CLEANING ASSEMBLY FOR SUCTIONING A SUCTION SUBSTRATE BY MEANS OF A SUCTION APPARATUS

Description

The present invention relates to a cleaning assembly for sucking in a vacuum substrate by means of a vacuum device.

Vacuum devices with a cleaning function, so-called vacuum cleaning devices, are known from prior art, whereby some are configured as dry vacuum cleaners, others as wet vacuum cleaners and others again as combined wet/dry vacuum cleaners. Typically, dry vacuum cleaners are mainly used in households, as they are comparatively inexpensive and also available on the market in a wide range of variations. This also applies to commercial cleaning, for example room cleaning in hotels. However, there are also vacuum devices that are not intended for cleaning. Instead of a vacuum device, one can therefore also generally speak of a vacuum source.

If liquid or moist air is sucked in with a dry vacuum cleaner, this leads to numerous problems. Liquid can get into the suction turbine of the dry vacuum cleaner and damage it. In general, liquid can also include water. In addition to the suction turbine, liquid can also come into contact with other electrical components of the dry vacuum cleaner. This can lead to impairment of or damage to the electrical components. Furthermore, liquid that comes into contact with electrical components can pose a safety risk to an operator. In addition, the dry vacuum cleaner usually includes an air filter located upstream of the suction turbine to remove impurities such as dust from the air drawn in by the suction turbine before it is fed to the suction turbine. If the air filter comes into contact with liquid or if moisture from the intake air accumulates in it, the filter may be damaged.

The problems described above mean that a dry vacuum cleaner cannot be used for wet vacuuming or combined wet/dry vacuuming.

However, there are situations in which it is advantageous to also vacuum liquid or moist air. For example, some surfaces to be cleaned require treatment with liquid in order to achieve a good cleaning result. However, the liquid applied to the surface to be cleaned must often be removed from the surface to be cleaned after the treatment together with the dirt it has absorbed. Think of cleaning up after a flood event, where it is often necessary to remove a mixture of water and dirt from parts of the building, especially cellars. Removal should be carried out quickly to minimize damage to the fabric of the building. A typical dry vacuum cleaner is unsuitable for all the applications described above. Wet vacuum cleaners or combined wet/dry vacuum cleaners, for example, are often unavailable in households. This is also due to their high purchase costs and their often bulky design. In the event of flooding, wet vacuum cleaners or combined wet/dry vacuum cleaners are often not available quickly enough, as demand suddenly increases and available wet vacuum cleaners or combined wet/dry vacuum cleaners are quickly sold out.

When hotel rooms are cleaned, the hotel room is usually cleaned with a dry vacuum cleaner. The associated bathroom or the associated wet room, on the other hand, are only cleaned with a dry vacuum cleaner if it is ensured that no moisture is sucked in. However, it would be an advantage if liquid distributed for cleaning or a mixture of liquid and/or air could also be vacuumed, especially when cleaning the wet room.

It is therefore a task of the invention to provide a simple solution for sucking up liquid. Furthermore, it is a task of the invention to provide a cost-effective solution for sucking up liquid.

At least one of the aforementioned tasks is solved by the cleaning assembly of claim 1. The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments of the invention.

The invention relates to a cleaning assembly for sucking in a vacuum substrate by means of a vacuum device, comprising:

• • an adapter device comprising
    • a first turbine assembly which can be driven by a primary vacuum air flow of the vacuum device;
    • a second turbine assembly which can be driven to generate a secondary vacuum air flow to suck in the vacuum substrate; and
    • a transmission assembly coupled to the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly, wherein driving of the first turbine assembly by the primary vacuum air flow via the transmission assembly is utilized to drive the second turbine assembly to generate the secondary vacuum air flow;

and

• • at least one collecting tank assembly configured to separate and collect the vacuum substrate sucked in by the secondary vacuum air flow from the secondary vacuum air flow.

Utilization according to the invention may comprise that a driving effect generated by the primary vacuum air flow at the first turbine assembly acts at least partially on and/or is transmitted to the transmission assembly, and the transmission assembly is configured to transmit the driving effect at least partially to the second turbine assembly for driving the same.

The invention makes it possible to use the primary vacuum air flow as a drive for generating the secondary vacuum air flow. At the same time, there are two different vacuum air flows. While the primary vacuum air flow thus has the function of driving the primary turbine assembly, on the basis of which the second turbine assembly is driven to generate the secondary vacuum air flow by means of the transmission assembly, the secondary vacuum air flow has the function of sucking or picking up a vacuum substrate from a surface to be cleaned. The vacuum substrate can comprise solid substances such as dust or dirt particles, or liquid and/or moisture. Of course, the vacuum substrate is preferably at least partially separated from or by the secondary vacuum air flow before it is fed to the secondary turbine assembly in order to avoid damage to the secondary turbine assembly. Thus, the second turbine assembly may be provided to extract air from the collecting tank assembly or a collecting tank of the collecting tank assembly by means of the secondary vacuum air flow. The collecting tank assembly or the collecting tank is configured to separate the vacuum substrate from the secondary vacuum air flow and at least partially collect it.

The invention makes it possible to provide a dry vacuum cleaner as a vacuum device, whereby liquid and/or moist air can then be sucked in by means of the dry vacuum cleaner. The adapter device decouples the primary vacuum air flow from the secondary vacuum air flow so that damage to the dry vacuum cleaner by the vacuum substrate, in particular moist air and/or liquid, can be avoided. In this way, the vacuum device sucks in the primary vacuum air flow, but not the secondary vacuum air flow. This also prevents the risk of a short circuit in the dry vacuum cleaner.

The cleaning assembly according to the invention is a compact and inexpensive solution that makes it possible to suck up a vacuum substrate comprising liquid and/or moist air using a dry vacuum cleaner. The vacuum substrate is separated from the secondary vacuum air flow and collected in the collecting tank. There is therefore no risk of the moist or wet vacuum substrate coming into contact with the dry vacuum cleaner, as the primary vacuum air flow and the secondary vacuum air flow are structurally separate from each other in the adapter device.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the collecting tank assembly is configured such that it can be coupled to the adapter device. It can also be provided, for example, that the collecting tank assembly can be decoupled from the adapter device. For example, the cleaning assembly can be disassembled into several smaller individual parts for transportation purposes, for storage, for emptying the collecting tank assembly or for its maintenance.

According to one embodiment, it can be provided that the adapter device and the collecting tank assembly are firmly, in particular rigidly, connected to one another in the coupled state. This enables simple transmission of force between the adapter device and the collecting tank assembly.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the adapter device and the collecting tank assembly are configured as an integral component. In other words, the adapter device and the collecting tank assembly are permanently coupled and structurally connected to each other. This enables a particularly compact design of the cleaning assembly. Furthermore, the adapter device and the collecting tank assembly then form a structural unit.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the cleaning assembly can further comprise a hose assembly configured to couple the adapter device and the collecting tank assembly. This makes it possible to arrange the adapter device separately from the collecting tank assembly, whereby the secondary vacuum air flow can still be discharged from the collecting tank assembly to the adapter device. For example, the adapter device can be carried by an operator in the form of a backpack, while other components of the cleaning assembly, for example the collecting tank assembly, or also a cleaning tool, can be actuated, in particular displaced, by an operator. The part to be operated by an operator is thus comparatively light.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that the collecting tank assembly and/or the adapter device comprise a geometric body of rotation.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that the collecting tank assembly is substantially configured to have a tubular, in particular cylindrical, shape. This favors a particularly compact design. In addition, the tubular design can reduce the number of corners and edges inside. This prevents or at least reduces the risk of components of the vacuum substrate being deposited in corners and edges of the collecting tank assembly. In addition, the tubular design makes it easy to grasp for an operator. In addition to a tubular design, other geometric shapes or combinations can also be provided. These include a spherical shape, cuboid shape, cube shape, prism shape, cylinder shape, pyramid shape, cone shape or other polygonal bodies as well as extrudable bodies. In general, tubular means that an elongated hollow body configured to carry a medium is provided.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that a length of the collecting tank assembly is a multiple of its height and/or width and/or diameter.

Preferably, the ratio is at least 5:1, particularly preferably at least 8:1.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the collecting tank assembly comprises at least one viewing window. This enables an operator to look inside the collecting tank assembly in order to recognize, for example, a fill level of the vacuum substrate in the collecting tank assembly. This also makes it easier for an operator to recognize when the collecting tank assembly needs to be emptied.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the collecting tank assembly or the collecting tank comprises transparent material at least in sections. For example, the collecting tank assembly can also be made entirely of transparent material. This also enables an operator to look inside the collecting tank assembly in order to recognize, for example, a fill level of the vacuum substrate in the collecting tank assembly. This also makes it easier for an operator to recognize when the collecting tank assembly needs to be emptied.

