As explained above, the at least one disinfectant active ingredient can be contained in at least one carrier substance. The term "carrier substance", also referred to as "auxiliary substance", as in MEIKO467

[0091] - 22 - The term used here is a broad one, and its ordinary and common meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art, should be attributed to it. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term can refer in particular to any substance, especially a liquid material, in which at least one of the reactive components and / or the disinfectant can be introduced and then transported together, in particular flowing together. In particular, the at least one reactive component and / or the disinfectant, together with the at least one carrier, can form a solution, a suspension, an emulsion, a dispersion, or a mixture. In particular, the carrier can be at least one aqueous carrier.For example, this could be water or water with one or more additives, such as one or more rinse aid concentrates. The disinfectant and the carrier can form at least one active solution. The items to be cleaned can be exposed to the active solution. The dishwasher can be configured to mix at least one of the reactive components with the carrier. The term "active solution," 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 generally to a fluid medium, in particular a liquid, which may comprise at least one disinfectant and at least one carrier, 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. The active solution can also be referred to as a disinfectant and / or be a component of a disinfectant.

[0092] 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 that also contains the disinfectant active ingredient, for example, the same solvent. Alternatively, it can also be, for example, only at least one component of this carrier substance of the disinfectant active ingredient, such as MEIKO467.

[0093] - 23 - at least one component of a multi-component solvent. If both reactive components are contained in at least one carrier, these may be the same carrier or different carriers.

[0094] The reactive components can, in particular, 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 any specific or adapted meaning.The term can, without restriction, refer in particular to a singly or multiply negatively charged ion, i.e. an anion, which can be formed when an acid releases one or more positively charged hydrogen ions or protons, i.e. H. + -ions, releases.

[0095] 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.

[0096] Through the reaction of the at least two reactive components, the process, as described above, can include the in-situ generation of the disinfectant agent within the dishwasher. Thus, the at least one disinfectant agent is preferably generated only during the operation of the dishwasher. This allows the use of unstable, aggressive, or flammable disinfectants that would be difficult or impossible to use without in-situ generation. This expands the spectrum of activity with regard to germicidal effect and / or improves the germicidal efficacy. Furthermore, storage and stockpiling are simplified with comparatively harmless substances. MEIKO467

[0097] - 24 - can be converted more safely and easily into active substances than would be the case for unstable, aggressive, or flammable disinfectants. For example, the disinfectant may have a lifetime or half-life of less than 1 minute, especially less than half a minute or even less than 1 second.

[0098] 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 (ONOOH); 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 (HC10), 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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 (NO2A); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COOH); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (C1O2); chlorate (CIO3).

[0101] 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: hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitrite (NO2);

[0102] 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);

[0103] 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; MEIKO467

[0104] - 25 -

[0105] Chlorite (C1O2) 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;

[0106] 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.

[0107] For example, the disinfectant peroxynitritic acid (ONOOH) can be produced by a reaction of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitrite (NO?') as reactive components, especially in acidic medium, by the reaction:

[0108] H2O2 + NO?' + H3O + ONOOH + 2 H2O.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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:

[0111] CH3COOH + H2O2 CH3COOOH + H2O

[0112] 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 by the reaction:

[0113] C1O3' + H ^ CIO? + H2O

[0114] Furthermore, the disinfectant hypochlorous acid (HC1O) MEIKO467 can also be used, for example, as an alternative or in addition to one or more of the above-mentioned options.

[0115] - 26 - 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:

[0116] CIO' + H HC10

[0117] 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.

[0118] Other representations of disinfectant agents consisting of several reactive components are also possible.

[0119] 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 or dishwashers. 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.

[0120] 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 corresponding salts, such as sodium salts, for example, in aqueous solutions of these salts. For example, nitrite salts can be prepared according to the formula M x N02 will be provided, for example NaN02.

[0121] In addition to the reactive components, other substances may be present. These could include, for example, excipients such as the surfactant MEIKO467.

[0122] - 27 -

[0123] Substances, surfactants, foaming agents, fragrances, or combinations of the aforementioned additives. Furthermore, additional additives such as acids, bases, or buffers may be included, either alternatively or additionally.

[0124] The disinfection process can be carried out or controlled by the dishwasher, in particular by its control unit, 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 unit can achieve this, for example, by adjusting the timing accordingly.Furthermore, flow velocities, pump outputs or similar measures can be adjusted accordingly, which the expert will recognize.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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 the range of 5 to 500 mM (corresponding to 5 to 500 x 0.001 mol / L), especially in the range of 8 to 200 mM, especially in the range of 10 to 100 mM, for example 50 mM. MEIKO467

[0127] - 28 -

[0128] 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:

[0129] H = c dt (1)

[0130] 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?).

[0131] Specifically for the above-described use of peroxynitritic acid, the Haber efficacy parameter H can be calculated, for example, as follows:

[0132] H = [ONOOH]dt (2)

[0133] [ONOOH] is the concentration of peroxynitrite acid on the surface of the item being cleaned.

[0134] In general, the dishwasher can be configured such that the disinfection step performed within it is designed so that the Haber efficacy parameter H lies 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 the disinfectant. The desired efficacy parameter in 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 appropriately selecting the duration of the disinfection step.For example, the contact time can be the time between the application of the disinfectant and / or both reactive components to the surface of the item being cleaned and the rinsing of the disinfectant from the surface of the item, for example, by the subsequent rinsing step of at least one rinse. Monitoring can be carried out, for example, by means of at least one sensor, as described in more detail below.

