DE102014002560A1 - System for recording the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system, among others - Google Patents

Abstract

Shown and described is u. a. a system (10) for detecting the consumption of a medium (25, 26, 27) in a washing or cleaning system, comprising a) at least one container (22, 23, 24, 24a) releasably connected to a coupling point (37, 38 , 39) of the washing or cleaning system can be coupled, wherein in the container is a medium, and wherein the container is a data carrier (31, 32, 33, 33 a), z. B. an RFID tag, on which an information data record is written, which contains at least information about the type of medium and information about the volume contained in the container in the medium, b) a metering device (13), with the Medium is metered, c) a pump assembly (43), with the medium to a target container (42), z. D) a control unit (11) with which the pump arrangement and the dosing device can be addressed, e) a reading device (47), eg. F) a counting device (61) for determining the volume of medium removed from the container, g) wherein a current fill level (28, 29) is calculated by the control unit taking into account the withdrawn volume , 30) of the container is calculable, or information about the removed volume can be further processed, h) and wherein a writing device (47, 54a, 54b, 54c, 55) is provided, by means of which the current filling level (28, 29, 30) as information on the data carrier (31, 32, 33) is writable, or by means of which information about the removed volume on the disk is inscribed.

Description

The device initially relates to a system for detecting the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system.

The Applicant has been developing and distributing dosing devices, control devices and software for the operation of washing or cleaning systems for decades, in particular in the field of commercial dishwashing and commercial washing.

In order to enable efficient operation of a washing or cleaning system, it would be desirable to largely automate dosing operations. Further, it would be desirable if a controller for a metering device - in particular largely automatically - obtained information about which containers are currently connected to the metering device.

The object of the invention is to provide a system which enables intelligent, in particular largely automated, process management and administration of a cleaning system or a washing system.

The invention solves this problem with the features of claim 1.

According to the invention, a system is provided with which the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system can be detected.

A washing system is understood as any system which comprises at least one washing machine, that is to say in particular a household washing machine, or a commercial washing machine, in particular for textile washing.

For the purposes of the present patent application, a cleaning installation is understood to mean any installation which comprises at least one dishwasher, in particular a commercial dishwasher.

At least one container can be coupled to the washing or cleaning system, in which a medium is located.

As the medium, a detergent or a dishwashing detergent or a component of such an aforementioned agent is understood. As a medium in the sense of the present patent application, any other medium to be used in connection with a washing or cleaning process at the washing or cleaning installation is also understood. For example, in the case of a system having a dishwashing system, the medium may also be provided by a rinse aid.

The medium is preferably in liquid form, as a concentrate, or solution. It is also encompassed by the invention when the medium is provided in powdered or granular form.

The container may be provided by a conventional container in any size, and for example made of glass or plastic.

The container is detachably coupled to a coupling point. The coupling point is part of the washing or cleaning system, and this spatially associated. It may be such a coupling point, which has a carrier or a receiving device for the container. As a coupling point in the sense of the present patent application, however, an assembly position for the container can be understood, at which a coupling of the container to the washing and cleaning system, for example, with the aid of a discharge device for the medium, for example a suction lance takes place. The coupling point and thus the mounting position is then the place where the suction lance is to be inserted into the container.

According to the invention, the container comprises a data carrier, for example an RFID tag. An information record is inscribed in the data medium. An enrollment of the information data set takes place, for example, during the filling of the container with the medium.

The information data set contains at least information about the type of medium, for example about the type of detergent, or the type of dishwashing detergent or the type of detergent or the type of rinse aid, and further information about the volume of medium in the container , In other words, the package size is provided as part of the information record in the volume.

The system according to the invention further comprises a metering device. The metering device serves to dose the medium.

As a metering device in the context of the present application, in particular a device is understood, as in the German patent application DE 10 2011 119 021 A1 or in the DE 10 2011 108 396 , both of which date back to the Applicants. The content of these prior art patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference, also for the purpose of reference to individual features, included in the content of the present application.

Essentially, the metering device serves to set metering quantities in order to provide the medium in the desired amount or concentration. Typically, it can be provided within the scope of the invention that the metering device mixes the medium with water.

The system further includes a pump assembly which advantageously cooperates with the metering device. The pump assembly serves to supply the medium to a target container. The medium is thus conveyed by means of the pump arrangement to at least one washing machine or at least one dishwasher.

The pump assembly can serve in an advantageous arrangement according to the invention both to discharge the medium from the respective container, as well as to the medium, preferably mixed with water, to supply the target container.

The system according to the invention further comprises a control unit. The control unit is connected to the pump assembly and the metering device, and can both drive or respond. In the control unit, one or more washing or cleaning programs can be stored, which - in a conventional manner - determine at what time and in what sequence which dosing quantities of which medium should be supplied.

