DOSING APPARATUS

Abstract

A metering device for metering powdery or solid-like media such as detergents or disinfectants and for supplying the media in a dissolved state to a washing or cleaning system, including a support, in particular a cartridge support, to which a container, in particular a cartridge, with a powdery or solid-like medium can be attached. The support or the container includes a grid which prevents the medium from exiting the container. A spray nozzle controlled by a controller of the metering device dispenses water for solvating the medium. The medium dissolved in water and passing through the grid can be supplied to the washing or cleaning system via a supply device. The metering device also has a switching device that can be activated by the controller and has at least two different switching states for operating the spray nozzle in different operating modes.

Description

The patent application relates to a metering device according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such metering devices are known and are manufactured and sold by the applicant. For example, reference is made to German patent application DE 10 2020 116 298 A1 by a group of persons associated with the applicant, which shows a metering device having the features of claim 1.

Reference is also made to the subsequently published German patent application DE 10 2020 114 022 A1 by the group of persons associated with the applicant, which also discloses a generic metering device.

The known metering device comprises a spray nozzle by means of which water can be dispensed in order to dissolve a medium. The dispensing of water through the spray nozzle takes place in a manner controlled by a controller of the metering device. For example, after receiving a request signal from the target device, i.e. from the washing or cleaning system, said controller can initiate a corresponding release of water.

The water is sprayed from the spray nozzle under a certain pressure and directed vertically upwards or diagonally upwards. The length of the spray jet and/or the spray angle must be set appropriately.

The spray jet of water hits a grid or sieve that is arranged on the container or on the support.

The grid is inside an opening in the container or in the support. The grid prevents the medium in its initial state, i.e. in undissolved state, from passing through the grid. When water hits the grid, the water can dissolve or solvate the medium. The dissolved medium can exit, together with the water, through the openings in the grid.

The medium dissolved in water, i.e. the medium solution, is collected, in particular by a collecting device, and supplied via a supply device, that is, via fluid lines, to the target device, if necessary using a pump.

Based on the prior art described above, the object of the invention is to optimize the known metering device in such a way that, with a simple design, it ensures the proper execution of metering processes over a long service life of the metering device.

The invention achieves this object by means of the features of claim 1, in particular the features of the characterizing part, and is accordingly characterized in that the metering device comprises a switching device that can be activated by the controller and comprises at least two different switching states for operating the spray nozzle in different operating modes.

The principle of the invention essentially lies with equipping the metering device with a switching device that can operate the spray nozzle in two operating modes.

In both operating modes, the spray nozzle is configured to dispense water. However, the way in which the water is dispensed is different in the two operating modes of the spray nozzle.

According to the invention, it is provided that the spray nozzle can be operated in at least two different operating modes. For this purpose, a switching device is provided, which comprises at least two different switching states.

The switching device can be activated, in particular switched, by the controller. In a first switching state of the switching device, the spray nozzle can be operated in a first switching mode and in a second switching state of the switching device, the spray nozzle can be operated in a second operating mode.

In particular, it may be provided that a first operating mode of the spray nozzle comprises a spraying mode of the spray nozzle. In spraying mode the spray nozzle, the grid can be sprayed with water to spray the medium and to obtain a detergent solution or a disinfectant solution in the conventional way.

In a second operating mode of the spray nozzle, the spray nozzle can be set to be operated in the rinsing mode. The spray nozzle also emits water in the rinsing mode. However, in this second operating mode, it supplies water to a collecting device without said water being applied to the grid.

This provides the possibility that the metering device causes the spray nozzle to dispense water without dissolving the medium. This means that pure—clean—water can be provided. In particular, this can be used to clean parts, elements or lines of the metering device or the supply lines to the target device or, if applicable, a pump arranged downstream of a collecting device.

Regions of the metering device, for example the spray nozzle itself, can also be rinsed and thus cleaned. Chemical residues can be removed in this way—especially at regular intervals.

Advantageously, a rinsing mode of the spray nozzle can be carried out regularly, for example once a day, or at predetermined intervals, or even on request.

The invention recognizes that rinsing can be achieved in a simple manner merely by activating the spray nozzle in a second operating mode, i.e. a rinsing operating mode, by simple ways and manners, in particular without providing an additional separate metering device for water.

The metering device according to the invention not only permits rinsing mode, but also makes pure water, i.e. water that is free of medium, available to the metering device or devices arranged downstream for other purposes. For example, the water in the second operating mode, the water dispensed by the spray nozzle, which is free of medium, can also be used for calibration purposes, for example.

The metering device according to the invention comprises a switching device. The switching device can be configured to be separate from a controller of the metering device and be connected to it. However, the switching device can also be part of the controller or, for example, integrated into the controller.

The switching device can comprise its own processor, or alternatively it can comprise a processor that is part of the controller of the metering device.

The switching device can be accommodated in a housing. In a variant of the invention, it can be accommodated in a housing separate from a housing of the metering device. Alternatively, it can also be accommodated in the housing in which the controller of the metering device is housed.

The present invention relates to metering devices in which the medium is not initially present in a liquid initial form, but as a solid, i.e. in a solid initial form, e.g. as a powder, granulate, block, possibly also as a pressed cleaner or as a cleaner cast into a block.

The metering devices metering such media are referred to as solids metering devices.

A target device within the context of the present patent application can be a commercial dishwasher, such as those used in canteens. However, the target device can be any suitable dishwasher that can be used to wash crockery and cutlery or other items that need to be cleaned.

