INTAKE PROTECTION DEVICE AND CLEANING DEVICE HAVING SUCH A SUCTION PROTECTION DEVICE

Description

The present invention relates to a suction protection device for an air duct arrangement between a liquid collection area and a negative pressure source, and to a cleaning device with such a suction protection device.

Cleaning devices with structures of differing complexity and for different areas of application for wet cleaning of surfaces are known from prior art. Possible areas of application include the cleaning of floors, walls or windows. Some of the known cleaning devices are equipped with a suction function. This makes it possible to suck off the liquid applied to the surface, which is to be cleaned, and to be collected in a liquid collection area of a liquid collection container. Typically, a suction drive is provided for this purpose, which is set up to suck air from the liquid collection area via an air duct arrangement. The air sucked out of the liquid collection area creates negative pressure in it, which in turn makes it possible to suck the liquid from the surface, which is to be cleaned, into the liquid collection area. The liquid collection area is typically configured in a liquid collection container and is designed to collect liquid and dirt. If the liquid collection container is not or only partially filled with liquid, air is also present in the liquid collection area.

A cleaning device with suction function in the form of a scrubbing-suction machine is known from EP 2 832 277 B1. It comprises:

• • a floor unit;
  • at least a tool, which is assigned to the floor unit and which, in an operative state, rests at least in sections on the floor surface;
  • a guide member for guiding the floor cleaning device;
  • a joint assembly which has at least one pivot axis and by means of which the guide member is connected to the base unit in an articulated manner and in a torque-transmitting manner about its longitudinal axis;
  • a liquid collection container arranged on the guide member and pivotable together with it, which is provided for the receptacle of a liquid sucked off the floor surface,
  • an air duct arrangement;
  • a suction drive which is set up to suck air out of the liquid collection container via the air duct arrangement in the operative state, so that the liquid collection container is underpressurized to suck in the liquid; and
  • a control device.

The suction drive, which acts as a negative pressure source, is usually an electrical component sensitive to moisture. To not impair the functionality of the suction drive and to ensure reliable operation of the cleaning device, liquid should therefore not enter the suction drive from the liquid collection container. There is also a risk of the liquid escaping from the cleaning device into the surrounding area via the suction drive. The usually contaminated liquid could then re-contaminate the cleaned surface, contaminate or damage objects in the surrounding area of the cleaning device, or impair or even injure an operator of the cleaning device.

A particularly critical condition, in which there is an increased risk of liquid entering the suction drive, can occur if the liquid collection container has a high liquid level or filling level.

A specifically critical state can occur when the cleaning device is being transported. This is because if the liquid collection container is not completely empty or if there is residual liquid in the cleaning device, this can enter the suction drive due to a change in position of the cleaning device during transportation or due to forces acting on it.

EP 2 292 130 A2 discloses a suction device with a float that is arranged to move vertically in a collecting tank. The float is designed to float on liquid present in the collecting tank and to block a flow path of a process air flow of the suction device from a predetermined filling level. This ends the suction process of the suction device.

However, this solution does not work reliably, at least not if there is liquid in the collecting tank and the collecting tank is heavily tilted or moved jerkily. This is because the float does not float on the liquid in such a way that the flow path is blocked.

It is known from EP 3 597 093 B1 to provide an inclination sensor in a floor cleaning device, as described in EP 2 832 277 B1, which detects the inclination angle of the guide member relative to the floor unit. Furthermore, a filling level sensor is known therefrom, which detects the filling level of the collecting tank. A control device is provided which is set up to deactivate or activate the suction drive depending on the inclination angle or the filling level. In this way, for example, suction of liquid due to the angle of inclination or filling level can be avoided.

However, there is still the problem that liquid can get into the suction drive. This is because even if the suction drive is deactivated or is going to be deactivated, it cannot be ruled out that liquid flows from the collecting tank into the suction drive, for example when the collecting tank is tilted sharply-as is it is the case in EP 3 597 093 B1 and EP 2 832 277 B1 when the guide member is swiveled sharply relative to the base unit-or when the filling level is high. Larger dirt particles can also accumulate in the cleaning device in such a way that they cause leaks and, as a result, cause liquid to spill into the suction drive. Furthermore, the guide member of the floor cleaning device, as for example known from EP 2 832 277 B1, can be placed on the floor or in another inclined position by an operator. It also happens that an operator unintentionally releases the guide member, whereupon it is tilted. In such cases, liquid may also get into the suction drive, which is a disadvantage.

It is therefore a task of the invention to improve protection of a negative pressure source against liquid ingress. Furthermore, it is a task of the invention to provide a cleaning device which improves protection of the negative pressure source against liquid ingress. Furthermore, it is a task of the invention to provide a cleaning device with improved operational safety.

At least one of these tasks is solved by a suction protection device according to claim 1. Furthermore, at least one of the tasks is solved by a cleaning device according to claim 12. The dependent claims relate to beneficial embodiments of the invention.

The invention relates to a suction protection device for an air duct arrangement between a liquid collection area and a negative pressure source of a cleaning device. The suction protection device comprises a sealing body which, in its closed position, closes the air duct arrangement and which, in its open position, releases the air duct arrangement for sucking in air from the liquid collection area. Furthermore, the suction protection device comprises a load actuator for generating a pulling load by means of which the sealing body can be urged into the closed position and/or open position.

In the closed position, the sealing body ensures that preferably no liquid may escape from the liquid collection container or from the liquid collection area in the liquid collection container and reaches the negative pressure source. Thus, reliable protection of the negative pressure source can be achieved in the closed position.

The load actuator makes it possible to reliably force the sealing body into the closed position and/or open position. For this purpose, the load actuator is configured independently of the negative pressure source. If the sealing body is forced into the closed position, even strong jolting movements or vibrations may act on the sealing body, the liquid collection container and/or the cleaning device, whereby the sealing body remains reliably in the closed position. Even if the liquid in the liquid collection container fluctuates and acts on the sealing body, the load actuator keeps the sealing body in the closed position. Overall, a reliable and robust suction protection device for cleaning devices can be provided.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sealing body closes the air duct arrangement in its closed position in such a way that at least no liquid, preferably neither liquid nor air, can pass from the liquid collection area to the negative pressure source. In connection with air, one may think of moisture present in the air, which is prevented from reaching the negative pressure source in the preferred embodiment when the sealing body assumes the closed position.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the load actuator is configured to push the sealing body

• • from the open position into the closed position, and/or
  • from the closed position into the open position by means of the pulling load. Thus, an easy actuation of the sealing body may be provided.