[0135] The items to be cleaned can, for example, be treated for a specified exposure time with at least one disinfectant agent and / or at least one active solution containing the MEIKO467.

[0136] - 29 - at least one carrier substance, which may contain at least one disinfectant active ingredient and optionally one or more additives, is exposed to the disinfectant. This exposure time may, for example, begin by bringing the item to be cleaned into contact with the disinfectant active ingredient and / or the active solution, and may end, for example, by rinsing off the disinfectant active ingredient or in some other way. The exposure time may, for example, be limited to 90 seconds or less, 50 seconds or less, 30 seconds or less, or 15 seconds or less. For example, the exposure time may be from 1 second to 90 seconds. For example, the exposure time may be from 1 second to 10 seconds, in particular from 2 seconds to 3 seconds.

[0137] Further optional possibilities concern the application of the cleaning item to the at least two reactive components and / or 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 cleaning item, the reactive components can also be applied using different application methods. For example, one of the reactive components can be sprayed onto the cleaning item, while another is fogged and applied to the cleaning item 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.

[0138] 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 a specific or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term may, in particular, refer to any device designed to apply the disinfectant to the items being cleaned. As explained above, the application may be carried out in such a way that the items being cleaned are directly exposed to the disinfectant, in a MEIKO467 manner.

[0139] - 30 - in a 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 to be cleaned, for example, each independently of the other in pure form and / or mixed with at least one carrier substance, reacting there to 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.

[0140] As explained above, the process further includes at least one rinsing step. The rinsing step comprises at least one application of a rinsing liquid, in particular water, to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber.

[0141] 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 exposed to at least one cleaning fluid, also called a rinse fluid or final rinse fluid, and is freed from 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 "rinse fluid" or "post-rinse fluid." The rinse 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, MEIKO467.

[0142] - 31 - This may be at least one additive selected from the group consisting of: a surfactant, an acid, a base, a complexing agent, a water softener, an antifoaming agent, a preservative, or a threshold substance. The rinse aid fluid may, in particular, have a temperature > 55 °C, for example, a temperature T of 65 °C < T < 85 °C or a temperature T of 70 °C < T < 90 °C. For the purpose of rinsing, one or more rinse aid nozzles may be provided. For example, at least one rinse aid nozzle, such as a rotatable or fixed nozzle arm, may be arranged above the dish rack, and at least one rinse aid nozzle, such as a rotatable or fixed nozzle arm, may be arranged below the dish rack. There are several possibilities for supplying the at least one rinse aid nozzle with the at least one rinse aid fluid.This can be connected to a fresh water supply, possibly via an instantaneous water heater. Alternatively or additionally, at least one rinse tank can be provided, which could, for example, be designed as a boiler. However, dishwashers are also conceivable in which the wash tank previously used for washing step a. is also used for rinsing step c. In particular, the washing process can be simple, i.e., not recirculating.

[0143] The dishwasher's control system is configured, as described above, to manage the process with the steps outlined above. For this purpose, the control system can, for example, directly or indirectly access the dishwasher's components and control them according to a program, selecting components from the group consisting of: at least one pump; at least one valve; at least one heating element. The control system can also receive information from one or more sensors. The cleaning program steps described above are performed in the specified order. This means that process step a is started before process step b, and that process step b is started before process step c. However, an overlap of the process steps is possible. For example, process step b can be started before process step a is completed, and / or process step c.The process can be started before process step b is completed. Furthermore, the process may include other, unmentioned process steps.

[0144] As explained above, the dishwasher can be designed specifically as a commercial dishwasher with short program cycles. For this purpose, the program selector can, in particular, have at least one wash tank, especially in the base of the cleaning chamber, and at least one of the MEIKO467

[0145] - 32 -

[0146] The wash tank may have a separate rinse tank for treating the rinse aid. The rinse tank may, in particular, include a rinse tank with at least one heating device, especially at least one boiler. The wash tank may be connected via at least one wash line to at least one spray nozzle system of the dishwasher's spray head. The rinse tank may, in particular, be connected via at least one rinse line to at least one spray nozzle system. Thus, the wash system and the rinse system can form separate systems. The program selector can therefore, in particular, be designed as a dual-circuit wash system.

[0147] In the disinfection step, for example, the at least two reactive components, individually or already mixed, can be dosed into the rinse line. This allows the rinse system to be used specifically for the disinfection step. The application device can, in particular, include at least one rinse pump, which can be activated in step b.

[0148] In particular, the process can be carried out such that, prior to steps b. and c., a quantity of rinse aid is heated to at least a predetermined temperature, in particular a temperature of at least 55 °C, preferably at least 70 °C, and most preferably at least 85 °C, wherein the quantity of rinse aid is divided into at least a first quantity and at least a second quantity, wherein in process step b. the rinse aid pump is operated until the first quantity of rinse aid has been removed from the rinse aid tank, and wherein the first quantity of rinse aid is used as a carrier for the disinfectant in step b. and wherein the second quantity of rinse aid is used in step c.In this way, the contents of the rinse tank can be divided into an amount required for the disinfection step and an amount required for the rinse step, without extending the program duration by reheating the rinse tank after the disinfection step.

[0149] As explained above, there are several ways to mix the reactive components. For example, the mixing in step b. can include at least one mixture of the reactive components selected from the group consisting of: the reactive components are mixed, forming the disinfectant in the mixture, and the mixture is applied to the item to be cleaned; MEIKO467

[0150] - 33 - the reactive components are applied to the item to be cleaned and mixed on the item, whereby the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the item to be cleaned; at least one first of the reactive components is applied to the item to be cleaned, and the item to be cleaned with the first reactive component applied to it is exposed in the cleaning chamber to an atmosphere which comprises at least one second of the reactive components, so that the reactive components mix on the item to be cleaned, whereby the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the item to be cleaned.