According to one aspect of the invention, the collecting tank assembly comprises an emptying opening that enables the vacuum substrate to be removed from the collecting tank assembly. A lid assembly may be provided which enables the emptying opening to be opened or closed. Additionally or alternatively, it may be possible to empty the collecting tank assembly via the interface with which the collecting tank assembly is coupled or couplable to the adapter device.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that the collecting tank assembly and/or the adapter device are configured as a supporting structure of the cleaning assembly. This results in a particularly stable design of the cleaning assembly. For example, force and/or torque can be transmitted from one area of the collecting tank assembly to another area of the collecting tank assembly. This can facilitate cleaning using the cleaning assembly. This is because if a cleaning tool is also coupled to the collecting tank assembly, the cleaning tool can also be moved by moving the collecting tank assembly. Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided that the adapter device or the cleaning assembly comprises a supporting structure to which the collecting tank assembly can be coupled.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the collecting tank assembly and/or the adapter device are configured such that their position can be changed, in particular tilted. The collecting tank assembly can be configured such that its position can be changed, in particular tilted, together with and/or separately from other components of the cleaning assembly. This enables easy handling of the collecting tank assembly and/or the adapter device. The position of the collecting tank assembly and/or the adapter device can be changed so that it can be pivoted within one plane, within two planes and/or several planes. Furthermore, pivotability about one or more pivot axes or a pivot point may be provided. The planes, pivot axes or pivot points may be in fixed or varying locations with respect to the collecting tank assembly and/or the adapter device. The planes and/or the pivot axes can be aligned orthogonally to each other or at a predetermined angle. When the term “adjustable in position” or “pivotable” is used herein, this can also include inclinable or tiltable. The term “adjustable in position” can mean that a purely translational change in position is not included. Thus, “adjustable in position” can be limited to one or more rotational changes in position or combined translatory and translatory changes in position.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that the cleaning assembly comprises a closing body which, in its closed position, is configured to close a passage through which the primary or secondary vacuum air flow passes during operation. Furthermore, in the open position, the closing body can be configured to release the primary or secondary vacuum air flow. In the case of the secondary vacuum air flow, the closing body in its closed position can reliably ensure that no vacuum substrate, in particular no liquid, escapes from the collecting tank assembly to the second turbine assembly. In this way, the cleaning assembly can also be stored and moved safely. The closing body can be configured to assume the closed position when the vacuum substrate in the collecting tank assembly reaches a predetermined level or a predetermined quantity. In the case of the primary vacuum air flow, the closing position can reliably ensure that no vacuum substrate can accidentally reach the vacuum device despite the decoupling of the two vacuum air flows.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the cleaning assembly comprises a force actuator for generating an actuating force by means of which the closing body can be urged into the closed position and/or open position. The force actuator can comprise a magnetic force for generating the actuating force. The force actuator can be activated and/or deactivated. The force actuator can be controllable. Preferably, the force actuator is controlled or activated and/or deactivated as a function of a control signal. The control signal can be based on a signal from a sensor such as a tilt sensor and/or a fill level sensor etc. of the collecting tank assembly.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning assembly comprises a control assembly configured to control at least the force actuator. Preferably, the control assembly is configured to perform control based on signals, for example a signal from a level sensor in the collecting tank assembly for measuring the level of the vacuum substrate, from an inclination sensor, for example for measuring the inclination of the collecting tank assembly or the like.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning assembly comprises at least one handle assembly configured to be gripped by an operator and configured to be firmly coupled or couplable to the adapter device and/or the collecting tank assembly. This can make it easier for an operator to handle the cleaning assembly. This can facilitate the use of the cleaning assembly and also handling other than operation, for example during transportation or storage. The couplable configuration allows an operator to make the handle assembly available when it is actually beneficial to the operator and accordingly decouple it when it is not required. Permanently coupled may include an integral formation.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the handle assembly for coupling has an actuatable connecting mechanism configured to couple and/or decouple the handle assembly to/from the adapter device and/or the collecting tank assembly when actuated. This allows the handle assembly to be easily added or removed as needed. Thus, an operator can make the handle assembly available only when it is actually beneficial. For example, if the cleaning assembly is stowed away, the handle assembly can be easily removed to keep the cleaning assembly compact.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the handle assembly comprises a handle part that can be gripped by a user and a handle base part that configured to be coupled to the adapter device and/or the transmission assembly, wherein a position of the handle part relative to the handle base part is adjustable. This makes it easier for an operator to adjust the handle assembly to an ergonomic position. When the cleaning assembly is stowed away, the handle assembly can be brought into a compact position.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the cleaning assembly further comprises a tool connection interface for coupling to a cleaning tool, whereby the secondary vacuum air flow can be removed from the cleaning tool by means of the tool connection interface. The tool connection interface makes it possible to couple different cleaning tools to the cleaning assembly. This makes the cleaning assembly versatile.

Advantageously, the tool connection interface is configured on the collecting tank assembly or on a tool connection module that is coupled to the collecting tank. In this way, the vacuumed vacuum substrate can be fed directly to the collecting tank assembly. Overall, a compact design of the cleaning assembly can thus be provided.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the tool connection interface comprises an electrical contact assembly configured to make electrical contact with the cleaning tool. The electrical contact can be useful, for example, for transmitting sensor signals from or to the cleaning tool. Furthermore, electrical current can be provided to the cleaning tool via it, for example to operate electric motors, in particular to drive cleaning tools such as cleaning brushes or rollers.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the tool connection interface is configured to couple the cleaning tool or a part of the cleaning tool in a substantially rigid manner. This enables force to be transmitted to the cleaning tool during operation.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that the cleaning assembly comprises at least one power supply interface for establishing electrical contact with a power source. Advantageously, the power supply interface is configured on the adapter device or the collecting tank assembly. The power supply interface makes it possible to provide additional electrical energy via the power source. This can be used, for example, to operate a cleaning tool coupled to the cleaning assembly.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the power supply interface comprises a holder assembly configured to detachably accommodate an accumulator.

According to one embodiment, the cleaning assembly comprises a primary connection interface for coupling to the vacuum device, whereby the primary vacuum air flow can be discharged from the adapter device via the primary connection interface to drive the first turbine assembly. It may be provided that the primary connection interface is configured to be adaptable to the vacuum device, in particular in terms of geometry and/or size. For this purpose, an adjustment mechanism can be provided that can be actuated to change the geometry or size of the primary connection interface. Additionally or alternatively, the primary connection interface may have a plurality of interface portions for coupling to a respective vacuum device. These interface portions can have different geometries and/or sizes. Overall, the embodiments enable counterparts or connection pieces of the vacuum device of different geometries to be coupled to the primary connection interface. This makes it possible to couple the adapter device to a plurality of vacuum devices available on the market or to make it compatible with them. This means that the adapter device can be universally coupled to various vacuum devices. The primary connection interface can comprise a thread, a bayonet lock, a clamping mechanism or the like.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the primary connection interface is configured to couple the vacuum device to the adapter device in a substantially rigid manner. This enables power transmission between the vacuum device and the adapter device. If the secondary connection interface and the collecting tank are also rigid, a rigid unit can be formed. It is easy to operate.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning assembly further comprises a hose assembly that is coupled to the adapter device for guiding the primary vacuum air flow. Preferably, the hose assembly is coupled to the primary connection interface. The hose assembly allows the vacuum device to be arranged separately and displaceably relative to the adapter device. For example, the vacuum device can be carried by an operator, for example in the form of a backpack. The primary vacuum air flow can then be removed from the adapter device via the hose assembly. The cleaning assembly thus remains comparatively light and is easy to operate for an operator. Preferably, the hose assembly is elastic.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning assembly further comprises a hose assembly that couples the adapter device and the collecting tank assembly to guide the primary vacuum air flow. vacuum air flow coupled Preferably, the hose assembly is coupled to the primary connection interface. The hose assembly allows at least the adapter device to be arranged separately and displaceably relative to the collecting tank assembly. For example, the adapter device can be carried by an operator together with the vacuum device, for example in the form of a backpack. The primary vacuum air flow can then be removed from the collecting tank assembly via the hose assembly. The part of the cleaning assembly to be carried by an operator's arms thus remains comparatively light. Preferably, the hose assembly is elastic.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning assembly comprises at least one fresh water tank for holding fresh water. Fresh water refers to liquid, in particular water, which is intended for cleaning and preferably not contaminated. A cleaning substance such as soap, a cleaning agent or the like can be added to the fresh water. Preferably, the cleaning assembly comprises a water dispensing assembly configured to supply the fresh water from the fresh water tank to a surface to be cleaned. For this purpose, an operable valve can preferably be provided in the water dispensing assembly, which enables an operator to adjust the amount of water dispensed.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the collecting tank assembly comprises a riser pipe configured to at least partially guide the secondary vacuum air flow into the collecting tank assembly.

One aspect relates to an adapter device for a vacuum device, in particular a vacuum cleaning device, comprising a first turbine assembly which is drivable by a primary vacuum air flow of the vacuum device, a second turbine assembly which is drivable to generate a secondary vacuum air flow, and a transmission assembly coupled to the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly, wherein driving the first turbine assembly by the primary vacuum air flow via the transmission assembly can be utilized to drive the second turbine assembly to generate the secondary vacuum air flow.

Utilization can comprise that a drive effect created by the primary vacuum air flow at the first turbine assembly acts at least partially on the transmission assembly and/or is transmitted to it, and the transmission assembly is configured to transmit the drive effect at least partially to the second turbine assembly to drive it.

According to this aspect, it is possible to use the primary vacuum air flow as a drive for generating the secondary vacuum air flow. At the same time, there are two different vacuum air flows. While the primary vacuum air flow thus has the function of driving the primary turbine assembly, on the basis of which the second turbine assembly is driven to generate the secondary vacuum air flow by means of the transmission assembly, the secondary vacuum air flow has the function of sucking or picking up a vacuum substrate from a surface to be cleaned. The vacuum substrate can comprise solid substances such as dust or dirt particles, or liquid and/or moisture. Of course, the vacuum substrate is preferably at least partially separated from the secondary vacuum air flow before it is fed to the secondary turbine assembly in order to avoid damage to the secondary turbine assembly. Thus, the second turbine assembly may be provided to extract air by means of the secondary vacuum air flow from a collecting tank configured to receive liquid. Generally speaking, the collecting tank can be configured to at least partially hold the vacuum substrate.

The invention makes it possible to provide a dry vacuum cleaner as a vacuum device, whereby liquid and/or moist air can then be sucked in by means of the dry vacuum cleaner. The adapter device decouples the primary vacuum air flow from the secondary vacuum air flow so that damage to the dry vacuum cleaner by the vacuum substrate, in particular moist air and/or liquid, can be avoided. This also prevents the risk of a short circuit in the dry vacuum cleaner.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a barrier assembly that provides at least one liquid barrier between the first and the second turbine assemblies. The barrier assembly can serve as a kind of splash guard that prevents, for example, liquid from the second turbine assembly from reaching the first turbine assembly. Thus, the barrier assembly may have a labyrinth-like arrangement. According to a related aspect of the invention, it is further provided that the barrier assembly separates the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly from each other in a substantially liquid-tight, in particular fluid-tight, manner. This ensures that at least no liquid, in particular no moisture, can pass from the first turbine assembly to the second turbine assembly. This prevents liquid from entering the secondary vacuum air flow, which could damage the vacuum device. The fluid-tight separation means that there is no exchange of a medium between the second turbine assembly and the first turbine assembly. The two vacuum air flows are thus completely decoupled from each other, at least within the adapter device. This can ensure extremely safe and reliable operation of the adapter device by means of a dry vacuum device. In other words, the barrier assembly can be configured to separate the primary and secondary vacuum air flows from each other in such a way that essentially no liquid and/or moisture can get from the secondary vacuum air flow into the primary vacuum air flow. According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the barrier assembly comprises a sealing assembly. The sealing assembly may comprise a labyrinth seal.

According to one aspect of the invention, the barrier assembly may be configured to at least partially support or at least partially form the transmission assembly. This enables a compact design of the adapter device.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a primary connection interface configured to be coupled to the vacuum device for driving the first turbine assembly by the primary vacuum air flow. It may be provided that the primary connection interface is configured to be adaptable to the vacuum device, in particular in terms of geometry and/or size. For this purpose, an adjustment mechanism can be provided that can be actuated to change the geometry or size of the primary connection interface. Additionally or alternatively, the primary connection interface may have a plurality of interface portions for coupling to a respective vacuum device. These interface portions can have different geometries and/or sizes. Overall, the embodiments enable counterparts or connection pieces of the vacuum device of different geometries to be coupled to the primary connection interface. This makes it possible to couple the adapter device to a plurality of vacuum devices available on the market or to make it compatible with them. This means that the adapter device can be universally coupled to various vacuum devices. The primary connection interface can comprise a thread, a bayonet lock, a clamping mechanism, a screw connection or the like.

Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the adapter device can be coupled to a primary connection module, with the primary connection module having the primary connection interface as described above. Thus, a connection piece with a predetermined geometry can be provided on the adapter device for coupling with the primary connection module. While the structure of the adapter device thus remains simple due to the connection piece, the adapter device can still be coupled or is compatible with a plurality of vacuum devices by means of the primary connection module.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the transmission assembly couples the first turbine assembly to the second turbine assembly mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically or electrically or by means of a combination thereof to utilize driving the first turbine assembly to drive the second turbine assembly. For example, it may be provided that the transmission assembly is configured to generate electrical energy based on driving the first turbine assembly, whereby the second turbine assembly can be driven with the electrical energy. The transmission assembly can thus have a corresponding generator and a corresponding motor drive. Furthermore, the transmission assembly may be configured such that driving the first turbine assembly causes actuation of a fluid of the transmission assembly, for example a hydraulic oil, wherein the transmission assembly is further configured to drive the second turbine assembly based on the actuation of the fluid.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the transmission assembly comprises a shaft, and the first turbine assembly is configured to drive the shaft and the shaft is configured to drive the second turbine assembly to generate the secondary vacuum air flow. The shaft can be driven directly or indirectly. Furthermore, the second turbine assembly can also be driven directly or indirectly. Thus, according to the direct drive, it can be provided that the shaft couples the first turbine assembly and the second turbine assembly, in particular rigidly to one another. An indirect drive can, for example, comprise a clutch and/or a gearbox, in particular with a step-up or step-down function.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the barrier assembly at least partially supports the shaft. This can provide the barrier assembly with a further function. Overall, this facilitates a compact design of the adapter device.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the first turbine assembly comprises a primary turbine wheel configured to rotate about a primary axis of rotation, and the second turbine assembly comprises a secondary turbine wheel configured to rotate about a secondary axis of rotation, wherein the primary and secondary axes of rotation are arranged substantially parallel to each other or coincide. For the sake of clarity only, it should be mentioned that the primary turbine wheel is drivable by means of the primary vacuum air flow, and the secondary turbine wheel is configured to generate the secondary vacuum air flow. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the primary and secondary axes of rotation are congruent, i.e. coincide. This embodiment thus relates to a special form of parallelism, namely a congruent arrangement of the two axes of rotation. This allows a particularly compact design of the adapter device to be achieved.

In this context, it may be provided that the secondary vacuum air flow initially is parallel to the secondary axis of rotation when driving the second turbine assembly in order to be supplied to the secondary turbine wheel and then flows in a radial direction opposite the secondary axis of rotation in order to flow away from the secondary turbine wheel. Thus, the movement of the secondary turbine wheel acts as an additional barrier between the secondary and primary vacuum air flows against, in particular, the passage of liquid and/or moisture. This is due to the centrifugal force that acts during the driving of the secondary turbine wheel on any liquid and/or moisture and/or dirt that may be adhering to it and carries such things away in a radial direction. Alternatively, the secondary vacuum air flow can then also flow parallel to the axis of rotation or at any angle relative to it in order to flow away from the secondary turbine wheel. Furthermore, it may be provided that the secondary vacuum air flow flows out at a predetermined angular range around the secondary axis of rotation. Preferably, the primary vacuum air flow flows from outside this angular range into the adapter device to the primary turbine wheel.

According to one embodiment, it may be provided that the adapter device comprises a reduction or transmission ratio. This can be provided in the transmission assembly. For this purpose, a gearbox can be provided that converts one speed of the first turbine assembly into a different speed for the second turbine assembly. However, the reduction or transmission ratio can also be generated by different designs of turbine wheels of the turbine assemblies, for example by different blade geometries of the turbine wheels or sizes of the turbine wheels.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the adapter device comprises an actuatable valve assembly configured to adjust the proportion of the primary vacuum air flow acting on the first turbine assembly. The actuatable valve assembly can be configured as a throttle valve. The actuatable valve assembly makes it possible to couple the adapter device with vacuum devices of different suction power or different vacuum air flows. If the suction power of a vacuum device is very high, for example, the valve assembly can be at least partially opened so that only part of the primary vacuum air flow acts on the first turbine assembly. In the case of a vacuum device with a low suction power, the valve assembly can be completely or almost completely closed. The valve assembly can be actuated in such a way that it adjusts the proportion of the primary vacuum air flow acting on the first turbine assembly depending on the strength of the primary vacuum air flow. One can think of a spring assembly that opens or closes a flap of the valve assembly depending on the strength of the primary vacuum air flow. The term strength can include a predetermined volume flow. In addition to a spring assembly, other at least partially automatic mechanisms can also be provided.

According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a secondary connection interface for coupling the adapter device to a module, wherein the secondary vacuum air flow is at least partially removable from the module in the coupled state. The module preferably comprises a collecting tank for collecting liquid and/or dirt, but may also comprise a suction pipe, a floor unit or a cleaning tool. The secondary connection interface can comprise a thread, a bayonet lock, a clamping mechanism, a screw connection or the like.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that a module from which the secondary vacuum air flow can be removed is integrally formed with the adapter device. Such a module may, for example, comprise a collecting tank for collecting liquid and/or dirt.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a collecting tank for collecting liquid and/or dirt.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device further comprises at least a first electrical contact assembly for supplying electrical current to the adapter device, wherein the adapter device preferably further comprises a second electrical contact assembly to at least partially transfer the electrical current to a module coupled to the adapter device. The module comprises, for example, a cleaning tool which can be driven by an electric motor and which can be driven with the electric current.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device comprises a generator configured to generate electrical current in order to provide it to a module coupled to the adapter device, for example a tool. For this purpose, at least one connection for discharging the electric current can be formed on the adapter device. The generator can be driven by the primary vacuum air flow or the secondary vacuum air flow. The generator can, for example, generate a voltage level of 12 volts or 24 volts. This voltage level is different from that of conventional vacuum devices, which are usually operated at 230 volts. However, this voltage level is less dangerous and is usually used to power tools or sensors.

According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, a receiving interface for coupling with an additional energy source, preferably a rechargeable battery, may further be provided on the adapter device. This makes it possible to supply additional energy, for example electrical current, to the adapter device. This energy can be provided, for example, to supply energy to a module coupled to the adapter device, such as a cleaning tool that can be driven by an electric motor.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a handle assembly formed on or couplable to the adapter device and configured to be actuated by an operator to move the adapter device. This facilitates the operation of the adapter device by an operator.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device further comprises a housing, wherein the first turbine assembly and/or the second turbine assembly and/or the transmission assembly are at least partially enclosed by the housing.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the housing comprises at least a first and a second housing part configured such that they can be coupled to one another. For example, the housing parts can be coupled to each other by means of a bayonet lock or threaded screw connection or the like. The two housing parts facilitate assembly and maintenance of the adapter device. The housing can therefore have a modular design.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device has a modular structure. For example, the first turbine assembly and/or the second turbine assembly and/or the transmission assembly and/or the housing or the housing parts can each form a module. It may further be provided that the modules are configured to be detachably coupled to one another. The modular design and the ability to be coupled together enable simple assembly. Furthermore, it is easy to disassemble the adapter device for cleaning, maintenance or replacing spare parts. Furthermore, turbine wheels of the turbine assemblies, for example, can be easily replaced in order to adapt the adapter device to vacuum sources with different suction power.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that the transmission assembly and/or the second turbine assembly and/or the first turbine assembly are configured to be activatable and deactivatable, in particular controllable. For this purpose, a control system can be provided by means of which, for example, the transmission assembly can be activated and deactivated. Furthermore, a sensor assembly can be provided, whereby the transmission assembly and/or the second turbine assembly and/or the first turbine assembly can be activated and deactivated based on a signal from the sensor assembly. The sensor can be a level sensor for measuring the level of the vacuum substrate in a collecting tank. Additionally or alternatively, a humidity sensor can be provided as a sensor. The signal can, for example, indicate that a predetermined moisture value in the secondary vacuum air flow is exceeded. Additionally or alternatively, an inclination sensor can be provided as a sensor.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the adapter device can have at least one tertiary connection interface, whereby the secondary vacuum air flow can be at least partially removed via the tertiary connection interface. The tertiary connection interface can be configured to be coupled to a hose, for example. It can therefore include a suction connection. In this way, air and/or liquid sucked in by the secondary vacuum air flow, i.e. a vacuum substrate, can be at least partially removed via the tertiary connection interface and fed to the hose for removal. This is particularly advantageous if the vacuum substrate was not or only partially removed from the secondary vacuum air flow before entering the adapter device. Even then, the vacuum substrate cannot enter the primary vacuum air flow and the vacuum device. Think of liquid that can be sucked in by means of the adapter device and can be removed from the adapter device via the tertiary connection interface. In this way, a vacuum substrate such as liquid can be sucked into the adapter device and removed again in a controlled manner. In this way, large quantities of liquid can be sucked in and removed in a specific manner, as is often necessary after a flood event, for example. Instead of or in addition to the tertiary connection interface, a module such as a hose can also be formed integrally with the adapter device for removing the vacuum substrate.

The invention further relates to a cleaning assembly comprising:

• • an adapter device of one of the types described above, and
  • a vacuum device coupled to the first turbine assembly for generating the primary vacuum air flow.

The vacuum device can be configured as a vacuum cleaning device and in particular as a dry vacuum cleaner. The vacuum device can, for example, be a hand-held vacuum cleaner or a conventional vacuum cleaner. The vacuum device can be operated by means of a rechargeable battery.

The adapter device can be permanently installed in the cleaning assembly and/or formed integrally with the cleaning assembly. Alternatively, the adapter device can be configured as an interchangeable module of the cleaning assembly. In general, it should be noted that the term “adapter” is to be understood broadly and, in addition to a design as a module that is connected to other components via interfaces, can also include an integral design. Integral means one piece with one or more other components or modules. Furthermore, when the term “interface” is used, the components that are connected to each other via the “interface” can also have an integral design instead of a couplable design.

Advantages, features and embodiments explained in connection with the adapter device also apply accordingly to the cleaning assembly and vice versa.

The invention is further explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an adapter device according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an adapter device according to the invention in a state coupled to a collecting tank;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of another embodiment of an adapter device according to the invention;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of another embodiment of an adapter device according to the invention;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary representation of the cleaning assembly;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary exploded view of the collecting tank assembly;

FIG. 7 is an exemplary partial exploded view of the cleaning assembly;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary representation of the cleaning assembly in a state coupled to an exemplary vacuum device;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary representation of the adapter device with exemplary couplable vacuum devices;

FIG. 10a is an exemplary exploded view of a third handle assembly;

FIG. 10b is an exemplary exploded view of a fourth handle assembly;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of the cleaning assembly with exemplary cleaning tools;

FIG. 12a is a detailed illustration of the exemplary connection module;

FIG. 12b is another detailed illustration of the exemplary connection module; and

FIG. 13 Is a Detailed View of an Exemplary Tool Connection Module.

