CZ294910B6 - Exhaust adapter for wet cleaning surfaces - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an exhaust adapter /1/ for wet cleaning surfaces /2/, in particular vertical surfaces /2/ wherein the exhaust adapter /1/ includes a liquid application device /3/ the position of which can be adjusted relative to a separately made housing /15/ of a suction channel /20/, issuing in a slot-shaped suction mouth /21/, whereby said liquid application device /3/ is secured in the arc interior, to at least one slide /25/, which penetrates the housing /15/ of the suction channel /15/. On the upper side of the housing /15/, the slide /25/ is formed as a handle /26/ for position adjustment of said liquid application device /3/.

Description

Vacuum cleaner for wet cleaning surfaces

Technical field

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator which is positionally adjustable relative to a separate housing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cleaning devices for cleaning wet surfaces, especially vertical window surfaces, are known in many embodiments. Known cleaning devices of this kind usually consist of a suction device which, in addition to the suction device, also contains a container for cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is supplied from the suction apparatus via a pressure line to the actual cleaning attachment from which it is applied to the surface to be cleaned by means of nozzles, bristles, sponges or the like. The deposited liquid is then sucked again by a suction apparatus, which is most often provided with a suction mouth in the form of a slot, to which the suction channel is connected. These cleaning devices are usually designed as industrial appliances and are accordingly bulky and expensive and also unsuitable for normal household use.

From EP-0 243 323 a cleaning apparatus is known in which a liquid applicator is supplied with a cleaning liquid, or in this case with cleaning steam, by means of a pressure line. In this case, the liquid applicator is provided with a sponge for the application of the cleaning liquid to the surface to be cleaned, which inside the suction bell housing is pivoted into a working position about an axis which is parallel to the surface to be cleaned. Parallel to the longitudinal side of the sponge or its axis, and thus transversely to the usual direction of cleaning, a slot-like suction mouth is provided above the surface to be cleaned, which only abuts against the surface to be cleaned by a sealing lip. The suction bell housing and the suction mouth are connected to a suction channel, within which a pressure line for cleaning fluid supply is also provided. The cleaning attachment and the cleaning device form a functional unit here and cannot be used separately.

Non-published WO 96/01614 discloses a vacuum cleaner for cleaning surfaces in the wet, which can also advantageously be used in the sense of the present invention as a representative device for suction devices as such, for example also as a representative device for household vacuum cleaners. It is essential, as well as here, that the pressure supply from the suction apparatus to the liquid applicator can be omitted and that the suction apparatus can also only be suctioned, i.e. it contains no reservoirs and pressure devices, in particular for the cleaning liquid. For this purpose, the liquid application device of the vacuum cleaner attachment is provided with its own cleaning liquid reservoir so that a separate supply of cleaning liquid is eliminated. The possibility of adjusting the position of the liquid applicator is further described in the cited document, such that the liquid applicator surrounds the suction channel housing with an annular connecting element and is displaceably guided on the housing in the axial direction against the spring. suction channel housing. The uncovered line described is prone to contamination and, due to its good accessibility, also carries the risk of injury.

In the suction channel of the suction nozzle there is further provided a moisture-absorbing filter which removes moisture from the sucked-in air-liquid mixture and accumulates this moisture. This measure achieves a feature which is essential for the use of the vacuum cleaner in conjunction with household vacuum cleaners, i.e., the separation of the individual phases of the liquid / air mixture to be extracted. This is necessary when using conventional household vacuum cleaners due to their electric propulsion and the way they are extracted for safety reasons. However, this phase separation, which is based on filtering, is due to the high pressure