[0151] If the reactive components are applied separately to the item being cleaned and mixed there, a separate nozzle system can be used for each of the reactive components, for example, or the same nozzle system can be used sequentially, so that first a first reactive component is applied, followed by at least a second reactive component, using the same nozzle system.

[0152] As stated above, the reactive components may, in particular, comprise at least one first component selected from the group consisting of: nitrate (NO3-); nitrite (NO2-); a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3C0OH); an anion of a carboxylic acid, in particular acetic acid (CH3COO-); hypochlorite (CIO-); chlorite (C1O2-); and chlorate (C1O3-). Furthermore, the reactive components may 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. The first and second reactive components may be mixed outside the cleaning chamber or inside the cleaning chamber.In particular, the first and second reactive components can be mixed within the cleaning chamber, with, for example, the first reactive component being applied to the item being cleaned first, followed by the second reactive component. The first reactive component can also be applied to the item being cleaned in the form of a foam or contained within a foam, as a foam has a longer residence time on the surface of the item. The second reactive component can then be applied to the item being cleaned as a liquid or also in the form of a foam, particularly after the application of the first reactive component. The foam of the first reactive component is MEIKO467.

[0153] - 34 -

[0154] Chemical foaming agents may be added to the component and / or the second reactive component, and / or at least one mechanical foam nozzle may be used in which air is mixed with the sprayed components.

[0155] The process may further comprise at least one conversion step. In the conversion step, gases from the purification chamber may be fed to at least one conversion device for the treatment of at least a portion of the gases, in particular a treatment device selected from the group consisting of chemical treatment, physical treatment, and biological treatment. The conversion device may, in particular, comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of chemical treatment, physical treatment, and biological treatment. The conversion device may, for example, comprise at least one device selected from the group consisting of a catalyst, a filter, and a gas scrubber. The filter may, 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 using 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 - MEIKO467.

[0156] - 35 - fulfill the requirements, for example, until at least one gas component no longer exceeds a concentration threshold, for example, in the cleaning chamber. The quality requirements can be detected, for example, by at least one sensor. After the disinfection step, the gases can, for example, be broken down in a recirculation process using one or more catalysts. Alternatively or additionally, they can be bound to water, for example, in a gas scrubber. The water can then be used, for example, in a subsequent cleaning process, such as a subsequent washing step and / or a washing step of a subsequent rinsing cycle. Alternatively or additionally, the water can also be disposed of, for example, via at least one drain.

[0157] 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.

[0158] 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 range from 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.

[0159] Particularly when using untreated activated carbon as a base material, nitrogen dioxide can be broken down and / or removed by physical adsorption. In this process, nitrogen dioxide molecules can adhere to the surface of the activated carbon.

[0160] Particularly when using untreated activated carbon as the base material, the conversion device may be set up to be replaced and / or renewed MEIKO467

[0161] - 36 - to become, especially after a certain period of time. Loaded and / or spent activated carbon can be reactivated, in particular by thermal treatment.

[0162] 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. The treated activated carbon may, in particular, be activated carbon that has been treated with at least one basic compound. This basic compound may be, in particular, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH). The treated activated carbon may contain deposits of the at least one basic compound, especially on its internal surface. 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, particularly 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, especially 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.

[0163] 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 / g. However, other ranges are also conceivable. The zeolite can furthermore exhibit a porosity of at least 20%, and especially at least 30%. Other porosities are also conceivable. In particular, due to its high specific surface area and porosity, the zeolite may be able to adsorb gases such as nitrogen dioxide. In general, the pore size and chemical composition of the zeolite influence its ability to adsorb nitrogen dioxide molecules. MEIKO467

[0164] - 37 -

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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).

[0167] The method may further include the use of at least one sensor. This sensor may, in particular, monitor the formation of the disinfectant and / or the disinfection step. Specifically, one or more sensors may be used that directly monitor the disinfection step and / or that monitor one or more parameters that play a role in and / or characterize this disinfection process. Specifically, one or more sensors may be used that monitor the disinfection step or one or more sub-steps thereof. For example, the mixing of the reactive components and / or the application of the disinfectant to the items to be cleaned may be monitored by one or more sensors. This monitoring may be used, for example, for controlling the disinfection step, in particular for regulation.Alternatively or additionally, this monitoring system can also detect malfunctions that could particularly affect the disinfection of the items being cleaned. Upon detection of a malfunction, the dishwasher can be configured to, for example, issue a warning signal to a user and / or another device. MEIKO467.

[0168] - 38 -

[0169] In particular, 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; 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.

[0170] If the procedure involves the use of at least one sensor of the dishwasher, then in the disinfection step at least one parameter of the disinfection step can be influenced, for example controlled and / or regulated, according to at least one sensor signal of the sensor.

[0171] The control system can be configured in particular to control the disinfection step 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.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 metering 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 active ingredient; a volumetric flow rate of the at least one disinfectant active ingredient; a mass flow rate of the at least one disinfectant active ingredient; a concentration of the at least one disinfectant active ingredient in at least one carrier substance.

[0172] 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 such that the respective containers of the two reactive components are filled simultaneously. MEIKO467

[0173] - 39 - can be emptied. For example, the reactive components can be provided in the same or coordinated container sizes, and the dosage of the reactive components can be selected so that the respective containers of the two reactive components can be emptied at the same time. For example, the two reactive components can be provided in the same container sizes and dosed in the same volume flow rates.