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an adapter device 10 for a vacuum device according to the invention. The adapter device 10 comprises a first turbine assembly 12 which can be driven by a primary vacuum air flow 14. The adapter device 10 further comprises a second turbine assembly 16 which can be driven to generate a secondary vacuum air flow 18. The adapter device 10 further comprises a transmission assembly 20 coupled to the first turbine assembly 12 and the second turbine assembly 16. The transmission assembly 20 is configured such that driving the first turbine assembly 12 by the primary vacuum air flow 14 can be utilized to drive the second turbine assembly 16 to generate the secondary vacuum air flow 18.

Making it utilizable can mean that a drive effect produced by the primary vacuum air flow 14 at the first turbine assembly 12 acts at least partially on the transmission assembly 20 and/or is transmitted to it, and the transmission assembly 20 is configured to transmit the drive effect at least partially to the second turbine assembly 16 for driving it.

The adapter device 10 includes a housing 22 enclosing the first turbine assembly 12, the second turbine assembly 16 and the transmission assembly 20. The adapter device 10 further comprises a barrier assembly 24 disposed within the housing 22 and dividing the housing 22 into a first or upper housing portion 26 and a second or lower housing portion 28. The barrier assembly 24 extends through the schematically illustrated transmission assembly 20. The barrier assembly 24 provides a substantially fluid-impermeable barrier such that no fluid or air can be exchanged between the two housing portions 26, 28, for example, at least within the housing 22.

A primary connection interface 30 is configured at an upper end of the first turbine assembly 12, which is configured to be coupled to a vacuum device. For this purpose, the primary connection interface 30 is configured with a circular cross-section, although other shapes are also possible. For the sake of simplicity, no vacuum device is shown here. However, the primary vacuum air flow 14 generated by the vacuum device and acting on the first turbine assembly 12 is shown. If the vacuum device is coupled to the primary connection interface 26 and is in operation, so that the primary vacuum air flow 14 is generated, the primary vacuum air flow 14 passes through the first turbine assembly 12 starting from an intake opening 32 configured on the side of the first turbine assembly 12 and leaves the first turbine assembly 12 via the primary connection interface 30 and flows into the vacuum device. In the process, the primary vacuum air flow 14 drives the first turbine assembly 12. The transmission assembly 20 is configured to make driving the first turbine assembly 12 utilizable for driving the second turbine assembly 16. For this purpose, the transmission assembly 20 can comprise, as shown here, a shaft assembly 34 mechanically coupling the first turbine assembly 12 to the second turbine assembly 16 such that a mechanical movement of the first turbine assembly 12, in particular of a turbine wheel of the first turbine assembly 12, is transmitted to the second turbine assembly 16, in particular a turbine wheel of the second turbine assembly 16, by means of the shaft assembly 34. The secondary vacuum air flow 18 is generated by driving the second turbine assembly 16. Thus, the secondary vacuum air flow 18 passes through a secondary connection interface 36 configured at a lower end of the housing 22 on the second turbine assembly 16 to an outflow opening 38 configured on the side of the housing 22 and on the side of the second turbine assembly 16. In other words, driving the second turbine assembly 16 creates an intake effect at the secondary connection interface 36 so that air, the secondary vacuum air flow 18, can be drawn in via the secondary connection interface 36. The secondary connection interface 36 is configured to be connected to a module, such as a suction pipe, a tool or a floor unit. In the present case, the secondary connection interface 36 has a circular cross-section, although other shapes are also possible. The secondary vacuum air flow 18 can be used to suck in liquid or a vacuum substrate. The adapter device 10 makes it possible to decouple the primary vacuum air flow 14 from the secondary vacuum air flow 18. In this way, no vacuum substrate, in particular no liquid or moisture, can get from the secondary vacuum air flow 18 into the primary vacuum air flow 14 and to the vacuum device. Nevertheless, the primary vacuum air flow 14 caused by the vacuum device can be used to generate the secondary vacuum air flow. By means of the adapter device 10, a vacuum device in the form of a dry vacuum cleaner can thus be converted into a wet vacuum cleaner. If a vacuum substrate such as liquid is to be sucked in by the adapter device 10 and discharged again, similar to a pump, the outflow opening 38 can be configured as a connection interface, a tertiary connection interface for a hose for removing the liquid. This allows large quantities of liquid to be drawn in and discharged.

The housing 22 has a cylindrical shape, although it could also have, for example, a cuboid, circular, etc. shape. Instead of coupling the module via the secondary connection interface 36, it is also possible to provide a connection interface or a connection assembly such as a thread or a bayonet lock on the housing 22 in order to discharge the secondary vacuum air flow from the module, for example a collecting tank, for sucking up a vacuum substrate.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an adapter device 10 according to the invention in a state coupled to a collecting tank 40 of a collecting tank assembly 41. The structure of the adapter device 10 is based on that of FIG. 1 but differs as follows. According to FIG. 2, the lower housing portion 28 forms the collecting tank 40 or the collecting tank assembly 41. The first turbine assembly 12 is arranged within a larger upper housing portion 26. Due to the enlarged upper housing portion 26, the primary connection interface 30 is configured on a pipe portion 31 that couples the first turbine assembly 12 to the primary connection interface 30. A liquid collection area 42 is provided in the collecting tank 40. The secondary vacuum air flow 18 generates a negative pressure in the collecting tank 40, so that a vacuum substrate, in particular air and/or liquid and/or dirt, for example from a surface to be cleaned, can be sucked in via a suction pipe 44 arranged at a lower end of the housing 22 and leading into the collecting tank 40. The liquid is separated in the liquid collection area 42, so that only air is discharged from the collecting tank 40 via the secondary vacuum air flow 18. For this purpose, the suction pipe 44 extends through and beyond the liquid collection area 42, so that an outlet opening 46 of the suction pipe 44 is arranged above the liquid collection area 42. Furthermore, a splash protection barrier 48 is configured in the collecting tank 40 in the area between the outlet opening 46 and the second turbine assembly 16, which shields the outlet opening 46 at a distance from it in the form of a screen and prevents the vacuum substrate from being able to pass directly in the direction of the second turbine assembly 16 after exiting the intake pipe 44.

FIG. 3 is an exploded schematic view of another embodiment of an adapter device 110 according to the invention. The adapter device 110 is based on the mode of operation of the adapter device 10 according to FIGS. 1 and 2 but has a special structure. The adapter device 110 has a first housing portion 126, a first turbine assembly 112 with a primary turbine wheel 150, a barrier assembly 124, a second turbine assembly 118 with a secondary turbine wheel 152, a transmission assembly 120 comprising a rigid shaft 154, and a second housing portion 128. The shaft 154 is arranged on an axis A about which the shaft 154 rotates during operation. The shaft 154 is configured to receive a first ball bearing 156 and a second ball bearing 158 in its central cylindrical region, although other types of rolling bearings may additionally or alternatively be provided. The ball bearings 156, 158 are arranged to radially and axially support the shaft 154 relative to the barrier assembly 124, wherein the shaft 154 is arranged to rotate relative to the barrier assembly. For this purpose, an opening 160 configured to receive the ball bearings 154, 156 and to contact them on their outer circumferential surface is configured on the barrier assembly 124, which is substantially axis-symmetrical relative to the axis A and symmetrical with respect to a center plane arranged substantially orthogonal to the axis A, along its center axis, which coincides with the axis A. An interference fit can be provided for this purpose. On both sides along the axis A, outer circumferential geometries not shown are configured on the shaft 154 with a smaller diameter, which are receive corresponding inner circumferential geometries configured on the primary turbine wheel 150 and the secondary turbine wheel 152 and also arranged along the axis A. The circumferential geometries are configured to form a positive fit, so that a rotation of the primary turbine wheel 150 or the secondary turbine wheel 152 leads to a rotation of the shaft 154 and vice versa. Instead of or in addition to the positive fit, a non-positive connection can also be provided, for example. At the two ends of the shaft 154, external threads are configured, again with a smaller diameter, onto which a respective shaft nut 162, 164 can be screwed. The first shaft nut 162 is configured to axially fasten the primary turbine wheel 150 to the shaft 154, and the second shaft nut 164 is configured to axially fasten the secondary turbine wheel 152 to the shaft 154. The respective region provided adjacent to the central cylindrical region with an outer circumferential geometry forms a shoulder or stop relative to the respective central cylindrical region, against which the first shaft nut 162 presses the primary turbine wheel 150 and the second shaft nut 164 presses the secondary turbine wheel 152, the respective shoulder serving to arrange the primary turbine wheel 150 or the secondary turbine wheel 152 at a small distance from the barrier assembly 124, so that they are arranged freely rotatable relative thereto and to the ball bearings 154, 156.

The primary turbine wheel 150 and the secondary turbine wheel 152 have substantially the same structure and are merely arranged on the shaft 154 rotated by 180 degrees. Thus, features described below for the sake of simplicity for one of the two turbine wheels 150, 152 apply to the other accordingly. The primary turbine wheel 150 is configured to be substantially flat on the side facing the barrier assembly 124 and has only the opening with the inner circumferential geometry to receive the shaft 120. On the side facing away from the barrier assembly 124, the secondary turbine wheel 152 has an intake opening 166 arranged in the center, which is surrounded by an annular side surface 168 and is configured to protrude with respect thereto. The secondary turbine wheel 152 is configured with a plurality of internal turbine blades 170 which are arranged to generate an air flow when the secondary turbine wheel 152 moves or to cause movement of the secondary turbine wheel 152 based on an air flow. The turbine blades 170 are arranged to cause an air flow from the intake opening 166 outwardly to radial openings 172 configured on the outer circumference of the secondary turbine wheel 152 when the secondary turbine wheel 152 rotates in a first rotational direction about the axis A. This air flow corresponds to the secondary vacuum air flow. The first direction of rotation corresponds to the direction of rotation of the adapter device 110 during operation. If the secondary turbine wheel 152 were rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction of rotation, the air flow would be directed outwardly from the radial openings 172 through the secondary turbine wheel 152 to the intake opening 166. As described, the primary turbine wheel 150 is constructed analogously to the secondary turbine wheel 152, whereby in particular the shape of the turbine blades can also be changed or configured in an adapted manner. This is due to the fact that the primary turbine wheel 150 is primarily intended to be driven by means of a vacuum air flow, the so-called primary vacuum air flow, which is directed from the radial opening 172 of the primary turbine wheel 150 to an air outlet opening 174 configured analogously to the intake opening 166, while the secondary turbine wheel 152—as explained—is configured to generate an air flow, the so-called secondary vacuum air flow, based on its rotation in the first direction of rotation, which is directed from the intake opening 166 to the radial openings 172.