The system further comprises a reading device, for example an RFID reader, with which the information data record can be read out. The reading device may be part of the controller, or be arranged separately from the control unit, and communicate with the control unit.

The information contained in the information record can - at least partially - be made available to the control unit.

The system according to the invention further comprises a counting device for determining the volume of medium removed from the container.

The counter can detect or determine the amount of consumption of the medium. The determination is based on the respective dosing process. A determination can only be made for the respective current dosing process, or possibly also cumulated, that is summed up, over many dosing processes.

The determination of the consumption volume can be carried out, for example, with the aid of the control information of the pump arrangement and the metering device.

However, it can alternatively or additionally also be provided that the system has a device for flow measurement or flow rate determination, which measures the respective consumption quantities directly.

From the control unit according to the invention, a current level of the container is calculated taking into account the removed volume. The control unit thus knows the respective current level of the container.

According to the invention, a writing device is further provided. This can be, for example, an RFID writing device.

By means of the writing device, in particular the current filling level of the container can be inscribed as information on the data carrier.

In the event that the container is removed from the coupling point, the container can so far take the information about its own level.

If the container is subsequently used at another place of use, a control system arranged there with a reading device arranged there can then read out the current fill level information and continue to use it.

The system according to the invention thus enables an exchange of containers and flexible handling. In this case, flexible use is made possible in particular in the case of larger washing or cleaning systems with a plurality of washing machines or with a plurality of dishwashers, when containers have to be subjected to a changed positioning.

As the current level in the context of the present application, a vacancy is called. The writing device of the system according to the invention can also inscribe on the data carrier the information that the container is emptied or emptied.

Such information can be used for example for a later refilling of the container.

The invention includes systems that continuously register the current fill level as information on the data carrier. Such ongoing or permanent enrollment of Level information on the data carrier can for example be done immediately after completion of each dosing or alternatively also at the beginning or during each dosing. The filling level can be performed in this respect as a kind of account on the disk, and each, used in the case of a metering Einzeldosiermenge, can be booked directly to the RFID tag in the manner of account debiting.

The preceding passages illustrate the invention with reference to an example in which a current level of the container is calculated by the control unit taking into account the withdrawn volume, and wherein a writing device is provided, by means of which the current level can be written as information on the disk.

However, the invention also includes an alternative embodiment of a system in which the control unit does not necessarily have to be able to calculate the current filling level of the container, but can further process information about how large the volume removed, that is to say the quantity metered by the metering device on medium, is. The information about the withdrawn volume can, according to a variant of the invention, be, for example, information about the respectively last removed volume. Further processing can then be carried out by the control unit, for example, such that this value is stored and, if necessary, added up or forwarded to the writing device.

It is also encompassed by the invention that the information about the withdrawn volume is acquired as information about the total withdrawn volume, summed up or accumulated over several dosing operations.

In these variants of the invention may further be provided that - in the course of further processing of the information about the removed volume - the writing device does not write the information on the current level as information on the disk, but information about the removed volume, either as Single quantity of the withdrawn volume, or as accumulated total volume, inscribes on the data medium.

On the data carrier in the container, therefore, in this variant, not the difference but only the difference to be subtracted from the starting amount is written.

This information is stored according to the variant of the invention on the disk of the container. In the event that the container after decoupling from the system is subjected to a re-coupling to the same system or to another system, the data carrier can be read by the respective control unit there, and the control unit can receive information about the current, actual level receive.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the writing device writes the current fill level as information on the data carrier upon removal of the container from the coupling point. In this embodiment, an operator, the user, is kept in the process of deregistering the container from the system upon removal of a container from the docking station, and to ensure that the writer writes the current level to the volume. This enrollment can also be done automatically, each time the container is removed from the coupling point, according to the invention.

The system described last allows a simplified handling, which in particular - even when using multiple containers - manages with only a reader or a writing instrument. In this system, the user is required to register or deregister containers at the controller. In the course of each logout process, the current level of each container is then noted on the respective disk.

In this way, with a very low design effort and equipment costs, a secure process management can be achieved.

The invention relates both to systems that use only one container, as well as to such systems to which a plurality of containers are coupled. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention relates to systems to which multiple containers with different media can be coupled.

According to the invention - after coupling a container to a coupling point - an association between the container and the coupling point is made. This can be done, for example, that the coupling point is associated with a reading device that immediately recognizes that a container with a corresponding data carrier is coupled to the corresponding coupling point. In this case, the coupling station associated reader this information also directly to the controller - possibly also automated - submit.