The invention also includes target devices that are provided by a washing machine, e.g. a textile washing machine, in particular a commercial washing machine.

The invention also includes other cleaning devices as target devices in which a supply of media, present as solids, is to take place.

The invention relates to metering devices by means of which only a specific medium is fed from a specific container to a target device.

The invention also relates to metering devices by means of which several, possibly different, media can be conveyed from one or more containers to one or more target devices.

The controller of the metering device can comprise a processor or be constituted by a processor, or comprise another computing unit. If the metering device has a pump or cooperates with a pump, the controller of the metering device can be the exact control unit of the pump or be provided separate from but connected with it.

At least one switching device can be activated by the controller of the metering device. The switching device can, for example, comprise at least one valve that can open or shut-off a water line. The water line is preferably a fresh water line, but may also be a service water line.

The valve can be provided by a magnetic valve or a solenoid valve, for example.

The controller can open and/or close the valve via the switching device.

Via control of the valve, a predetermined amount of water can be dispensed from the water line via a dispensing opening. The dispensing opening is provided by a spray nozzle. A spray nozzle within the context of the present invention is understood to mean any type of metering device which is at least capable of directing a spray jet or several spray jets, or a spray mist, or the like, towards the grid.

The metering device according to the invention includes a support for a container, and possibly also a support for several containers. The support can be attached to the wall, for example.

A support within the context of the present patent application is a device to which the container with medium can be attached. The support has positioning surfaces or receiving surfaces. If necessary, the container can be fastened to the support—in particular detachably. In this case, a support according to the invention also has fastening surfaces for the container.

According to the invention, the metering device comprises a switching device. The switching device can, for example, comprise at least two valves, i.e. a first valve and a second valve. The two valves are in particular independent of each other can be controlled. The first valve can be used to open or block a first branch of the water supply line and the second valve can be used to open or block a second branch of a water supply line independently of the first branch.

In the case that both valves are closed, no water reaches the spray nozzle. It is not in operation.

In a first switching state of the switching device, both valves are open. Then water with the pressure present at the domestic water network is applied to the spray nozzle.

In a second switching state of the switching device, only one of the two valves is open. This blocks one of the two line branches and opens the other one of the two line branches.

In particular, if the two line branches each have a smaller line cross-section than the line of the domestic water network, the water flow, i.e. the volumetric flow rate that reaches the spray nozzle, is reduced when the switching device is in a second switching state.

Consequently, when the switching device is in a second switching state, the water exits the spray nozzle at a lower pressure. No spray jet or spray area can form on the outlet side of the spray nozzle that reaches as far as the grid. Instead, due to the lower pressure—caused by the second switching state and the smaller line cross-sections—water is emitted from the spray nozzle. However, this water either swells out of the spray nozzle without being able to form a spray jet or spray area at all, or a spray jet or spray area is formed, but the latter, due to the lower pressure is kept so short that it does not reach the grid.

In any case, the spray nozzle in its second operating mode causes water to be dispensed, but without reaching the grid, i.e. without additional medium being dissolved.

In one variant of the invention, the switching device comprises only one valve and an additional drive. The drive can be used, for example, to rotate the spray nozzle or to actuate a close-off element can be shifted. In this variant, the switching device can actuate the valve and the drive under the control of the metering device.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a first operating mode of the spray nozzle comprises a spraying mode of the spray nozzle in order to apply water to the grid. According to this advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spray nozzle can ensure a conventional spraying mode in the first operating mode.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a second operating mode of the spray nozzle comprises a rinsing mode of the spray nozzle in order to supply water to a collecting device without applying the grid. According to this advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spray nozzle can ensure a rinsing mode in the second operating mode. This rinsing mode provides for the spray nozzle to dispense water. The water is supplied to the collecting device without applying the grid. This provides pure water free of medium. This makes it possible to dissolve chemical residues in the pipework.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the switching device supplies the spray nozzle in the first switching state with a first higher volumetric flow rate and in the second switching state with a second volumetric flow rate that is lower compared to the first volumetric flow rate. This embodiment of the invention makes it possible to supply the spray nozzle in different operating states with different volumetric flow rates.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the metering device is arranged externally to the target device, i.e. separately from the target device, in particular externally to the dishwasher. This embodiment of the invention makes it possible, for example, to retrofit the target device, in particular the dishwasher, and to supply several target devices, in particular several dishwashers, with just one metering device.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention the controller of the metering device is configured to be able to communicate with the washing and cleaning system. This embodiment of the invention enables an automated metering method in cooperation with the target device.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the switching device comprises two valves that can be addressed by the controller. This embodiment of the invention enables a simple design.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the two valves can be used to open or shut-off different branches of a supply line leading to the spray nozzle. This embodiment of the invention enables a simple design of the metering device.

In accordance with a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the switching device comprises a valve that can be activated by the controller, that can be positioned in at least two different positions, and that applies, in different positions, the spray nozzle with different volumetric flow rates. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly simple design and control of the valve.

In this embodiment, a valve in a first position can keep the supply line to the spray nozzle completely open and in a second position restrict the supply line, for example by reducing the cross-sectional area. This reduces the volumetric flow rate.