The intake opening 166 is adapted to receive the second shaft nut 164 so that the second shaft nut 164 contacts the secondary turbine wheel 152 at an inner surface and secures it axially on the shaft 154. Correspondingly, the air outlet opening 174 is configured to receive the first shaft nut 162 so that the first shaft nut 162 contacts the primary turbine wheel 150 at an inner surface and secures it axially on the shaft 154. The internal arrangement of the respective shaft nut 162, 164 has the advantage of minimizing interference with the air flow.

The barrier assembly 124 is disk-shaped, substantially-symmetrical with respect to the axis A and symmetrical with respect to a center plane of the barrier assembly 124 that is orthogonal to the axis A. Ribs 176 are configured on both sides in the direction of axis A, which serve to stiffen the barrier assembly 124. Apart from the opening 160, no passage is configured in the direction of the axis A, so that no fluid can pass through the barrier assembly 124. At least one sealing assembly can be provided at the opening 160 relative to the ball bearings 156, 158 so that no fluid can pass between the ball bearings 156, 158 and the barrier assembly 124. Similarly, sealing assemblies can be provided in the area between the ball bearings 156, 158 and the shaft 154. The ball bearings 156, 158 are also configured to be fluid-tight. An annular central web 180 is configured on the circumferential surface 178 of the barrier assembly 124. On one side of the center web 180, in a direction along the axis A to the first turbine assembly 112, a first radial connection surface 182 is configured to contact the first housing portion 126 and secure it to the barrier assembly 124. On the other side of the center web 180, in an opposite direction along the axis A, i.e. in the direction of the second turbine assembly 118, a second radial mating surface 184 is configured to contact and secure the second housing portion 128 to the barrier assembly 124. A plurality of respective fastening bolts 186 are provided on the connection surfaces 182, 184 for fastening, which together with the housing portions 126, 128 form a respective bayonet lock. Instead of a bayonet lock, another fastening assembly could be provided, such as a threaded screw connection. In addition or alternatively, clips can be provided which can be snapped into one another for fastening and released again. The bayonet lock offers the advantage of simple operation. Connecting prongs are provided on the first connection surface 182 for the bayonet lock. Respective sealing assemblies may be provided at the circumferential surface 178, for example at the connection surfaces 182, 184, to provide a fluid-tight connection between the respective housing part 126, 128 and the barrier assembly 124.

The first housing part 126 has a ring-shaped portion 188 configured to be hollow on the inside and to surround, in particular, the primary turbine wheel 150 and the barrier assembly 124, at least when attached to the first mating surface 182. The ring-shaped portion 188 has a plurality of air passage openings 190 which serve to provide air contact for the primary turbine wheel 150 with the surroundings. Thus, in one operating condition, the primary vacuum air flow can pass through the air passage openings 190 to the primary turbine wheel 150. An inner circumferential surface 192 is further configured on the ring-shaped portion 188, which is adapted to contact the first connection surface 182. For this purpose, a counterpart to the bayonet lock is configured on the inner circumferential surface 192 in the form of a plurality of groove assemblies configured to receive a respective connecting prong of the barrier assembly 124.

Furthermore, the primary connection interface 130 is formed on the first housing part 126 in the form of a tubular portion configured to be coupled to a vacuum device, for example a hose or a nozzle of a dry vacuum cleaner. For this purpose, the hose or nozzle can embrace the tubular portion or be pushed into it. The tubular portion is hollow on the inside and extends into the ring-shaped portion 188. In addition, a first connection lug 183 and a second connection lug 185 are formed on the first housing part 126. They are configured on opposite sides of the first housing part 126 with respect to the axis A in the radial direction. They serve to interact with a connection assembly optionally configured on the vacuum device to couple the vacuum device firmly but detachably to the primary connection interface 130.

Outwardly open air passage openings 195 are configured between the ring-shaped portion 188 and the tubular portion 130, wherein the first housing part 126 is configured to be coupled to an actuatable valve assembly 194. In the present case, the latter is configured as a two-part, annular throttle valve, wherein the two parts of the throttle valve can be detachably clipped together, and the throttle valve can be rotated relative to the first part 126 and about the axis A. The throttle valve also has air passage openings which, depending on the rotational position, coincide with the air passage openings of the first housing part 126 or close them. This allows the proportion of the primary vacuum air flow passing through the primary turbine wheel 150 to be adjusted.

The second housing part 128 also has a ring-shaped portion 196 which has air passage openings to allow air conveyed by the secondary turbine wheel 152, the secondary vacuum air flow, to escape into the surroundings. The ring-shaped portion 196 is, for example, similar in structure to the ring-shaped portion 188 of the first housing part 126 with respect to the fastening assembly, so that reference is made thereto for further features such as the bayonet lock.

The second housing part 128 further comprises a secondary connection interface 136 configured as an annular extension. The secondary connection interface 136 has part of a bayonet lock, namely a plurality of groove assemblies. The secondary connection interface 136, in particular the ring-shaped extension, is configured to be coupled to a module such as a collecting tank. For this purpose, a sealing assembly may be provided between the secondary connection interface 136 and the module, so that a fluid-tight connection is provided. Instead or in addition, the secondary connection interface 136 may also be configured on a tubular air inlet region 198 formed on the second housing part 128 and present in the present case. The annular extension is supported relative to the tubular air inlet region 198 by a plurality of ribs.

FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of the adapter device 110 according to the invention in an assembled or joined state. Thus, the first housing portion 126 is attached to the barrier assembly 124 by means of the bayonet lock. To this end, the inner circumferential surface 192 contacts the first connection surface 182 and forms a substantially fluid-tight connection. The first housing portion 126 encloses the primary turbine wheel 150 but is spaced apart from it in a radial direction. The air passage openings 190 provided on the ring-shaped portion 188 allow the primary vacuum air flow to enter and pass through the adapter device 110, or the first turbine assembly 116. The air passage opening 195 is closed by the valve assembly 194, so that the primary vacuum air flow only enters through the air passage openings 190. This allows the primary vacuum air flow to act completely on the first turbine assembly 112 and drive the primary turbine wheel 150. For the sake of simplicity, no vacuum device is coupled to the primary connection interface 130. However, the arrows indicate the flow of the primary vacuum air flow and the generated secondary vacuum air flow.

The second housing portion 128 is attached to the barrier assembly 124 by means of the associated bayonet lock. For this purpose, an inner circumferential surface of the ring-shaped portion 196 contacts the second connection surface 184 of the barrier assembly 124. The second housing portion 128 encloses the secondary turbine wheel 152 but is spaced apart from it in the radial direction. The air passage openings provided on the ring-shaped portion 196, which are offset and therefore not visible in the sectional view, allow the secondary vacuum air flow to enter the adapter device 110 or the second housing portion 128 via the air inlet region 198 and pass through the second turbine assembly 118. For the sake of simplicity, no module is arranged at the secondary connection interface 130. However, the arrows indicate the flow of the secondary vacuum air flow.

The primary vacuum air flow thus passes through the first turbine assembly 116 and acts on the primary turbine wheel 150 by exerting a driving force directed in the circumferential direction on individual turbine blades 173 of the primary turbine wheel 150. Thus, by means of the primary vacuum air flow, the first turbine assembly 116 is driven. Since, in the assembled state, the primary turbine wheel 150 is coupled to the transmission assembly 120 comprising the shaft 154 in a rotationally fixed manner, the rotational drive of the first turbine wheel 150 leads to a rotational drive of the shaft 154, and in turn to a rotational drive of the secondary turbine wheel 152 which, in the assembled state, is also coupled to the shaft 154 in a rotationally fixed manner. The rotation of the secondary turbine wheel 152 acts on air present in the second turbine assembly 118, pushing it outwardly out of the adapter device 110 through the air passage openings in a radial direction and drawing air in through the air inlet region 198. Thus, the secondary vacuum air flow is generated. This can be used to suck in the vacuum substrate.

Obviously, the two vacuum air flows are two different and structurally separate vacuum air flows. In this context, the barrier assembly 124, among other things, ensures that the vacuum air flows are spatially separated from each other. During operation, the rotation of the primary turbine wheel 150 also ensures that any residues of the vacuum substrate, such as moisture or liquid, are removed to the outside and do not enter the primary vacuum air flow.

It can also be seen that in an operating state, the shaft 154 and the turbine wheels 150, 152 rotate about the common axis A.

Various structural measures can be provided to prevent air, dirt, moisture and/or liquid, in particular water, or the like from passing from the outflowing secondary vacuum air flow into the inflowing primary vacuum air flow in the area of the ring-shaped portions 188, 196. For example, the air passage openings 190 and those of the second housing portion 128 can be arranged offset from one another in the circumferential direction, an additional structural barrier can be provided between them, or the air passage openings 190 can be provided only on one side of the adapter device, while the air passage openings of the second housing portion 128 can be arranged on an opposite side.

To enable the removal of liquid, a tertiary connection interface in analogy to the first embodiment may be provided instead of the air passage openings of the second housing portion 128. It can, for example, be configured as a connection for a hose.

For example, the area of the primary connection interface 130, for example its outer peripheral surface, may be configured to be coupled to a handle assembly. Alternatively, the handle assembly may be formed thereon. The handle assembly, comprising, for example, a handle, may be used by an operator to operate the adapter device 110.

FIG. 5 shows a cleaning assembly 300 according to the invention, comprising the adapter device 110 of FIGS. 3 and 4 and a collecting tank assembly 200 as well as a first handle assembly 202 and a second handle assembly 204.

The collecting tank assembly 200 has a substantially tubular configured collecting tank 201 with a substantially constant inner diameter, although other geometries may be provided. The collecting tank 201 is hollow and extends along a collecting tank axis S, which in the coupled state shown coincides with the axis A of the adapter device 110. Furthermore, it is configured as a rotational body. The ratio of the wall thickness of the collecting tank 201 to its radius is at least 1:10, preferably at least 1:20. The collecting tank assembly 200 is coupled to the adapter device 110 by means of the secondary connection interface 136 of the adapter device 110, in the present case the bayonet lock. For this purpose, four bolts are formed at a first end 206 of the collecting tank 201, which extend radially outwards from a lateral surface 208 of the adapter device 110 and engage with openings of the bayonet lock of the adapter device 110. In other words, a part of the bayonet lock complementary to that on the adapter device 110 is formed on the collecting tank 201. The collecting tank assembly 200 and the adapter device 110 can be decoupled from each other by rotating them relative to each other in a first direction of rotation. Furthermore, the collecting tank assembly 200 and the adapter device 110 can be firmly coupled to each other by rotating them in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation. Instead of a bayonet lock, the secondary connection interface 136 can also have another type of coupling, for example a threaded screw connection or fastening by means of screws or the like.

The secondary connection interface 136 enables the adapter device 110 and the collecting tank assembly 200 to be rigidly coupled so that they are impermeable to fluid from the surroundings. Thus, the movements of the adapter device 110 and the collecting tank assembly 200 are coupled to each other, and a movement or inclination of the collecting tank assembly 200 also leads to a corresponding movement or inclination of the adapter device 110 and vice versa.