Alternatively, the invention also includes that a data carrier with information about the coupling point is also arranged at the coupling point. With a mobile reader, for example, a mobile RFID reader, a Operator after coupling the container to the respective coupling point read both the container with the attached there disk, and scan the associated coupling point with the arranged there disk, so that in the controller automatically assigning the respective container can be made to the respective coupling point.

Finally, the invention also includes a system in which in each case an application and a deregistration of containers, ie containers, must be made by the operator. For this purpose, the controller can be assigned a user interface, that is, an interface by means of which it can communicate with the operator.

For example, using software, for example with the aid of a Trommelmenues or the like, the user - possibly manually - tell the controller that a particular container is coupled to a specific coupling point or has been decoupled from it.

Thus, for example, it is conceivable that each time a user brings a container to a coupling point, the container is previously scanned past a - possibly even permanently installed, that is not mobile, RFID reader, and the controller then recognizes that new container to be connected to the system, and asks the user individually, at which coupling point, so for example, at which suction lance, the scanned container just to be connected, or has been connected. The identification of the coupling point, for example, the suction lance no. 3, the user can then individually, for example, manually make.

When logging a container out of the system, a corresponding procedure can be carried out. Then, for example, be provided that the user when releasing the container from the respective coupling point in turn the container to the - permanently installed - read / write unit spends, and in this way the container logs.

As soon as the system has recognized or accepted a particular container as being registered in the system, it is also encompassed by the invention if, with the aid of the writing unit, a further information item is inscribed in the data carrier of a container, stating that the container "im Service "is located. In this case, an identification of the "employer", so the washing or cleaning system to which the container is connected to be written into the disk of the container with.

Such asset identification or system identification may also be made using an ID number of the control unit.

According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a system for managing a washing or cleaning installation, and in particular for detecting the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning installation, according to claim 4.

The object of the invention in turn is to provide a system which enables intelligent, in particular largely automated process management and management of a cleaning or a car wash.

The invention solves this problem with the features of claim 4.

Accordingly, it is provided that the system comprises at least one container which can be detachably coupled to a coupling point of the washing or cleaning system. The container contains a medium, ie a detergent or cleaning agent or a component thereof or an agent used in a washing or cleaning process.

The container comprises a data carrier, for example an RFID tag. An information record is inscribed in the data medium. This contains at least information about the type of medium, for example about the chemical used.

The information record is written directly or indirectly in the data carrier. Immediate enrollment may include, for example, that the name of the medium is contained directly, that is, readable directly by a control unit. Indirect enrollment of information about the type of medium is understood in the context of the application, if, for example, a coding or article number or the like is used, which enables the control of the system, for example by comparison, or with the aid of other sources of information Identification of the type of medium to make.

The system includes a metering device, a pump assembly, and a control unit.

Further, the system also includes a reading device and a counter.

Finally, the control unit is able to calculate a current level of the container, especially taking into account the volume removed.

But at least the control unit is able to determine a complete emptying of the container. A complete emptying of the container can be determined in any way.

In addition, according to the invention, a writing unit is provided. The writing unit is capable of writing information to the data carrier.

The writing device is at least designed to write information to the data carrier that this container has already been subjected to a coupling to the system. This information is preferably written by the writing device on the data carrier during the initial initial coupling to the system. So the moment the container is logged on to the system, a corresponding write operation may take place.

Assuming that basically only containers of a predetermined size are permitted on the system, the system can assume - in the course of carrying out the writing process with marking of the data carrier that a connection or an attachment to the system has taken place - that in the Containment container contains a certain amount of medium. Then, the system can also calculate, or at least determine when the container is emptied, for example, on the basis of the container size information obtained and taking into account the measurement of the metered quantities and their totaling.

According to an advantageous embodiment of this invention, information can be written to the data carrier by means of the writing device to which system the container has been coupled. The controller can thus ensure or check that only those containers are connected to them, which also contain written information that they are connected to the respective system. As a result, incorrect operation and confusion can be avoided.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the information data set contains information about the level of the container. In addition to the information that it is already subject to a coupling to the system, the information about the respective current level is beneficial to perform an automated process for consumption detection or check.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control unit is in possession of information about the level of the container. The controller acquires this ownership as a result of transmitting information about the level of the container via a separate path, independent of the process of reading the information record. For example, the operator can make information about the container size manually via the interface, the user interface, the controller known. Finally, according to this variant of the invention, the controller can also have information about the fact that only containers of a certain size are permitted for coupling. In this case, the controller can assume that the container connected to it has a specific container size.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, by means of the writing device information about the current level of the container upon removal of the container from the coupling point in the disk can be written. Such a write-in operation can be done either automatically, each time the container is removed from the coupling point or removed. However, it can also be provided within the scope of the invention that the operator must manually initiate such a write-in process.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that in the case of removal of the container from the coupling point of the writing device information on the disk is inscribed that this container has been decoupled from the system. As a result, a kind of deployment history can be stored on the disk to the container itself. This allows a further improved, largely automated process control and control of a system according to the invention. Also, containers that contain this information inscribed on the disk, particularly flexible use.