Filter losses in contrast to conventional exhaust technologies. This drawback is particularly pronounced when a further gas-permeable membrane is used which still retains the liquid phase which passes when the storage capacity of the filter material in which the liquid phase is deposited is exceeded.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of these drawbacks, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved design of a vacuum cleaner attachment of this kind for cleaning wet surfaces so that it is easier to handle and more reliable in operation, especially when used in conjunction with conventional household vacuum cleaners.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This object is solved and the drawbacks of known vacuum cleaners of this kind are largely eliminated by the vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator which is positionally adjustable relative to a separate housing according to the invention. The housing is provided with a slot extending in the housing in the form of a slot extending outwardly of the extraction channel, wherein the housing arches over a liquid applicator which is disposed inside the arc on at least one slide which extends through the housing of the extraction channel and provided with an adjustment handle on the upper side of the housing. the position of the liquid applicator. Thus, the liquid applicator is at least partially covered and hence also protected by an arc of the suction channel housing which is designed separately from the liquid applicator. Due to the separate construction of the suction channel housing and the liquid applicator, the liquid applicator also constitutes a substantially separate unit which can be easily replaced by another or separated from the suction channel housing to, for example, replace a cleaning cloth, bristles or the like. Within the arc, i.e. in the operating position between the surface to be cleaned and the suction channel, which covers the liquid applicator, the liquid applicator is mounted on at least one slide. Optionally, the attachment may be a detachable connection or the slide itself may be separated from the suction channel housing through which it extends, and on the upper side of the suction channel housing, the slide has a handle for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator. The aforementioned different operating positions of the liquid applicator are therefore not adjusted by manipulating the rotary knobs or the like on the side of the suction attachment, as in EP-0 243 323, which considerably obstruct the window frame or corner in particular. Similarly, compared to the vacuum attachment described in WO 96/01614, handling and reliability are considerably facilitated.

In particular, household vacuum cleaners must also take into account their limited suction power. Long exhaust ducts, such as hoses, and possible filtering devices represent additional aerodynamic resistances that further reduce suction power. The suction power of the suction nozzle can be further improved in combination with the aforementioned features by separating the suction mouth transversely to its longitudinal direction into individual suction sections which, in the direction of the suction mouth, common exhaust chambers.

Preferably, a plurality of suction branches are connected to the suction chamber, which are further associated in the suction direction in a common section of the suction channel. This measure achieves a uniform velocity profile at the entrance to the suction mouth. This is also due to the fact that a plurality of suction branches which are connected to a common suction chamber achieve a uniform vacuum there. Further, in the direction of suction, the suction branches are then combined in a common cross section of the suction channel, which then ends in the suction device.

To increase the suction power also contributes to the fact that the suction mouth defining the inner wall immediately and continuously merges into the sealing flap. These sealing flaps, which serve to draw off the applied cleaning fluid, are usually mounted in a U-shaped groove.

-2GB 294910 B6 in the suction channel housing. As a result, there is a degree in the wall in which, depending on the circumstances, the withdrawn water can accumulate during suction.

A further increase in the speed of the exhaust air or of the water / air mixture is achieved in that the exhaust mouth is narrowed in its cross section relative to the adjoining section of the exhaust duct in a suction nozzle with a width of up to 5 mm, preferably up to 2 mm. suction approximately corresponds to its width. This measure largely suppresses dripping from the suction mouth after the suction attachment or the suction device has been disconnected, since if the suction liquid is also precipitated, for example also in the area of the common suction chamber, this liquid will collect in the region of this cross section change. Liquid leakage through the suction nozzle or orifice of such a small width is almost eliminated due to the surface tension of the water droplets. In addition, the described measure also achieves the fact that only very small solid bodies are sucked out, so that it is indeed justified to refer only to the sucked-off air-liquid mixture.

As already indicated, it is contemplated that the position of the liquid applicator be changed, for example from an inactive position where the vacuum attachment merely draws and / or draws liquid from the surface to be cleaned and no liquid is applied to the working position where the applied liquid is sucked. and to a further position in which the cleaning liquid is only applied and no suction and / or removal of the cleaning liquid from the surface to be cleaned takes place. In order to change the position of the liquid applicator, a guide is arranged inside the arc in which the liquid applicator is linearly displaceable on the slide. Despite the arc overlap of the specially designed suction channel housing over the liquid applicator, the linear displacement of the liquid applicator is preferred because the guide for such displacement is structurally simple.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the dispenser of the liquid applicator from the inactive position, when it is retracted behind the suction mouth, to the middle working position is under the action of a spring, the liquid applicator in this central position is movable against the spring force independently of the slide. the intermediate position by means of the slide is moved to a position in front of the suction mouth and where it is supported by the slide against the housing of the suction channel. Two sliders may be used which are arranged transversely to the prevailing operating direction and are connected to the ends of the liquid applicator.