According to one aspect of the invention, the load actuator is arranged to exert the pulling load on the sealing body at least in the open position and/or closed position. This enables reliable positioning of the sealing body.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the load actuator is set up to move the sealing body in dependence of

• • a further force acting on the sealing body, and/or
  • a position of the sealing body relative to the load actuator, and/or
  • a position of the sealing body relative to the open position and/or closed position into the closed position and/or open position.

Another force may, for example, be a suction force of the negative pressure source. This may be selected so that the suction force exceeds the pulling load, for example in the closed position, when the negative pressure source is activated, so that the closing body leaves the closed position and is moved towards the open position. If the suction force is reduced, for example by deactivating the negative pressure source, it may be provided that the pulling load exceeds the suction force in terms of amount and pushes the sealing body from the open position into the closed position.

The gravitational force may, for example, also be provided as a further force, which may exceed or be less than the pulling load depending on the direction of action of the load actuator. For example, the gravitational force may act at least partially in the direction of the open position and the pulling load can act in the direction of the closed position. Depending on the inclination of the liquid collection container, the part of the gravitational force acting in the direction of the open position may exceeds the pulling load and thus pushes the closing body into the open position. In the case of a cleaning device, this inclination range would advantageously be an inclination range of the liquid collection container intended for the operation of the cleaning device. If the liquid collection container is tilted into a position outside the inclination range intended for operation, it can be provided that the pulling load exceeds the part of the gravitational force acting in the direction of the open position and thus pushes the closing body into the closed position.

If the load actuator is set up to urge the sealing body into the closed position and/or open position as a function of a position of the sealing body relative to the load actuator, it may be provided that the pulling load is a function depending on the distance of the sealing body from the load actuator.

If the load actuator is set up to urge the sealing body into the sealing and/or open position as a function of a position of the sealing body relative to the closed position and/or open position, it may be provided that the pulling load is a function of a distance of the sealing body from the closed position or open position. Thus, the closing force or the load actuator generating the closing force can be set up to urge the sealing body into the closed or open position from a predetermined distance from the closed position or open position.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the load actuator may be activated and/or deactivated. For example, it may be provided that the load actuator does not generate any pulling load in the open position. If, on the other hand, it is activated, the sealing body can be forced into the closed position. This is a simple way of reliably protecting the negative pressure source. Furthermore, an open position in which no loss of suction force occurs may be achieved, at least due to the pulling load of the load actuator. Such a load actuator may comprise a switchable magnet that may switch between at least two magnetic states. Furthermore, such a load actuator can comprise an electromagnet. The ability to activate or deactivate makes it possible to activate or deactivate the load actuator as required. An inclination of the liquid collection container, a filling level or an operative state of the cleaning device might meet such a requirement. A combination of magnets may also be provided as a load actuator, such as a permanent magnet in combination with a switchable magnet or a permanent magnet in combination with an electromagnet.

If the load actuator comprises a magnet, it may be provided that the sealing body comprises ferromagnetic or magnetizable material, i.e., material that can be attracted by a magnet, such as iron. A reverse arrangement, in which the load actuator comprises magnetizable material and the sealing body comprises a magnet, is also possible. Furthermore, a respective magnet may be provided on both the load actuator and the sealing body, with the magnets preferably generating an attractive force to one another.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the amount of pulling load of the load actuator might be adjustable as well. This makes it possible to dose the force of the load actuator as required. An inclination of the liquid collection container, a filling level of the same or an operative state such as an ON or OFF operating state of the cleaning device might meet such a requirement. One example of an adjustable load actuator is an electromagnet.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the load actuator is displaceably arranged, wherein the pulling load of the load actuator acting on the sealing body is adjustable by the distance between the load actuator and the sealing body, which is adjustable by the displacement. The load actuator may be arranged on a displaceable bearing slide for displacement. According to one aspect of the invention, the suction protection device comprises an actuating mechanism for displacing the sealing body. Preferably, a distance of the magnet relative to the magnetizable material may be adjusted by means of the adjusting mechanism. This makes it easier to adjust the pulling load generated by the magnet, for example in the closed position. By adjusting this, for example, the pulling load acting in the closed position may be selected to be so large that a suction force generated by the negative pressure source is just about sufficient enough to move the sealing body from the closed position to the open position. The adjusting mechanism also makes it easy to adapt to different negative pressure sources with different suction forces. The pulling load acting in the closed position may be selected depending on the negative pressure source. For a negative pressure source with a high suction force, for example, a greater pulling load may be selected for the closed position by reducing the distance of the magnet in the closed position relative to the magnetizable material. This allows the sealing body to be held in the closed position even more reliably. Conversely, this applies to a negative pressure source with a small suction force.

In order to activate, deactivate or adjust the load actuator, the load actuator can be configured to be controllable. Furthermore, the suction protection device can comprise a control device that is set up to control the load actuator. The control device may be a control device of a cleaning device or a control device configured separately to such a device.

According to one aspect of the invention, the control arrangement is adapted to control the negative pressure source in such a way that during a first operating phase more air is sucked in, and that during a second, subsequent operating phase a less air is sucked in compared to the first operating phase. This can make it easier for the sealing body to be moved from the closed position into the open position by means of the increased air intake and against the pulling load, and then regular suction operation may take place in the open position while using less energy. This is particularly advantageous if the pulling load generated by the load actuator comprises a magnetic force. A means of controllability as described above makes it possible to nevertheless provide a comparatively strong magnet that reliably pushes the sealing body into the closed position to close the air duct arrangement or holds it in this position, and this high pulling load may nevertheless be overcome in the first operating phase. If the sealing body is in the open position, a reduced air intake may be sufficient to operate the cleaning device. At the same time, the reduced air suction in the second operating phase may be sufficient to prevent the sealing body from being displaced into the closed position against the reduced suction force or the reduced air suction during suction operation.