The invention, according to a further aspect of the invention, relates to a container for receiving the medium and for use in a system for detecting the consumption of the medium in a washing or cleaning installation or for use in a system for managing a washing or cleaning installation.

The object of the invention is to provide a container which can be used in a system that enables intelligent and largely automated process management and management of a cleaning system or a car wash.

The invention solves this problem with a container having the features of claim 12.

According to the invention, at least one piece of information is contained in the data medium on the container. preferably a variety of information, inscribed.

This information can be processed by the system, in particular by the control unit of the system.

For example, information can already be written in the data carrier at the factory, that is to say when the container is produced or when the container is filled with the medium, which can be labeled as a product property, or at any rate is related to the product, ie to the medium. Thus, for example, a so-called hose load factor can be inscribed as information. A hose load factor is a quantity that allows a calculation of maintenance intervals of a metering pump, in particular an interval of a hose change of a peristaltic pump. The hose loading factor is dependent on the chemicals. Depending on the type of medium so different tube loading factors may be of interest.

The controller knows the connected media, and their consumption levels, they can automatically initiate a change of a hose of a peristaltic pump, and for example, an operator to indicate the need for maintenance.

The information about the number of dosing operations can be used by the control unit of the system, for example for statistical purposes, to determine and improve the life of containers.

Information about the number of filled containers may be of particular importance in a multi-way container design. For example, it may be provided that a container may not exceed a certain number of filling operations.

Information about other product properties such as viscosity, density, allowed temperature, processing range etc. of the medium can be used by the control unit of the system to optimize or at least ensure the process control. For example, with knowledge of the permissible temperature processing range, an emergency shutdown can take place if operating risks exist by measuring a temperature outside the permissible range.

By knowing the viscosity or the density of the medium arranged in the container, the control unit of the system can carry out an adaptation of the processing.

Information about the expiration date of the medium or a date of minimum durability of the chemical may also be considered by the control unit.

For example, if the expiration date is exceeded, the controller may also issue appropriate warnings.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the information is encoded or encrypted deposited in the disk. This allows protection against unauthorized access and unauthorized manipulation of the information.

The invention further relates to a suction lance according to claim 15.

The invention has for its object to provide a suction lance, which is suitable for use in a system for managing a washing or cleaning system or in a system for detecting the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system.

The invention solves this problem with the features of claim 15.

According to the invention, the suction lance is associated with a reading device.

The reading device can be, for example, an RFID reader. This reading device can also comprise a writing device, with which the data record can be addressed to the container, and additional information can be written on the data carrier on the container.

The reading device is advantageously arranged directly on the suction lance.

Further advantageously, the suction lance also has an electrical or electronic interface for the purpose of connection to the control unit of a system for metering or management of a washing or cleaning system.

Further advantages of the invention will become apparent from the non-cited subclaims and from the following description of the embodiments illustrated in the figures. The figures show:

1 in a schematic, circuit-like view of a first embodiment of a system according to the invention,

2 a corresponding view of a second embodiment of the system according to the invention,

3 a further embodiment of a system according to the invention,

4 in a schematic representation of an embodiment of a suction lance according to the invention, and

5 in a schematic view of a first embodiment of a container according to the invention.

That in its entirety with 10 designated system for detecting the consumption of a medium of a washing or cleaning system, which can also be described as a system for managing a washing or cleaning system, will first be explained with reference to an embodiment in which according to 1 only a washing machine 42 connected. In the 1 schematically illustrated washing machine can be a conventional household washing machine or a conventional commercial textile washing machine.

However, the invention also includes systems in which a plurality of washing machines or alternatively one or more dishwashers are provided as target containers.

It should be noted at this point that in the following description of the figures the same or comparable parts or elements, even if they are shown on different embodiments, have been designated by the same reference numerals, partially with the addition of small letters.

It should also be noted at this point that features which are described only in one exemplary embodiment can be regarded as features essential to the invention, which can also be arranged in the context of the invention in any other exemplary embodiment.

The embodiment of 1 shows a controller 11 , a dosing device 13 , three different containers 22 . 23 . 24 , a pump 43 , optionally a flow meter 44 , an RFID reader / writer 47 , and an interface (the so-called user interface) 49 ,

The control 11 is merely schematic, shown in a circuit diagram. It comprises at least one processor or a computing unit.

