EP2261414A1 - Method for determining cleaning-active substances in a treatment fluid - Google Patents

Method for determining cleaning-active substances in a treatment fluid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2261414A1
EP2261414A1 EP10004411A EP10004411A EP2261414A1 EP 2261414 A1 EP2261414 A1 EP 2261414A1 EP 10004411 A EP10004411 A EP 10004411A EP 10004411 A EP10004411 A EP 10004411A EP 2261414 A1 EP2261414 A1 EP 2261414A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
treatment liquid
cleaning
sample
active substances
subset
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP10004411A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2261414B1 (en
Inventor
Wilhelm Bringewatt
Engelbert Heinz
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Herbert Kannegiesser GmbH and Co
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Herbert Kannegiesser GmbH and Co
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Publication of EP2261414A1 publication Critical patent/EP2261414A1/en
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/0018—Controlling processes, i.e. processes to control the operation of the machine characterised by the purpose or target of the control
    • A47L15/0055—Metering or indication of used products, e.g. type or quantity of detergent, rinse aid or salt; for measuring or controlling the product concentration
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F34/00—Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F34/14—Arrangements for detecting or measuring specific parameters
    • D06F34/22—Condition of the washing liquid, e.g. turbidity
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/20—Washing liquid condition, e.g. turbidity
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2105/00—Systems or parameters controlled or affected by the control systems of washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2105/42—Detergent or additive supply
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2105/00—Systems or parameters controlled or affected by the control systems of washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2105/58—Indications or alarms to the control system or to the user

