DOSING PUMP FOR CAR WASH EQUIPMENT

Abstract

The present invention relates to a computer-implemented method for determining an ACTUAL delivery volume for a dosing pump (DP) intended for delivering a substance from a container (B), and which is further intended for use with an adjustment means for manually adjusting a TARGET delivery volume for use in a vehicle washing system (WA). The method comprises the following method steps: Reading in a container data record (bds) for the container (B) from which the substance is to be delivered by means of the dosing pump (DP); reading in a digital level value (fs) representing a level measured in the container (B) by means of at least one analog level sensor (FSS) or reading in a digital pressure value (p) representing a pressure measured in the container (B) by means of at least one analog pressure sensor (DS) and reading in a digital density value (φ) for the substance to be delivered by the dosing pump (DP); Determining and outputting the ACTUAL delivery volume (ist-fv) which has actually been delivered by the dosing pump (DP) in a measuring time interval, based on the read-in digital level value (fs) or the read-in digital pressure value (p) and the read-in density value (φ) and on the basis of the read-in vessel data record (bds).

The quality of the washing process will be improved and the consumption of substances to be added will be reduced.

Claims

1. A method for determining an actual delivery volume for a dosing pump intended for delivering a substance from a container for use in a vehicle washing system, comprising the following method steps: a) reading in a container data record for the container from which the substance is to be delivered by means of the dosing pump, wherein the container data record is an electronic data record which is provided for the container, and wherein the container data record contains information about the design, size or a holding volume of the container; b) reading in a digital filling level value representing a filing level measured in the container by means of at least one analog level sensor, or c) reading in a digital pressure value representing a pressure measured in the container by means of at least one analog pressure sensor and reading in a digital density value for the substance to be delivered by the dosing pump; d) determining and outputting the actual delivery volume which has actually been delivered by the dosing pump, by applying a first function to the digital level value read in step b) and the container data record read in step a) or by applying a second function to the pressure value read in step c) and the density value read in step c) and the container data record read in step a).

2. The method according to claim 1, in which control signals for controlling the dosing pump are calculated from the actual delivery volume determined in step d) and optionally an environment parameter data set.

3. The method according to claim 1, in which the reading-in of the digital density value for the substance to be delivered with the dosing pump is carried out via the reading-in of a code.

4. The method according to claim 1, in which the reading-in of the digital density value for the substance to be delivered with the dosing pump is carried out by an internal software routine which is used to reference the level value read in in step b) and the pressure measurement detected in step c) and a signal from a further sensor.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first function ƒ1 calculates the actual delivery volume calculated as follows ist-ƒv={ƒs×L×Br} in the case of a container which is formed with at least one analog level sensor, where fs denotes the read-in digital level value, L denotes the length of the container and Br denotes the width of the container, and/or in which the second function ƒ2 calculates the actual delivery volume calculated as follows ist−ƒv={h×L×Br}, where $h=\frac{p}{\rho \times g}$ in the case of a container formed with at least one analog pressure sensor, where h denotes the filling level, L the length and Br the width of the container and p the measured pressure, p denotes the density value of the substance, and g denotes the acceleration due to gravity.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein reading the container data record in step a) comprises reading a length value and width value for the container having a rectangular base.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein reading in the container data record in step a) comprises reading in a radius value and optionally a height value for the container having a round base.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein a geometric three-dimensional model of the container is read-in, defining an area of the container versus height, such that a volume of the container can be provided as a function of height.

9. The method according to claim 2, in which the control signals control the clock frequency of a reciprocating piston of the dosing pump and/or in which the control signals control the target delivery volume.

10. The method according to claim 1, in which, in order to read in the digital pressure value in step c), the pressure in the container is measured using an internal and direct measurement method, in which the at least one pressure sensor is arranged in the container, or in which the pressure in the container is measured with an external and indirect measuring method, in which no pressure sensor is arranged in the container, but in which the measurement is carried out indirectly and using a lance for the application of compressed air, which is introduced into the container, in particular in the region of the container bottom.