The control unit 11 is connected via schematically illustrated electrical lines with the aforementioned elements. In fact, these can be signal lines or control lines, which can typically be two-wire or multi-wire. Over the indicated lines also operating voltages for the individual participants 12 . 43 . 44 . 49 . 47 be transmitted to the system.

The control 11 is in the embodiment via a connecting line 51 with the engine 12 the metering device 13 connected, and via a connecting line 45 with the pump 43 connected. She is still on a connection line 46 with the flow measuring device 44 connected, and via a connecting line 50 with the user interface 49 connected, and finally via a connecting line 48 with the RFID reader / writer 47 connected.

Each of the three - in terms of geometry and number only exemplified - containers 22 . 23 and 24 is with a disk 31 . 32 . 33 equipped in all embodiments with an RFID tag. The RFID tag 31 . 32 . 33 is always fixed to the container 22 . 23 . 24 connected.

The disk 31 . 32 . 33 can also be provided by another medium in non-illustrated embodiments, from which the stored information can be read out in an electronic or optical manner. Advantageously, however, the data carrier is writable or rewritable to by means of the RFID writing device 47 also be able to write an information in the disk.

The data carrier is preferably on a wall of the container 22 . 23 . 24 arranged.

For example, the container 24 to the system 10 to bind, according to a variant of the invention, the container 24 to the associated coupling point 39 be brought.

The RFID reader 47 can then communicate with the RFID tag 33 to step. This communication can either be automatic, for example by continuous or periodic transmission of signals by the reading device 47 or receiving signals from the RFID tag 33 , or alternatively user-controlled.

The reading device 47 can the RFID tag 33 recognize as such, and the information, especially on the type of container and the container size, recognize or read and to the controller 11 hand off. In particular, information about the container size, so about the amount of in the container 24 located medium 27 , and about the type of medium can be output, and for example encoded via the connection line 48 to the control unit 11 be transmitted.

The control unit 11 so receives the information that the container 24 containing the medium 27 , with a certain level 30 , to the coupling point 39 , and with it to the suction lance 36 the connection line 21 , has been docked.

A corresponding coupling process is successively with the containers 23 and 22 carried out.

For a washing process in the washing machine 42 are now - according to, for example, a program selection by addressing the program selector switch 52 - different media 25 . 26 . 27 at different times, and in different quantities needed.

The control 11 can about the engine 12 the metering device 13 speak to. The metering device 13 includes - as in 1 only indicated schematically - an input disk 14 and an exit disk 15 , The output disk 15 is in the embodiment of the engine 12 around the only schematically indicated axis of rotation 53 relative to the captured input disk 14 rotatable. There are three inlets at the entrance window 16 . 17 . 18 arranged for the three different media.

It is also conceivable that a different number of intakes is provided, for example according to the number of different media.

It is also conceivable that in addition an inlet for a detergent, for example of water, is provided.

By turning the output disk 15 can the outlet 40 the output disk 15 - depending on the rotational position of the output disc 15 - with different inlets 16 . 17 . 18 be brought into communication.

With regard to the possible embodiment of a metering device, reference is made to the prior-art publications of the prior art described at the beginning, which are based on the Applicant, and also for the purpose of reference to individual features. The content of these earlier patent applications is hereby incorporated in the content of the present patent application.

The pump 43 can also be from the control unit 11 be addressed, and for example by means of generation of a negative pressure ensure that a corresponding amount, that is, a certain volume of medium through the corresponding connecting line 19 . 20 . 21 through from the respective container 22 . 23 . 24 is discharged out, and the metering device 13 happens. The pump 43 further ensures that the medium, possibly together with added water, through the connecting line 41 thereby the washing machine 42 is supplied.

The control unit 11 can the respective dosing from the drive signals of the pump 43 or additionally or alternatively from the motor drive signals, in conjunction with information about the rotational position of the output disk 15 , determine.

Alternatively, or optionally additionally, at least one flow measuring device can also be provided 44 be provided, which determines the flow rates, and these directly to the control unit 11 transmitted.

The control unit 11 preferably has as part of a counter 61 on. This does not have to be designed as a separate physical unit, but can be part of a processor of the control unit 11 or even just as an algorithm of the control unit 11 to be available. In any case, the counter serves to determine the consumption values of the individual media of the connected containers.

The control unit 11 can be aware of the consumption values of the corresponding media via the control line 48 to the RFID writing device transmit a signal which the writing device 47 caused in the appropriate RFID tag 31 . 32 . 33 at the appropriate container 24 . 23 . 22 to write information about the current level.