[0174] Alternatively and / or additionally, the parameter(s) to be controlled can be selected so that a specific concentration and contact time of the at least one disinfectant agent on the items being cleaned achieves a predetermined effect. 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.

[0175] 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 of 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.

[0176] The sensor can be designed in various ways. In particular, the sensor can include at least one conductivity sensor. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor can also include at least one optical sensor. This allows several of the aforementioned disinfectant agents and / or their reactive components to be easily detected qualitatively or quantitatively by absorption measurements. Thus, the sensor can, in particular, include at least one optical absorption sensor. MEIKO467

[0177] - 40 -

[0178] The method may further include the use of at least one filter element. The filter element may, in particular, be arranged in at least one piping system through which at least one component flows, wherein the component 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 carrier substance, in particular water; and at least one by-product formed during a reaction of the reactive components.

[0179] In a further aspect of the present invention, a dishwasher as defined above is proposed. The dishwasher is designed as a programmed machine and includes at least one control unit. The control unit is configured to subject the items being cleaned, which are stationary in a cleaning chamber of the dishwasher, to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps. The control unit is further configured to control the dishwasher to carry out a method according to one of the preceding embodiments. For further possible definitions, options, and embodiments, reference can be made to the above description of the method.

[0180] The proposed method for cleaning dishes and other items in a dishwasher, and the proposed dishwasher itself, offer numerous advantages over known dishwashers and cleaning methods. For example, the method allows for shorter program durations, particularly in commercial dishwashers, as it eliminates the need for time-consuming thermal treatment and / or the use of weak chemical disinfectants. Nevertheless, the disinfection step achieves a more effective disinfection, especially against bacterial spores, thus ensuring the required level of hygiene. Specifically, the temperature of the disinfection step can be lowered, resulting in reduced energy consumption and / or less exposure of the items to chemicals.

[0181] In the proposed dishwasher and process, two or more basic components, which are harmless on their own and easy to store in their unmixed state, can be used as reactive components. The disinfectant agent can then be generated in-situ from these components within the dishwasher (MEIKO467).

[0182] - 41 - will be. During application, the disinfectant may degrade into one or more ineffective and harmless substances after a short exposure time.

[0183] This allows a disinfection step to be easily inserted between the wash and rinse cycles. This is particularly useful with the automated dishwashers described here, where the items to be cleaned remain stationary and all process steps are carried out sequentially. Examples include undercounter dishwashers, pass-through or hood-type dishwashers, and utensil washers. The items can be placed in baskets, which are generally inserted into and removed from the wash chamber manually. The disinfection step can precede the actual rinse cycle with heated fresh water. The premixed disinfectant can be added to the supply line to the rinse nozzles after a rinse aid boiler, and the rinse pump can be activated simultaneously for a predetermined time.The disinfectant can be applied to the cleaned items via a predetermined quantity of rinse aid. Following the disinfection step, a rinse step, optionally with rinse aid, can be performed. In this step, the rinse pump is activated for a predetermined time, applying a second predetermined quantity of rinse aid to the items.

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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, a MEIKO467.

[0186] - 42 - again at least one optical sensor, which can, for example, monitor a color change.

[0187] In any case, when the reactive components are mixed, even when using a mixing section, at least one additional static mixer may be provided to improve the mixing of the two reactive components.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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. Furthermore, the disinfectant applied as a foam does not run off the surface of the items being cleaned as quickly as an aqueous solution and can therefore remain on the surface for a longer period.

[0190] Overall, the proposed method allows for simple and efficient disinfection. It utilizes safe and easy-to-store basic components. This method effectively and efficiently kills germs and their life forms, such as bacterial spores. The latter is particularly difficult to achieve with many other methods. This improves the hygiene performance of the dishwashing process.

[0191] Furthermore, the required contact time can be reduced compared to other methods. For example, the time required to inactivate spores can be reduced to as little as 5 seconds. This short required contact time means that even with short program durations of significantly less than 15 minutes, such as well under 10 minutes (e.g., 5 minutes or less), the MEIKO467 can be used in dishwashers.

[0192] - 43 - can be implemented without compromising the hygienization effect of the disinfection step.

[0193] 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 steps can be lowered compared to when disinfection is not required, which can lead to reduced energy consumption by the dishwasher and a lower thermal load on the surrounding area, such as the dishwashing area.

[0194] In summary, without limiting further possible embodiments, the following embodiments are proposed:

[0195] Embodiment 1: Method for cleaning items comprising dishes in a dishwasher, wherein the dishwasher is designed as a program-controlled machine and has at least one control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to subject the items being cleaned, which are held stationary in a cleaning chamber of the dishwasher by means of at least one dish rack, to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps, wherein the method comprises the following steps in the aforementioned order: a. at least one washing step, comprising at least one application of at least one cleaning fluid to the items being cleaned in the cleaning chamber in a circulating process; b.at least one disinfection step, comprising at least one mixing of at least two reactive components to produce at least one disinfectant active ingredient and the application of the disinfectant active ingredient to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber; and c. at least one rinsing step, comprising at least one application of at least one rinsing liquid, in particular water, to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber.

[0196] Embodiment 2: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the automatic program has at least one wash tank, in particular in the bottom of the cleaning chamber, and furthermore at least one rinse tank, separate from the wash tank, for treating the rinse liquid, in particular a rinse tank with at least one heating device, in particular at least one boiler, where- MEIKO467

[0197] - 44 - where the wash tank is connected via at least one wash line to at least one wash nozzle system of a spraying device of the dishwasher, wherein the rinse tank is connected via at least one rinse line to at least one rinse nozzle system.