11. The method according to claim 1, in which the dosing pump is operated for a container which is replaceable and/or refillable and/or which may have a variable size.

12. The method according to claim 1, in which the container is a storage container with a closable refill opening which is in fluid-mechanical connection to a mixer and/or to at least one working unit of the vehicle washing system.

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the actual delivery volume determined in step d) is compared with a target delivery volume for conformance, and wherein a calibration indicator is automatically calculated to output a calibration request signal if the calculated calibration indicator exceeds a preconfigurable threshold and/or to initiate an error correction action.

14. The method according to claim 1, in which the determination of the actual delivery volume in step d) is carried out at least two measurement times, in particular immediately before the start and after the end of a vehicle wash of at least one vehicle, so that a difference calculation is applied to the respectively determined actual delivery volumes, which are each assigned to a measurement time, which difference calculation represents a volume difference between the two measurement times.

15. The method according to claim 1, in which the container data record (bds) is read in once in step a) or in which the filling level measured in step b) or in which the pressure measured in step c) and the density value read in in step c) are measured or read in several times in a configurable measuring time interval.

16. The method according to claim 1, in which, in addition, a number of strokes carried out with the dosing pump is recorded or the number of strokes is stored in temporal association with the measured values and in which the determined actual delivery volume per stroke is calculated.

17. The method according to claim 1, wherein the actual delivered volume determined in step d) is determined at least immediately before the start and immediately after the end of a washing program in order to determine a consumption of the delivered substance caused by the washing program.

18. The method according to claim 17, in which a characteristic value is read in which is used to uniquely identify the washing program executed by the vehicle washing system in order to calculate a washing program-specific consumption per washing program.

19. The method according to claim 1, in which the actual delivery volume determined in step d) is stored in an associated manner with a characteristic value for identifying a respectively executed washing program of the vehicle washing, the characteristic value indicating the substances used in the vehicle washing and/or its duration.

20. The method according to claim 1, further comprising automatic calibration of the dosing pump, where the dosing pump which is configured with an adjustment means for the manual adjustment of a target delivery volume per time unit, comprising the following method steps: 1) detection of the target a delivery volume per time unit set on the dosing pump, which has been set on the adjustment means; 2) determining the actual delivery volume; and 3) calculating and providing calibration signals for automatic calibration of the dosing pump on the basis of a calculated deviation between the detected set target delivery volume and the actual delivery volume.

21. A computing unit for determining an actual delivery volume for a dosing pump intended for delivering a substance from a container and for use in a vehicle washing system, comprising: a first read-in interface for reading in a container data record for the container from which the substance is to be delivered by means of the dosing pump, wherein the container data record is an electronic data set which is provided for the container, and wherein the container data record contains information about the design, size and/or a holding volume of the container; a second read-in interface for reading in a digital filing level value representing a fill level measured in the container by means of at least one analog fill level sensor, or a third read-in interface for reading in a digital pressure value representing a pressure measured in the container by means of at least one analog pressure sensor or a fourth read-in interface for reading in a density value for the substance to be delivered with the dosing pump; the computing unit being intended for determining an actual delivery volume which has actually been delivered by the dosing pump in a measurement time interval, by applying a first function to the digital level value read in by means of the second read-in interface and the container data record read in by means of the first read-in interface or by applying a second function to the pressure value read in by means of the third read-in interface and the density value read in by means of the fourth read-in interface and the container data record read in, wherein the computing unit further comprises an output interface adapted for outputting the determined actual delivery volume.

22. The computing unit of claim 21, wherein the computing unity is embodied in a dosing system for a vehicle washing installation equipped with the dosing pump, the container, and a network for data exchange.

23. The computing unit of claim 21, further comprising a human-machine interface.

24. The computing unit of claim 21, wherein the dosing system comprises a signal transmitter which is configured to output a warning signal if a remaining residual volume from the determined actual delivery volume and a read-in maximum filling value which falls below or exceeds a preconfigurable threshold value.