In this context, it should be noted that in the embodiment of the 1 the device 47 is designed as a combined RFID reading and writing device. The writing device can therefore RFID tags 31 . 32 . 33 both read out and describe.

However, the invention also includes such systems in which a reading device for the data carriers 31 . 32 . 33 and a writing device for the data carriers 31 . 32 . 33 are formed by different components.

The reading out of the corresponding RFID tags 31 . 32 . 33 through the unit 47 can be done automatically, whenever a container 22 . 23 . 24 to a corresponding coupling point 37 . 38 . 39 has been brought.

But it is also conceivable that the readout of the RFID tags 31 . 32 . 33 user-controlled, for example, interacting with the interface 49 , the interface 49 can do it For example, include a display, as well as a keyboard, a touch screen or other means for an operator to communicate information to the controller.

The writing process, that is writing the RFID tags 31 . 32 . 33 through the RFID writing device 47 , can be done according to the invention in different ways:
For one, a description of the RFID tag 31 . 32 . 33 take place each time, when a dosage of the medium has occurred. This approach can be used, for example, to off-set sales from an RFID media volume account, as it were
Alternatively, it is possible to access the corresponding RFID tag 31 . 32 . 33 to write a level information only when the appropriate container 22 . 23 . 24 from the associated coupling point 37 . 38 . 39 removed or removed. Then the controller 11 insofar as the corresponding container 22 . 23 . 24 by means of the writing device 47 provide information that in the respective container 22 . 23 . 24 after removal and removal from the system 11 a certain level 28 . 29 . 30 a medium, so for example, a vacancy is included.

In the following, with regard to the embodiments of the 1 to 3 it will be explained that different variants of systems are included in the invention.

evidenced 1 instructs the system 10 only a single reading and writing device 47 on, with which the disks 31 . 32 . 33 can be read out together. The read-write device 47 has in this embodiment, a sufficiently large reception area to all coupling points 37 . 38 . 39 to monitor whether they have containers or not, and any RFID tags attached to them 31 . 32 . 33 to be able to read.

In this embodiment, therefore, advantageously an automated login and logout of the individual containers to the controller 11 of the system 10 already possible by the fact that the container 22 . 23 . 24 is brought to the corresponding coupling point. A logout is preferably also done automatically when the corresponding container is removed from the coupling point or removed.

In contrast, in the embodiment of the 2 provided that the coupling points 37 . 38 . 39 and / or the individual suction lances 34 . 35 . 36 each own RFID read-write devices are assigned. These fixed read / write devices 54a . 54b . 54c are each via a connecting line 48a . 48b . 48c with the controller 11 connected. So here is already an assignment of the individual RFID read / write units 54a . 54b . 54c to the individual coupling points 37 . 38 . 39 been made.

Now, for example, the container 24 to the coupling point 39 brought up, the RFID reader can 54a directly the information content of the RFID tag 33 read. Then the controller knows 11 upon transmission of a corresponding signal from the reader 54a over the connecting line 48a , directly, which coupling point, namely the coupling point 39 , the container 24 assigned.

In contrast, in one variant of the system 10 according to 1 be required that the user through the interface 49 another information to the controller 11 transmitted, which of the coupling points 37 . 38 . 39 If several coupling points are available, the corresponding, currently registered or deregistered container is to be assigned.

3 finally shows a further embodiment of a system according to the invention 10 in which a reader / writer 55 is centrally located. Here the stylized hand of a user indicates that a container 24 with the RFID tag 33 close to the reader / writer 55 must be brought to the container to the controller 11 to register and / or unsubscribe.

Again, there must be an assignment of the container to be registered to the respective coupling point 37 . 38 . 39 to be hit. This assignment can in turn be performed user-controlled.

As evidenced by the embodiment of 4 is an embodiment of a suction lance according to the invention 36 shown. This can be designed as a suction tube, and for example via a coupling 57 with a hose line 58 be connected. The hose line 58 of the embodiment of 4 can, for example, the connection line 21 of the embodiment of 1 correspond.

In the embodiment of the invention of 4 is a reading device 54a directly at the suction lance 36 attached. The reading device 54a is preferably an RFID reader. This is also preferably at the same time as RFID writing device 54a educated.

The device 54a is by means of an electrical or electronic interface 62 via an electrical connection line 56 , in the 4 only schematically indicated, and preferably along the hose 58 runs, or at least partially along the hose 58 runs, with the in 4 not shown control 11 of the system 10 connected.

the interface 62 For example, it can be designed as a plug, or screw or terminal connection, and in any case allows data transmission via the connecting line 56 ,

The reader / writer 54a is preferably at such a portion of the suction lance 36 arranged, which usually does not protrude into the medium.