It is also conceivable that the controllable valve has a third position in which it completely closes the line cross-section. In this embodiment, only a single valve with at least three different positions is provided.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a displaceable close-off element can be activated using the switching device, which, in a first position, opens a path between the spray nozzle and the grid for the water, and which, in a second position, blocks this path. This embodiment of the invention makes it possible to reliably prevent water from reaching the grid when the spray nozzle is in rinsing mode.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a drive can be activated with the switching device, by means of which the spray nozzle is movable, in particular rotatable between a first position and a second position. This embodiment of the invention enables particularly reliably preventing of water from reaching the grid when the spray nozzle is in the rinsing mode.

This variant allows the spray nozzle is rotated by pressing the device, or is oriented in such a way that it faces away from the grid, for example.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spray nozzle applies water to the grid in the first position and, in the second position, supplies water to a collecting device without applying water to the grid. This configuration of the invention makes it possible to prevent water from reaching the grid when the spray nozzle is in the rinsing mode.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the metering device comprises a collecting device arranged below the grid, e.g. a hopper, for collecting the medium dissolved in water. This embodiment of the invention enables recourse to an essentially conventional design of a metering device and, if necessary, the use of conventional components.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the supply device comprises a pump, in particular a peristaltic pump, which can be activated in particular by the controller of the metering device. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly convenient operating mode.

The invention further relates to a method according to claim 15 for operating a metering device.

Based on the prior art described at the outset, the object of the invention is to provide a method by means of which proper operation of the metering device is ensured over long periods of time.

The invention achieves this object by means of the features of claim 15.

In order to avoid repetition, for explanation of the features and the meaning of the terms used in the subject-matter of claim 15, reference is made to the preceding statements in claims 1 to 14.

Further advantages of the invention are apparent from the uncited sub-claims, as well as from the following description of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings.

The drawings show in:

FIG. 1 in a schematic block circuit-diagram-like schematic illustration a first exemplary embodiment of a metering device according to the invention, in which the water supply line to the spray nozzle has two branches, each of which can be opened and closed via separate valves,

FIG. 2 another exemplary embodiment of a metering device according to the invention in an illustration according to FIG. 1, which additionally includes a pump, arranged between the collecting device and the target device, in the pipework,

FIG. 3 the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 according to subcircuit III in FIG. 1 in a schematic block diagram-like representation, with the spraying nozzle operating in the first operating mode, i.e. the spraying mode,

FIG. 4 the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3 with the spray nozzle operating in the second mode, the rinsing mode,

FIG. 5 another exemplary embodiment of a metering device according to the invention as shown in FIG. 1, wherein a drive is provided for displacing the spray nozzle,

FIG. 6 the exemplary embodiment of the metering device according to FIG. 5, for example according to the subcircuit illustration VI in FIG. 5, with a spraying nozzle in the first operating mode performing a spraying mode,

FIG. 7 the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 6 with the spray nozzle operating in the second operating mode and performing a rinsing mode,

FIG. 8 in an illustration according to FIG. 1, another exemplary embodiment of a metering device according to the invention with a close-off element that is in the non-use position,

FIG. 9 an enlarged view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8, approximately as shown in subcircuit IX in FIG. 8, with the close-off element in non-use position and the spray nozzle enabling a spraying mode in its first operating mode,

FIG. 10 the exemplary embodiment of the metering device as shown in FIG. 9, wherein the shut-off element is in the operating position and the spray nozzle—according to a second operating mode—performs a rinsing mode,

FIG. 11 another exemplary embodiment of a metering device according to the invention in an illustration according to FIG. 1, wherein a multi-position valve is provided, which according to FIG. 11 is in a first position, in which it does not impede the passage of water,

FIG. 12 the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 11, in an enlarged illustration according to the subcircuit XI in FIG. 10, with the control valve being in the first position, for providing a spraying mode, and

FIG. 13 the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 12 with a control valve located in a second use position, in which it partially reduces the line cross-section in order to achieve a rinsing mode of the spray can.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described by way of example in the following description of the Figures, also with reference to the drawings. For the sake of clarity—also when different exemplary embodiments are concerned—the same or similar parts or elements or areas are denoted with the same reference characters, sometimes with the addition of lowercase letters.

Within the context of the invention, features that are only described, illustrated or disclosed in relation to one exemplary embodiment can also be provided in any other embodiment of the invention. Such modified exemplary embodiments, even if not shown in the drawings, are within the scope of the invention.

All disclosed features are per se essential to the invention. The disclosure of the application hereby also incorporates in its entirety the disclosure content of the associated priority documents (copy of the prior application) as well as the cited documents and the described prior art devices, also for the purpose of including one or more features of the subject-matters disclosed therein in one or more claims of the present application. Such modified embodiments—even if they are not shown in the drawings—are also within the scope of the invention.

In the following, a first exemplary embodiment of a metering device 10 according to the invention will be explained and described with reference to FIG. 1:

The metering device 10 according to the invention comprises a controller 15, which is connected via control lines 44a1, 44a2 to a first valve 16a and a second valve 16b. For example, each valve may be provided by a magnetic valve, in particular a solenoid valve. The valves 16a, 16b are connected to a domestic water mains connection 18 via a water line 17a, possibly with the interposition of a pipe separating device not shown.

The valves 16a, 16b can be opened and closed independently of one another.

The water line 17a splits into two line branches 60a, 60b in the area of a branching point. These lead to the two valves 16a, 16b. Downstream, the two line branches 60a, 60b are rejoined at a merging point to form a common line 17b.

The cross-sections of the lines are dimensioned as follows: The common lines 17a, 17b have the same or essentially the same, larger cross-section.