Definitions

  • the cleaning, in particular the washing, of various objects is carried out with a treatment liquid containing at least one detergent-active substance.
  • a treatment liquid containing at least one detergent-active substance.
  • containers such as bottles, workpieces and items of laundry are cleaned or washed.
  • the cleaning-active and washing-active substances are understood to mean other substances used in the cleaning or washing, for example disinfectant-active and bleach-active substances.
  • the treatment liquid is exchanged between successive treatment steps or successive cleaning operations. In the treatment liquid but then unused cleaning-active substances are present, which are lost when replacing the treatment liquid. This makes treatment unnecessarily expensive and can also lead to environmental pollution. Therefore, it is endeavored to reuse the treatment liquid at least partially.
  • the reuse of the treatment liquid requires to determine the still existing in the same proportion unused cleaning active substances. On the basis of the determined content of cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid can be decided whether and in what amount cleaning active substances must be added. The determination of the cleaning-active substances still contained in the treatment liquid is time-consuming. Therefore, so far only random samples are performed, which does not always ensure treatment with sufficient cleaning active substances. In particular, in the food industry, for example, in the cleaning of bottles, the random determination of remaining in the treatment liquid residual cleaning active substances can cause problems because it is not always guaranteed that the cleaning is carried out with a sufficiently cleaning active substances containing treatment liquid.
  • a method for achieving this object comprises the measures of claim 1. Accordingly, first the cleaning liquid is filtered and then determined the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the filtered cleaning liquid. By filtering, in particular, undissolved constituents are removed from the treatment liquid, so that then a simple automatic measurement of the remaining portion of cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid can take place without interrupting the cleaning process. This can be determined in an economical manner without gaps, whether the treatment liquid still contains enough cleaning-active substances.
  • the subset thus forms a sample which can be examined with regard to the proportion of cleaning-active substances.
  • the actual treatment process is not interrupted.
  • the branched sample can be investigated during the current cleaning or washing process, so to speak.
  • the method is preferably provided to separate off the partial quantity serving as a sample with a certain volume from the treatment liquid, preferably during the ongoing cleaning or washing process. It is preferably provided to separate a sample with an exact volume from the treatment liquid by means of a metering pump. This also allows small amounts of a sample accurately and, above all, consistently by successive sampling, with reproducible results.
  • the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the serving as a sample subset is determined due to visible properties of the sample.
  • these visible properties of the sample are caused by the addition of the at least one indicator agent.
  • the visible properties are, in particular, the color that occurs after the at least one indicator agent has been added in the sample.
  • the measure of a turbidity of the sample which is obtained by the addition of the indicator agent, can also serve as a visible property. It is also conceivable that the visible property results from a partial discoloration or clouding of the sample contained in a transparent sample container with the added indicator agent. For example, only a lower part of the sample discolored, it being possible to use the height of the discolored part of the specimen in the specimen vessel to determine the proportion of unused cleaning-active substances in the investigated treatment liquid.
  • the visible properties of the subset of the treatment liquid provided with at least one indicator means are preferably determined by a color measurement, for example a photometric or a spectroscopic color measurement of the sample.
  • a color measurement for example a photometric or a spectroscopic color measurement of the sample.
  • Such a measurement can be reliably and easily carried out automatically within the shortest possible time by detecting the sample in the transparent sample container from a corresponding sensor, for example a color sensor or a light sensor.
  • the respective sensor supplies a signal that is proportional to the color or other visual perceptible property of the sample and thus can be easily evaluated automatically.
  • a preferred embodiment of the method provides for the determination of the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the sample by comparing the result of the measurement of the provided with the indicator means portion of the treatment liquid with preferably several reference samples.
  • the reference samples determine how large the proportion of residual cleaning or washing-active substances in the treatment liquid is for a particular color of the sample provided with the indicator means. It then needs to be made during the current treatment determination of the rest of the active substances in the used treatment liquid only a comparison of the color of the sample with the colors of the reference sample.
  • the reference sample which corresponds or comes closest to the color of the sample to be examined then gives the concentration of residual active substances in the investigated treatment liquid.
  • a visual comparison takes place which can be carried out quickly and, above all, automatically, with the aid of appropriate sensors.
  • the inventively provided filtering the treatment liquid prior to the measurement of the remaining cleaning-active substances is preferably carried out by a countercurrent filtration. It is also conceivable microfiltration, which preferably takes place in countercurrent process according to the membrane technique known per se. As a result, the finest suspended components in the treatment liquid can be filtered out, so that the treatment liquid becomes clear, that is no longer cloudy. On the basis of the filtered transparent treatment liquid can be determined very accurately and reliably by color measurement, by photometry or spectroscopy, how large the remaining portion of the active substances, preferably cleaning active substances in the treatment liquid is still.
  • the inventive method is suitable for washing machines of any kind, but also washing and cleaning machines for other purposes, such as Cleaning of containers in food technology, bottle cleaning, cleaning of objects, in particular workpieces, dishwashers, including household dishwashers, and the like washing and cleaning facilities.
  • Fig. 1 the method according to the invention is shown schematically in connection with a commercial washing machine 10 and a subsequent dewatering device 11.
  • the washing machine 10 is designed as a so-called continuous washing machine with a cylindrical drum 13 which can be driven in rotation about a preferably horizontal axis of rotation 12.
  • the laundry is passed during washing along the axis of rotation 12 through the drum 13, in the illustrated embodiment of the Fig. 1 left to right.
  • the washing machine 10 shown has five treatment chambers 14. However, the invention is not limited thereto.
  • the washing machine 10 may also have more or fewer than five treatment chambers 14.
  • the first treatment chamber 14 is seen in the longitudinal direction of the axis of rotation 12 longer than the other four equally long treatment chambers 14. Again, the invention is not limited.
  • the treatment chambers 14 may all be the same length or have any other, even different, lengths.
  • first two treatment chambers 14 form a prewash zone.
  • the subsequent two treatment chambers 14, the third and fourth treatment chambers 14, form a final wash zone.
  • the last (fifth) treatment chamber 14 serves to rinse the laundry and thus forms a rinsing zone.
  • the first treatment chamber 14 of the final wash zone (third treatment chamber 14 in the Fig. 1 ) is provided with a fixed outer drum 15.
  • the last treatment chamber 14 forming the rinsing zone (fifth treatment chamber 14 in FIG Fig. 1 ) on an outer drum 16.
  • the outer drums 15 and 16 serve to separate the laundry in the respective treatment chambers 14 from the treatment liquid bound therein, the free liquor.
  • the collecting in the outer drums 15 and 16 treatment liquid is returned via a return line 17 to the first treatment chamber 14, ie the Prewash zone and the third treatment chamber 14, ie at the beginning of the final wash zone.
  • Valves not shown in the return line 17 can serve to direct the treatment liquid to the beginning of the prewash zone and / or to the beginning of the final wash zone.
  • Fig. 1 the return line 17 at the beginning (based on the direction of flow of the treatment liquid through the return line 17) on a pre-filter 18 for separating large solid components from the treatment liquid.
  • a pre-filter 18 Behind the pre-filter 18 is a first storage tank 19.
  • a feed pump 20 which pumps the treatment liquid through the return line 17.
  • the feed pump 20 may be located at any other point of the return line 17, for example in front of the pre-filter 18.
  • On the feed pump 20 follows in the flow direction of the treatment liquid through the return line 17, a filter 21.
  • Behind the filter 21 branches from the return line 17 in the illustrated embodiment a bypass line 22, which leads to a measuring device 23.
  • the measuring device 23 is thereby integrated into the bypass line 22.
  • branch valve 25 there, where the beginning and the end of the bypass line 22 branch off from the return line 17, there is in each case a branch valve 25.
  • the branch valves 25 may be configured as lockable multi-way valves, which are, for example, electromagnetically actuated. Behind the bypass line 22 and the measuring device 23 is another storage tank 24. From this, the treatment liquid passes through the subsequent part of the return line 17 to the beginning of the prewash zone and / or final wash zone.
  • the prefilter 18, the storage tank 19 and / or the storage tank 24 are not mandatory.
  • the method according to the invention can thus also be carried out without it.
  • only the feed pump 20, the filter 21 and the bypass line 22 are provided with the measuring device 23 in the return line 17 in the flow direction.
  • the filter 21 serves to remove at least a large part of undissolved constituents, including fine undissolved constituents, from the treatment liquid.
  • the solid components are removed so far that the treatment liquid no longer has turbidity, in particular is clear.
  • the filter 21 is designed as a fine filter for this purpose.
  • the filter 21 operates according to the counterflow principle with at least one filter membrane.
  • the treatment liquid is filtered very finely by the filter 21 in such a way that at least one microfiltration, preferably an ultrafiltration or a nanofiltration, takes place.
  • the measuring device serves to measure, during the washing process in the washing machine 10, that is, when the treatment liquid is flowing continuously through the return line 17, what is the proportion of unused active substances in the treatment liquid.
  • the measurement of the proportion of unused cleaning-active substances according to the invention is carried out in situ in an uninterrupted washing process.
  • the measuring device 23 has a in the Fig. 1 not shown branching device, in particular a metering pump, which is diverted from the treatment liquid in the bypass line 22, a precisely predetermined amount of treatment liquid.
  • This branched treatment liquid is a small fixed portion, which serves as a sample for determining the active substances still contained in the treatment liquid.
  • the branched off from the dosing pump subset of the treatment liquid, namely the sample, passes into a transparent sample vessel, such as a test tube of appropriate size.
  • the metering pump behind the filter 21 directly in the return line 17.
  • the metering pump then branches off from the return line 17 serving as a sample small subset of the treatment liquid with a precisely predetermined volume.
  • the then branched off from the metering pump directly from the return line 17 treatment liquid passes through a corresponding line directly to the measuring device 23.
  • the bypass line 22 can be omitted with the two branch valves 25.
  • a supply line 26 for an indicator means, such as a reagent, out Via the supply line 26, a precisely metered amount of the indicator agent is added to the serving as a sample subset of branched off from the return line 17 treatment liquid.
  • the preferably liquid indicator agent is also added to the sample vessel.
  • the measuring device 23 has at least one in the Fig. 1 not shown sensor which detects at least one visually perceptible feature of the sample provided with the indicator means.
  • this is a color sensor that determines the color that the sample receives by the addition of the indicator agent.
  • the sensor provides a signal dependent on the color of the sample with the indicator means.
  • This signal is compared with data stored in a memory of the measuring device 23, preferably reference values which have been recorded on the basis of reference measurements and correspond to certain colors of active substance concentrations in a treatment liquid.
  • the measuring device 23 then automatically compares the color of the sample recorded by the respective sensor with the predetermined reference colors.
  • the sample with the added indicator agent is disposed of via a drain 27.
  • the sample with the indicator means does not return to the return line 17.
  • the measurement of the proportion of washing-active substances in the treatment liquid can be carried out continuously, but also intermittently, namely with each separation of the treatment liquid from each washed laundry items.
  • the treatment liquid originating from a washing process can be measured several times.
  • the measurement of the proportion of remaining active substances in the treatment liquid by means of the measuring device 23 is effected by the determination of visually perceptible properties of a sample.
  • the color of the sample is determined by photometry or spectroscopy.
  • the treatment liquid is first filtered, preferably a fine filtration, such as a microfiltration, subjected at least a majority of the undissolved in the treatment liquid particles are removed, so that a clear and preferably colorless treatment liquid leaves the filter 21 without any haze.
  • a fine filtration such as a microfiltration
  • a subset of the treatment liquid is diverted from the return line 17 for each measurement, specifically with a defined subset.
  • a sample with an exact volume of clear and preferably colorless treatment liquid is available for carrying out the measurement.
  • the treatment liquid is supplied with an exact volume of an indicator agent, in particular an indicator liquid, for example a reagent.
  • the sample and the indicator means are held in the measuring device 23 in a transparent sample container, for example a test tube. This can be determined by a sensor in the measuring device 23, the adjusting by adding the indicator agent discoloration of the sample.
  • the determined color of the sample in particular a measurement signal derived therefrom, is compared with reference values of reference measurements stored in the measuring device 23.
  • the concentrations of at least one active substance in the treatment liquid belonging to the individual reference colors are known.
  • the reference colors or corresponding measured values can then be compared with the color of the respective sample. In this comparison, it is determined with which reference color the color of the sample matches or which reference color comes closest to the color of the sample. From this information can then be drawn on the concentration of the remaining cleaning or washing-active substances in the examined treatment liquid.
  • the sample containing the indicator agent is discarded after the measurement. Consequently, there is no return of the sample in the return line 17, which could have an influence on the treatment liquid in the return line 17 result because the sample not only treatment liquid, but also for measuring her added indicator means, such as a reagent contains.
  • the treatment liquid is led into the drain and replaced by new treatment liquid or there is a metered addition of at least one active substance.
  • the return line 17 a through valves to To install opening and closable short-circuit line, whereby the treatment liquid with metered fresh substances in circulation on the measuring device 23 can be passed to determine from the measuring device 23, the content of the active substances after adding additional substances to the treatment liquid.
  • the Fig. 2 shows the inventive method together with a bottle cleaning device 28.
  • the bottles to be cleaned first pass through a pre-wash zone 30, then a final wash zone 31 and finally a subsequent rinse zone 32. Each zone is formed by one of a total of three successive chambers.
  • Cleaning liquid accumulating in the pre-wash zone 30 and in the final wash zone 31 can be diverted through a return line 33.
  • the cleaning liquid is first filtered. Thereafter, the concentration of cleaning active substances still contained in the cleaning liquid during the current cleaning process is determined in a measuring device. The cleaning liquid is then returned to the prewash zone 30 and / or the final wash zone 31.
  • the determination of the remaining cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid from the bottle cleaning device 28 is the same as in the previously described washing machine 10. Therefore, the same reference numbers of the devices in the return line 17 of the washing machine 10 are used for the same facilities in the return line 33.
  • a pre-filter 18, a storage tank 19, a feed pump 20, a filter 21, a bypass line 22, a measuring device 23 and a storage tank 24 is provided in the return line 33 of the bottle cleaning device 28 are thus seen in the flow direction of the cleaning liquid.
  • a pre-filter 18, a storage tank 19, a feed pump 20, a filter 21, a bypass line 22, a measuring device 23 and a storage tank 24 is provided. These are designed in the same way and perform the same function as in the washing machine 10.
  • the prefilter 18, the storage tank 19 and / or the storage tank 24 may be missing.
  • the method for determining residual cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid of the bottle washer 28 is the same as in the washing machine 10. Reference is therefore made to the explained in connection with the washing machine 10 method.
  • the invention is not only suitable for washing machines 10 and bottle washing machines 28, but more generally for washing and cleaning machines of all kinds, especially for commercial laundries, for container cleaning, in food technology, for industrial washing and cleaning processes and also household washing machines and household dishwashers.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)

Abstract

The method involves filtering processing fluid by counterflow filtration or micro-filtration, and measuring proportion of cleaning-active substances in the filtered fluid. A portion with exactly defined volume is discharged from the filtered fluid, and the proportion of the substances in the portion of the fluid is measured based on visible characteristics of the portion of the fluid and/or a sample, where the portion of the fluid serves as the sample. The portion with a preset volume is separated from the fluid by a metering unit i.e. metering pump.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Ermittlung reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in einer Behandlungsflüssigkeit gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a method for determining cleaning-active substances in a treatment liquid according to the preamble of claim 1.