25. A vehicle washing system comprising: a dosing pump; and a computing unit, the computing unit including, a first read-in interface for reading in a container data record for the container from which the substance is to be delivered by means of the dosing pump, wherein the container data record is an electronic data set which is provided for the container, and wherein the container data record contains information about the design, size and/or a holding volume of the container; a second read-in interface for reading in a digital filing level value representing a fill level measured in the container by means of at least one analog fill level sensor, or a third read-in interface for reading in a digital pressure value representing a pressure measured in the container by means of at least one analog pressure sensor, or a fourth read-in interface for reading in a density value for the substance to be delivered with the dosing pump; the computing unit determining an actual delivery volume which has actually been delivered by the dosing pump in a measurement time interval, by applying a first function to the digital level value read in by means of the second read-in interface and the container data record read in by means of the first read-in interface or by applying a second function to the pressure value read in by means of the third read-in interface and the density value read in by means of the fourth read-in interface and the container data record read in, wherein the computing unit further comprises an output interface adapted for outputting the determined actual delivery volume.

26. A computer program, the computer program being loadable into a memory unit of a computing unit and containing program code portions for causing the computing unit to execute a method for determining an actual delivery volume comprising steps of: reading in a container data record for a container from which a substance is to be delivered by means of a dosing pump, wherein the container data record is an electronic data record which is provided for the container, and wherein the container data record contains information about a design, size, or a holding volume of the container; reading in a digital filling level value representing a filing level measured in the container by means of at least one analog level sensor, or reading in a digital pressure value representing a pressure measured in the container by means of at least one analog pressure sensor and reading in a digital density value for the substance to be delivered by the dosing pump; determining and outputting the actual delivery volume which has actually been delivered by the dosing pump, by applying a first function to the digital level value read in step b) and the container data record read in step a) or by applying a second function to the pressure value read in step c) and the density value read in step c) and the container data record read in step a).

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0091] In the following detailed figure description, embodiments which are not to be understood restrictively are discussed with their features and further advantages on the basis of the drawing. In this show:

[0092] FIG. 1 a schematic representation of a computing unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0093] FIG. 2 a flowchart of a process according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0094] FIG. 3 a schematic representation of a dosing system according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0095] FIG. 4 a schematic representation of a washing system according to one embodiment;

[0096] FIG. 5 a schematic representation of a computing unit according to a further embodiment of the invention; and

[0097] FIG. 6 a schematic representation of a container according to the invention.

[0098] The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in connection with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the advantages mentioned will be apparent in view of the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale with respect to each other.

[0099] In the figures of the drawing, identical elements, features and components with the same function and the same effect are to be given the same reference signs in each case, unless otherwise specified.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0100] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a computing unit according to one embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 1, reference sign RE denotes an embodiment of the computing unit according to the invention. The embodiment of the computing unit RE shown with FIG. 1 is intended for determining an ACTUAL delivery volume is-fv for a dosing pump DP. By means of the dosing pump DP, a substance can be delivered from a container B. The substance comprises agents for cleaning a vehicle, in particular chemical cleaning substances for use in a washing system WA (cf. FIG. 4). The dosing pump DP further comprises an adjustment means. The adjustment means is used for manual setting of a TARGET delivery volume. The dosing pump DP (cf. FIG. 4) can be intended for use in a vehicle washing system WA.

[0101] The computing unit RE has a first read-in interface S1. The first read-in interface S1 is configured to read in a container data record bds for the container B (cf. FIGS. 4 and 5). The substance contained in the container B can be delivered from the container B by means of the dosing pump DP. Furthermore, the computing unit RE has a second read-in interface S2 for reading in a digital filling level value fs. The level value fs represents a level measured in the container B by means of at least one analog (filling) level sensor FSS (also: in short level sensor) or a level difference between different points in time. Alternatively or cumulatively to the second read-in interface S2, the computing unit RE has a third read-in interface S3. A digital pressure value p (cf. FIG. 5) can be read in by means of the third read-in interface S3. The digital pressure value p represents a pressure measured in the container B by means of at least one analog pressure sensor DS or a pressure difference between different points in time. It may be provided to read in a density value p for the substance to be delivered by the dosing pump DP. This can be done via a fourth read-in interface S4. Alternatively or cumulatively, the density value can also be read in via the third read-in interface S3. In this case, however, the third read-in interface S3 must have a bus connection. An RFID reader or a QR scanner and a pressure sensor can be connected via the bus connection or bus interface. Since this is an optional embodiment, it is shown in dotted lines in FIGS. 1 and 5.