The lateral surface 208 also has a plurality of annular indentations 209. The indentations 209 are configured to reduce the outer diameter of the collecting tank 201. The indentations 209 extend in the direction of the collecting tank axis S with a predetermined width, wherein a ratio of the width to a distance to an adjacent indentation 209 is at least 1:3, preferably at least 1:4. Furthermore, the first handle assembly 202 and the second handle assembly 204 are formed on the lateral surface 208. The first handle assembly 202 has two coupling rings 210 and a two-part handle part 212. The coupling rings 210 completely surround the lateral surface 208 or engage in a respective one of the indentations 209. The two-part handle part 212 is similar to a parallelogram and has a handle region 214 configured to be gripped by an operator. The handle region 214 represents an upper limb of the parallelogram, which is aligned substantially parallel to the collecting tank axis S.

The second handle assembly 204 also has a coupling ring 216 which completely embraces the lateral surface 208. Furthermore, the second handle assembly 204 has an L-shaped retaining bracket 218 with a handle region 220, the longitudinal axis of which is aligned substantially transversely to the collecting tank axis S. The retaining bracket 218 is coupled to the coupling ring 216 by means of a lockable pivot joint 222, wherein the pivot joint 222 can be opened by slightly loosening a screw in order to pivot the retaining bracket 218 about a pivot axis A1 relative to the coupling ring 216, which is aligned perpendicularly relative to the collecting tank axis S.

The coupling rings 210 can be arranged as required on each of the indentations 209. Instead of the indentations 209, the lateral surface 208 can also be configured with a constant outer diameter, in which case the coupling rings 210 are preferably attachable to the lateral surface 208 by means of a clamping effect. This additionally increases the variability for an operator who will not be limited to coupling in the indentations 209 which are equally spaced from one another.

The collecting tank assembly 200 further comprises a tool connection module 224 with a tool connection interface 226. The tool connection interface 226 is configured to be coupled to a cleaning tool. The tool connection interface 226 comprises a tubular piece 228 arranged concentrically to the collecting tank axis S, as well as two connection lugs 229 arranged on both sides of the tubular piece 228. The tool connection module 224 further comprises a connection flange 230 configured in a ring shape and embracing a second end 232 of the collecting tank 201, which is configured on the other side of the first end 206 on the collecting tank 201. Further, the connecting flange 230 comprises a bayonet lock or bayonet lock part adapted to interact with an associated bayonet lock part configured on the collecting tank assembly 200 to couple the tool connection module 224 to the collecting tank assembly 200.

The collecting tank assembly 200 is transparent. This enables an operator to see the inside of the collecting tank assembly 200 as well as any vacuum substrate collected therein. Alternatively, a viewing window can be provided so that only a part of the collecting tank assembly 200 is transparent. The collecting tank assembly 200 or the viewing window can, for example, comprise transparent material, in particular a transparent polymer such as acrylic glass, polycarbonate or polystyrene. In addition or as an alternative to the transparent design, opaque material, in particular an opaque polymer, can also be provided.

A riser pipe 234 is arranged within the collecting tank assembly 200, which, however, is not shown in more detail due to the simplified representation but will be described in more detail below. The riser pipe 234 extends along the collecting tank axis S, starting from the second end 232 in the direction of the first end 206. Along the collecting tank axis S, however, the riser pipe 234 is arranged at a distance from the first end 206. In other words, the length of the riser pipe 234 is approximately 60 to 90 percent, preferably 85 percent, of the length of the collecting tank assembly 200. The riser pipe 234 is detachably coupled to the tool connection module 224. For this purpose, an external thread is formed on the riser pipe 234, which is screwed into an internal thread formed on the tool connection module 224.

The riser pipe 234 serves to guide or suck the secondary vacuum air flow together with the vacuum substrate into the collecting tank 201. Since the riser pipe 234 is open at an end facing the first end 206, the secondary vacuum air flow can escape into the collecting tank 201 together with the vacuum substrate. This design of the riser pipe 234 also helps to separate the vacuum substrate from the secondary vacuum air flow and accumulate it in the collecting tank 201. Gravity pulls the vacuum substrate towards the second end 232 of the collecting tank 201, so that it accumulates there, while the light vacuum air flow can pass to the first end 206 and thus into the adapter device 110.

To remove the vacuum substrate from the collecting tank 201 or to empty the latter, the adapter device 110 can be decoupled from the collecting tank assembly 200. For this purpose, the bayonet lock (secondary connection interface) can be opened.

Alternatively, the tool connection module 224 could also be decoupled from the collecting tank 201. In addition, the collecting tank 201 can comprise a drain opening that can be opened or closed as required.

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the collecting tank assembly 200. A sealing assembly 236 is disposed at the first end 206 of the collecting tank 201. It is configured to couple the collecting tank 201 to the adapter device 110 in a fluid-tight manner. In the present case, the sealing assembly 236 is configured as an O-ring.

The collecting tank assembly 200 further comprises a splash guard assembly 238 which is arranged at the end of the riser pipe 234 oriented towards the first end 206 and can be coupled to the riser pipe 234. The splash guard assembly 238 is configured to form a barrier for vacuum substrate sucked into the riser pipe 234 by the secondary vacuum air flow, so that the vacuum substrate does not exit the riser pipe 234 in the direction of the first end 206 and along the collecting tank axis S but in a radial direction. This facilitates separating the vacuum substrate from the secondary vacuum air flow and accumulating it in the collecting tank 201. In other words, the vacuum substrate is prevented from exiting the riser pipe 234 in the direction of the adapter device 110. The splash guard assembly 238 has a tubular portion 240 and a disk-shaped portion 242. The tubular portion 240 is configured to be coupled to the riser pipe 234 by being pushed onto the riser pipe 234. Other types of coupling are also conceivable, for example coupling by means of intermeshing threads. The disk-shaped portion 242 is configured to be closed in the direction of the collecting tank axis S and prevents the passage of vacuum substrate. The tubular portion 240 comprises radially arranged passage openings 244 which allow the vacuum substrate or the secondary vacuum air flow to pass through or exit the riser pipe 234 in a radial direction.

Instead of a riser pipe 234, an elastic suction hose can also be provided. Furthermore, the suction hose can be guided on the outside of the collecting tank assembly 200 and enter the collecting tank 201 below the first end 206, possibly via a connection. This also makes it possible to introduce the secondary vacuum air flow into the collecting tank 201 below the first end 206, preferably at a distance from it.

A Sealing Assembly 246 in the Form of an O-ring Is Arranged Between the Riser Pipe 234 and the tool connection module 224.

Electrical contacts 248 forming an electrical contact assembly 249 are configured on the two connection lugs 229 of the tool connection module 224. They are used to establish electrical contact with a cleaning tool when the latter is coupled to the tool connection module 224. In the present case, electrical lines 250 are also configured on the collecting tank 201. They can be arranged as insulated conductors on the inside or outside of the collecting tank 201. Alternatively, the electrical lines 250 may be configured to be embedded in the material of the collecting tank 201, at least in sections. Furthermore, electrical contacts (not shown here) may be configured at the second end 232, which are configured to establish electrical contact between the electrical lines 250 and the tool connection module 224 and its electrical contacts 248. Likewise, electrical contacts (not shown here) may be configured at the first end 206, which are configured to establish electrical contact between the adapter device 110 and the electrical lines 250. In the present case, a respective electrical line 250 is directly connected to a respective electrical contact 248.

FIG. 7 is a partially exploded view of the cleaning assembly 300. The collecting tank assembly 200 is shown in an assembled state. Thus, the tool connection module 224 is firmly coupled to the collecting tank 201 by means of the bayonet lock.

Furthermore, the riser pipe 234 with the splash guard assembly 238 is arranged inside the collecting tank 201 and is firmly coupled to the tool connection module 224. No cleaning tool is coupled to the tool connection module 224. The two handle parts 212, 214 are decoupled from the collecting tank 201, wherein they can be coupled to the respective indentations 209 of the lateral surface 208 of the collecting tank 201.

In the partially exploded view according to FIG. 7, the collecting tank assembly 200 is decoupled from the and spaced apart from one another along the axis A or collecting tank axis S. Furthermore, a suction protection device 252 is arranged between the adapter device 110 and the collecting tank assembly 200. The suction protection device 252 is arranged to be coupled to the adapter device 110. More precisely, the suction protection device 252 can be coupled to the tubular air inlet region 198. Associated bayonet locking parts are configured for this purpose in each case, although a connection by means of a threaded screw connection or the like may alternatively be provided. Alternatively, the suction protection device 252 may be configured integrally with the adapter device 110. In the coupled state and during operation of the adapter device 110 according to the invention, the secondary vacuum air flow is thus drawn out of the collecting tank assembly 200 starting from the second turbine assembly 118 via the tubular air inlet region 198 and thus via the suction protection device 252. The suction protection device 252, which is not shown in detail, comprises an internal air guide assembly for supplying the air from the collecting tank assembly 200 to the adapter device 110. The outer shape of the suction protection device 252 is configured such that, when coupled to the tubular air inlet region 198, in particular a radially inner surface of the air inlet region 198, it is substantially fluid-tight with the latter, so that the secondary vacuum air flow can only flow via the internal air guide assembly of the suction protection device 252. When coupled to the adapter device 110, the suction protection device 252 extends along the axis A. Furthermore, when the adapter device 110 is coupled to the collecting tank assembly 200, the suction protection device 252 further extends along the collecting tank axis S. Furthermore, the suction protection device 252 is arranged at a distance from the inner surface of the collecting tank 201.

The suction protection device 252, which is not shown in more detail, comprises a closing body which, in its closed position, closes the air guide assembly in such a way that at least no liquid, preferably neither liquid nor air, can pass from the collecting tank assembly 200 to the adapter device 110, and which, in its open position, releases the air guide assembly for the intake of air from the collecting tank assembly 200. Furthermore, the suction protection device 252 comprises a force actuator for generating an actuating force by means of which the closing body can be urged into the closed position and/or the open position. Advantageously, the suction protection device 252 is controllable so that the open position and closed position can be assumed as a function of a control signal. The open position is assumed in particular when a regular suction operation is to take place by means of the adapter device 110. The closed position is to be assumed in particular when the level of the vacuum substrate in the collecting tank 201 exceeds a predetermined level and/or the suction operation of the adapter device 110 is terminated, so that the vacuum substrate cannot pass from the collecting tank assembly 200 to the adapter device 110 even in the event of pivoting, tilting, transport, storage or the like. Preferably, the actuating force of the force actuator comprises a magnetic force.

The suction protection device 252 is an optional component of the cleaning assembly 300. Thus, the cleaning assembly 300 can also be provided without the suction protection device 252.