Die Reinigung, insbesondere das Waschen, unterschiedlichster Gegenstände erfolgt mit einer mindestens eine reinigungsaktive Substanz enthaltenen Behandlungsflüssigkeit. Vor allem werden so Behälter, beispielsweise Flaschen, Werkstücke und Wäschestücke gereinigt bzw. gewaschen. Als reinigungsaktive und waschaktive Substanzen werden andere bei der Reinigung bzw. Wäsche verwendete Substanzen, wie zum Beispiel desinfektionsaktive und bleichaktive, Substanzen verstanden.The cleaning, in particular the washing, of various objects is carried out with a treatment liquid containing at least one detergent-active substance. Above all, such containers, such as bottles, workpieces and items of laundry are cleaned or washed. The cleaning-active and washing-active substances are understood to mean other substances used in the cleaning or washing, for example disinfectant-active and bleach-active substances.

Die Behandlungsflüssigkeit wird zwischen aufeinanderfolgenden Behandlungsschritten bzw. aufeinanderfolgenden Reinigungsvorgängen ausgewechselt. In der Behandlungsflüssigkeit sind dann aber noch unverbrauchte reinigungsaktive Substanzen vorhanden, die beim Auswechseln der Behandlungsflüssigkeit verloren gehen. Das verteuert die Behandlung unnötig und kann auch zu Umweltbelastungen führen. Deswegen ist man bestrebt, die Behandlungsflüssigkeit mindestens teilweise wiederzuverwenden.The treatment liquid is exchanged between successive treatment steps or successive cleaning operations. In the treatment liquid but then unused cleaning-active substances are present, which are lost when replacing the treatment liquid. This makes treatment unnecessarily expensive and can also lead to environmental pollution. Therefore, it is endeavored to reuse the treatment liquid at least partially.

Die erneute Verwendung der Behandlungsflüssigkeit erfordert es, den in derselben noch vorhandenen Anteil unverbrauchter reinigungsaktiver Substanzen zu ermitteln. Anhand des ermittelten Gehalts reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit kann entschieden werden, ob und in welcher Menge reinigungsaktive Substanzen zudosiert werden müssen. Die Ermittlung der in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit noch enthaltenen reinigungsaktiven Substanzen ist zeitaufwendig. Deswegen werden bislang nur Stichproben durchgeführt, wodurch nicht immer die Behandlung mit ausreichenden reinigungsaktiven Substanzen gewährleistet ist. Insbesondere in der Lebensmittelbranche, beispielsweise bei der Reinigung von Flaschen, kann die stichprobenartige Ermittlung der in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit noch vorhandenen restlichen reinigungsaktiven Substanzen zu Problemen führen, weil nicht immer gewährleistet ist, dass die Reinigung mit einer ausreichend reinigungsaktive Substanzen enthaltenden Behandlungsflüssigkeit erfolgt.The reuse of the treatment liquid requires to determine the still existing in the same proportion unused cleaning active substances. On the basis of the determined content of cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid can be decided whether and in what amount cleaning active substances must be added. The determination of the cleaning-active substances still contained in the treatment liquid is time-consuming. Therefore, so far only random samples are performed, which does not always ensure treatment with sufficient cleaning active substances. In particular, in the food industry, for example, in the cleaning of bottles, the random determination of remaining in the treatment liquid residual cleaning active substances can cause problems because it is not always guaranteed that the cleaning is carried out with a sufficiently cleaning active substances containing treatment liquid.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Verfahren zu schaffen, womit in einfacher und zulässiger Weise während des Reinigungsvorgangs der sich in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit befindliche Gehalt reinigungsaktiver Substanzen ermittelbar ist.The invention has for its object to provide a method with which in a simple and permissible manner during the cleaning process, which is located in the treatment liquid content of cleaning active substances can be determined.

Ein Verfahren zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe weist die Maßnahmen des Anspruchs 1 auf. Demnach wird zuerst die Reinigungsflüssigkeit gefiltert und danach der Anteil reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der gefilterten Reinigungsflüssigkeit ermittelt. Durch das Filtern werden vor allem ungelöste Bestandteile aus der Behandlungsflüssigkeit entfernt, so dass anschließend eine einfache automatische Messung des restlichen Anteils reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit ohne Unterbrechung des Reinigungsvorgangs erfolgen kann. Dadurch kann auf wirtschaftliche Weise lückenlos ermittelt werden, ob die Behandlungsflüssigkeit noch genügend reinigungsaktive Substanzen enthält.A method for achieving this object comprises the measures of claim 1. Accordingly, first the cleaning liquid is filtered and then determined the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the filtered cleaning liquid. By filtering, in particular, undissolved constituents are removed from the treatment liquid, so that then a simple automatic measurement of the remaining portion of cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid can take place without interrupting the cleaning process. This can be determined in an economical manner without gaps, whether the treatment liquid still contains enough cleaning-active substances.

Bevorzug ist es vorgesehen, von der gefilterten Behandlungsflüssigkeit eine geringe Teilmenge abzuführen und den Anteil der reinigungsaktiven Substanzen in der Teilmenge zu messen. Die Teilmenge bildet so eine Probe, die hinsichtlich des Anteils reinigungsaktiver Substanzen untersucht werden kann. Durch das Abzweigen der Probe von der Behandlungsflüssigkeit wird der eigentliche Behandlungsvorgang nicht unterbrochen. Die abgezweigte Probe kann während des laufenden Reinigungs- bzw. Waschvorgangs sozusagen nebenher untersucht werden.Preferably, it is provided to remove a small portion of the filtered treatment liquid and to measure the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the subset. The subset thus forms a sample which can be examined with regard to the proportion of cleaning-active substances. By branching the sample from the treatment liquid, the actual treatment process is not interrupted. The branched sample can be investigated during the current cleaning or washing process, so to speak.

Verfahrensmäßig ist es bevorzugt vorgesehen, die als Probe dienende Teilmenge mit einem bestimmten Volumen von der Behandlungsflüssigkeit abzutrennen, und zwar vorzugsweise während des laufenden Reinigungs- bzw. Waschvorgangs. Bevorzugt ist es vorgesehen, durch eine Dosierpumpe eine Probe mit einem exakten Volumen von der Behandlungsflüssigkeit abzutrennen. Dadurch können auch kleine Mengen einer Probe exakt und vor allem gleichbleibend durch aufeinanderfolgende Probenentnahmen untersucht werden, und zwar mit reproduzierbaren Ergebnissen.In terms of the method, it is preferably provided to separate off the partial quantity serving as a sample with a certain volume from the treatment liquid, preferably during the ongoing cleaning or washing process. It is preferably provided to separate a sample with an exact volume from the treatment liquid by means of a metering pump. This also allows small amounts of a sample accurately and, above all, consistently by successive sampling, with reproducible results.

Das Verfahren sieht es zur Messung der reinigungsaktiven Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit bevorzugt vor, die als Probe dienende Teilmenge mit einem Indikatormittel, vorzugsweise einer Indikatorflüssigkeit, zu versehen. Auch das Indikatormittel wird in einer exakt dosierten Menge der Probe hinzugegeben, so dass eine exakte Konzentration des Indikatormittels in der aus einer Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit gebildeten Probe einstellbar ist. Durch das genaue Verhältnis der Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit und des Indikatormittels sind genau reproduzierbare und vor allem vergleichbare Messungen möglich.For the measurement of the cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid, the method preferably provides for providing the sample portion serving with an indicator agent, preferably an indicator liquid. Also, the indicator agent is added in a precisely metered amount of the sample, so that an exact concentration of the indicator agent in the sample formed from a subset of the treatment liquid is adjustable. Due to the exact ratio of the subset of the treatment liquid and the indicator means exactly reproducible and above all comparable measurements are possible.