[0102] The RE calculation unit is configured to determine an ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv (see FIG. 5). The ACTUAL delivery volume is-fv indicates the delivery volume actually delivered by the dosing pump DP in a measuring time interval. In a first embodiment of the invention, the ACTUAL delivery volume is determined on the basis of the digital level value fs and on the basis of the read-in container data record bds (steps a) and b) of the method).

[0103] In a second embodiment of the invention, the ACTUAL delivery volume is determined on the basis of the digital pressure value p and the read-in density value p and on the basis of the read-in container data record bds, in particular the length L and the width Br (steps a) and c) of the method). In the second embodiment of the invention, it is not absolutely necessary (but certainly possible for validation) to attach level sensors to the container and measure a fill level.

[0104] The computing unit may be implemented as a stand-alone computer unit. Alternatively, the computing unit may be implemented in software and executed on a digital processor and/or microprocessor. Furthermore, the computing unit may be implemented in a programmable logic controller or alternatively be configured as a programmable logic controller.

[0105] Furthermore, the computing unit RE has an output interface AS. The output interface AS is intended for outputting the determined ACTUAL delivery volume is-fv. The output interface can be configured to provide the determined ACTUAL delivery volume for display on an output unit. In a further embodiment, the output interface itself can be configured as an output unit, for example as a monitor or touchscreen.

[0106] FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of a computer-implemented method according to one embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 2, the reference sign V denotes an embodiment of the computer-implemented method according to the invention. In the embodiment shown, the computer-implemented method V for determining an ACTUAL delivery volume for a dosing pump DP comprises a plurality of steps. The dosing pump DP is intended for delivering a substance from a container B. Furthermore, the dosing pump DP is provided with a setting means for manually setting a TARGET delivery volume for use in a vehicle washing system WA.

[0107] In a first step a), a container data record bds is read in for the container B. The container B contains the substance. This substance is to be delivered from the container B by means of the dosing pump DP. In a further step b), in a first embodiment of the invention, a digital level value fs can be read in. The digital filling level value fs represents a difference between each two fill levels measured in the container B by means of at least one analog filling level sensor FSS, in particular a fill level of the substance in the container B. Alternatively or cumulatively to step b), in a second embodiment of the invention, a digital pressure value p can be read in step c). The digital pressure value p represents a difference between two pressures in the container B measured at different times by means of at least one analog pressure sensor DS. Furthermore, in step c), a digital density value p is read in for the substance to be delivered with the dosing pump DP. In a further step d), the ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv, which has actually been delivered by the dosing pump DP in a measurement time interval, is determined and output. The determination can be made on the basis of the read-in digital level value fs and on the basis of the read-in container data record bds. Alternatively or cumulatively, the determination can be carried out on the basis of the read-in digital pressure value p and the read-in density value p and on the basis of the read-in container data record bds. The steps of the method according to the invention, in particular steps a) to c) for reading in, can be carried out in different sequences.

[0108] The method according to the invention can be executed on the computer unit RE of a dosing system D (cf. FIG. 3). Alternatively, the method according to the invention can be executed on a decentralized computer system which is in communication with the dosing system D or the washing system WA.

[0109] In a further embodiment, the method optionally—and therefore shown in dotted lines in FIG. 2 further comprises the detection of a TARGET delivery volume set at the dosing pump DP in step e). Furthermore, in a further embodiment, the method can optionally—and therefore shown dotted in FIG. 2—comprise the provision of calibration signals ks in step f). By means of the calibration signals ks, an automatic calibration of the dosing pump DP can be performed on the basis of a calculated offset or other non-linear deviations. The offset or deviations are calculated by the computing unit RE from the difference between the detected set TARGET delivery volume and the ACTUAL delivery volume is-fv determined in process step d) of the process according to the invention.