FIG. 8 is a representation of the cleaning assembly 300 of FIG. 5 coupled to an exemplary vacuum device 254. The vacuum device 254 is a conventional dry vacuum cleaner operable with household electricity although substantially any other type of vacuum device may also be provided. The vacuum device 254 comprises a main body 256 which can be displaced relative to a floor surface with a rolling action by means of two wheels 258 arranged at its rear lower end and a front wheel (not shown). All wheels 258 protrude at least partially from an underside of the main body 256 and space the main body 256 from the ground surface. The main body 256 includes a carrying handle 260 disposed at its rear upper end and configured in an arcuate shape.

An elastic suction hose 262 is coupled to the main body 256. The suction hose 262 comprises handle part 264 which can be gripped by an operator and includes a suction nozzle 266. The handle part 264 and the suction nozzle 266 are configured to be substantially rigid. The suction nozzle 266 is coupled to the primary connection interface 130 of the adapter device 110 by means of a clamping action. For this purpose, the suction nozzle 266 is configured to be tubular, wherein the outer diameter of the suction nozzle 266 substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the tubular portion of the primary connection interface 130 or is configured to be minimally smaller than the latter to be at least partially inserted into the tubular portion of the primary connection interface 130.

The vacuum device 254 is configured to generate a negative pressure during operation. For this purpose, the vacuum device 254 has a turbine assembly, which is not shown in detail and which is configured to generate the negative pressure at the suction hose 262 and to expel the extracted air into the surroundings of the main body 256. This negative pressure generated at the suction hose 262 causes the primary vacuum air flow which ultimately flows from the surroundings of the adapter device 110 through the air passage openings 190 into the first turbine assembly 116 to drive the primary turbine wheel 150. The vacuum air flow then passed further through the primary connection interface 130 and leaves the adapter device 110, entering the main body 256 of the vacuum device 254 through the suction nozzle 266, the handle part 264 and the suction hose 262, and then exiting the turbine assembly into the surroundings of the vacuum device 254.

The cleaning assembly 300 is thus drivable by means of the vacuum device 254. During operation of the cleaning assembly 300, the main body 256 can stand on the floor surface. An operator can move the cleaning assembly 300 freely and use it according to the cleaning requirements. Advantageously, the cleaning assembly 300 according to the invention makes it possible to use the vacuum device 254 configured as a dry vacuum cleaner to drive the cleaning assembly 300, whereby it is ensured that no vacuum substrate, in particular no liquid or moist air, can escape from the cleaning assembly 300, in particular the secondary vacuum air flow, and enter the primary vacuum air flow and thus the vacuum device 254. For reasons of simplified representation, the indentations 209 are not shown again.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary partial representation of the adapter device 110 with various vacuum devices or handle parts that can be coupled to the primary connection interface 130 and are shown spaced apart from the primary connection interface 130 and decoupled therefrom according to an exploded view. On the one hand, the suction hose 262 known from FIG. 8 is shown with the handle part 264 and the suction nozzle 266. In addition, an alternative vacuum device 268 in the form of a hand-held vacuum cleaner is shown, as well as a third handle assembly 269 and a fourth handle assembly 271.

The vacuum device 268 comprises a substantially cylindrical main body 270 on the rear end of which a handle assembly 272 is configured to be gripped by an operator. The handle assembly 272 comprises an upper handle part 274 adjoining the main body 270 and extending away from it. The upper handle part 274 is configured in the present case in a cuboid shape although it can also be round or configured in another way. Preferably, the upper handle part 274 is configured to be ergonomically adapted so that it is comfortable to grab for an operator. A lower, arcuate lower handle part 276 extends below the upper handle part 274. The lower handle part 276 is configured integrally with a rear end of the upper handle part 274 at one end thereof, and integrally with the main body 270 at the other end thereof. The lower handle part 276 is substantially L-shaped and substantially cuboidal in shape, although it may also be round or otherwise configured. Preferably, the lower handle part 276 is configured to be ergonomically adapted so that it is comfortable to grab for an operator.

The front end of the cylindrical main body 270 is configured to be coupled to the primary connection interface 130 of the adapter device 110. For this purpose, a tubular portion, which is not shown in detail, is configured on the inside of the main body 270 and is configured to be coupled to the tubular portion of the primary connection interface 130 in a manner similar to the suction nozzle 266 of the vacuum device 254. In addition, however, the main body 270 has an actuatable connection assembly 275 comprising actuatable rocker arms 276, 278 configured to interact with the connection lugs 183, 185 of the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110. When coupled, the rocker arms 276, 278 engage with one end behind the respective connection lug 183, 185 and thus prevent the vacuum device 368 from being decoupled from the adapter device 110. However, an operator can actuate a second end of the rocker arms 276, 278 so that the respective rocker arm 276, 278 no longer engages behind the respective connection lug 183, 185 and thus releases the vacuum device 268 to be decoupled from the adapter device 110. The operation of such rocker arms will be further described below and the rocker arm may be configured in one of the ways described below.

The main body 270 further comprises laterally configured air passage openings 280, which are arranged to discharge the primary vacuum air flow generated by the primary connection interface 130 and by a vacuum turbine arranged within the vacuum device 268 into the surroundings.

The vacuum device 268 is configured to be detachably coupled to an accumulator, with the accumulator providing electrical energy to drive the suction turbine. For this purpose, a receptacle can be provided on the vacuum device 268 to couple the accumulator to the vacuum device 268. A switch 282 is arranged on an upper side of the vacuum device 268 in order to switch the suction turbine on or off depending on the position of the switch 282.

The vacuum device 268 is shown as an example and is intended to illustrate that the adapter device 110 or the cleaning assembly 300 can also be coupled and operated by means of a battery-operated, compact vacuum device.

The third handle assembly 269 and the fourth handle assembly 271 are also configured to be coupled to the primary connection interface 130. For this purpose, they each have a coupling ring 284 configured to be coupled to the outer peripheral surface of the tubular portion of the primary connection interface 130. Furthermore, the handle assembly in 269, 271 can be gripped by an operator. To this end, the third handle assembly 269 has a gripping body 286 comprising gripping parts configured similar to a parallelogram. The coupling ring 284 is configured with its lateral surface integral with the gripping body 286. In addition, the third handle assembly 269 comprises a rocker arm 288 configured to interact with the first connection lug 183 or the second connection lug 185 of the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110. On the one hand, the rocker arm 288 makes it possible to couple the third handle assembly 269 firmly but releasably to the adapter device 110. At the same time, in the coupled state, rotation of the third handle assembly 269 about the axis A is prevented since the rocker arm 288 engages behind one of the connecting lugs 183, 185 in such a way that rotation is blocked.

When the term rocker arm is used, it can refer to a connecting mechanism which is configured to couple and/or decouple the handle assembly to/from the adapter device and/or the collecting tank assembly when actuated.

The fourth handle assembly 271 has a gripping body 290 that is arranged below the coupling ring 284 and is configured similarly to a pistol grip and to be at least partially gripped by an operator's hand. The fourth handle assembly 271 also has a rocker arm 292 whose mode of operation is similar to that of the aforementioned rocker arms. The coupling ring 284 is configured integrally with the gripping body 290.

FIG. 10a is an exploded view of the third handle assembly 269. The third handle assembly 269 has a first housing part 294 and a second housing part 296. The first housing part 294 has one half of the gripping body 286 and one half of the coupling ring 284. The second housing part 296 has the other half of the gripping body 286 and the other half of the coupling ring 284. The second housing part 296 has four openings 298 on its inner side, into which respective threaded inserts 302 can be inserted. In the inserted state, the threaded inserts 302 are firmly coupled to the second housing part 296. The first housing part 294 comprises four through openings 304 configured to receive respective screws 306 which can be screwed to a respective threaded insert 302 in order to firmly couple the first housing part 294 to the second housing part 296.

At least the second housing part 296 has a receiving bolt 308 which is configured to receive the rocker arm 288 and to support it in an articulated manner. For this purpose, the rocker arm 288 has a through opening 310 in its central region, which is configured to receive the receiving bolt 308. Furthermore, the rocker arm 288 has a first limb 312 and a second limb 314. The two limbs 312, 314 are configured to contact the second housing part 296 at least in sections when the latter is in the attached state. The two limbs 312, 314 are slightly curved. This makes it possible for an operator to actuate an end of the first limb 312 protruding from the second housing part 296 in the state in which it is attached to the second housing part 296, so that at least the second limb 314 is elastically deformed and tensioned. This results in a lug 311 configured between the two limbs 312, 314 and in the region of the through opening 310 being displaced about a longitudinal axis K of the locating pin 308. Then, the lug 311 no longer engages behind the first connection lug 183 or the second connection lug 185 of the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110 if the third handle assembly 269 was coupled to the adapter device 110, so that the third handle assembly 269 can be decoupled from the adapter device 110. This mechanism makes the third handle assembly 296 fixedly yet releasably couplable to the primary connection interface 130 or the first housing part 126 of the adapter device 110.

In order to assemble the third handle assembly 296, the threaded inserts 302 and the rocker arm 288 are first inserted into the second housing part 296. Subsequently, the first housing part 294 is assembled with the second housing part 296 so that the axes of the through openings 304 are aligned with the axes of the openings 298. The screws 306 are then passed through the through openings 304 and screwed to the threaded inserts 302.

FIG. 10b is an exploded view of the fourth handle assembly 271. The fourth handle assembly 271 has a first housing part 316 and a second housing part 318. The first housing part 316 has one half of the gripping body 290 and one half of the coupling ring 284. The second housing part 318 has the other half of the gripping body 290 and the other half of the coupling ring 284. Three receiving openings 320 are configured on an inner side of the second housing part 318, which are configured to receive respective threaded inserts 322 as described above. The first housing part 316 has three through openings 324 configured to receive respective screws 326 therein.

The two housing parts 316, 318 have respective receiving openings 328 configured arranged to receive a respective end of a guide pin 330 formed on the rocker arm 292. In the present case, only the receiving opening 328 of the second housing part 318 is recognizable. The two housing parts 316, 318 have respective openings 332. If the rocker arm 292 is inserted into the receiving openings 328, it is pivotably mounted about an axis K of the guide pin 330. Furthermore, one end of a first limb 334 then protrudes through the opening 332 and can be actuated by an operator. A lug 338 is configured at the end of a second limb 336 of the rocker arm 292. As described above, the lug 338 is arranged to engage behind one of the connection lugs 183, 185 and thus to couple the fourth handle assembly 271 firmly but releasably to the adapter device 110.

A lug 340 is further configured on the first limb 334, which is arranged to support a spring member 342 in such a way that it is urged about the axis K in a first direction of rotation when the fourth handle assembly 271 is mounted on the first limb 334. If the fourth handle assembly 271 is attached to the adapter device 110, the lug 338 is then urged behind one of the connection lugs 183, 185. In order to release the connection of the lug 338 to the respective connecting lug 183, 185, an operator grips the end of the first limb 334 projecting from the two housing parts 316, 318 and urges it about the axis K in a second direction of rotation which is opposite to the first direction of rotation. In doing so, the operator must counteract the actuating force of the spring member 342.