According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the suction protection device further comprises a detection device for generating a signal, wherein based on the signal:

• • the load actuator may be activated and/or deactivated to generate the pulling load, and/or
  • the load actuator may be controlled to generate the pulling load, and/or
  • another force on the sealing body may be changed, and/or
  • the position of the sealing body may be changed relative to the load actuator and/or
  • the negative pressure source may be controlled.

If the negative pressure source is controlled on the basis of the signal, it may be activated or deactivated and/or the amount of suction force may be controlled as required. Thus, the load actuator may be set up to force the sealing body into the closed or open position depending on the operative state of the negative pressure source. For example, an activated negative pressure source may be used to exert a sufficiently large suction force on the sealing body to move it from the closed position to the open position against the pulling load. Again, the pulling load may be dimensioned in such a way that when the negative pressure source is deactivated or the suction force of the negative pressure source is reduced, the pulling load forces the sealing body from the open position into the closed position.

According to an advantageous embodiment, it may be provided that the detection device comprises at least an actuatable switch for generating the signal. The switch may be set up for controlling, in particular activating and/or deactivating, the negative pressure source and/or the cleaning device. For example, the switch may be an on/off switch of the cleaning device. Alternatively, the switch may be a separately configured switch. It may be provided to activate the load actuator when the cleaning device is deactivated and/or to deactivate the load actuator when the cleaning device is activated.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the detection device comprises at least one sensor which is set up to generate the signal. The sensor can be a sensor configured on a cleaning device, which detects its operative state, for example.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor may be

• • a filling level sensor for detecting a liquid level in the liquid collection area and/or
  • an inclination sensor for detecting an inclination of the liquid collection container and/or
  • a pressure sensor for detecting pressure in at least either the liquid collection area, the air duct arrangement and the negative pressure source, and/or
  • a sensor for detecting the operative state of the cleaning sevice.

The inclination of the collecting tank can also be detected indirectly, for example by detecting an inclination of a part of the cleaning device to which the collecting tank is attached. A sensor for detecting an operative state of the cleaning device may be provided in particular if the cleaning devices are able to assume different operative positions, such as a parking position or a transport position, in which no cleaning operation is carried out, and an operative position, in which a cleaning operation is enabled. For example, it may be made easily possible for the sealing body to assume the closed position in the park position or the transport position.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the load actuator may be configured in such a way that the pulling load decreases with increasing distance of the sealing body from the closed position and/or increases with increasing distance from the open position. For this purpose, the load actuator may include a spring arrangement, for example. If the sealing body is not in the closed position, it might be advantageous if a lower pulling load acts on it. This may reduce the effect on the suction force of the negative pressure source. In this regard, a possible loss of suction force that may occurs if the negative pressure source has to work against the pulling load outside the closed position has to be taken into consideration.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the decrease or increase in force is disproportionate to the distance. As an example, an at least approximately quadratic, higher-value or exponential increase or decrease in force is mentioned in this regard. A particularly strong increase or decrease in force may be achieved due to disproportionality. This means that the loss of suction force described above may be reduced even further.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the suction protection device, it may be provided that the load actuator is set up, so that the amount of the pulling load acting on the closing body is essentially zero in the open position. Thus, the loss of suction force caused by the pulling load may be essentially avoided completely.

An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the pulling load is at its maximum in the closed position. Thus, the sealing body may be reliably held in the closed position and liquid cannot leave the liquid container in the direction of the negative pressure source, or only with great difficulty.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the pulling load of the load actuator comprises a magnetic force. For this purpose, the load actuator may comprise, for example, a permanent magnet, a switchable magnet or an electromagnet or a combination thereof. Advantageously, the sealing body then comprises magnetizable material such as iron or a magnet, preferably in at least a part of the sealing body aligned with the load actuator. A magnetic force decreases sharply with increasing distance from the magnet. This effect may be used if the sealing body is arranged very close to the magnet in the closed position. The sealing body is then held in or pushed into the closed position with large force. However, if the sealing body is at a distance from the magnet, there is no or almost no magnetic force, at least from a certain distance. The pulling load is therefore essentially zero. This may be advantageous for the open position, as the loss of suction force should be as low as possible in this position. In other words, the suction force generated by the negative pressure source should be as unaffected as possible by the pulling load. The solenoid or the magnetic force may therefore be designed as a function of the distance between the open position and the closed position.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, comprises a mechanical pulling mechanism to generate the pulling load, wherein the mechanical pulling mechanism preferably comprises a hydraulically and/or pneumatically and/or electrically actuatable pulling load. An example of an electrically operable actuator is an electric motor or servomotor. The actuator thus enables motorized actuation of the sealing body by the load actuator. The mechanical actuating mechanism offers the advantage of simple generation of the pulling load. Furthermore, the mechanical actuating mechanism is easy to operate.

In one aspect, the mechanical actuator mechanism may comprise a spring or spring-damper arrangement adapted to generate the pulling load. The spring or spring-damper arrangement may be set up to generate an increase or decrease in force as described above.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the mechanical actuating mechanism may be set up to convert a translatory movement of the actuator into a rotatory movement for displacing the sealing body. For this purpose, the mechanical actuating mechanism may comprise a lever arrangement on which the actuator engages and which is in turn connected to the sealing body in order to exert the pulling load on the latter. The lever arrangement may be used to translate the force of the actuator, i.e., to increase or decrease it.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the mechanical actuating mechanism may be set up to convert a rotational movement of the actuator into a translational movement for displacing the sealing body. In this case, the mechanical actuating mechanism may comprise a spindle drive for displacing the sealing body. Thus, a typical rotational movement of a servomotor may be converted into a translational movement.

According to one aspect of the invention, the suction protection device may comprise a guide arrangement configured to guide the sealing body between the closed position and the open position. Preferably, the sealing body retains its orientation relative to the load actuator when displaced between the closed position and the open position. The guide arrangement may be configured integrally with the load actuator or as a separate component. The guide arrangement is particularly advantageous if the load actuator is not in direct contact with the sealing body, at least between the closed and open positions. Thus, a defined movement of the sealing body may be provided.