[0110] Furthermore, it can be optionally provided that the ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv determined in process step d) is compared with a setpoint value for compliance and, in the event of deviations, an error indicator is automatically calculated to output a warning signal if the calculated error indicator exceeds a preconfigurable threshold value and/or to initiate an error correction measure. The warning signal may be provided and/or output via the output unit AS of the computing unit RE. In this regard, corrective action can be taken by an operator in response to a deviation from a predetermined delivery volume. Thus, a consistent quality of the washing process is ensured.

[0111] Furthermore, it can be provided that the measurement in process steps b) or c) is carried out continuously in a measurement period or at at least two measurement times. These measurement times can preferably be set immediately before the start and after the end of at least one washing program of a vehicle wash. Thus, a difference calculation can be applied to the ACTUAL flow rate determined at the measuring time. A resulting difference represents a difference in delivery volume between the selected measurement times. Deviations can be recorded, evaluated and corrected accordingly. This makes it possible, for example, to indicate a washing program-specific consumption.

[0112] FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of a dosing system according to one embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 3, reference sign D denotes an embodiment of the dosing system according to the invention. The dosing system D is configured to provide substances for a washing system WA. The dosing system D comprises a dosing pump DP for providing the substances for the units of the washing system WA. Furthermore, the dosing system D comprises the computing unit RE. According to one embodiment, the computing unit RE may be arranged locally to the washing system WA and/or the dosing system D. In another embodiment, the computing unit RE can be arranged decentralized to the washing system WA and/or the dosing system D and communicate with the washing system WA and/or the dosing system D via a communication system.

[0113] Furthermore, the dosing system D may comprise a human-machine interface HMI. This is optional and therefore shown dotted in FIG. 3. The human-machine interface HMI is configured for communication between the operator and the computing unit RE, in particular the washing system WA. The computing unit RE comprises input and/or output means for communication, such as a monitor, touch screen, keyboard and/or cursor movement means.

[0114] FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of a washing system according to one embodiment. In FIG. 4, the reference sign WA designates an embodiment of the washing system. The washing system WA comprises at least one container B for holding the substance. A container data record bds is assigned to the container B. At least a length value L and a width value Br for the container B can be taken from the container data record bds. The shape and/or type of the container B can be taken from the container data record. In addition, information about the substance contained in the container B can be taken from the container data record bds. In a further embodiment, the container data record bds comprises a radius value and height value for a container shape having a round base. The washing system WA may comprise a plurality of differently sized and differently shaped containers B, which may contain a specific substance.

[0115] Furthermore, the washing system WA comprises at least one dosing pump DP. The DP according to the invention is in fluid-mechanical connection with a container B. The dosing pump DP is configured to deliver the substance from the container B to the working equipment AG of the washing system WA. In the illustrated embodiment of the washing system WA according to FIG. 4, the washing system WA has a plurality of dosing pumps DP. In particular, a dosing pump DP is associated with a container B for transporting the substance. The number of dosing pumps DP and containers B shown in FIG. 4 is not limited to the number shown. Furthermore, depending on the construction of the washing system WA, a different number of containers B and/or dosing pumps DP may be provided. Each of the dosing pumps is in data connection with the computing unit RE. The computing unit RE can also have several instances and be formed locally on or at a dosing pump DP.

[0116] In one embodiment of the washing system WA, the dosing pumps DP have a fluid-mechanical connection to a mixer MIX. Alternatively and/or additionally, the dosing pumps have a direct fluid-mechanical connection to the units AG of the washing system WA. The mixer MIX is configured to generate a mixture of different substances from different containers B. The mixture is generated by the mixer MIX according to the selected washing process and supplied to the working units/aggregates AG.