Bei einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens wird der Anteil reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der als Probe dienenden Teilmenge aufgrund sichtbarer Eigenschaften der Probe ermittelt. Vorzugsweise werden diese sichtbaren Eigenschaften der Probe durch die Zugabe des mindestens einen Indikatormittels hervorgerufen. Bei den sichtbaren Eigenschaften handelt es sich insbesondere um die Farbe, die sich nach Zugabe des mindestens einen Indikatormittels in der Probe einstellt. Als sichtbare Eigenschaft kann aber auch das Maß einer durch die Zugabe des Indikatormittels sich einstellenden Trübung der Probe dienen. Denkbar ist es auch, dass die sichtbare Eigenschaft sich ergibt aus einer teilweisen Verfärbung oder Eintrübung der in einem durchsichtigen Probenbehälter enthaltenen Probe mit dem zugegebenen Indikatormittel. Beispielsweise verfärbt sich nur ein unterer Teil der Probe, wobei die sich im Probengefäß einstellende Höhe des verfärbten Teils der Probe herangezogen werden kann zur Bestimmung des Anteils noch unverbrauchter reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der untersuchten Behandlungsflüssigkeit.In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the serving as a sample subset is determined due to visible properties of the sample. Preferably, these visible properties of the sample are caused by the addition of the at least one indicator agent. The visible properties are, in particular, the color that occurs after the at least one indicator agent has been added in the sample. However, the measure of a turbidity of the sample, which is obtained by the addition of the indicator agent, can also serve as a visible property. It is also conceivable that the visible property results from a partial discoloration or clouding of the sample contained in a transparent sample container with the added indicator agent. For example, only a lower part of the sample discolored, it being possible to use the height of the discolored part of the specimen in the specimen vessel to determine the proportion of unused cleaning-active substances in the investigated treatment liquid.

Die sichtbaren Eigenschaften der mit mindestens einem Indikatormittel versehenen Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit werden bevorzugt ermittelt durch eine Farbmessung, zum Beispiel eine fotometrische oder eine spektroskopische Farbmessung der Probe. Eine solche Messung ist zuverlässig und einfach innerhalb kürzester Zeit automatisch durchführbar, indem die Probe im durchsichtigen Probenbehälter von einem entsprechenden Sensor, beispielsweise einem Farbsensor oder einem Lichtsensor, detektiert wird. Der jeweilige Sensor beliefert ein Signal, dass proportional zur Farbe oder einer anderen visuellen wahrnehmbaren Eigenschaft der Probe ist und somit einfach automatisch ausgewertet werden kann.The visible properties of the subset of the treatment liquid provided with at least one indicator means are preferably determined by a color measurement, for example a photometric or a spectroscopic color measurement of the sample. Such a measurement can be reliably and easily carried out automatically within the shortest possible time by detecting the sample in the transparent sample container from a corresponding sensor, for example a color sensor or a light sensor. The respective sensor supplies a signal that is proportional to the color or other visual perceptible property of the sample and thus can be easily evaluated automatically.

Eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung des Verfahrens sieht es vor, die Bestimmung des Anteils der reinigungsaktiven Substanzen in der Probe durch Vergleich des Ergebnisses der Messung der mit dem Indikatormittel versehenen Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit mit vorzugsweise mehreren Referenzproben vorzunehmen. Die Referenzproben legen fest, wie groß der Anteil restlicher reinigungs- oder waschaktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit bei einer bestimmten Farbe der mit dem Indikatormittel versehenen Probe ist. Es braucht dann zur während der laufenden Behandlung erfolgenden Ermittlung des Rests der aktiven Substanzen in der gebrauchten Behandlungsflüssigkeit nur ein Vergleich der Farbe der Probe mit den Farben der Referenzprobe zu erfolgen. Diejenige Referenzprobe, die der Farbe der zu untersuchenden Probe entspricht oder am nächsten kommt, ergibt dann die Konzentration restlicher aktiver Substanzen in der untersuchten Behandlungsflüssigkeit. Nach dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren findet somit ein visueller Vergleich statt, der rasch und vor allem automatisiert durchführbar ist unter Zuhilfenahme entsprechender Sensoren.A preferred embodiment of the method provides for the determination of the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the sample by comparing the result of the measurement of the provided with the indicator means portion of the treatment liquid with preferably several reference samples. The reference samples determine how large the proportion of residual cleaning or washing-active substances in the treatment liquid is for a particular color of the sample provided with the indicator means. It then needs to be made during the current treatment determination of the rest of the active substances in the used treatment liquid only a comparison of the color of the sample with the colors of the reference sample. The reference sample which corresponds or comes closest to the color of the sample to be examined then gives the concentration of residual active substances in the investigated treatment liquid. Thus, according to the method of the invention, a visual comparison takes place which can be carried out quickly and, above all, automatically, with the aid of appropriate sensors.

Das erfindungsgemäß vorgesehene Filtern der Behandlungsflüssigkeit vor der Messung der restlichen reinigungsaktiven Substanzen erfolgt bevorzugt durch eine Gegenstromfiltration. Denkbar ist auch eine Mikrofiltration, die bevorzugt im Gegenstromverfahren nach der an sich bekannten Membrantechnik erfolgt. Hierdurch sind feinste Schwebebestandteile in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit ausfilterbar, so dass die Behandlungsflüssigkeit klar wird, also keine Eintrübung mehr aufweist. Anhand der gefilterten durchsichtigen Behandlungsflüssigkeit lässt sich sehr genau und zuverlässig nach der Farbmesstechnik, durch Fotometrie oder Spektroskopie feststellen, wie groß der verbleibende Anteil der aktiven Substanzen, vorzugsweise reinigungsaktiven Substanzen, in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit noch ist.The inventively provided filtering the treatment liquid prior to the measurement of the remaining cleaning-active substances is preferably carried out by a countercurrent filtration. It is also conceivable microfiltration, which preferably takes place in countercurrent process according to the membrane technique known per se. As a result, the finest suspended components in the treatment liquid can be filtered out, so that the treatment liquid becomes clear, that is no longer cloudy. On the basis of the filtered transparent treatment liquid can be determined very accurately and reliably by color measurement, by photometry or spectroscopy, how large the remaining portion of the active substances, preferably cleaning active substances in the treatment liquid is still.

Zwei bevorzugte Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung werden nachfolgend anhand der Zeichnung näher erläutert. In dieser zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren betriebene gewerbliche Wasch- maschine, und
Fig. 2
eine Flaschenreinigungseinrichtung zum Einsatz des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens.
Two preferred embodiments of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. In this show:
Fig. 1
a commercial washing machine operated by the method according to the invention, and
Fig. 2
a bottle cleaning device for use of the method according to the invention.

Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren eignet sich für Waschmaschinen jeglicher Art, aber auch Wasch- und Reinigungsmaschinen zu anderen Zwecken, beispielsweise zur Reinigung von Behältern in der Lebensmitteltechnik, zur Flaschenreinigung, zum Reinigen von Gegenständen, insbesondere Werkstücken, Geschirrspülmaschinen, auch Haushaltsgeschirrspüler, und dergleichen Wasch- und Reinigungseinrichtungen.The inventive method is suitable for washing machines of any kind, but also washing and cleaning machines for other purposes, such as Cleaning of containers in food technology, bottle cleaning, cleaning of objects, in particular workpieces, dishwashers, including household dishwashers, and the like washing and cleaning facilities.

In der Fig. 1 ist das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren in Verbindung mit einer gewerblichen Waschmaschine 10 und einer darauffolgenden Entwässerungseinrichtung 11 schematisch dargestellt. Die Waschmaschine 10 ist als eine sogenannte Durchlaufwaschmaschine mit einer um eine vorzugsweise horizontale Drehachse 12 drehend antreibbare zylindrische Trommel 13 ausgebildet. Die Wäsche wird beim Waschen längs der Drehachse 12 durch die Trommel 13 hindurchgeleitet, und zwar im gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel der Fig. 1 von links nach rechts.In the Fig. 1 the method according to the invention is shown schematically in connection with a commercial washing machine 10 and a subsequent dewatering device 11. The washing machine 10 is designed as a so-called continuous washing machine with a cylindrical drum 13 which can be driven in rotation about a preferably horizontal axis of rotation 12. The laundry is passed during washing along the axis of rotation 12 through the drum 13, in the illustrated embodiment of the Fig. 1 left to right.