One embodiment of the invention provides that the suction protection device further comprises a force-generating arrangement, in particular a spring arrangement, which is set up to apply another force to the sealing body which is directed against the pulling load of the load actuator. This makes it possible to move the sealing body against the pulling load caused by the load actuator. It should be mentioned that features explained in connection with the load actuator may also apply to the force generating arrangement. For example, if another force of the force generation arrangement acts in the direction of the open position and the pulling load in the direction of the closed position, the sealing body may then be effectively forced into the closed position or into the open position, depending on whether the load actuator or the force generation arrangement is activated or depending on whether the pulling load or the further force is greater.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that a suction force generated by the negative pressure source in an operative state and acting on the sealing body at least proportionally

• • acts in the direction of the closed position or the open position and/or
  • acts in the direction of or against the pulling load of the load actuator.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the suction protection device comprises the air duct arrangement. Thus, the suction protection device may be configured in a modular manner and is therefore versatile. For example, the air duct arrangement may be configured as a module that couples the liquid collection container to the negative pressure source. The air duct arrangement may be coupled directly or indirectly to the liquid collection container and/or the negative pressure source. The air duct arrangement may comprise a respective flange that may be coupled to the liquid collection container or the negative pressure source or intermediate components.

Alternatively, the suction protection device is configured on the air duct arrangement and does not comprise it.

Advantageously, the suction protection device is arranged close to the liquid collection area. Thus, the suction protection device may also be arranged directly adjacent to the liquid collection area. For example, the suction protection device is arranged in the liquid collection container. In this context, the portion of the air duct arrangement between the liquid collection area and the suction protection device may also be short or even omitted. Thus, there are no or hardly any areas next to the liquid collection area where liquid could accumulate between the liquid collection area and the negative pressure source, for example during transportation or a certain inclination of the cleaning device. This means that no or hardly any liquid can reach the negative pressure source when the suction drive is reactivated, and the sealing body is in the open position again.

The invention also relates to a cleaning device for wet cleaning a cleaning surface, comprising:

• • at least a liquid collection container with a liquid collection area for collecting liquid sucked from the cleaning surface;
  • at least an air duct arrangement;
  • at least a negative pressure source arranged to draw air from the liquid collection area via the air duct arrangement in an operative state, so that the receiving container is pressurized to draw in the liquid; and
  • at least a suction protection device according to one of the preceding aspects.

Thus, a cleaning device that provides reliable protection for the negative pressure source may be provided. Damage to the negative pressure source due to liquid escaping from the liquid collection area into the air duct arrangement can thus be avoided.

The cleaning device may be configured as a floor cleaning device for cleaning a floor surface. Furthermore, the cleaning device may be configured as a scrubbing-suction device, which has a scrubbing function and a suction function. Since the cleaning device is configured for wet cleaning, it can also be referred to as a wet cleaning device.

The negative pressure source may be configured as a suction drive, in particular as a suction turbine.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the suction protection device is arranged within the liquid collection area and/or adjacent to the liquid collection area. A short distance in the air duct arrangement between the liquid collection area and the suction protection device prevents that no or little liquid may accumulates in other areas next to the liquid collection area and then reaches the negative pressure source when the suction protection device is in the open position again.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a guide member for guiding the cleaning device, wherein the liquid collection container is arranged on the guide member and is adjustable in position, in particular pivotable or inclinable, together with the guide member. Alternatively, the liquid collection container forms at least part of the guide member and is thus adjustable in position together with the latter, in particular pivotable or tiltable. Tiltable includes tilting in space about at least one predetermined or changing axis and/or within at least one predetermined or changing inclination plane. When the term “adjustable in position” or “pivotable” is used in the present case, this can also include inclinable. Overall, the cleaning device may thus be guided in a simple manner. Furthermore, the negative pressure source can be reliably protected from liquid ingress despite tilting of the guide member.

At least the liquid collection container is adjustable in its length or pivotable or tiltable. This applies regardless of whether the liquid collection container is arranged on the guide member or at least partially forms it. If the liquid collection container is arranged on the guide member, the guide member preferably has a load bearing or supporting function. Thus, the guide member may be configured as a load bearing structure that is sufficiently rigid for the operation of the cleaning device even without the liquid collection container being arranged. If the liquid collection container at least partially forms the guide member, the liquid collection container may at least partially have a load-bearing or supporting function.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device further comprises a cleaning unit and the guide member and/or the liquid collection container is rigidly or movably connected to the cleaning unit. In the case of the rigid connector, the guide member and/or the liquid collection container is/are displaced or pivoted together with the cleaning unit. A movable connector allows the guide member and/or the liquid collection container to be moved relative to the cleaning unit, at least within a certain swivel range.

According to one aspect of the invention, the cleaning device comprises:

• • a cleaning unit; and
  • a joint assembly which has at least one pivot axis and by means of which the guide member is connected in an articulated manner to the cleaning unit.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the guide member is also connected to the cleaning unit in a torque-transmitting manner about its longitudinal axis.

According to a preferred advantageous embodiment of the invention, the joint assembly comprises two leg axes which are configured essentially orthogonal to one another.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises at least one tool, which is associated with the cleaning unit and, in the operative state, rests at least in sections on the cleaning surface. A tool drive can be provided, by means of which the at least one tool can be driven in the operative state, in particular relative to the floor surface. According to an advantageous embodiment, the tool comprises a brush arrangement and/or a grinding wheel and/or processing pads and/or another cleaning tool.

According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a vacuum bar arrangement which can be placed on the floor in the operative state, wherein the liquid may be sucked from the floor into the collecting tank via the vacuum bar arrangement by the negative pressure of the negative pressure source.

The vacuum bar arrangement is preferably associated with the floor unit or attached to it. It may be provided that the vacuum bar arrangement has an operating position, in which it rests on the floor for the operative state, and a non-operating position, in which it does not contact the floor. The vacuum bar assembly may comprise a suction lip to collect liquid and feed it to a suction nozzle, from where the liquid is sucked into the liquid collection area.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device further comprises a suction hose connecting the liquid collection container to the vacuum bar arrangement for sucking up the liquid.