In order to assemble the fourth handle assembly 271, the threaded inserts 322 are first inserted into the receiving openings 320 of the second housing part 318. Further, the spring member 342 is inserted into a receiving opening 344 formed on at least one of the housing parts 316, 318, wherein the spring member 342 engages with the lug 340 and is inserted into the second housing part 318 together with the rocker arm 292. Subsequently, the first housing part 316 is assembled with the second housing part 318 so that the axes of the through openings 324 are aligned with the axes of the openings 328. The screws 326 are then passed through the through openings 324 and screwed to the threaded inserts 322.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of the cleaning assembly 300 with exemplary cleaning tools 346, 348, 350, each of which is configured to be attached to the tool connection interface 226. The cleaning assembly 300 is shown in an assembled state and without a vacuum device coupled to it.

The first cleaning tool 346 comprises a floor unit 352, wherein a first brush 354 configured to rotate about a first brush axis B1 and a second brush 356 configured to rotate about a second brush axis B2 are arranged on the floor unit 352. The two brush axes B1, B2 are arranged at a distance from one another. The brushes 354, 356 are configured to contact a floor surface to be cleaned during an operation. The floor unit 352 further comprises an arcuate vacuum bar assembly 356, wherein a vacuum lip 359 is arranged on the vacuum bar assembly 356, which is configured to contact the floor surface and to suck off and collect vacuum substrate of the floor surface, in particular liquid, from it. The first cleaning tool 346 further comprises a connection module 358 configured to be coupled to the tool connection module 224. To this end, the connection module 358 comprises a tubular portion 360 configured to be coupled to the tubular piece 228. More specifically, the tubular portion 360 is slid onto the tubular piece 228. The tubular portion 360 further comprises a second end to which a suction hose 362 is coupled. The suction hose 362 connects the tubular portion 360 to the vacuum bar assembly 356 so that, during operation, the secondary vacuum air flow can flow from the vacuum bar assembly 356, via the suction hose 362, the tubular portion into the pipe piece 228 of the tool connection interface 226 to suck in vacuum substrate. For this purpose, a suction opening is preferably configured on the vacuum bar assembly 356 in the vicinity of the floor surface, via which the secondary vacuum air flow with the vacuum substrate can pass into the suction hose 362.

The connection module 358 is coupled to the floor unit 352 via a joint assembly 364. The joint assembly 364 has a first pivot axis SA1 and a second pivot axis SA2 which are aligned perpendicular to each other and spaced apart from each other. The joint assembly 364 enables the connection module 358 and, for example, the tank assembly 200 coupled thereto to be arranged pivotably relative to the floor unit 352. This enables easy handling of the cleaning assembly 300.

The second cleaning tool 348 also includes the connection module 358 as described above, wherein a squeegee head 366 is provided on the tubular portion 360 instead of the suction hose, which is configured integrally with the tubular portion 360 or the connection module 358. The squeegee head 366 is configured similar to the shape of a substantially equilateral triangle of small thickness, wherein a lower limb of this triangle forms a vacuum lip 368 with a suction opening 370. The squeegee head 366 is internally hollow or configured with at least one large or more small air flow channels that open into the suction opening 370, so that the secondary vacuum air flow can pass from the vacuum lip 368 into the suction opening and through the squeegee head 366 to the tubular portion 360. The vacuum lip 368 may be formed from a rubber-like material. The vacuum lip 368 is configured to at least partially contact the floor surface during operation in order to feed the vacuum substrate to the suction opening 370.

The third cleaning tool 350 has a floor unit 372 in which a first cleaning roller 374 and a second cleaning roller 376 are arranged. The first cleaning roller 374 has a first roller axis W1 about which it can be driven in rotation. The second cleaning roller 346 has a second roller axis W2 about which it can be driven in rotation. The two roller axes W1, W2 are arranged parallel and at a distance from one another. If the third cleaning tool 350 rests on the floor surface, the roller axes W1, W2 are aligned substantially parallel to the floor surface. The cleaning rollers 374, 376 may comprise brushes and/or blades. The cleaning rollers 374, 376 contact the floor surface during operation. The third cleaning tool 350 also comprises the connection module 358 as described above. Here, the connecting module 358 comprises the tubular portion configured to be coupled to the tubular piece 228. More specifically, the tubular portion 360 is slid onto the tubular piece 228. The connection module 358 is further coupled to the floor unit 372 by means of a pivot joint 378. The pivot joint 378 has a pivot axis SA3 parallel to and spaced apart from the roller axes W1, W2. The pivot joint 378 enables the connection module 358 to be pivoted relative to the floor unit 372 about the pivot axis SA3. A housing 380 surrounding the tubular portion 360 is formed on the connection module 358. The tubular portion 360 is coupled to a suction hose 382 which in turn couples the connection module 358 next to the pivot joint 378 to the floor unit 372. The suction hose 382 is configured to discharge the secondary vacuum air flow from the floor unit 372 and supply it to the tubular portion 360. A motor drive is configured in the floor unit 372, which is configured to drive the two cleaning rollers 374, 376 in rotation about the roller axes W1, W2. For this purpose, the motor drive is coupled to the cleaning rollers 374, 376 via a belt assembly which, in the present case, is formed outside a housing of the floor unit 350. Of course, the belt assembly can also be formed inside the housing. Furthermore, other mechanical couplings can be provided instead of the belt assembly.

FIGS. 12a and 12b are detailed representations of the connection module 358 of the first cleaning tool 346 and serve, among other things, to explain the mechanism by which the connection module 358 can be coupled to the tool connection interface 226. As explained above, the connection module 358 has the tubular portion 360.

Furthermore, the connection module 358 has a first receiving opening 384 and a second receiving opening 386. The two receiving openings 384, 386 are configured on opposite sides of the tubular portion 360 and form a cuboid recess on the connection module 358. The connection module 358 further comprises a locking bracket 388 which is configured as a separate component to the connection module 358 but is coupled thereto. The locking bracket 388 has a respective hook 390 at its respective ends, which protrude into the receiving openings 384, 386 without actuation of the locking bracket 388. Without actuation means that the locking bracket is biased in a first direction R1 due to a spring assembly/spring element not shown in detail and the hooks 390 thereby project into the receiving openings 384, 386 but can be displaced relative to the remaining connecting module 358 against the direction R1 and against a spring force of the spring assembly. For this purpose, an operator presses on the locking bracket 388 in the opposite direction to R1 and displaces the locking bracket 388 in the opposite direction to R1. Such displacement causes the hooks 390 to emerge from the receiving openings 384, 386 in the direction opposite to R1 and release them. The two receiving openings 384, 386 are configured to receive a respective connection lug 229 configured on the tool connection interface 226, wherein in the coupled state the hooks 390 engage through a respective through opening 410 of the respective connection lug 229. In this way, the hooks 390 produce a locking effect which prevents the connection module 358 from being decoupled from the tool connection interface 226 without actuation of the locking bracket 388.

The connection module 358 has an upper housing part 392 and a lower housing part 394, wherein through openings 396 configured on the lower housing part 394 receive screws (not shown) which are configured to be screwed into screw-in regions 398 configured on the upper housing part 392 to firmly couple the upper housing part 392 and the lower housing part 394 together. If the upper housing part 392 is coupled to the lower housing part 394, the locking bracket 388 is clamped between these two against the spring force of the spring element. Thus, the locking bracket 388 cannot be removed from the remaining connection module 358 without separating the housing parts 392, 394 from one another.

The tubular portion 360 has a guide protrusion 400 extending along a longitudinal axis LA1 of the tubular portion 360 on an inner surface thereof. The guide protrusion 400 is configured to engage with a guide groove configured on the outside of the tubular portion 228.

The first receiving opening 384 has a first electrical contact plate 402 and the second receiving opening 386 has a second electrical contact plate 404. The contact plates 402, 404 are intended to contact a respective one of the electrical contacts 248 in a state coupled to the tool connection interface 226 in order to establish an electrical contact therewith. The electrical contact plates 402 are coupled to a respective electrical line 406. The electrical lines 406 are in turn coupled, for example, to at least one motorized drive to supply electrical power thereto. The motorized drives can be provided to drive the cleaning rollers 374 or the brushes in rotation.

The electrical contact plates 402, 404 can be omitted in the connection module 358 of the second cleaning tool 348 since in the present case the second cleaning tool 348 does not have a drivable tool.

The connection module 358 of the third cleaning tool 350 is substantially configured on the side facing the tool connection interface 226 in the same way as that of the first cleaning tool 346 but also has the aforementioned housing 380. The housing 380 can form the locking bracket 388. Alternatively, the connection module 358 of the third cleaning tool 350 may have only the tubular portion 360 and the housing 380 on the side facing the tool connection interface 226, wherein the tubular portion 360 achieves a clamping effect with the tubular piece 228 when pushed onto the tubular piece 228.

FIG. 13 is a detailed view of one embodiment of the tool connection module 224. The tool connection module 224 is coupled and firmly connected to the collecting tank 201. The guide groove 408 described above is configured on the tubular piece 228, extending along the axis A on an outer lateral surface of the tubular piece 228. The guide groove 228 is configured to receive the guide protrusion 400.

On the tool connection module there are also the two connection lugs 229 which protrude from a rear side of the tool connection module 224 in the direction of the axis A. The tool connection modules 224 are configured in the form of plates and have a respective through opening 410. The tool connection modules 224 are configured in the form of plates and have a respective through opening 410. The through openings 410 serve to receive the hooks 390 as described above.

Furthermore, the electrical contacts 248 are configured at the through openings 410. The electrical contacts 248 are also configured at least partially on an underside of the connection lugs 229. Furthermore, the electrical contacts 248 have a respective receiving extension 412 onto which a respective plug assembly 414, in the present case in the form of a flat plug sleeve, is pushed. The respective plug assembly 414 is electrically conductively connected to a respective one of the electrical lines 250. Each of the electrical lines 250 is fastened to the rear of the tool connection module 224 in the region of the respective receiving extension 412 by a respective line holder 416. For this purpose, the line holders 416 have respective clamping jaws which clamp the respective line 250. The electrical lines 250 are preferably intended to provide a voltage of 12V, 24V or 48V.

The electrical lines 250 and the associated structural features are optional. On the other hand, additional electrical lines can also be provided in order to establish electrical contact with a cleaning tool or to supply electrical current to the latter.

A power supply interface for establishing electrical contact with a power source may be configured on the collecting tank assembly 200 or on the adapter device 110. The power supply interface is then preferably coupled to the electrical lines 250. The power supply interface may comprise a holder for receiving a power supply. The holder may be configured to receive an accumulator.

Features that have been explained in connection with a specific embodiment can also be provided separately for the cleaning assembly, in particular the adapter device. The same applies to features explained in connection with the cleaning assembly. They can also be provided in the adapter device and vice versa.