In der Trommel 13 der Waschmaschine 10 sind aufeinanderfolgende Behandlungskammern 14 angeordnet. Die gezeigte Waschmaschine 10 verfügt über fünf Behandlungskammern 14. Hierauf ist die Erfindung aber nicht beschränkt. Die Waschmaschine 10 kann auch mehr oder weniger als fünf Behandlungskammern 14 aufweisen. Im gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel ist die erste Behandlungskammer 14 in Längsrichtung der Drehachse 12 gesehen länger als die übrigen vier gleich langen Behandlungskammern 14. Auch hierauf ist die Erfindung nicht beschränkt. Die Behandlungskammern 14 können alle gleich lang sein oder auch über beliebige andere, auch unterschiedliche, Längen verfügen.In the drum 13 of the washing machine 10 successive treatment chambers 14 are arranged. The washing machine 10 shown has five treatment chambers 14. However, the invention is not limited thereto. The washing machine 10 may also have more or fewer than five treatment chambers 14. In the embodiment shown, the first treatment chamber 14 is seen in the longitudinal direction of the axis of rotation 12 longer than the other four equally long treatment chambers 14. Again, the invention is not limited. The treatment chambers 14 may all be the same length or have any other, even different, lengths.

Die in Behandlungsrichtung (von links nach rechts in der Fig. 1) gesehen ersten beiden Behandlungskammern 14 bilden eine Vorwaschzone. Die darauffolgenden beiden Behandlungskammern 14, die dritte und vierte Behandlungskammer 14, bilden eine Klarwaschzone. Die letzte (fünfte) Behandlungskammer 14 dient zum Spülen der Wäsche und bildet also eine Spülzone.In the direction of treatment (from left to right in the Fig. 1 ) seen first two treatment chambers 14 form a prewash zone. The subsequent two treatment chambers 14, the third and fourth treatment chambers 14, form a final wash zone. The last (fifth) treatment chamber 14 serves to rinse the laundry and thus forms a rinsing zone.

Die erste Behandlungskammer 14 der Klarwaschzone (dritte Behandlungskammer 14 in der Fig. 1) ist mit einer feststehenden Außentrommel 15 versehen. Ebenso weist die die Spülzone bildende letzte Behandlungskammer 14 (fünfte Behandlungskammer 14 in der Fig. 1) eine Außentrommel 16 auf. Die Außentrommeln 15 und 16 dienen dazu, die Wäsche in den jeweiligen Behandlungskammern 14 von der darin gebundenen Behandlungsflüssigkeit, die freie Flotte, zu trennen.The first treatment chamber 14 of the final wash zone (third treatment chamber 14 in the Fig. 1 ) is provided with a fixed outer drum 15. Likewise, the last treatment chamber 14 forming the rinsing zone (fifth treatment chamber 14 in FIG Fig. 1 ) on an outer drum 16. The outer drums 15 and 16 serve to separate the laundry in the respective treatment chambers 14 from the treatment liquid bound therein, the free liquor.

Die sich in den Außentrommeln 15 und 16 sammelnde Behandlungsflüssigkeit wird über eine Rücklaufleitung 17 zurückgeführt zur ersten Behandlungskammer 14, also zur Vorwaschzone und zur dritten Behandlungskammer 14, also an den Anfang der Klarwaschzone. Nicht gezeigte Ventile in der .Rücklaufleitung 17 können dazu dienen, die Behandlungsflüssigkeit gezielt an den Anfang der Vorwaschzone und/oder an den Anfang der Klarwaschzone zu leiten.The collecting in the outer drums 15 and 16 treatment liquid is returned via a return line 17 to the first treatment chamber 14, ie the Prewash zone and the third treatment chamber 14, ie at the beginning of the final wash zone. Valves not shown in the return line 17 can serve to direct the treatment liquid to the beginning of the prewash zone and / or to the beginning of the final wash zone.

Im Ausführungsbeispiel der Fig. 1 weist die Rücklaufleitung 17 am Anfang (bezogen auf die Durchströmungsrichtung der Behandlungsflüssigkeit durch die Rücklaufleitung 17) einen Vorfilter 18 zum Abscheiden großer fester Bestandteile aus der Behandlungsflüssigkeit auf. Hinter dem Vorfilter 18 befindet sich ein erster Vorratstank 19. Darauf folgt eine Förderpumpe 20, die die Behandlungsflüssigkeit durch die Rücklaufleitung 17 pumpt. Die Förderpumpe 20 kann sich an einer beliebigen anderen Stelle der Rücklaufleitung 17 befinden, beispielsweise vor dem Vorfilter 18. Auf die Förderpumpe 20 folgt in Strömungsrichtung der Behandlungsflüssigkeit durch die Rücklaufleitung 17 ein Filter 21. Hinter dem Filter 21 zweigt von der Rücklaufleitung 17 im gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel eine Bypassleitung 22 ab, die zu einer Messeinrichtung 23 führt. Die Messeinrichtung 23 ist dadurch in die Bypassleitung 22 integriert. Dort, wo der Anfang und das Ende der Bypassleitung 22 von der Rücklaufleitung 17 abzweigen, befindet sich jeweils ein Abzweigventil 25. Die Abzweigventile 25 können als absperrbare Mehrwegeventile ausgestaltet sein, die beispielsweise elektromagnetisch betätigbar sind. Hinter der Bypassleitung 22 und der Messeinrichtung 23 befindet sich ein weiterer Vorratstank 24. Von diesem gelangt die Behandlungsflüssigkeit über den nachfolgenden Teil der Rücklaufleitung 17 zum Anfang der Vorwaschzone und/oder Klarwaschzone.In the embodiment of Fig. 1 the return line 17 at the beginning (based on the direction of flow of the treatment liquid through the return line 17) on a pre-filter 18 for separating large solid components from the treatment liquid. Behind the pre-filter 18 is a first storage tank 19. This is followed by a feed pump 20, which pumps the treatment liquid through the return line 17. The feed pump 20 may be located at any other point of the return line 17, for example in front of the pre-filter 18. On the feed pump 20 follows in the flow direction of the treatment liquid through the return line 17, a filter 21. Behind the filter 21 branches from the return line 17 in the illustrated embodiment a bypass line 22, which leads to a measuring device 23. The measuring device 23 is thereby integrated into the bypass line 22. There, where the beginning and the end of the bypass line 22 branch off from the return line 17, there is in each case a branch valve 25. The branch valves 25 may be configured as lockable multi-way valves, which are, for example, electromagnetically actuated. Behind the bypass line 22 and the measuring device 23 is another storage tank 24. From this, the treatment liquid passes through the subsequent part of the return line 17 to the beginning of the prewash zone and / or final wash zone.

Der Vorfilter 18, der Vorratstank 19 und/oder der Vorratstank 24 sind nicht zwingend erforderlich. Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren lässt sich somit auch ohne diese ausführen. Dann sind im einfachsten Falle in der Rücklaufleitung 17 in Strömungsrichtung gesehen nur die Förderpumpe 20, der Filter 21 und die Bypassleitung 22 mit der Messeinrichtung 23 vorgesehen.The prefilter 18, the storage tank 19 and / or the storage tank 24 are not mandatory. The method according to the invention can thus also be carried out without it. Then, in the simplest case, only the feed pump 20, the filter 21 and the bypass line 22 are provided with the measuring device 23 in the return line 17 in the flow direction.