[0198] Embodiment 3: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein in step b. the at least two reactive components, individually or mixed, are dosed into the rinse line.

[0199] Embodiment 4: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the application device has at least one rinse pump, wherein in step b. the rinse pump is actuated.

[0200] Embodiment 5: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the method is carried out such that, prior to carrying out steps b. and c., a quantity of rinse aid is heated to at least a predetermined temperature, in particular a temperature of at least 55 °C, wherein the quantity of rinse aid is divided into at least a first quantity and at least a second quantity, wherein in process step b. the rinse aid pump is operated until the first quantity of rinse aid is removed from the rinse aid tank, and wherein the first quantity of rinse aid is used as a carrier for the disinfectant in step b. and wherein the second quantity of rinse aid is used in step c.

[0201] Embodiment 6: A method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the mixing in step b. comprises at least one mixing of the reactive components 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; the reactive components are applied to the item to be cleaned and mixed on the item to be cleaned, wherein the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the item to be cleaned; at least one first of the reactive components is applied to the item to be cleaned, and the item to be cleaned with the first reactive component applied thereto is exposed in the cleaning chamber to an atmosphere which is at least MEIKO467

[0202] - 45 - a second of the reactive components, so that the reactive components mix on the item being cleaned, with the disinfectant being formed in the mixture on the item being cleaned.

[0203] Embodiment 7: Method 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 item to be cleaned is exposed to the active solution.

[0204] Implementation form 8: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein step b. comprises mixing at least one of the reactive components with the carrier material.

[0205] Embodiment 9: Method 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.

[0206] Embodiment 10: A method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the disinfectant active ingredient 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 (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 (CIO2), chloric acid (HCIO3), an anion of chloric acid (CIOs'), a chlorine oxide, in particular chlorine dioxide.

[0207] Embodiment 11: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reactive components comprise at least one first 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 (CEECOO'); hypochlorite (CIO'); chlorite (C1O2'); and chlorate (CIOs').

[0208] Embodiment 12: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reactive components comprise at least one second component selected from MEIKO467

[0209] - 46 - of 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.

[0210] Embodiment 13: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising at least one conversion step, wherein in the conversion step gases from the cleaning chamber are supplied to at least one conversion device for the treatment of at least a part of the gases, in particular a treatment selected from the group consisting of a chemical treatment, a physical treatment and a biological treatment.

[0211] Embodiment 14: Method 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.

[0212] Embodiment 15: Method according to the preceding embodiment, 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.

[0213] Embodiment 16: Method according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the conversion device is set up for wet chemical treatment of gases from the cleaning chamber.

[0214] Embodiment 17: A method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method further comprises the use of at least one sensor, the sensor being configured in at least one way selected from the group consisting of: the sensor being 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; at least one by-product formed in a reaction of the reactive components; MEIKO467

[0215] - 47 - 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 to be cleaned, selected from the group consisting of: an acid produced; a gas produced by the reaction; a reaction by-product.

[0216] Embodiment 18: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein in the disinfection step at least one parameter of the disinfection step is influenced according to at least one sensor signal of the sensor.

[0217] Embodiment 19: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method further comprises the use of at least one filter element, wherein the filter element is arranged in at least one piping system through which at least one component flows, wherein the component is selected from the group consisting of the disinfectant active substance; at least one active solution containing the disinfectant active substance; at least one of the reactive components; at least one of the reactive components mixed with at least one carrier substance, in particular water; at least one by-product formed in a reaction of the reactive components.

[0218] Embodiment 20: Dishwasher, wherein the dishwasher is designed as a program machine and has at least one control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to subject the items for cleaning, which are stationary in a cleaning chamber of the dishwasher, to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps, wherein the control unit is configured to control the dishwasher to carry out a method according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0219] Brief description of the characters

[0220] 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. MEIKO467

[0221] - 48 -

[0222] Specifically, we show:

[0223] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a dishwasher according to the invention in a sectional view from the side;

[0224] Figures 2A and 2B show different embodiments of a disinfection application device; and

[0225] Figure 3 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of an inventive method for cleaning dishes and items to be cleaned in a dishwasher.

[0226] Description of the exemplary implementations

[0227] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a dishwasher 110 according to the invention in a sectional side view. The dishwasher 110 is designed as a program-controlled automatic dishwasher 112. In this embodiment, the dishwasher 110 is therefore set up such that the items to be cleaned 114 are held stationary in a cleaning chamber 116 and can be subjected to at least one cleaning program with several program steps in the cleaning chamber 116.

[0228] The cleaning chamber 116 can have at least one housing 118 which completely or partially encloses the cleaning chamber 116. The cleaning chamber 116 can have at least one opening 120 for loading the cleaning chamber 116 with the items 114 to be cleaned and for removing the cleaned items 114 from the cleaning chamber 116. As shown in Figure 1, this opening 120 can have a door 122 arranged on a front side of the cleaning chamber 116. Alternatively, flaps or doors arranged on a top side of the cleaning chamber 116, or even hoods to close the cleaning chamber 116, are also possible, for example, in so-called hood-type cleaning machines, such as hood-type dishwashers.