The two line branches 60a, 60b have the same or essentially the same line cross-section, which is smaller than the line cross-section of the common line sections 17a, 17b.

The two valves 16a, 16b and the electrical signal lines 44a1 and 44a2, which lead to the controller 15, and possibly other parts and elements not shown, are integral parts of a switching device 57.

If the switching device 57 is in a non-use state, both valves 16a, 16b are closed. The two line branches 60a, 60b are blocked and the spray nozzle 20 does not receive any water.

The controller 15 can, for example, after receiving a request signal from a target device 13 via the signal line 44b, receive a metering command and activate the switching device 57. The switching device 57 can now be set to a first switching state by the controller 15 and open both valves 16a, 16b. In this case, the spray nozzle 20 is supplied with water via the two line branches 60a, 60b. A spray jet is generated, which can be seen in FIG. 3. The spray jet is dimensioned so that the water 50 emitted by the spray nozzle 20 acts on a grid 23 or sieve 23 and can dissolve the medium 12 located in the container 11. The spray nozzle 20 is now operated in a first operating mode.

The controller 15 can command an open position of the valves 16a, 16b for a certain, predetermined period of time and ensure that a chemicals solution in the required quantity can be supplied to the target device 13.

The controller 15 can also switch the switching device 57 into a second switching state. In the second switching state, for example, only the first valve 16a is open and the second valve 16b is closed.

Alternatively, in the second switching state of the switching device 57, the second valve 16b can also be open and the first valve 16a can be closed. In the second switching state, the switching device 57 in any case ensures that water can only flow through one of the two line branches 60a, 60b, wherein, as stated above, the line cross-section of each line branch 60a, 60b is smaller than the line cross-section of the common water line 17a, 17b.

This means that only a smaller volumetric flow rate of water reaches the spray nozzle 20, i.e. less water per time. Since the line cross-section in the common line section 17b is larger than the line cross-section of the line branch 60a, the pressure when the water 50 exits the spray nozzle 20 is also lower. Consequently a spray pattern as shown in FIG. 3 cannot form and a spray pattern as shown in FIG. 4 is created.

The water 50 emerging from the spray nozzle 20 as shown in FIG. 4 cannot reach the grid 23. Consequently, the water 50 emerging from the spray nozzle 20 is fed to a collecting device 26 without medium 12 being dissolved in the water 50. The spray nozzle 20 is operated here in a second operating mode, in a rinsing mode.

The water line 17b can be connected in the area of the discharge opening 19 via fastening device 40 can be fixed on site, e.g. attached to the wall.

The metering device 10 according to the invention also includes a mount 21 for a container 11. In this patent application, said mount is also referred to as support 21. The container 11 is designed in the manner of a cartridge or bottle. Accordingly, the support 21 is also referred to as a cartridge support.

The container 11 is provided with an outlet opening 22 which, in the state shown in FIG. 1, is directed downwards towards a floor 48 of a room of a building. In the outlet opening 22 is arranged a grid 23 or a type of grid or sieve. The grid 23 has openings. The grid 23 can be a component of the support 21, or alternatively a component of the container 11. The invention also relates to cases in which a first grid 23 is provided on the container 11 and a further grid 23 is provided on the support 21.

The container 11 contains a medium 12, in particular a solid, e.g. in the form of a powder or a block. This can be any chemical, in particular a cleaning agent, which is required for a cleaning or rinsing process. The invention in particular also relates to a case in which the medium 12 comprises a disinfectant in powder or solid form that is required for washing or cleaning processes.

The metering device 10 according to the invention can be used in the first operating mode of the spray nozzle 20, a desired quantity of medium 12 is dissolved and transported to a target device 13. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the target device 13 is provided by a dishwasher 14. It is obvious that the target device 13 shown in the Figures in the form of a dishwasher 14 can also be provided by another dishwasher target device, i.e. any washing and/or cleaning system.

A program selection switch 45a or a start switch 45b and a control 41 on the target device side are indicated on the target device 13. Control 41 is connected to the controller 15 of the metering device 10 via a control line 44b.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, it is indicated that the dishwasher 14 has one or more crockery trolleys 46a, 46b or cutlery drawers, in which crockery 47 to be cleaned is shown. The dishwasher 14 can be a conventional or a can be a domestic dishwasher or, in particular, a commercial dishwasher 14.

The invention also relates to a case in which several target devices 13 are connected to the metering device 10, although this is not shown in the Figures.

Instead of a dishwasher 14, the target device 13 can also be provided by a washing machine or another cleaning device or cleaning machine.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, water 50 is emitted from the spray nozzle 20 in the first operating mode, so that the grid 23 is sprayed onto. The spray nozzle 20 is located below the outlet opening 22 and also below the grid 23 and arranged at a distance from said grid.

Due to the pressure in the water line 17b when the spray nozzle 20 is in the first operating mode, the water 50 can be emitted upwards and to the side, as schematically indicated in FIG. 1, in the form of a spray jet.

The water 50 exiting from the discharge opening 19 of the spray nozzle 20 acts on the grid 23 and can also partially pass through the grid openings not shown and come into contact with the medium 12. The media 12 may be dissolved as a result of the ingress of water 50 and drip down as illustrated by the drops 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. The drops illustrate a media solution 24, for example, a cleaning solution 24 that is to be supplied to the target device 13, in particular at a predetermined time and in a predetermined quantity.