As evidenced by the embodiment of 5 is shown in a schematic representation of an embodiment of a container according to the invention. The container 24a has a vessel wall 60 on which provides an interior in which the medium 27a located. A lid 59 closes the container 24a , The lid can be removed or partially opened, or if necessary by a suction lance 36 be punctured. The cover may for example be formed by a thin film, or have a desired passage point for the suction lance.

• a) Eine eindeutige Seriennummer des Datenträgers, die im Zuge der Befüllung des Behältnisses mit dem Medium vergeben worden ist;
• b) Ein Produktidentifikationshinweis für das Medium;
• c) Ein Herstelldatum oder Abfülldatum des Mediums;
• d) Eine Chargennummer des Mediums;
• e) Eine Information über ein Verfallsdatum oder ein Mindesthaltbarkeitsdatum des Mediums;
• f) Eine Information über die Gefahrstoffklassifikation des Mediums;
• g) Eine Information über die Gebindegröße;
• h) Eine Information über den initialen Füllstand und/oder über den aktuellen Füllstand;
• i) Eine Information über eine Produkteigenschaft des Mediums, insbesondere aa) eine Information über die Viskosität des Mediums und/oder bb) eine Information über die Dichte des Mediums und/oder cc) eine Information über den erlaubten Temperaturverarbeitungsbereich des Mediums und/oder dd) eine Information über einen Schlauchbelastungsfaktor;
• j) Eine Information über eine Temperaturabhängigkeit wenigstens einer der Produkteigenschaften von Merkmal i);
• k) Eine Information über die mit dem Medium aus diesem Behältnis heraus vorgenommene Anzahl der durchgeführten Dosiervorgänge;
• l) Eine Information über die Zahl der Befüllungen dieses Behältnisses.

On the wall 60 of the container 24a is an RFID tag 33a arranged. In this, a lot of information is written in the embodiment. In particular, one or preferably more of the following information is inscribed in the RFID tag:

• a) An unambiguous serial number of the data carrier given during the filling of the container with the medium;
• b) a product identification notice for the medium;
• c) A date of manufacture or date of filling of the medium;
• d) A batch number of the medium;
• e) information about an expiry date or a best-before date of the medium;
• f) information about the classification of hazardous substances in the medium;
• g) information about the container size;
• h) information about the initial level and / or the current level;
• i) information about a product property of the medium, in particular aa) information about the viscosity of the medium and / or bb) information about the density of the medium and / or cc) information about the allowed temperature processing range of the medium and / or dd) information about a hose load factor;
• j) information about a temperature dependence of at least one of the product properties of feature i);
• k) information about the number of dosing performed with the medium out of this container;
• l) Information about the number of fillings in this container.

The information or preferably the plurality of information is preferably in the course of filling the container 24a with the medium 27a into the RFID tag 33a enrolled.

In case of connection of this container 24a to one of the systems 10 according to the 1 to 3 can after reading the information from the disk 33a the corresponding information from the controller 11 processed or taken into account.

For example, the controller may be aware of the tube load factor of the corresponding medium 27a calculate a maintenance interval and display it to the operator.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102011119021 A1 [0017]
• DE 102011108396 [0017]

Claims (16)