[0229] The cleaning chamber 116 can further be configured to receive at least one cleaning basket 124. For this purpose, the cleaning chamber 116 can, for example, have at least one basket holder (not shown in Figure 1), for example, at least one rail into which the cleaning basket 124 can be inserted. Thus, the dishwasher 110, as shown in this embodiment, MEIKO467

[0230] - 49 - may be designed as a front-loading dishwasher. However, other designs are also possible, for example hood-type dishwashers.

[0231] As shown in Figure 1, the dishwasher 110 can comprise at least one application device 126 for applying at least one cleaning fluid, in particular at least one washing fluid 128, to the items to be cleaned 114. The application device 126 can, in particular, comprise at least one washing nozzle system 130. For the purpose of washing, the dishwasher 110 can, in particular, have one or more washing nozzles, which can be supplied with the at least one washing fluid 128 from at least one washing tank 134, for example, by means of at least one washing pump 132. In particular, at least one washing nozzle 136, for example, at least one rotatably mounted washing nozzle arm, can be arranged above the at least one dish rack 124, and at least one washing nozzle 138, for example, at least one rotatably mounted washing nozzle arm, can be arranged below the at least one dish rack 124.Furthermore, the application device 126 can comprise at least one piping system 140 for supplying the washing fluid 128 from at least one washing tank 134 to the washing nozzle system 130. The at least one washing tank 134 can, in particular, be arranged at floor level below the cleaning chamber 116, so that a washing step can be carried out in recirculation mode. For temperature control of the washing fluid 128, at least one heating device 141, also referred to as a washing tank heater, can be provided in the washing tank 134, for example.

[0232] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, separate nozzle systems are provided for the wash liquid 128 and the rinse liquid 142. The dishwasher 110 can thus further have at least one rinse tank 144, separate from the wash tank 134, for preparing the rinse liquid 142. The rinse tank 144 can, in particular, include a rinse tank with at least one heating device 146, especially at least one boiler. The rinse tank 144 can, in particular, be connected to at least one rinse nozzle system 150 via at least one rinse line 148. For the purpose of rinsing, one or more rinse nozzles can, for example, be provided. For example, at least one rinse nozzle 152, for example a rotatable or fixed nozzle arm, can be arranged above the dish rack 124, and at least one rinse nozzle 154, for example a rotatable or fixed nozzle arm, can be arranged below the dish rack 124.To supply the rinse nozzles 152, 154 with at least one rinse fluid 142, a rinse pump 155 can be provided, which can supply the rinse fluid 142 from the rinse tank 144 to the rinse nozzles 152, 154 via the rinse line 148. The rinse tank 144 can, for example, be supplied via at least one MEIKO467.

[0233] - 50 -

[0234] Fresh water line 156, optionally with at least one valve 158, can be filled with fresh water and / or another type of cleaning fluid.

[0235] After application, cleaning fluid, for example the washing fluid 128 and / or the rinsing fluid 142, can be discharged into a drain 164 via at least one drain line 160 and optionally at least one drain pump 162.

[0236] The application device 126 can further comprise at least one disinfection application device 166 with at least one disinfection nozzle 168. For the purpose of disinfection, the dishwasher 110, for example the application device 126, can have, for example, one or more disinfection nozzles 168 within the cleaning chamber 116. By means of the at least one disinfection nozzle 168, at least two reactive components and / or a disinfectant can be applied to the items to be cleaned 114. The disinfectant is generated in the dishwasher 110 by mixing the at least two reactive components. The mixing can, for example, involve bringing the reactive components, each in the form of liquids or contained in liquids, into contact with each other or combining them, in particular in a carrier substance.In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the disinfection application device 166 at least partially coincides with the rinse nozzle system 150. The carrier material can therefore, for example, comprise the rinse fluid 142.

[0237] The dishwasher 110 can be designed, in particular, such that the disinfection application device 166 further comprises at least one component dosing unit 170, which 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 194 and a Venturi nozzle. The at least one component that can be dosed into the at least one carrier substance 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 substance.

[0238] The at least two reactive components can, for example, be mixed into the carrier substance using component dosing 170 before being added. In this way, for example, the resulting disinfectant agent MEIKO467 can be produced.

[0239] - 51 - are dosed into the at least one carrier substance by means of component dosing 170. Alternatively or additionally, the reactive components can also be dosed independently of each other into the at least one carrier substance, whereby dosing into the same carrier substance or into different carrier substances is possible.

[0240] Exemplary embodiments of such a disinfection application device 166, in particular the component dosing unit 170, are shown in Figures 2A and 2B. Figure 2A shows a first embodiment of the component dosing unit 170 comprised of the disinfection application device 166, which, in this example, has at least one mixer 172. In particular, this can be a mixing section 174, especially a flow mixer. The mixer 172 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 172 by a first component dosing unit 176 for the at least one first reactive component and by a second component dosing unit 178 for the at least one second reactive component.The component dosing unit 170 can still be set up to supply the disinfectant to the flow of the carrier substance.

[0241] Alternatively, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 2B, the component dosing unit 170 can also have at least two separate component supply lines 180 for the separate feeding 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 in the stream of the carrier substance, so that, for example, the disinfectant agent is formed there. The mixer 172 can be provided in the rinse line 148, 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 fed into different streams of the at least one carrier substance.

[0242] As can also be seen in Figures 2A and 2B, the dishwasher 110 can further comprise at least one sensor 182. The at least one sensor 182 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 MEIKO467

[0243] - 52 - at least one carrier material; at least one byproduct formed during a reaction of the reactive components. The sensor 182 can, for example, be arranged in at least one conduit system through which the component flows. The sensor 182 can, for example, comprise at least one optical absorption sensor.