Der Filter 21 dient dazu, mindestens einen Großteil ungelöster Bestandteile, und zwar auch feiner ungelöster Bestandteile, aus der Behandlungsflüssigkeit zu entfernen. Bevorzugt werden die festen Bestandteile so weit entfernt, dass die Behandlungsflüssigkeit keine Trübung mehr aufweist, insbesondere klar ist. Bevorzugt ist zu diesem Zweck der Filter 21 als ein Feinfilter ausgebildet. Insbesondere arbeitet der Filter 21 nach dem Gegenstromprinzip mit mindestens einer Filtermembran. Die Behandlungsflüssigkeit wird vom Filter 21 sehr fein gefiltert, und zwar so, dass zumindest eine Mikrofiltration, vorzugsweise eine Ultrafiltration oder eine Nanofiltration, stattfindet.The filter 21 serves to remove at least a large part of undissolved constituents, including fine undissolved constituents, from the treatment liquid. Preferably, the solid components are removed so far that the treatment liquid no longer has turbidity, in particular is clear. Preferably, the filter 21 is designed as a fine filter for this purpose. In particular, the filter 21 operates according to the counterflow principle with at least one filter membrane. The treatment liquid is filtered very finely by the filter 21 in such a way that at least one microfiltration, preferably an ultrafiltration or a nanofiltration, takes place.

Die Messeinrichtung dient dazu, während des Waschprozesses in der Waschmaschine 10, also bei ununterbrochen durch die Rücklaufleitung 17 strömender Behandlungsflüssigkeit, zu messen, wie hoch der Anteil unverbrauchter aktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit ist. Die Messung des Anteils unverbrauchter reinigungsaktiver Substanzen erfolgt erfindungsgemäß in situ bei ununterbrochenem Waschprozess.The measuring device serves to measure, during the washing process in the washing machine 10, that is, when the treatment liquid is flowing continuously through the return line 17, what is the proportion of unused active substances in the treatment liquid. The measurement of the proportion of unused cleaning-active substances according to the invention is carried out in situ in an uninterrupted washing process.

Die Messeinrichtung 23 weist eine in der Fig. 1 nicht gezeigte Abzweigeinrichtung, insbesondere eine Dosierpumpe, auf, womit von der Behandlungsflüssigkeit in der Bypassleitung 22 eine genau vorbestimmte Menge an Behandlungsflüssigkeit abgezweigt wird. Diese abgezweigte Behandlungsflüssigkeit stellt eine kleine festgelegte Teilmenge dar, die als Probe zur Ermittlung der in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit noch enthaltenen aktiven Substanzen dient. Die von der Dosierpumpe abgezweigte Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit, nämlich die Probe, gelangt in ein durchsichtiges Probengefäß, beispielsweise ein Reagenzglas entsprechender Größe.The measuring device 23 has a in the Fig. 1 not shown branching device, in particular a metering pump, which is diverted from the treatment liquid in the bypass line 22, a precisely predetermined amount of treatment liquid. This branched treatment liquid is a small fixed portion, which serves as a sample for determining the active substances still contained in the treatment liquid. The branched off from the dosing pump subset of the treatment liquid, namely the sample, passes into a transparent sample vessel, such as a test tube of appropriate size.

Es ist alternativ auch denkbar, die Dosierpumpe hinter dem Filter 21 direkt in der Rücklaufleitung 17 anzuordnen. Die Dosierpumpe zweigt dann aus der Rücklaufleitung 17 eine als Probe dienende kleine Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit mit einem exakt vorgegebenen Volumen ab. Die dann von der Dosierpumpe direkt aus der Rücklaufleitung 17 abgezweigte Behandlungsflüssigkeit gelangt über eine entsprechende Leitung direkt zur Messeinrichtung 23. Bei dieser alternativen Anordnung der Dosierpumpe kann die Bypassleitung 22 mit den beiden Abzweigventilen 25 entfallen.Alternatively, it is also conceivable to arrange the metering pump behind the filter 21 directly in the return line 17. The metering pump then branches off from the return line 17 serving as a sample small subset of the treatment liquid with a precisely predetermined volume. The then branched off from the metering pump directly from the return line 17 treatment liquid passes through a corresponding line directly to the measuring device 23. In this alternative arrangement of the metering pump, the bypass line 22 can be omitted with the two branch valves 25.

Zur Messeinrichtung 23 ist außerdem eine Zuleitung 26 für ein Indikatormittel, beispielsweise ein Reagenz, geführt. Über die Zuleitung 26 wird eine genau dosierte Menge des Indikatormittels der als Probe dienenden Teilmenge der von der Rücklaufleitung 17 abgezweigten Behandlungsflüssigkeit zugegeben. Das vorzugsweise flüssige Indikatormittel wird auch in das Probengefäß gegeben.To the measuring device 23 is also a supply line 26 for an indicator means, such as a reagent, out. Via the supply line 26, a precisely metered amount of the indicator agent is added to the serving as a sample subset of branched off from the return line 17 treatment liquid. The preferably liquid indicator agent is also added to the sample vessel.

Die Messeinrichtung 23 verfügt über mindestens einen in der Fig. 1 nicht gezeigten Sensor, der wenigstens ein visuell wahrnehmbares Merkmal der mit dem Indikatormittel versehenen Probe ermittelt. Vorzugsweise handelt es sich hierbei um einen Farbsensor, der die Farbe ermittelt, die die Probe durch den Zusatz des Indikatormittels erhält. Der Sensor liefert ein von der Farbe der Probe mit dem Indikatormittel abhängiges Signal. Dieses Signal wird verglichen mit in einem Speicher der Messeinrichtung 23 hinterlegten Daten, vorzugsweise Referenzwerten, die anhand von Referenzmessungen aufgenommen worden sind und zu bestimmten Farben gehörenden Konzentrationen aktiver Substanzen in einer Behandlungsflüssigkeit entsprechen. Von der Messeinrichtung 23 wird dann automatisch die vom jeweiligen Sensor aufgenommene Farbe der Probe mit den vorgegebenen Referenzfarben verglichen.The measuring device 23 has at least one in the Fig. 1 not shown sensor which detects at least one visually perceptible feature of the sample provided with the indicator means. Preferably, this is a color sensor that determines the color that the sample receives by the addition of the indicator agent. The sensor provides a signal dependent on the color of the sample with the indicator means. This signal is compared with data stored in a memory of the measuring device 23, preferably reference values which have been recorded on the basis of reference measurements and correspond to certain colors of active substance concentrations in a treatment liquid. The measuring device 23 then automatically compares the color of the sample recorded by the respective sensor with the predetermined reference colors.

Nach der erfolgten Auswertung der Probe durch die Messeinrichtung 23 wird die Probe mit dem zugegebenen Indikatormittel über eine Ableitung 27 entsorgt. Die Probe mit dem Indikatormittel gelangt also nicht wieder zurück in die Rücklaufleitung 17.After the evaluation of the sample by the measuring device 23, the sample with the added indicator agent is disposed of via a drain 27. The sample with the indicator means does not return to the return line 17.

Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren wird nachfolgend unter Bezugnahme auf die Fig. 1 näher erläutert.The inventive method is described below with reference to the Fig. 1 explained in more detail.

Die von der Waschmaschine 10 stammende Behandlungsflüssigkeit mit noch mindestens einer aktiven Substanz wird wiederverwendet, indem sie über die Rücklaufleitung 17 von der Förderpumpe 20 zurückgepumpt wird zum Anfang der Vorwasch- und/oder Klarwaschzone der Waschmaschine 10. Für die Wiederverwendung der Behandlungsflüssigkeit ist es erforderlich, festzustellen, ob die darin noch enthaltenen aktiven Substanzen für einen nachfolgenden Waschvorgang ausreichend sind.The treatment liquid with at least one active substance originating from the washing machine 10 is reused by pumping it back from the feed pump 20 via the return line 17 to the beginning of the pre-wash and / or final wash zone of the washing machine 10. For the reuse of the treatment liquid it is necessary determine whether the active substances contained therein are sufficient for a subsequent washing process.

Erfindungsgemäß erfolgt die Feststellung des Restgehalts aktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit vor und/oder während der Rückführung derselben zur Waschmaschine 10, und zwar "in situ" ohne Unterbrechung des Waschprozesses. Die Messung des Anteils waschaktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit kann fortlaufend geschehen, aber auch taktweise, nämlich bei jedem Trennen der Behandlungsflüssigkeit vom jeweils gewaschenen Wäscheposten. Um Ungleichmäßigkeiten in der Konzentration der restlichen reinigungsaktiven Substanzen auszugleichen, kann die von einem Waschvorgang stammende Behandlungsflüssigkeit mehrfach gemessen werden.According to the invention, the determination of the residual content of active substances in the treatment liquid before and / or during the return of the same to the washing machine 10, namely "in situ" without interrupting the washing process. The measurement of the proportion of washing-active substances in the treatment liquid can be carried out continuously, but also intermittently, namely with each separation of the treatment liquid from each washed laundry items. In order to compensate for irregularities in the concentration of the residual cleaning-active substances, the treatment liquid originating from a washing process can be measured several times.