[0117] In a first embodiment, the mixer MIX may be formed in the actual delivery system through which the substance is delivered to the aggregates AG of the washing system WA. In this respect, the fluid-mechanical connection between the dosing pump DP and the aggregates AG of the washing system WA may comprise dosing valves (not shown), via which the concentration of the substance is adjusted for the desired mixture. In other words, only the appropriate concentration of a substance is supplied into the delivery system via the dosing valves in order to obtain the desired mixture of substance for a specific application/washing process. Mixing takes place automatically during the actual transport in the conveyor system from the dosing pump DP to the aggregates AG of the washing system WA.

[0118] In a further preferred embodiment, the mixer MIX can be configured as a further container B, in which the substance is delivered from the individual containers B via the corresponding dosing pump DP and made available. In this container B, mixing and subsequent provision of the mixture to the aggregates AG of the washing system WA takes place.

[0119] According to the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the washing system WA comprises a programmable logic controller PLC. The programmable logic controller PLC may comprise the computing unit RE or be in data communication therewith. Optionally, the user-machine interface HMI may be formed. The programmable logic controller PLC is in communication with the dosing pumps DP and the tanks B of the washing system WA.

[0120] The working units (aggregates) AG of the washing system WA may comprise, for example, cleaning brushes and/or nozzles for providing substances, air and/or water. Usually, a container is provided for supplying a substance to the working devices.

[0121] FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation of a computing unit according to a further embodiment of the invention. The computing unit RE has the first input interface S1, the second input interface S2 and optionally or cumulatively to the second input interface S2 the third input interface S3 (dotted representation, because optional). The interfaces can be used to read in input data or values for determining the ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv. The container data record bds for the container B is read in via the first interface S1. In one embodiment, the first interface S1 can be configured as a read-in means. Alternatively, the first interface S1 may be configured as an electronic interface (data interface) to a reading means (e.g. code scanner, such as QR code scanner) or a memory in which the container data record bds is stored. The first interface S1 can also be configured as a user interface on which the container data record bds is captured.

[0122] A digital level value fs, which corresponds to a measured level in the container B, is transmitted via the second interface S2. The level is determined by means of at least one analog level sensor FSS and converted into a digital value in the level sensor itself or a corresponding converter unit and read in via the second interface S2. The second interface S2 is electrically connected and in data connection with the level sensor FSS and/or the corresponding converter unit, e.g. an analog-to-digital converter.

[0123] Furthermore, a third read-in interface S3 for reading in a digital pressure value p can be provided alternatively or cumulatively to the second read-in interface S2 (again shown dotted in FIG. 5). The pressure in a container B can be determined by means of at least one analog pressure sensor DS. Furthermore, a density value ρ for the substance to be delivered with the dosing pump DP can be read in—preferably on a fourth separate read-in interface S4. The density value can be provided from a density detection means DEM. The density detection means DEM can be configured as a measuring device. Cumulatively or alternatively, the density detection means DEM may also be configured as a software function module that calculates the density from other acquired and/or provided data. The density value can also be read in by accessing the computing unit, in which a software routine is stored, which is configured to determine the density by calculation using the detected pressure value and the detected level and a reference value. In particular, at least one further sensor can be configured for data acquisition for this purpose. Alternatively or cumulatively, the acceleration due to gravity can be used for the calculation.

[0124] The output unit AS can be used to provide the determined ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv. The output unit AS can be configured as a display means, e.g. a monitor or touchscreen, via which the determined ACTUAL delivery volume is output pictorially for an operator of the washing system WA. In addition or alternatively (therefore shown dotted), in one embodiment the control signals sts for controlling the dosing pump DP can be output via the output unit AS. The control signals are calculated from the ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv determined in process step d) of the process according to the invention. Supplementarily or alternatively, the control signals sts are calculated from the ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv determined in method step d) of the method according to the invention and an environment parameter data set uds for controlling the dosing pump DP. Alternatively or cumulatively (shown in dotted lines), calibration signals ks can be provided for calibrating the dosing pump DP.

[0125] The control signals sts can be monitored and, if necessary, appropriate measures can be taken to correct the control of the dosing pumps DP. Furthermore, it can be provided that in case of deviation from a SET volume flow, a visual or audio-visual message is output via the output unit AS.