System ( 10 ) for recording the consumption of a medium ( 25 . 26 . 27 ) in a washing or cleaning installation, comprising a) at least one receptacle ( 22 . 23 . 24 . 24a ), which is detachable to a coupling point ( 37 . 38 . 39 ) of the washing or cleaning system can be coupled, wherein in the container is a medium, and wherein the container is a data carrier ( 31 . 32 . 33 . 33a ), z. B. an RFID tag, on which an information data record is written, which contains at least information about the type of medium and information about the volume contained in the container in the medium, b) a dosing device ( 13 ), with which the medium is metered, c) a pump arrangement ( 43 ), with which the medium to a target container ( 42 ), z. B. to a washing machine or to a dishwasher, is conveyed out, d) a control unit ( 11 ), with which the pump arrangement and the dosing device can be addressed, e) a reading device ( 47 ), z. B. an RFID reader with which the information record is readable, f) a counter ( 61 ) for determining the volume of medium withdrawn from the container, g) wherein the control unit, taking into account the withdrawn volume, a current filling level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ) of the container is calculable, or information about the withdrawn volume can be further processed, h) and wherein a writing device ( 47 . 54a . 54b . 54c . 55 ) is provided, by means of the current level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ) as information on the data carrier ( 31 . 32 . 33 ), or by means of which information about the removed volume can be written to the data carrier. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the writing device ( 47 ) the current level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ) of the container or removed from the container volume as information on the disk continuously enrolls. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the writing device ( 47 . 54a . 54b . 54c . 55 ) the current level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ) of the container or the volume removed from the container as information on the data carrier upon removal of the container from the coupling point ( 37 . 38 . 39 ). System ( 10 ) for managing a washing or cleaning system, and in particular for detecting the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system, comprising a) at least one container ( 22 . 23 . 24 . 24a ), which is detachable to a coupling point ( 37 . 38 . 39 ) of the washing or cleaning system can be coupled, wherein in the container a medium ( 25 . 26 . 27 ), and wherein the container is a data carrier ( 31 . 32 . 33 ), z. B. an RFID tag, on which an information data record is written, which contains, directly or indirectly, at least one piece of information about the nature of the medium, b) a dosing device ( 13 ), with which the medium is metered, c) a pump arrangement ( 43 ), with which the medium to a target container ( 42 ), z. B. to a washing machine or to a dishwasher, is conveyed out, d) a control unit ( 11 ), with which the pump arrangement and the dosing device can be addressed, e) a reading device ( 47 . 54a . 54b . 54c . 55 ), z. B. an RFID reader with which the information record is readable, f) a counter ( 61 ) for determining the volume of medium withdrawn from the container, g) being determined by the control unit ( 11 ), taking into account in particular the removed volume, a current filling level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ) of the container is calculable and / or a complete emptying of the container is ascertainable, h) and wherein a writing device ( 47 ) is provided by means of at least one piece of information on the disk is inscribed that this container has already been subjected to a coupling to the system. System according to claim 4, characterized in that by means of the writing device ( 47 . 54a . 54b . 54c . 55 ) an information can be written to the data carrier which is an identification of the system ( 10 ) to which the container has been coupled. System according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the information data record information about the level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ) of the container. System according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the control unit ( 11 ) due to a transmission of information about the level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ) of the container via a separate path, regardless of a read-out of the information record, in the possession of the information on the level of the container. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system comprises a washing installation which comprises at least one household washing machine ( 42 ) or at least one commercial washing machine ( 42 ) for textile laundry. System according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the system ( 10 ) one Cleaning system comprising at least one dishwasher. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by means of the writing device ( 47 . 54a . 54b . 54c . 55 ) information about the current level of the container upon removal of the container from the coupling point in the disk is writable. System ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the case of removal of the container from the coupling point ( 37 . 38 . 39 ) from the writing device information on the disk is writable that this container has been decoupled from the system. Container ( 22 . 23 . 24 . 24a ) for receiving a medium ( 25 . 26 . 27 ), in particular a detergent or a cleaning agent or a constituent of an aforementioned agent, and for use in a system ( 10 ) for detecting the consumption of the medium in a washing or cleaning system, or for use in a system for managing a washing or cleaning system, in particular for use in a system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the container a data carrier ( 31 . 32 . 33 . 33a ), in which an information data record is written, which comprises at least one item of information from the following group of information: a) a unique serial number of the data carrier, which in the course of filling the container with the medium ( 27a ) has been awarded; b) A Product Identification Notice for the Medium ( 27a ); c) A date of manufacture or date of filling of the medium ( 27a ); d) A batch number of the medium ( 27a ); e) information about an expiry date or a best-before date of the medium ( 27a ); f) Information on the classification of hazardous substances in the medium ( 27a ); g) information about the container size; h) Information about the initial fill level and / or the current fill level ( 28 . 29 . 30 ); i) information about a product property of the medium, in particular aa) information about the viscosity of the medium and / or bb) information about the density of the medium and / or cc) information about the allowed temperature processing range of the medium and / or dd) information about a hose load factor; j) information about a temperature dependence of at least one of the product properties of feature i); k) information about the number of metering operations carried out with the medium out of this container; l) Information about the number of fillings in this container. Container ( 22 . 23 . 24 . 24a ) according to claim 12, characterized in that the information is encoded or encrypted deposited in the data carrier. Container according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the data carrier ( 31 . 32 . 33 . 33a ) is an RFID tag. Suction lance ( 34 . 35 . 36 ) for passing one from a container ( 22 . 23 . 24 . 24a ) removable medium and for insertion into the container, as well as for use in a system ( 10 ), which has a washing system, the at least one household washing machine ( 42 ) or at least one commercial washing machine, in particular for use in a system according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the suction lance is associated with a reading device, in particular an RFID reader with which an information data record is readable in a data carrier is arranged on the container. Suction lance according to claim 15, characterized in that the suction lance ( 34 . 35 . 36 ) via an electrical or electronic interface ( 62 ) with the control unit ( 11 ) of a system ( 10 ) for detecting the consumption of a medium in a washing or cleaning system and / or the control unit of a system for managing a washing or cleaning system is connectable.

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