[0244] In the embodiment of the dishwasher 110 shown in Figure 1, the at least two reactive components are mixed before being dosed into the carrier material by means of the component dosing unit 170, for example by means of the component dosing unit 170 shown in Figure 2A. However, the disinfection application device 166 with the component dosing unit 170 is also shown schematically and separately in Figure 1 to illustrate that alternatively or additionally to the premixed dosing of the reactive components into the stream of the carrier material, other and / or further embodiments of the component dosing unit 170 are also possible.

[0245] As shown in Figure 1, the dishwasher 110 further comprises at least one control unit 184, wherein the control unit 184 is configured to subject the items to be cleaned 114, which are stationary in a cleaning chamber 116 of the dishwasher 110, to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps. The control unit 184 is further configured to control the dishwasher 110 to carry out a method according to the present invention, for example according to the embodiment of a method according to the invention shown in Figure 3 and / or according to another embodiment described herein.

[0246] Figure 3 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method according to the invention for cleaning items 114 comprising dishes in a dishwasher 110. The dishwasher 110 is designed as a program-controlled machine 112 and has at least one control unit 184. The control unit 184 is configured to subject the items 114, which are held stationary in a cleaning chamber 116 of the dishwasher 110 by means of at least one dish rack 124, to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps. The method comprises the following steps, which are carried out in the sequence mentioned. The method may include further steps, which are not mentioned here and which can be carried out between the method steps and / or in parallel to one of the several method steps.

[0247] The procedure comprises the following steps in the order mentioned: MEIKO467

[0248] - 53 - a. (identified by reference numeral 186) at least one washing step, comprising at least one application of at least one cleaning fluid in the cleaning chamber 116 by means of a circulation process to the item to be cleaned 114; b. (identified by reference numeral 188) at least one disinfection step, comprising at least one mixing of at least two reactive components to produce at least one disinfectant and application of the disinfectant to the item to be cleaned 114 in the cleaning chamber 116; and c. (identified by reference numeral 190) at least one rinsing step, comprising at least one application of at least one rinsing fluid 142, in particular water, to the item to be cleaned 114 in the cleaning chamber 116.

[0249] The program control unit 112 can be configured, in particular, as a dual-circuit rinsing system, comprising a rinse tank 144, separate from the wash tank 134, for the treatment of the rinse liquid 142. Such a program control unit 112 is shown by way of example in Figure 1. In the disinfection step, for example, the at least two reactive components, individually or already mixed, can be dosed into the rinse line 148. For this purpose, for example, one of the component dosing units 170 shown in Figures 2A and 2B can be used. Thus, the rinse system can also be used, in particular, for the disinfection step. The application device 126 can, in particular, include at least one rinse pump 155, wherein the rinse pump 155 can be actuated in step b.

[0250] In particular, the process can be carried out such that, prior to carrying out steps b. and c., a quantity of rinse aid 142 is heated to at least a predetermined temperature, in particular a temperature of at least 55 °C, wherein the quantity of rinse aid 142 is divided into at least a first quantity and at least a second quantity, wherein in process step b. the rinse aid pump 155 is operated until the first quantity of rinse aid 142 has been removed from the rinse aid tank 144, and wherein the first quantity of rinse aid 142 is used as a carrier for the disinfectant in step b. and wherein the second quantity of rinse aid 142 is used in step c.In this way, the contents of the rinse aid tank 144 can be divided into an amount required for the disinfection step and an amount required for the rinsing step, without extending the program duration by reheating the rinse aid tank 144 after the disinfection step. The division of the rinse aid liquid 142 into the first and second quantities can be controlled, for example, by a timer and / or with the aid of a MEIKO467 rinse aid pump.

[0251] - 54 - tank level sensor 196 arranged. In principle, any type of level sensor 196 can be used, for example, a pressure sensor, a level electrode, a float sensor, and / or other level sensors. The process can further comprise at least one conversion step (identified by reference numeral 192). In the conversion step, gases from the cleaning chamber 116 can be fed to at least one conversion device for the treatment of at least a portion of the gases, in particular a treatment selected from the group consisting of chemical treatment, physical treatment, and biological treatment. The conversion step is an optional process step and can, in particular, be carried out after the disinfection step. This allows the gases to be broken down at the conversion device after the disinfection step.