According to one aspect of the invention, a seal is configured in the air duct arrangement, with which the sealing body makes contact in the closed position and, in interaction with this, closes the air duct arrangement in a liquid-tight or fluid-tight manner.

It should be noted that features and embodiments which are explained in connection with the suction protection device may also be provided in the cleaning device with the suction protection device. Furthermore, features and embodiments which are explained in connection with the cleaning device may also be provided in the suction protection device.

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

FIG. 1 a schematic representation of a suction protection device according to a first implementation;

FIG. 2 a schematic further representation of the suction protection device according to the first implementation;

FIG. 3 a schematic representation of a suction protection device according to a second implementation;

FIG. 4 a schematic further representation of the suction protection device according to the second implementation;

FIG. 5 a spatially arranged representation of a cleaning device with a suction protection device;

FIG. 6 an exemplary and schematic sectional view of a suction protection device according to a third implementation in a state arranged on a cleaning device;

FIG. 7 a detailed representation of the suction protection device according to the third implementation;

FIG. 8 a detailed view of the suction protection device according to the third implementation in a state inserted into the elongated shaft;

FIG. 9 a sectional view of the suction protection device according to the third implementation;

FIG. 10 a further sectional view of the suction protection device according to the third implementation;

FIG. 11 an exemplary and schematic partial sectional view of a suction protection device according to a fourth implementation in a state arranged on a cleaning device;

FIG. 12 a sectional view of the suction protection device according to the fourth embodiment; and

FIG. 13 a further sectional view of the suction protection device according to the fourth implementation.

FIG. 1 relates to a schematic representation of a liquid collection container 10 of a cleaning device, in which an air duct arrangement 12 is arranged in an upper region. The air duct arrangement 12 is configured as a separation within the liquid collection container 10 and forms an opening 14, which connects the upper region with a liquid collection area 16 of the liquid collection container 10. A liquid 18 is located in a lower region in the liquid collection area 16. Air is arranged above the liquid 18. If the liquid collection container 10 is empty, the liquid collection area 16 is completely filled with air. A suction line 20 leads into the liquid collection container 10 at a lower side of the liquid collection container 10, whereby this is to be understood merely as an example and access may also be provided at another position of the liquid collection container 10. A suction line 20 is set up to guide a liquid and/or air flow and to supply it to the liquid collection container 10. A splash guard 22 is configured between the suction line 20 and the air duct arrangement 12 in order to prevent sucked-in liquid from splashing in the direction of the opening 14.

A suction connection 22 is configured on an upper side of the liquid collection container 10, which is connected to a negative pressure source not shown. In an operative state, the negative pressure source is set up to pressurize the liquid collection container 10 so that liquid 18 may be sucked into the liquid collection area 16 via the suction line 20. A filter 24 is arranged at the suction connection, which is set up to filter out dirt particles from the sucked-in air so that these cannot enter the negative pressure source. It is provided that the liquid 18 is separated from the liquid and/or air flow drawn in via the suction line 20 in the liquid collection container 10 and collected in the liquid collection area 16. As soon as the liquid 18 in the liquid collection area 16 reaches a predetermined level, the liquid collection container 10 is emptied. For this purpose, the liquid collection container 10 comprises an emptying opening (not shown) for emptying the liquid 18.

A suction protection device 26 according to a first implementation is arranged on the air duct arrangement 12, which comprises a sealing body 28 in the form of a pivotable flap and a load actuator 30. The sealing body 28 is shown in an open position, because it does not close the opening 14, but releases the air duct arrangement 12 for drawing in air from the liquid collection area 16. This may be recognized by the arrows shown by way of example, which represent the air flow. An open position may be understood as any position in which the sealing body 28 releases the opening 14. The load actuator 30 is set up to generate a pulling load by means of which the sealing body 28 may be urged into the open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the sealing body 28 closes the air duct arrangement 12 in such a way that neither liquid nor air can pass from the liquid collection area 16 to the negative pressure source. In other words, the load actuator 30 presses the sealing body 28 into the closed position and thus against the air duct arrangement 12 in such a way that the opening 14 is closed in a fluid-tight manner.

For this purpose, a sealing arrangement, preferably made of rubber material, may be provided in the area of the opening 14, against which the sealing body 28 presses in the closed position.

The load actuator 28 comprises a guide arrangement 29 in the form of a pivot joint, by means of which the sealing body 28 is pivotable between the closed position and the open position. The load actuator 30 is configured as an operable, mechanical pulling mechanism. The pivot joint has a pivot axis A, about which the sealing body 28 is pivotable between the closed position and the open position. In the present case, the pivot axis A is oriented in the plane of the drawing.

A filling level sensor 32 is configured in the liquid collection area 16 near the air duct arrangement 12, which is configured to measure the filling level of the liquid 18 in the liquid collection area 16. Furthermore, an inclination sensor 34 is arranged on the liquid collection container, which is configured to detect an inclination of the liquid collection container 10 in at least one, but in the present case two, spatial directions. The two sensors 32, 34 may be connected to a control device (not shown) whereby the control device may control the load actuator 30 for generating the pulling load depending on the measured values or signals of the sensors 32, 34.

FIG. 2 concerns a schematic representation of the liquid collection container 10 with the suction protection device 26 according to the first implementation, wherein the suction protection device 26 is shown in a different state. Compared to FIG. 1, the load actuator 30 pushes the sealing body 28 into the closed position. As a result, the opening 14 of the air duct arrangement 12 is closed in a fluid-tight manner. It is possible that the negative pressure source continues to generate negative pressure via the suction connection 22 and that this is then present in the upper area of the liquid collection container 10. However, the closed position of the sealing body 28 prevents the liquid collection area 16 from being pressurized as well. This means that no liquid or air is drawn in via the suction line 20. Furthermore, the closed position of the sealing body 28 ensures that neither the liquid 18 nor air from the liquid collection area reach the negative pressure source.