It should be noted that the controller 15 of the metering device 10 activates the switching device 57 in particular in order to spray onto the grid 23 when a corresponding command has been received from the target device 13.

As FIG. 1 shows, a collecting device 26 is arranged below the spray nozzle 20 and below the outlet opening 22 of the container 11.

Said device comprises a hopper 28, which is connected via a hose line 2 is connected to the target device 13.

In the metering device 10 according to the invention, a special positioning and design of the hopper 28 can be provided:

According to FIG. 1, a free edge of the hopper as a whole is denoted by reference character 29.

According to FIG. 1, this free edge 29 of the hopper 28 is both at a distance 32 from the grid 23 and at a distance 31 from the spray nozzle 20.

The hopper 28 is therefore arranged without contact to the dispensing opening 19 and without contact to the grid 23.

At the same time, the free edge 29 of the hopper 28, as well as the hopper 28 as a whole, contact-free to the water line 17b and also is arranged without contact and at a distance from the mount 21 for the container 11 and also at a distance and without contact to the container 11 and at a distance and without contact to the support 21 for the container.

As a result of this spacing, any direct contact between the collecting device 26 and the discharge opening 19 of the spray nozzle 20 is reliably prevented. Bacteria that spread from the target device 13 via the hose line 27, e.g. on the outside, can move along the collecting device 26 by creeping, cannot reach the discharge opening 19 and can therefore never contaminate the water line 17b.

It is therefore e.g. not necessarily necessary, for one metering device as shown in FIG. 10, to provide a pipe separating device upstream or downstream of the valves 16a, 16b.

It is clear that other exemplary embodiments comprising other collecting devices, are also within the scope of the invention.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the hopper 28 has a hopper opening 52 with a particularly large clear width 30.

As can be seen from the illustration in FIG. 1, the opening width or clear width 30 of the hopper 28 is dimensioned in such a way that it exceeds the dimensions 33 of the outlet opening 22, in particular significantly exceeds them.

This ensures that any proportion of water 50 and cleaning fluid 24 actually reach the inner surfaces or inner walls 49 of the hopper 28.

Another exemplary embodiment of a metering device 10 according to the invention is shown in FIG. 2.

To avoid repetition, reference can be made to the identical parts, elements and regions of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 for the corresponding parts, elements and regions of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, however, there is the following difference:

The collecting device 26 comprises—as with the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2—a hopper 28, which is connected via a hose line 27 to an inlet 38 for the hose line 27 on the target device 13.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is arranged a pump 35, in particular a peristaltic pump, in particular between the collecting device 26 and the inlet 38, in particular between the hopper 28 and the inlet 38.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the pump 35 comprises an inlet 36 and an outlet 37. The pump has a motor 42 which drives a rotor 51 which, in a conventional manner, presses or squeezes the hose section 54 running inside the pump 35 with its rollers in a propagating manner and in this way conveys the cleaning solution 24 to the target device 13 by means of the pump 35.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the pump 35 comprises a control unit 34, which communicates with the controller 15 via a control line 44c.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the control unit 34 of the pump 35 can also assume tasks of the controller 15, or the controller 15 can merge with the control unit 34 or be combined into one component. The controller 15 can also be arranged within the pump 35 or on the pump 35.

The pump 35 can in particular also be an integral part of the metering device 10 according to the invention.

In particular, it may be provided that the controller 15 and the pump 35 are accommodated together in one housing.

The metering device 10 according to the invention comprises embodiments which comprise a pump 35 and embodiments which do not require a pump 35. The metering device 10 according to the invention comprises exemplary embodiments in which the controller 15 is arranged together with the pump 35—if present—in a common housing. The metering device according to the invention also comprises exemplary embodiments in which the controller 15 is arranged in a housing separate from the housing of the pump 35.

The metering device 10 according to the invention comprises exemplary embodiments in which a plurality of valves 16a, 16b and/or only one valve 16 and/or an drive 61 and/or an drive 61 or a drive 69 to be described later and/or a close-off element 66 to be described later are part of the metering device 10. The metering device 10 according to the invention also includes exemplary embodiments in which the elements described above are merely assigned to the metering device 10 or interact with the metering device 10. Similarly, the above-described elements can be arranged within a housing, in which the controller 15 is located, too, or can be arranged outside of such a housing.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, between the lower end 55 of the hopper 28 and the inlet 38 on the target device 13 a minimum height MH is provided. This minimum height, or drop distance, must be maintained on site to ensure that the media solution, for example cleaning solution 24, can actually be fed to the target device 13 in the prescribed manner.

In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2, such a minimum height MH is not to be observed, because a pump 35 is arranged.

Here, it may be provided that the lower end 55 of the hopper 28 is lower in terms of a minimum height necessary in the prior art with respect to the inlet 38.

The actual distance TA between the lower end 55 of the hopper 28 and the inlet 38 at the target device 13 can be smaller than the minimum height according to FIG. 1, as shown in FIG. 3.

The invention also relates to a case in which the lower end 55 of the hopper 28 is arranged below the inlet opening 38 on the target device 13 or at the same height. However, the latter case is not shown in the Figures.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the outlet 37 of the pump 35 is arranged below the inlet 38 on the target device 13.

This is also not mandatory.

The outlet 37 of the pump 35 can also be located above the inlet 38 or at the same or approximately the same height as the inlet 38.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the target device 13 is arranged on a floor 48.