Die Messung des Anteils verbleibender aktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit mittels der Messeinrichtung 23 erfolgt durch die Ermittlung visuell wahrnehmbarer Eigenschaften einer Probe. Bevorzugt wird die Farbe der Probe ermittelt, und zwar durch Fotometrie oder Spektroskopie.The measurement of the proportion of remaining active substances in the treatment liquid by means of the measuring device 23 is effected by the determination of visually perceptible properties of a sample. Preferably, the color of the sample is determined by photometry or spectroscopy.

Vor der Messeinrichtung 23 wird die Behandlungsflüssigkeit zunächst filtriert, und zwar vorzugsweise einer Feinfiltration, beispielsweise einer Mikrofiltration, unterzogen, wobei mindestens ein Großteil der in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit ungelösten Partikel entfernt werden, so dass eine klare und vorzugsweise farblose Behandlungsflüssigkeit ohne irgendwelche Trübung den Filter 21 verlässt.Before the measuring device 23, the treatment liquid is first filtered, preferably a fine filtration, such as a microfiltration, subjected at least a majority of the undissolved in the treatment liquid particles are removed, so that a clear and preferably colorless treatment liquid leaves the filter 21 without any haze.

Von der gefilterten Behandlungsflüssigkeit wird für jede Messung eine Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit aus der Rücklaufleitung 17 abgezweigt, und zwar mit einer definierten Teilmenge. Dadurch steht eine Probe mit einem exakten Volumen klarer und vorzugsweise farbloser Behandlungsflüssigkeit zur Durchführung der Messung zur Verfügung. Der Behandlungsflüssigkeit wird ein exaktes Volumen eines Indikatormittels, insbesondere einer Indikatorflüssigkeit, beispielsweise ein Reagenz, zugeführt. Die Probe und das Indikatormittel werden in der Messeinrichtung 23 in einem durchsichtigen Probengefäß, beispielsweise einem Reagenzglas, bereitgehalten. Dadurch kann von einem Sensor in der Messeinrichtung 23 die sich durch Zugeben des Indikatormittels einstellende Verfärbung der Probe ermittelt werden. Die ermittelte Farbe der Probe, insbesondere ein daraus abgeleitetes Messsignal, wird verglichen mit in der Messeinrichtung 23 gespeicherten Referenzwerten von Referenzmessungen. Aufgrund der Referenzmessungen sind die zu den einzelnen Referenzfarben gehörenden Konzentrationen mindestens einer aktiven Substanz in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit bekannt. Es können dann die Referenzfarben oder damit korrespondierende Messwerte mit der Farbe der jeweiligen Probe verglichen werden. Bei diesem Vergleich wird festgestellt, mit welcher Referenzfarbe die Farbe der Probe übereinstimmt oder welcher Referenzfarbe die Farbe der Probe am nächsten kommt. Daraus können dann Rückschlüsse auf die Konzentration der restlichen reinigungs- bzw. waschaktiven Substanzen in der untersuchten Behandlungsflüssigkeit gezogen werden.From the filtered treatment liquid, a subset of the treatment liquid is diverted from the return line 17 for each measurement, specifically with a defined subset. As a result, a sample with an exact volume of clear and preferably colorless treatment liquid is available for carrying out the measurement. The treatment liquid is supplied with an exact volume of an indicator agent, in particular an indicator liquid, for example a reagent. The sample and the indicator means are held in the measuring device 23 in a transparent sample container, for example a test tube. This can be determined by a sensor in the measuring device 23, the adjusting by adding the indicator agent discoloration of the sample. The determined color of the sample, in particular a measurement signal derived therefrom, is compared with reference values of reference measurements stored in the measuring device 23. Based on the reference measurements, the concentrations of at least one active substance in the treatment liquid belonging to the individual reference colors are known. The reference colors or corresponding measured values can then be compared with the color of the respective sample. In this comparison, it is determined with which reference color the color of the sample matches or which reference color comes closest to the color of the sample. From this information can then be drawn on the concentration of the remaining cleaning or washing-active substances in the examined treatment liquid.

Die Probe mit dem Indikatormittel wird nach der Messung entsorgt. Folglich erfolgt keine Rückführung der Probe in die Rücklaufleitung 17, was eine Beeinflussung der Behandlungsflüssigkeit in der Rücklaufleitung 17 zur Folge haben könnte weil die Probe nicht nur Behandlungsflüssigkeit, sondern auch das zur Messung ihr zugegebene Indikatormittel, beispielsweise ein Reagenz, enthält.The sample containing the indicator agent is discarded after the measurement. Consequently, there is no return of the sample in the return line 17, which could have an influence on the treatment liquid in the return line 17 result because the sample not only treatment liquid, but also for measuring her added indicator means, such as a reagent contains.

Wenn bei der Messung festgestellt worden ist, dass die verbleibenden Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit für einen nachfolgenden Waschvorgang nicht mehr ausreichen, wird entweder die Behandlungsflüssigkeit in den Abfluss geleitet und durch neue Behandlungsflüssigkeit ersetzt oder es findet eine Zudosierung mindestens einer aktiven Substanz statt. Um überprüfen zu können, ob die zu dosierte Menge mindestens einer aktiven Substanz ausreicht, ist es denkbar, in der Rücklaufleitung 17 eine durch Ventile zu öffnende und verschließbare Kurzschlussleitung einzubauen, womit die Behandlungsflüssigkeit mit zudosierten frischen Substanzen im Kreislauf an der Messeinrichtung 23 vorbeileitbar ist, um von der Messeinrichtung 23 den Gehalt der aktiven Substanzen nach dem Zugeben zusätzlicher Substanzen zur Behandlungsflüssigkeit zu ermitteln.If it has been determined during the measurement that the remaining substances in the treatment liquid are no longer sufficient for a subsequent washing operation, either the treatment liquid is led into the drain and replaced by new treatment liquid or there is a metered addition of at least one active substance. In order to check whether the amount to be dosed sufficient at least one active substance, it is conceivable, in the return line 17 a through valves to To install opening and closable short-circuit line, whereby the treatment liquid with metered fresh substances in circulation on the measuring device 23 can be passed to determine from the measuring device 23, the content of the active substances after adding additional substances to the treatment liquid.

Die Fig. 2 zeigt das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren zusammen mit einer Flaschenreinigungseinrichtung 28. In den Figuren nicht gezeigte zu reinigende Flaschen werden kontinuierlich in Behandlungsrichtung 29, also bezogen auf die Darstellung in der Fig. 2 von links nach rechts, durch die Flaschenreinigungseinrichtung 28 transportiert. Dabei Passieren die zu reinigenden Flaschen zunächst eine Vorwaschzone 30, anschließend eine Klarwaschzone 31 und schließlich eine darauffolgende Spülzone 32. Jede Zone ist durch eine von insgesamt drei aufeinanderfolgende Kammern gebildet. In der Vorwaschzone 30 und in der Klarwaschzone 31 anfallende Reinigungsflüssigkeit ist ableitbar durch eine Rücklaufleitung 33. Die Reinigungsflüssigkeit wird zunächst gefiltert. Danach wird in einer Messeinrichtung die Konzentration der in der Reinigungsflüssigkeit noch enthaltenen reinigungsaktiven Substanzen während des laufenden Reinigungsvorgangs ermittelt. Die Reinigungsflüssigkeit wird dann wieder zurückgeführt zur Vorwaschzone 30 und/oder zur Klarwaschzone 31.The Fig. 2 shows the inventive method together with a bottle cleaning device 28. In the figures, not shown to be cleaned bottles are continuously in the treatment direction 29, so based on the representation in the Fig. 2 from left to right, transported by the bottle cleaning device 28. The bottles to be cleaned first pass through a pre-wash zone 30, then a final wash zone 31 and finally a subsequent rinse zone 32. Each zone is formed by one of a total of three successive chambers. Cleaning liquid accumulating in the pre-wash zone 30 and in the final wash zone 31 can be diverted through a return line 33. The cleaning liquid is first filtered. Thereafter, the concentration of cleaning active substances still contained in the cleaning liquid during the current cleaning process is determined in a measuring device. The cleaning liquid is then returned to the prewash zone 30 and / or the final wash zone 31.