FIG. 3 concerns a schematic representation of a suction protection device 126 according to a second implementation. Compared to FIGS. 1 and 2, the suction protection device 126 has a sealing body 128 which is configured to be ball-shaped or spherical. Furthermore, a guide recess 136 is configured on the sealing body 128, in which a guide arrangement 129 in the form of a guide rod engages. The sealing body 128 is arranged to be displaced on the guide rod 129 between the closed position and the open position. The guide rod 129 guides the sealing body 128 and ensures that the sealing body 128 does not change its orientation relative to the opening 114. A magnetizable material 138 is arranged on the sealing body 128 in a region oriented towards the opening 114. A stop 140 is configured on the guide rod 129, which makes contact with the sealing body 128 in the open position and prevents the sealing body 128 from assuming a position on the guide rod 129 that is impermissibly far from the closed position. A filter 124 is arranged at the suction connection 122, which is set up to filter out dirt particles from the sucked-in air so that these cannot enter the negative pressure source.

A load actuator 130 in the form of a magnet is arranged in the liquid collection area 116, which is configured to attract the magnetizable material 138. For this purpose, the magnet may be configured as a switchable (electro)magnet and may generate a magnetic force depending on the switching state. The magnetic force may act as the pulling load on the sealing body 128 in order to push it into the closed position depending on the switching state. In the present case, the magnet is configured as a permanent magnet. The distance between the magnetizable material 138 and the magnet is selected for the open position in such a way that the magnet does not cause a sufficiently large pulling load on the sealing body 128 to push the sealing body 128 into the closed position against a suction force acting on it due to the air flow through the negative pressure source. However, if the air flow is deactivated or reduced, for example by deactivating the negative pressure source, the sealing body 128 is pushed into the closed position by the pulling load of the magnet.

A filling level sensor 132 is configured in the liquid collection area 116 near the air duct arrangement 112, which is configured to measure the filling level of the liquid 118 in the liquid collection area 116. Furthermore, an inclination sensor 134 is arranged on the liquid collection container 110, which is configured to detect an inclination of the liquid collection container 110 in at least one, but in the present case two, spatial directions. The two sensors 132, 134 may be connected to a control device (not shown), whereby the control device may control the load actuator 130 for generating the pulling load depending on the measured values or signals of the sensors 132, 134.

In FIG. 3, the sealing body 128 assumes the open position. The negative pressure source applies negative pressure to the liquid collection container 110 via the suction connection 122. Due to the open position, air flows past the sealing body 128 through the opening 114. Furthermore, the negative pressure in the liquid collection area 116 draws in liquid and air via the suction line 120. The liquid 118 is separated into the lower region of the liquid collection area 116.

FIG. 4 concerns a schematic representation of the suction protection device 126 according to the second implementation, wherein the sealing body 128 assumes the closed position. The load actuator 130 in the form of the magnet exerts a pulling load on the magnetizable material 138, which reliably holds the sealing body 128 in the closed position. The magnet may be dimensioned such that the pulling load in the closed position is so great that the liquid collection container 110 may be tilted, whereby the force acting on the sealing body 128 in the direction of the open position due to the liquid 118—with a high or also low filling level of the liquid 118—is not enough to move the sealing body 128 out of the closed position. The sealing body 128 remains firmly in the closed position and prevents liquid from passing through the opening 114 of the air duct arrangement 112. However, the pulling load may be dimensioned such that a suction force that is to be generated due to the negative pressure source is being applied on the sealing body 128 to force the sealing body 128 from the closed position into the open position against the pulling load. It may be provided that the negative pressure source has a suction mode that can generate a particularly high suction force, which is higher than in a normal suction mode of the cleaning device. As a further example, reference is made to the switchable magnet mentioned above, which is activated when the sealing body 128 is to be held in the closed position or is to be urged into this position, and which is deactivated when the sealing body 128 is to assume the open position.

FIG. 5 shows a spatially arranged representation of a cleaning device 250 with a suction protection device, which, however, is not visible as it is arranged within the components shown. The cleaning device 250 is configured as a scrubbing-suction machine. The cleaning device 250 comprises a cleaning unit 252 and a guide member 254, which are connected to another in an articulated manner via a joint assembly 256.

Two brush-like tools 258, 260 are assigned to the cleaning unit 252, which may be driven rotationally and then generate a propulsion effect in a propulsion direction V. For this purpose, each tool 258, 260 is assigned a drive arrangement 262, which also supports the respective tool 258, 260. The cleaning unit 252 comprises a plate-like housing 264, to which the two drive arrangements 262 are attached at a distance from one another. The two tools 258, 260 protrude from the housing 264 on an underside of the cleaning unit 252 and contact a floor surface to be cleaned in an operative state. A vacuum bar arrangement 266 is provided at the rear of the housing 264, which comprises two sealing lips 268 and which is supported relative to the floor surface (not shown) via three support wheels 270 arranged at the rear. The sealing lips 268 are preferably formed from rubber-like material. A design with a single sealing lip or with more than two, for example three, sealing lips may also be provided. At a front side of the housing 264, two upwardly inclined transport rollers 272 are provided on bearing projections 274 on the cleaning unit 250. The transport rollers serve to facilitate handling of the cleaning device 250 according to the invention in a storage position, in which the transport rollers 272 contact the base surface and support the cleaning device 250 relative thereto. A replaceable, U-shaped battery unit 276 is arranged at the rear of the housing 264 at a distance from the floor surface and serves to supply the cleaning device 250 with electrical energy. The guide member 254 has an elongated, hollow configured shaft 278 with an operating arrangement 280 attached to the upper end of the shaft. The operating arrangement 280 comprises two handles 282 with associated operating levers.

Together with the operating arrangement 280, the guide member 254 forms a T-shape. A central control panel 284 with a display for displaying an operative state of the cleaning device, such as a current charging state, the current rotational speed of the tools 258, 260, filling levels for various liquids such as clean water, dirty water or cleaning liquid, an inclination angle of the guide member 254, a remaining operating time or similar information is provided in the center of the operating arrangement 280. Furthermore, the central control panel may comprise setting instruments for switching on and controlling various operating parameters of the cleaning device 250, such as the rotational speed of the tools 258, 260 or similar information. This may include a detection device in the form of an actuatable switch 285 for actuating the load actuator.