[0252] MEIKO467

[0253] - 55 -

[0254] Reference symbol list

[0255] 110 Dishwasher

[0256] 112 Programming machine

[0257] 114 items to be cleaned

[0258] 116 Cleaning chamber

[0259] 118 cases

[0260] 120 opening

[0261] 122 Door

[0262] 124 Cleaning basket

[0263] 126 Pressurization device

[0264] 128 Washing liquid / W washing fluid

[0265] 130 Washer nozzle system

[0266] 132 Wash pump

[0267] 134 Wash tank

[0268] 136 Wash nozzle above the item being cleaned

[0269] 138 Wash nozzle below the item being cleaned

[0270] 140 piping system

[0271] 141 Heating device

[0272] 142 Rinse aid / rinse fluid / rinse fluid

[0273] 144 Rinse tank

[0274] 146 Heating device

[0275] 148 Rinse line

[0276] 150 rinse aid nozzle system

[0277] 152 Rinse aid nozzle above the dish basket

[0278] 154 Rinse aid nozzle below the dish basket

[0279] 155 Rinse pump

[0280] 156 F ri schwas serl leitung

[0281] 158 Valve

[0282] 160 Drain line

[0283] 162 Drain pump

[0284] 164 Expiry

[0285] 166 Disinfection application device

[0286] 168 Disinfection nozzle

[0287] 170 component dosage

[0288] 172 mixers

[0289] 174 Mixed section MEIKO467

[0290] - 56 -

[0291] 176 first component dosage

[0292] 178 second component dosage

[0293] 180 component supply lines

[0294] 182 Sensor

[0295] 184 Control

[0296] 186 Wash step

[0297] 188 Disinfection step

[0298] 190 Rinse cycle

[0299] 192 Conversion step

[0300] 194 Metering pump

[0301] 196 Level sensor

Claims

MEIKO467 - 57 - MEIKO Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG August 26, 2025 ME17211PC ST / KV Claims 1. A method for cleaning items (114) comprising dishes in a dishwasher (110), wherein the dishwasher (110) is designed as a program-controlled machine (112) and has at least one control unit (184), wherein the control unit (184) is configured to subject the items (114) which are held stationary in a cleaning chamber (116) of the dishwasher (110) by means of at least one dish rack (124) to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps, wherein the method comprises the following steps in the aforementioned order: a. at least one washing step, comprising at least one application of at least one cleaning fluid to the items (114) in the cleaning chamber (116) in a circulating process; b.at least one disinfection step, comprising at least one mixing of at least two reactive components to produce at least one disinfectant active substance and the application of the disinfectant active substance to the item to be cleaned (114) in the cleaning chamber (116); and c. at least one rinsing step, comprising at least one application of at least one rinsing liquid (142) to the item to be cleaned (114) in the cleaning chamber (116).

2. A method according to the preceding claim, wherein the program machine (112) has at least one wash tank (134), in particular in the base of the cleaning chamber (116), and furthermore at least one rinse tank (144) for preparing the rinse liquid (142), which is separate from the wash tank (134), in particular a rinse tank (144) with at least one heating device (146), in particular at least one boiler, wherein the wash tank (134) is connected via at least one wash line (140) to at least one wash nozzle system (130) of an actuation device (126) of the dishwasher (110), wherein the rinse tank (144) is connected via at least one rinse line (148) to at least one MEIKO467 - 58 - rinse nozzle system (150) is connected, wherein in step b. the at least two reactive components, individually or mixed, are dosed into the rinse line (148).

3. A method according to the preceding claim, wherein the application device (126) comprises at least one rinse pump (155), wherein in step b. the rinse pump (155) is actuated, wherein the method is carried out such that, prior to carrying out steps b. and c., a quantity of rinse liquid (12) is heated to at least a predetermined temperature, in particular a temperature of at least 55 °C, wherein the quantity of rinse liquid (142) is divided into at least a first quantity and at least a second quantity, wherein in process step b. the rinse pump (155) is actuated until the first quantity of rinse liquid (142) has been withdrawn from the rinse tank (144), and wherein the first quantity of rinse liquid (142) is used as a carrier for the disinfectant in step b. and wherein the second quantity of rinse liquid (142) is used in step c.

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixing in step b.at least one mixing of the reactive components, 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 item to be cleaned (114); the reactive components are applied to the item to be cleaned (114) and mixed on the item to be cleaned (114), whereby the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the item to be cleaned (114); at least one first of the reactive components is applied to the item to be cleaned (114), and the item to be cleaned (114) with the first reactive component applied thereto is exposed in the cleaning chamber (116) to an atmosphere which comprises at least one second of the reactive components, such that the reactive components mix on the item to be cleaned (114), whereby the disinfectant is formed in the mixture on the item to be cleaned (114).

5. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the disinfectant is contained in at least one carrier substance, wherein the disinfectant MEIKO467 - 59 - and the carrier material form an active solution, wherein the item to be cleaned (114) is exposed to the active solution.

6. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein step b. comprises mixing at least one of the reactive components with the carrier material.

7. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reactive components comprise at least one oxidizing agent and at least one anion of an acid.

8. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the disinfectant active ingredient 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: peroxynitritic 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 (HC10), 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.

9. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reactive components comprise at least one first 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'); and chlorate (CIOs').

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, 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. MEIKO467 - 60 - 11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one conversion step, wherein in the conversion step gases from the cleaning chamber (116) are supplied to at least one conversion device for the treatment of at least a part of the gases, in particular a treatment selected from the group consisting of a chemical treatment, a physical treatment and a biological treatment.

12. Method 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.

13. Method 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.

14. Method according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the conversion device is configured for wet chemical treatment of gases from the purification chamber (116).

15. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises the use of at least one sensor (182), wherein the sensor (182) is configured in at least one way, selected from the group consisting of: the sensor (182) 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; at least one by-product formed in a reaction of the reactive components; the sensor (182) is configured to detect at least one property of at least one reaction product within the cleaning chamber (116) or on the surface of the item to be cleaned (114), selected from the group consisting of: an acid formed;a gas produced by the reaction; a reaction byproduct.; MEIKO467 - 61 - 16. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein in the disinfection step at least one parameter of the disinfection step is influenced according to at least one sensor signal of the sensor (182).

17. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises the use of at least one filter element, wherein the filter element is arranged in at least one piping system (140) through which at least one component flows, 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 carrier substance, in particular water; at least one by-product formed in a reaction of the reactive components.

18. Dishwasher (110), wherein the dishwasher (110) is designed as a program machine (112) and has at least one control unit (184), wherein the control unit (184) is configured to subject the items to be cleaned (114) which are held stationary in a cleaning chamber (116) of the dishwasher (110) to at least one cleaning program with a plurality of program steps, wherein the control unit (184) is configured to control the dishwasher (110) to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims.

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