Cleaning agent identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying and managing cleaning agents in washing devices are inefficient, leading to potential misuse and suboptimal washing processes, as they lack comprehensive and user-friendly identification and dosing control.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that obtain an identification characteristic of a cleaning agent, check its permissibility for use in a cleaning process, and adjust the process parameters accordingly, using sensors and machine learning to ensure only compatible agents are used, thereby improving the washing process and extending device lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cleaning agents are identified during the washing phase using optical sensors, then detergent type and manufacturer can be determined, but the identification may occur too late to prevent undesirable detergent use or dosage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by identifying the cleaning agent before the washing phase begins. The control device reads identification data from the cleaning agent container (e.g., via barcode, RFID, or other identification systems) during loading or at the start of the cleaning cycle, rather than waiting until the washing phase when traditional optical sensors would detect the detergent. This timing allows the system to validate detergent compatibility and adjust dosing parameters in advance, preventing undesirable detergent use before it occurs.
2Reliability
If comprehensive identification and validation of cleaning agents is implemented, then reliability of cleaning process is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a control device that performs multiple functions: it manages the cleaning cycle, controls dosing mechanisms, reads identification data from various sources (barcodes, RFID tags, other identification systems), validates detergent compatibility, and adjusts dosing parameters. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single control device, the system achieves comprehensive cleaning agent validation without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary between the cleaning agent container and the washing machine's dosing and control systems. It reads identification data from the cleaning agent, validates compatibility, and mediates the information flow to appropriate system components. This intermediary role simplifies the architecture by centralizing the identification and validation logic in one component rather than distributing complex sensing and validation systems throughout the washing machine.
3Manufacturing precision
If dosing is adjusted based on detergent identification, then washing quality is improved, but the system requires more complex control and measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the dosing parameters adaptive rather than fixed. The control device reads identification data from the cleaning agent container and dynamically adjusts dosing parameters based on the specific detergent type, concentration, and properties identified. This dynamic adjustment allows precise dosing tailored to each detergent while using a relatively simple control architecture that responds to identification data rather than requiring complex pre-programming or multiple fixed dosing mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the reliability and efficiency of cleaning processes by ensuring only permissible cleaning agents are used, improving the quality of washing and extending the service life of the cleaning device, while also providing user-friendly operation and potential discounts for compliant users.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor device (20) is set up or includes appropriate means to determine an identification characteristic of the cleaning agent (26). In this case, the sensor device (20) includes at least one optical sensor.
Implementation Method 2
The sensor device (20) is set up or includes appropriate means to determine an identification characteristic of the cleaning agent (26). The sensor device (20) includes at least one sensor for determining an identification characteristic representative of at least one physical or chemical property of the cleaning agent (26).
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a method carried out by at least one device, the method comprising: acquiring (410) an identification characteristic of a cleaning agent (26), and checking (460), at least partially based upon the obtained identification characteristic of the cleaning agent (26), whether an initiation of a cleaning operation of a cleaning device (10) by the cleaning agent (26) is permissible. The invention further relates to a device for carrying out the method, and to a corresponding computer program.