A freshwater tank 286 and the liquid collection tank 210 are arranged on a front side of the elongated shaft 278. Both containers 286, 210 are attached to the shaft 278 via a respective receiving device and are thus configured to be decoupled from the shaft 278 for filling and emptying. In addition to water, the freshwater tank 286 may be filled with a mixture of water and cleaning liquid. Alternatively, a separate container with cleaning liquid may be provided, which is not shown in the figures. Below the freshwater tank 286, a component not shown in detail is provided for supplying clean water to the cleaning unit 252. At an upper region of the liquid collection container 210, one end of the suction line 220 is coupled thereto. The other end of the suction line 220 is coupled to the cleaning unit 252. The suction line 220 is used to suck air and/or liquid and/or dirt from the vacuum bar arrangement 266 and feed it to the liquid collection container 210. For this purpose, a negative pressure source 288 is provided at a lower end of the elongate shaft 278 in the form of a suction turbine, which is coupled in a manner not shown in detail to the liquid collection container 210 in order to generate a negative pressure therein.

The joint assembly 256 has a first pivot axis B and a second pivot axis C, the guide member 254 being pivotable forwards or backwards by means of the first pivot axis B and to the left or right, i.e. in a lateral direction, relative to the cleaning unit 252 by means of the second pivot axis C. The joint assembly 256 is configured to be rigid about a longitudinal axis L, so that the guide member 254 is connected to the cleaning unit 252 in a torque-transmitting manner about the longitudinal axis L.

The cleaning device 250 may comprise a suction protection device according to an embodiment, as already explained above or as will be explained below.

FIG. 6 relates to an exemplary and schematic sectional view of a suction protection device 326 according to a third implementation in a state arranged on a cleaning device 350. The cleaning device 450 may be the same as shown in FIG. 5. The liquid collection container 310 is arranged on the elongate shaft 378, on which a closable emptying opening 390 for emptying the liquid collection container 310 is configured at an upper end. The emptying opening 390 may additionally function as a connection for a suction line, such as the suction line 220 of FIG. 5, in order to suck in liquid and/or air from the cleaning unit. An operating arrangement 380 is arranged on the elongate shaft 378 as explained above. In the present case, however, the liquid collection container 310 comprises a separately configured connection for connecting the suction line. The liquid collection container 310 has a connection opening 392 on the side, via which it is coupled to an air duct arrangement 312. The air duct arrangement 312 comprises a flange 394, which is coupled in a fluid-tight manner to the connection opening 394 on one side, i.e., on the supply air side, of the air duct arrangement 312. On the other side of the air duct arrangement 312, i.e., on the exhaust air side, a hose connection 322 is configured thereon, which is coupled to a hose 395 arranged within the elongate shaft 378, which in turn is connected to the negative pressure source (not shown). Thus, starting from the negative pressure source, air can be sucked out of the liquid collection area 316 of the liquid collection container 310 via the air duct arrangement 312 in an operative state of the cleaning device 350. However, it is necessary that the suction protection device 326 described in more detail below permits this.

The suction protection device 326 is arranged on the air duct arrangement 312 and has a similar flap-shaped sealing body 328 as explained in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2. The sealing body 328 is mechanically coupled to a load actuator 330 configured as an electric motor. The electric motor is arranged outside the air duct arrangement 312 on the latter and is mechanically coupled to the sealing body 328 for actuating or forcing the same. The sealing body 328 is arranged inside the air duct arrangement 312 and is configured to close, in its closed position, an opening 314 which opens into the flange 392.

FIG. 7 shows a detailed representation of the suction protection device 326 of FIG. 6, which is configured on the air duct arrangement 312. The flange 394 comprises the opening 314, which may be elongated or oval. Further, a flange stop 397 is configured on the flange, which serves the purpose of sealing between the flange 394 and the connection opening 392 against the surroundings. The load actuator 330, which is configured as an electric motor, is arranged on the upper side of the air duct arrangement. The load actuator 330 is mechanically coupled to the sealing body 328 via a lever mechanism 396, which is arranged inside the air duct arrangement 312. A supported spring 398 opposite the air duct arrangement 312 engages with the lever mechanism 396, forcing the sealing body 328 into the closed position. Thus, the load actuator 330 is supported by the spring 398 when being urged into the closed position, in contrast, it has to work against the effect of the spring 398 when being urged into the open position. The spring 398 could also act on the sealing body 328 in the opposite way. Furthermore, the spring 398 could be omitted.

The suction protection device 326 is configured in a modular manner and may be inserted into the elongate shaft 378. In order to insert the suction protection device 326 into the elongate shaft 378, the latter may, for example, be configured from at least two halves that may be coupled to one another or from a sufficiently large opening.

FIG. 8 shows the suction protection device 326 of FIGS. 6 and 7 in a state in which they are inserted into the elongate shaft 378. The flange 394 is coupled to the connection opening 392, wherein an additional seal may be provided between the two to seal against the surroundings. The load actuator 330 engages the lever mechanism 396 on the flap-shaped sealing body 328 and is arranged to pivot it via an actuator axis M between the closed position and the open position shown. At a lower end, the air duct arrangement 312 is coupled to the hose 395.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show the suction protection device 326 of FIGS. 6 to 8 in a sectional view along line D-D in the viewing direction from above, i.e., starting from the operating arrangement (not shown). In FIG. 9, the sealing body 328 assumes the open position, so that the opening 314 for sucking air from the liquid collection container 310 is released. In FIG. 10, the sealing body 328 assumes the closed position so that neither liquid nor air from the liquid collection container 310 can pass through the opening 314 at the flange 394. The sealing body 328 is configured as an elongated, curved flap. The outer surface of the curved sealing body 328 substantially coincides with an inner radius of the air duct arrangement 312. The connecting flange 397 is configured on the flange 394. A sealing arrangement may be provided on the sealing body 328 and/or in the region of the opening, which the sealing body 328 presses into the closing body.