In further embodiments of the invention not shown, the target device 13 can also be arranged at a distance from the floor, possibly also mounted on the side of the wall.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the pump 35 is also arranged on the floor. In further embodiments of the invention (not shown), the pump 35 can also be arranged on the wall side, or freely suspended in the room, or in any case at a distance from the floor 48.

The invention also relates to a case in which the metering device 35 is fixedly arranged relative to the target device 13.

The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2 shows a pump 35 only schematically. The contents of the present patent application are also intended to include the contents of the following applications disclosing further details of pumps and other special features of metering devices that can be used within the scope of the present invention:

DE 10 2011 108 396 A1, DE 10 2011 119 021 A1, DE 10 2011 122 921 A1, WO 2013/075692, DE 10 2012 012 913 A1, WO 2014/000726, DE 10 2013 008 973 A1, DE 10 2013 022 329 A1, DE 10 2014 002 560 A1, DE 10 2014 010 126 A1, EP 2 966 299 A1, DE 10 2015 110 862 A1, DE 10 2015 107 105 A1, EP 3 091 114 A1, DE 10 2015 107 976 A1, DE 10 2016 102 829 A1, DE 10 2017 114 767 A1, DE 10 2017 103 168 A1, DE 10 2016 125 928 A1, DE 10 2017 114 665 A1, DE 10 2018 106 045 A1, EN 10 2018 110 155 A1, EN 10 2018 113 644 A1, EN 10 2018 122 651 A1, EN 10 2020 107 555 A1, EN 10 2020 106 712 A1, EN 10 202 107 558 A1, DE 10 2020 113 828 A1, DE 10 2020 115 590 A1, DE 10 2020 116 298 A1, DE 10 2020 114 022 A1.

The disclosure contents of all these property right applications is hereby included in the disclosure content of the present patent application, also for the purpose of including individual or several features of the above-mentioned applications in the content of the present patent application, also in the content of the patent claims of the present application, if required.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the metering device 11 can optionally also comprise a tank, not shown, for receiving and storing media solution 24, which tank is in particular connected upstream the pump 35. Here, the medium 12 can be sprayed on a provisional basis and dissolved to provide a media solution 24. The media solution 24 is collected and stored in the tank until the target device 13 requests the media solution 24. The pump 35 can then deliver the media solution 24 to the target device 13 in the desired quantity.

In the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2, the collecting device 26 has a mount 56 which is provided, for example, for mounting on the wall, in particular to ensure defined positioning of the hopper 28 relative to the mount 21 for the container 11.

In the embodiments of the invention according to FIGS. 1 and 2, the mount 21 for the container 11, the mount 56 for the collecting device 26 and the mount 40 for the dispensing opening 19 can be provided separately from one another, and in each case enable an on-site assembly.

However, the invention also relates to a case in which some or more of the mounting devices 21, 56, 40 are combined and provide a common or a mutually connected mounting surface.

The metering device 10 according to the invention is also designed, for example, to cooperate with a washing or cleaning system 14 that cleans parts, such as bottles or containers, boxes or the like.

FIG. 3 shows the spray nozzle 20 in a first operating mode in which it ensures spraying mode. The switching device 57 is in a first switching state and both valves 16a, 16b are open. Water 50 flows through both line branches 60a, 60b. A conventional spray pattern can result at the spray nozzle 20, wherein the spray jet reaches as far as up to the grid 23 and dissolves medium 12. A media solution 24, schematically represented by drops 24a, 24b, 24c, drips into the collecting device 26.

In contrast, FIG. 4 shows a second switching state of the switching device 27, in which the lower valve 16a is open and the upper valve 16b is closed. Water 50 is only supplied to the spray nozzle 20 through the line branch 60a. The pressure is therefore lower, resulting in a different spray pattern compared to FIG. 4: The spray jet no longer reaches as far as to the grid 23.

Water 50 (illustrated schematically) swells out of the discharge opening 19 of the spray nozzle 20 and—represented by drops 25d to 25g—is fed to the collecting device 26.

The embodiments in FIGS. 5 to 7 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a metering device 10 according to the invention.

Here, FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the spray nozzle 20 in a first operating mode, in which it dispenses water 50 by means of which the grid 23 is sprayed.

FIG. 7 shows the nozzle 20 in a second operating mode, in which it discharges water 50, but supplies said water directly to the collecting device 26 without applying the grid 23.

To this end, in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 5 to 7, it is provided for the spray nozzle 20 to be connected to the water line 17b via a pivot bearing 62 in such a way that a line section 71, which is fixedly connected to the spray nozzle 20, can be rotated about an axis 72 relative to a fixedly held line section 73, which is fixedly connected to the water line 72b. A drive 61 is provided to induce rotation of the nozzle 20 and the associated line section 71. As an integral part of the switching device 57, said drive is connected to the controller 15 of the metering device 10 via a control line 44a3.

In this exemplary embodiment, the switching device 57 comprises only a valve 16 and the drive 61 as well as a displaceable spray nozzle 20 with a pivot bearing 62 and rotatable line section 71. In addition, the switching device 57 also includes control line 44a and control line 44a3.

The switching device 57 may also include other parts or elements (not shown).

The controller 15, which is not shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, can switch the switching device 57 to a first switching position as shown in FIG. 6 or alternatively to a second switching position as shown in FIG. 7. In these two switching positions, the valve 16 is open.

In addition the controller 15 can switch the switching position 27 to a non-use position in which the valve 16 is closed. In this case, the spray nozzle 20 is not in operation.