Die Bestimmung der restlichen reinigungsaktiven Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit aus der Flaschenreinigungseinrichtung 28 erfolgt genauso wie bei der zuvor beschriebenen Waschmaschine 10. Deshalb werden für gleiche Einrichtungen in der Rücklaufleitung 33 gleiche Bezugsziffern der Einrichtungen in der Rücklaufleitung 17 der Waschmaschine 10 verwendet. In der Rücklaufleitung 33 der Flaschenreinigungseinrichtung 28 sind in Strömungsrichtung der Reinigungsflüssigkeit gesehen somit auch ein Vorfilter 18, ein Vorratstank 19, eine Förderpumpe 20, ein Filter 21, eine Bypassleitung 22, eine Messeinrichtung 23 und ein Vorratstank 24 vorgesehen. Diese sind genauso ausgebildet und erfüllen die gleiche Funktion wie bei der Waschmaschine 10. Der Vorfilter 18, der Vorratstank 19 und/oder der Vorratstank 24 können gegebenenfalls fehlen.The determination of the remaining cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid from the bottle cleaning device 28 is the same as in the previously described washing machine 10. Therefore, the same reference numbers of the devices in the return line 17 of the washing machine 10 are used for the same facilities in the return line 33. In the return line 33 of the bottle cleaning device 28 are thus seen in the flow direction of the cleaning liquid, a pre-filter 18, a storage tank 19, a feed pump 20, a filter 21, a bypass line 22, a measuring device 23 and a storage tank 24 is provided. These are designed in the same way and perform the same function as in the washing machine 10. The prefilter 18, the storage tank 19 and / or the storage tank 24 may be missing.

Hinsichtlich des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens läuft das Verfahren zur Ermittlung restlicher reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit der Flaschenreinigungsanlage 28 genauso ab wie bei der Waschmaschine 10. Auf das im Zusammenhang mit der Waschmaschine 10 erläuterte Verfahren wird deshalb Bezug genommen.With regard to the method according to the invention, the method for determining residual cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid of the bottle washer 28 is the same as in the washing machine 10. Reference is therefore made to the explained in connection with the washing machine 10 method.

Die Erfindung eignet sich nicht nur für Waschmaschinen 10 und Flaschenreinigungsmaschinen 28, sondern ganz allgemein für Wasch- und Reinigungsmaschinen aller Art, insbesondere für gewerbliche Wäschereien, zur Behälterreinigung, in der Lebensmitteltechnik, für industriell Wasch- und Reinigungsprozesse und auch Haushaltswaschmaschinen sowie Haushaltsgeschirrspüler.The invention is not only suitable for washing machines 10 and bottle washing machines 28, but more generally for washing and cleaning machines of all kinds, especially for commercial laundries, for container cleaning, in food technology, for industrial washing and cleaning processes and also household washing machines and household dishwashers.

Bezugszeichenliste:LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1010
WaschmaschineWashing machine
1111
Entwässerungseinrichtungdehydrator
1212
Drehachseaxis of rotation
1313
Trommeldrum
1414
Behandlungskammertreatment chamber
1515
Außentrommelexternal drum
1616
Außentrommelexternal drum
1717
RücklaufleitungReturn line
1818
Vorfilterprefilter
1919
Vorratstankstorage tank
2020
Förderpumpefeed pump
2121
Filterfilter
2222
Bypassleitungbypass line
2323
Messeinrichtungmeasuring device
2424
Vorratstankstorage tank
2525
Abzweigventildiverter valve
2626
Zuleitungsupply
2727
Ableitungderivation
2828
FlaschenreinigungseinrichtungBottle cleaner
2929
Behandlungsrichtungtreatment direction
3030
Vorwaschzoneprewash
3131
KlarwaschzoneWash zone
3232
Spülzonerinse zone
3333
RücklaufleitungReturn line

Claims (11)

Verfahren zur Ermittlung reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in einer Behandlungsflüssigkeit, wobei der Anteil unverbrauchter reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der Behandlungsflüssigkeit vor ihrer Wiederverwendung gemessen wird, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Behandlungsflüssigkeit erst gefiltert und danach der Anteil reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der gefilterten Behandlungsflüssigkeit gemessen wird.Method for determining cleaning-active substances in a treatment liquid, wherein the proportion of unconsumed cleaning-active substances in the treatment liquid is measured prior to their reuse, characterized in that the treatment liquid is first filtered and then the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the filtered treatment liquid is measured. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass von der gefilterten Behandlungsflüssigkeit eine Teilmenge abgeführt wird, vorzugsweise mit einem exakten definierten Volumen, und der Anteil der reinigungsaktiven Substanzen in der als Probe dienenden Teilmenge gemessen wird.A method according to claim 1, characterized in that from the filtered treatment liquid, a subset is removed, preferably with an exact defined volume, and the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the serving as a sample subset is measured. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Teilmenge mit einem bestimmten Volumen von einer Dosiereinrichtung, beispielsweise einer Dosierpumpe, von der gefilterten Behandlungsflüssigkeit abgetrennt wird.A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the subset with a certain volume of a metering device, for example a metering pump, is separated from the filtered treatment liquid. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Teilmenge der Behandlungsflüssigkeit ein Indikatormittel, vorzugsweise eine Indikatorflüssigkeit, zugegeben wird, insbesondere in einer bestimmten, genau dosierten Menge.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the subset of the treatment liquid, an indicator agent, preferably an indicator liquid, is added, in particular in a specific, precisely metered amount. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Anteil reinigungsaktiver Substanzen in der Teilmenge bzw. Probe aufgrund sichtbarer Eigenschaften der Teilmenge bzw. Probe ermittelt wird, wobei die sichtbaren Eigenschaften durch das Indikatormittel hervorgerufen werden.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the subset or sample is determined on the basis of visible properties of the subset or sample, wherein the visible properties are caused by the indicator means. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die sichtbaren Eigenschaften der mit dem Indikatormittel versehenen Teilmenge bzw. Probe der Behandlungsflüssigkeit durch eine Farbmessung, vorzugsweise eine fotometrische oder spektroskopische Farbmessung, ermittelt werden.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the visible properties of the provided with the indicator means subset or sample of the treatment liquid by a color measurement, preferably a photometric or spectroscopic color measurement, are determined. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Messung des Anteils der reinigungsaktiven Substanzen in der Teilmenge bzw. Probe der Behandlungsflüssigkeit durch Vergleich des Ergebnisses der Messung der mit dem Indikatormittel versehenen Teilmenge bzw. Probe mit vorzugsweise mehreren Referenzproben erfolgt.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measurement of the proportion of cleaning-active substances in the subset or sample of the treatment liquid by comparing the result of the measurement provided with the indicator means subset or sample with preferably several reference samples. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Messung, insbesondere die Farbmessung, und/oder der Vergleich mit Referenzproben automatisch durchgeführt werden.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measurement, in particular the color measurement, and / or the comparison with reference samples are performed automatically. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass beim Filtern der Behandlungsflüssigkeit trübende Bestandteile aus derselben ganz oder zumindest teilweise entfernt werden.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that clouding constituents of the same are completely or at least partially removed during filtering of the treatment liquid. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Filtern der Behandlungsflüssigkeit durch eine Gegenstromfiltration, vorzugsweise mit mindestens einer Filtermembran, erfolgt.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filtering of the treatment liquid by a countercurrent filtration, preferably with at least one filter membrane occurs. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Filtern der Behandlungsflüssigkeit durch eine Feinfilterung, insbesondere eine Mikrofiltration, erfolgt.Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filtering of the treatment liquid by a fine filtration, in particular a microfiltration, takes place.
EP10004411.4A 2009-06-12 2010-04-27 Method for determining cleaning-active substances in a treatment fluid Active EP2261414B1 (en)

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