FIG. 11 relates to an exemplary and schematic partial sectional view of a suction protection device 426 according to a fourth implementation in a state arranged on a cleaning device 450. The cleaning device 450 may be the same as shown in FIG. 5. The further implementation differs from the implementation of FIGS. 6 to 10 in that it has a different embodiment of the suction protection device 426 and the air duct arrangement 412, which is similar to that of FIGS. 3 and 4. At the elongate shaft 478, the liquid collection container 410 is shown in a partially sectioned view. The liquid collection container 410 has a receiving curvature 500 to enclose the suction protection device 426, which is attached to the elongated shaft 478. However, a connection port 492 is configured on the receiving curvature 500 to couple the suction protection device 426 to the liquid collection area 416 of the liquid collection container 410 for drawing air. The suction protection device 426 has an air filter 502, via which air may be sucked from the liquid collection container 410 into the suction protection device 426 and is cleaned of dirt particles in the process. The air duct arrangement 412 forms a type of housing of the suction protection device 426 and serves to guide air from the liquid collection container 410 in the direction of the negative pressure source (not shown). As also described above, a hose 495 (not shown) is arranged within the elongated shaft 478 for this purpose, which couples the suction protection device 426 to the negative pressure source for guiding or extracting air. The air duct arrangement 412 forms a closed housing apart from its lower region 504, in which the air filter 502 is arranged. The lower region is configured as a housing part 504 of the air duct arrangement 412 that may be coupled to an upper part. In addition, the multiple parts serve to facilitate the assembly and to remove the couplable housing part 504 from the air duct arrangement 412 and to replace the air filter 502. Two clamping tabs 505 are arranged on the outside of the air duct arrangement 412 to secure the couplable housing part 504 to the air duct arrangement 412. The suction protection device 426 is attached to the elongate shaft 478 by means of screws, although other fastening means may be provided instead or in addition.

FIG. 12 concerns a sectional view of the suction protection device 426 of FIG. 11, which shows the internal structure of the suction protection device 426. For reasons of better representation, the filter is not shown. The sealing body 428 assumes the open position and thus exposes the circularly configured opening 414 of the air duct arrangement 412 in such a way that air can flow through the air duct arrangement 412 (see arrows shown). The sealing body 428 is attached to a guide arrangement 429 configured as a guide rod, on which it can be displaced between the open position and the closed position and is guided by it. It could be said that the sealing body 428 is attached to the guide rod. A magnetizable material 438, specifically ferrous metal, is arranged on the sealing body 428 in a lower region, whereby this could also be a magnet, for example. A load actuator 430 configured as a magnet, which is arranged on the air duct arrangement 412 centrally to the opening 414 and at a distance therefrom, exerts a pulling load on the magnetizable material 438. The magnet 430 could also be arranged on the sealing body 428, in which case magnetizable material or the like would be arranged on the air duct arrangement 412 in order to interact with the magnet. Furthermore, magnets that are oriented to exert a pulling force on each other could be provided. The magnet 430 is arranged in a recess 508 configured on the air duct arrangement 412 and is held therein by a magnet holder 510. The sealing body 428 is arranged at a distance from the magnet 430, so that the magnetizable material 438 is also at a distance from the magnet 430.

The air duct arrangement 412 is configured in a tubular form in its interior. An annular web 512, which is configured on the inner wall of this tubular form, supports a sealing ring 514 and, together with this, forms the opening 414. The sealing ring 514 is configured to cooperate with the sealing body 428 in its closed position and to close the opening 414 in a fluid-tight manner. The guide arrangement 429 is configured on a retaining web 516, which has air passages (not shown), to allow air flow through the air duct arrangement 412. The retaining web 516 is configured in a cross shape.

A hose connection 422 is configured at an upper end of the air duct arrangement 412, which may be coupled directly or via an intermediate piece to a hose 495 in the interior of the elongated shaft 478, which is not shown in detail in FIG. 12.

The air duct arrangement 412 has intake openings 518 in its lower region 504, in which the filter 502 (not shown) is arranged, so that air from the surroundings of the lower region 504 may be sucked into the air duct arrangement 412 through the intake openings 518. After the sealing body 428 assumes the open position and thus exposes the opening 414, air from the surroundings of the lower region can flow through the intake openings 518, through the opening 414 past the sealing body 428 and past the retaining web 514 to the hose connection 422. The magnet is dimensioned in such a way that the pulling load acting on the sealing body 428 due to the magnetic force cannot force the sealing body 428 into the closed position against the suction force acting on it due to the air flow. Since the magnet 430 is spaced apart from the magnetizable material 438, the pulling load acting on the sealing body 428 due to the magnetic force is comparatively small compared to the closed position in which the magnet 430 is only slightly spaced apart from the magnetizable material 438. The loss of suction force resulting from the pulling load is therefore extremely small. The magnet 430 could also be configured as a switchable magnet. Furthermore, the magnet 430 may be configured as a controllable electromagnet or permanent magnet or as a combination thereof, which does not generate a pulling load in an operative state in which the open position is desired and which does generate a pulling load in a different operative state, in which the closed position is desired.

FIG. 13 concerns a sectional view of the suction protection device 426 of FIG. 12, in which, however, the sealing body 428 assumes the closed position. For this purpose, the sealing body 428 has been displaced on the guide arrangement 429 in the direction of the opening 414 and now closes it. The magnetizable material 438 is arranged close to the magnet 430, so that the magnet 430 exerts the pulling load on the magnetizable material 438 and thus on the sealing body 428 and pushes it into the closed position. The pulling load is so great that the sealing body 428 is pressed sufficiently firmly against the sealing ring 514 to close the opening 414 in a fluid-tight manner. Thus, neither liquid nor air can pass through the opening 414. Thus, neither liquid nor air can pass through the air duct arrangement 412. In other words, neither liquid nor air can pass from the liquid collection container to the negative pressure source via the air duct arrangement 412.

In connection with all embodiments, it is understood that the suction protection device may comprise a control device which is set up to control, for example, the load actuator and/or the negative pressure source. Furthermore, the cleaning device may comprise a corresponding control device. This might be configured separately or integrally with a control system of the cleaning device, which controls other components, such as the tools.

Features and embodiments explained in connection with one of the four implementations are transferable to the other implementations. Furthermore, all features and configurations explained in connection with one of the implementations for suction protection devices may be realized in the cleaning device according to FIG. 5 and vice versa.