FIG. 6 shows the nozzle 20 and the line section 71 in a first operating position, corresponding to a first switching state of the switching device 57, in which the grid 23 is sprayed for the purpose of dissolving the medium 12.

FIG. 7 shows a rotated position of the line section 71 in such a way that the nozzle 20 is directed away from the grid 23 and directs its spray jet directly onto the collecting device 26, which is only indicated in FIG. 7. In this second operating mode, corresponding to a second switching state of the switching device 57, the spray nozzle 20 of the collecting device 26 supplies pure water, i.e. water without dissolved medium 12.

This water, devoid of medium, can now be used by the metering device 10 for rinsing purposes—or possibly for other purposes, e.g. for calibration purposes.

In one exemplary embodiment of the invention, the drive 61 can move the spray nozzle 20 and the line section 71, for example within the context of a forward twist and a backward twist, i.e. in different rotational directions.

Alternatively, the invention also relates to a case in which the drive 61 actuates the line section 71 to be rotated in only one direction of rotation and in each case, for example, a rotation of the line section 71 by 180 degrees about the axis 72 is carried out in order to switch the spray nozzle 20 from the first operating mode to the second operating mode, and a rotation of the line section 71 by a further 180 degrees about the axis 72 is carried out in order to switch the spray nozzle 20 from the second operating mode to the first operating mode.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 5 to 7, as a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand, no two valves 16a and 16b are required, but arranging a single valve 16 is sufficient. IN the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 7, this valve is connected to the controller 15 via a signal line 44.

FIGS. 8 to 10A illustrate another exemplary embodiment: Here, FIGS. 9 and 10 show the two operating modes of the spray nozzle 20.

According to FIG. 9, the spray nozzle 20 is in the first operating mode and can act on the grid 23 by dispensing water while providing a corresponding spray jet, can solvate the medium 12 and can supply said medium as a media solution 24a, 24b, 24c, to the collecting device 26.

The metering device 10 of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 8 to 10 additionally comprises a drive 69 by means of which a close-off element 66 can be displaced.

The close-off element 66, for example in the form of a plate-shaped body, is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 in the first position, the so-called non-use position, and in FIG. 10 in the second position, the use position.

When the close-off element 66 is in the non-use position, spraying onto the grid 23 by means of the spray nozzle 20 is not impaired.

If the close-off element 66 is moved to the use position 68 as shown in FIG. 10, it blocks the path for the water 50 from the spray nozzle 20 to the grid 23 and prevents the water 50 from reaching the grid 23. Instead, the water 50 hits the underside 70 of the close-off element 66 and drips off from there, illustrated by water droplets 25a, 25b, 25c. In this embodiment, pure water 50, which is not mixed with medium 12, is also supplied to the collecting device 26 when the spray nozzle 20 is in the second operating mode.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 8 to 10, the following applies: The switching device 57 in turn comprises a valve 16 and an drive 69, the two elements being addressable via signal lines 44a and 44a4. If the switching device 57 is set to a first switching state by the controller 15, the valve 16 is open and the drive 69 is activated in such a way that the close-off element 66 is in a non-use position as shown in FIG. 9.

When the controller 15 receives a command to perform a rinsing mode, wherein this command can originate, for example, from the target device 13, or from a control unit 34 of a pump 35, or can be generated by the controller 15 of the metering device 10 itself, the controller 15 actuates the drive 69 in order to move the close-off element 66 into its use position according to FIG. 10. The switching device 57 is then in its second switching state.

For example, the drive 69 may comprise a gear wheel, not shown, which cooperates with a rack, not shown, on the close-off element 66. Of course, the invention also relates to other mechanical connections and couplings between the drive 69 and the close-off element 66.

Another exemplary embodiment is now shown with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13.

In this exemplary embodiment, a controllable valve 63 is provided in or on the water line 17b, upstream of the spray nozzle 20, as a component of the switching device 57. Said element can assume a first use position and a second use position. In the first use position, the valve 63 is fully open and does not or almost not prevent the water from flowing through the line section 17b.

The nozzle 20 is in its first operating mode and can spray onto the grid 23.

FIG. 13 shows the controllable valve 63 in its second use position. It is indicated here—merely schematically—that the valve 63 projects into the flow of liquid inside the line section 17b. In this second use position 65, the controllable valve 63 ensures that the line cross-section within the water line 17b is reduced, or at least that there is an obstacle to the flow. By moving the controllable valve 63 to this position, the spray nozzle 20 can be set to its second operating mode, spraying mode.

The use position of the valve 63 according to FIG. 13 thus corresponds to the second switching state of the switching device 57, and the use position of the valve 63 according to FIG. 12 thus corresponds to the second switching state of the switching device 57.

There are various options for the design of such a controllable valve 63. For example, a hose cross-section can be reduced in the manner of a camera aperture.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the controllable valve 63 can also be designed such that it additionally provides a completely closed or permanently shut-off state of the line section 17b.

In a further embodiment of the invention not shown in the drawings, the line 17b is formed by a flexible hose line. Such a hose can, for example, be crimped on the outside, e.g. by a cam.

In this case, the cam provides the controllable valve 63. The cam can completely squeeze the hose in a non-use position, partially squeeze the hose in a first use position or completely release the hose in a second use position in order to provide the different operating modes of the spray nozzle or to completely block the flow of water from the spray nozzle.