[0126] Furthermore, it can be provided that a residual volume of the substance remaining in the container B is determined via the computing unit RE by forming the difference between a read-in maximum filling volume value of the container B and the ACTUAL delivery volume ist-fv determined in process step d). Furthermore, it can be provided that the control signals sts control the cycle frequency of a reciprocating piston of the dosing pump DP and/or in which the control signals sts control the target delivery volume.

[0127] FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of a container, according to the invention. The container B can have different designs. For example, the container B may have an approximately round or a square base. Further, the container may be configured as a replaceable and/or refillable container.

[0128] It can be provided that the container has a variable size. In an advantageous manner, the car washing system operator is thus not dependent on one supplier for substances. Rather, substances can be obtained from different suppliers who can supply them in different shapes and designs of containers B. This is made possible because the method according to the invention determines the actual volume flow of the dosing pump or takes into account the specific design of the container B, irrespective of the container shape and/or irrespective of the sensor system (level sensor system or pressure sensor system) on the container.

[0129] In a further embodiment, the container B may be configured as a storage container with a closable refill opening. Substrate stored in the container can be replenished as required via the closable refill opening. Furthermore, the container B is in fluid-mechanical connection with a mixer Mix and/or with at least one working unit AG of the vehicle washing system WA. Via the fluid-mechanical connection (delivery system), the substance is provided by means of the dosing pump DP.

[0130] It is further provided that the pressure in the container B is measured using an internal measuring method. At least one pressure sensor DS can be arranged in the container B for this purpose. Pressure sensors are known in the prior art. The pressure sensor DS can provide an analog signal corresponding to the pressure in the container B. The analog signal may be converted into a digital signal via a converter unit, for example an AD converter, and provided to the computing unit RE. Alternatively, the pressure sensor DS itself may comprise the conversion unit and provide a digital signal for further processing.

[0131] In a further embodiment, the pressure in the container B can be determined in an external measurement procedure. The external measuring method is carried out using a hydrostatic pressure measurement. In the hydrostatic pressure measurement, compressed air DL is applied to the container B using a lance LA. In particular, the compressed air DL is applied in the area of the container bottom of the container B. The pressure with which the air exits through the substance in the container B can be evaluated via a measuring display with measuring transducer MA and provides information about the pressure present in the container B.

[0132] Finally, it should be noted that the description of the invention and the embodiments are in principle not to be understood restrictively with respect to any particular physical realization of the invention. All of the features explained and shown in connection with individual embodiments of the invention may be provided in different combinations in the subject matter of the invention in order to simultaneously realize their advantageous effects.

[0133] The scope of protection of the present invention is given by the claims and is not limited by the features explained in the description or shown in the figures.

[0134] For a person skilled in the art it is in particular obvious that the invention can be applied not only to containers with a certain sensor technology (e.g. level gauge), but also to containers which exhibit a different sensor technology (e.g. pressure measurement). Furthermore, the components of the computing unit may be implemented distributed on several physical products. For example, the computing unit RE may comprise a processor, wherein the processor is configured to determine the ACTUAL delivery volume is-fv.

[0135] ACCESSORIES [0136] DP Dosing pump [0137] B Container [0138] D Dosing system [0139] WA Vehicle wash [0140] bds Container data set [0141] fs digital level value [0142] FSS analog level sensor [0143] p digital pressure value [0144] DS analog pressure sensor [0145] ρ digital density value [0146] is-fv IST funding volume [0147] ks Calibration signals [0148] V Procedure [0149] a)-f) Process steps, in particular reading in, determining, recording and providing [0150] uds Environment parameter data set [0151] sts Control signals [0152] L Length value of the container [0153] Br Width value of the container [0154] K Characteristic value [0155] AS Output interface [0156] RE Calculation unit [0157] HMI Human-machine interface [0158] PLC Control system, especially programmable logic controller [0159] MIX Mixer [0160] AG Working unit [0161] MA Measuring display with converter [0162] DL Compressed air [0163] LA Lance