The numerous exemplary embodiments of the metering device 10 according to the invention allow the spray nozzle 20 to be operated in at least two different operating modes. In the first operating mode, the spray nozzle 20 can perform its conventional rinsing function, and apply water 50 to the grid 23, dissolve the medium 12 and feed a medium solution 24 to the collecting device 26.

In the second operating mode, the spray nozzle 20 can dispense water 50, but the water is dispensed in such a way that no spray cone can be formed, or a spray cone that builds up does not reach the grid 23.

The metering device 10 can thus initiate self-cleaning. Such self-cleaning can be carried out occasionally or regularly and, in particular, automatically.

In the exemplary embodiments of the invention comprising a pump 35 as shown in FIG. 2, for example, the metering device 10 according to the invention the line between the metering device 10 and the pump 35 as well as the line between the pump 35 and the target device 14 can occasionally or regularly be flushed through.

Powder or solid residues that adhere to line sections can be loosened in this way. This prevents particles from settling that could otherwise clog the fluid lines.

In the second operating mode, the metering device 10 according to the invention also enables the spray nozzle 20 itself to be rinsed. The spray nozzle 20 can be rinsed as often as desired.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 4, two valves 16a and 16b are provided. The invention also includes when a solenoid twin valve is used instead of two valves 16a and 16b; in the latter case, it is also not necessary for the water line 17 to be divided into two line branches 60a, 60b. For example, the individual valves of a double valve can be connected in parallel.

The exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 8 show a rotatability of the nozzle 20 about an axis of rotation. The invention also includes when the spray nozzle 20 is designed in the manner of a handheld spray head and enables rotation of an element about an axis which corresponds approximately to the main direction of the water jet when the spray nozzle 20 is operated in the first operating mode. In this case, by rotating elements of the spray nozzle 20, it is possible to change the jet pattern of the emitted water 50, even if only by a small angle of rotation. In this embodiment of the invention, the two different operating modes of the spray nozzle 20 can be made possible by different rotational circumference positions of elements of the spray nozzle 20.

The method according to the invention makes it possible to carry out nozzle flushing. This was not possible in the prior art.

The method according to the invention also enables the flushing of the pipework.

According to the invention, nozzle rinsing and line rinsing can be carried out automatically. Automated rinsing can be carried out regularly, for example at predetermined times or after each dosage or after a set number of dosages.

Claims

1-16. (canceled)

17. A metering device for metering powdery or solid-like media such as detergents or disinfectants and for supplying the media in a dissolved state to a washing or cleaning system, e.g. to a commercial dishwasher, comprising a support, in particular a cartridge support, to which a container, in particular a cartridge, with powdery or solid-like medium can be attached, wherein the support or the container comprises a grid which prevents the medium from exiting the container, and comprising a spray nozzle by means of which, controlled by a controller of the metering device, water for solvating the medium can be dispensed, wherein the medium dissolved in water and passing through the grid can be supplied to the washing or cleaning system via a supply device, wherein the metering device comprises a switching device that can be activated by the controller and comprises at least two different switching states for operating the spray nozzle in different operating modes.

18. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein a first operating mode of the spray nozzle includes a spraying mode of the spray nozzle in order to apply water to the grid.

19. The metering device according to claim 18, wherein a second operating mode of the spray nozzle includes a rinsing mode of the spray nozzle in order to supply water to a collecting device, without applying the grid.

20. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the switching device supplies a first higher volumetric flow rate of water to the spray nozzle in the first switching state and a second volumetric flow rate of water, which is lower compared to the first volumetric flow rate, in the second switching state.

21. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the metering device is arranged externally to the washing or cleaning system.

22. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the controller of the metering device is configured to communicate with the washing or cleaning system.

23. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the switching device comprises two valves that can be activated by the controller.

24. The metering device according to claim 23, wherein the two valves can be used to open or shut-off different line branches of a supply line leading to the spray nozzle.

25. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the switching device comprises a valve that can be activated by the controller and that can be positioned in at least two different positions and that applies different volumetric flow rates of water to the spray nozzle in the different positions.

26. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the switching device comprises a displaceable close-off element which, in a first position, opens a path between the spray nozzle and the grid for the water and blocks this path in a second position.

27. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the switching device comprises a drive, by means of which the spray nozzle is movable, in particular rotatable, between a first position and a second position.

28. The metering device according to claim 27, wherein the spray nozzle applies water to the grid in the first position and supplies water to a collecting device without applying water to the grid in the second position.

29. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the metering device comprises a collecting device, e.g. a hopper, arranged below the grid for collecting the medium dissolved in water.

30. The metering device according to claim 17, wherein the supply device comprises a pump, in particular a peristaltic pump, which can be activated in particular by the controller of the metering device.

31. A method for operating a metering device for metering powdery or solid-like media such as detergents or disinfectants and for supplying the media in a dissolved state to a target device in the form of a washing or cleaning system, e.g. to a commercial dishwasher, comprising the steps of:

a) providing a support for a container with a powdery or solid-like medium to be metered,

b) carrying out a metering process comprising: i) activating a switching device by a controller of the metering device, ii) switching the spray nozzle to a first operating mode, iii) spraying water onto the medium through a grid, iv) collecting the media solution, v) supplying the media solution to a target device,

c) carrying out a rinsing process comprising: vi) activating of the switching device by the controller of the metering device, vii) switching the spray nozzle to a second operating mode for flushing the pipework, viii) dispensing water through the spray nozzle without spraying onto the grid and the medium.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein step c) is carried out regularly, in particular automatically.