However, the central arrangement of a single slide is preferred, which then extends through the housing of the suction channel approximately centrally, with the slide and possibly the guides being arranged between the suction branches. The slide then does not pass through its own suction channel, so that sealing problems or the like are eliminated.

In order to be a vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing which extends in a suction mouth through which the suction device sucks a liquid-air mixture from the surface, also usable in conjunction with A solution is provided between the suction mouth and the suction apparatus in addition to a phase separation device in which the liquid-air mixture is distributed by centrifugal forces when the flow direction is deviated into the liquid phase and the gaseous phase. Due to this phase separation or phase separation, the suction device itself does not suck in any liquid. Thus, there are no problems with the presence of liquid in the electric aspirator or air-conditioning problems associated with the aspiration of liquids.

From the safety point of view, a construction of a vacuum cleaner for the cleaning of wet areas is also advantageous, in which a valve against spray water is arranged downstream of the phase separation device for closing the cross section of the suction channel in case of insufficient phase separation.

Conventional modern household vacuum cleaners are now equipped with overload protection, so closing the suction channel is no problem and the suction device is reliably protected against the ingress of liquids, even if there is a large amount of water that

Exceeds the performance of the phase separation device. This problem is solved in one embodiment of the suction lance according to the invention in that in the phase separation device the separated water is collected in a container outside the suction channel. By this measure, the cross-sectional area of the suction channel is avoided and low flow losses in the suction channel are maintained. The described solution has the further advantage that in the event of leakage of liquid from the separated water container, the liquid does not enter the actual suction channel.

A further refinement of the suction nozzle according to the invention is that the separated water container is connected to the suction nozzle in a separable manner. Irrespective of the spatial arrangement and the attachment to the support element of the suction nozzle, it is possible for the full drained water container to be quickly replaced by an empty drained water container, or the filled drained water container can be emptied and then reused, i.e. vacuum cleaner attachment. The described measure greatly facilitates handling of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention.

In particular, in one preferred embodiment, this can be arranged such that the separated water container forms an annular and / or surrounds the suction channel and / or forms the outer wall of the suction nozzle. In this way, a construction is obtained which, with minimum dimensions, is characterized by a balanced and largely symmetrical geometry of the vacuum lance.

From the point of view of easy handling of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention, it is furthermore advantageous if the separated water container is designed to be plugged into the vacuum cleaner attachment.

In a further refinement of the suction nozzle, the drained water container is designed as a disposable cartridge.

This is advantageous in particular when the separated water container is, according to another embodiment, filled with a liquid-absorbing absorbent. This prevents splashing and spilling of liquid inside the separated water tank. As a result of this measure, even when entering the drained water tank, for example, due to improper handling of the suction lance, no liquid can leak and possibly enter the downstream suction channel.

Especially in this case, the solution can be further used in that the drained water container is connected to the suction channel with the suction channel in the suction direction downstream of the separated liquid inlet to the drained water container. This suction channel is designed so that without any liquid flowing into the suction channel, for example by filling the drained water container with a liquid absorbing material, a vacuum is created in the drained water container which promotes phase separation. At the same time, this measure also prevents leakage of liquid from the inlet to the separated water tank.

The centrifugal forces required for phase separation are usually generated by deviating the flow direction, for example, such that the flow is deflected by the thrust surfaces, which results in a substantially Z-shaped flow path within the exhaust duct.

In the region of deviation of the flow direction, a separate liquid can then be discharged into the reservoir. It is of course advantageous if said outlet is located at a location where the radius of deviation of the flow direction is smallest.

However, it is particularly advantageous if the centrifugal forces are induced by swirling the liquid-air mixture. This means that the flow of the aspirated liquid-air mixture is rotated. In connection with the movement of the mixture in the suction direction, the paths in which the particles move are in the form of helices. Due to centrifugal forces, heavier particles, i.e. entrained water droplets, dirt or the like, travel towards the outer perimeter and can be separated from the gas phase there.

-4GB 294910 B6

Such rotational flow components can be achieved in the swirl section of the suction channel.

The aspirated liquid-air mixture is therefore introduced as tangentially as possible into the swirl section, which has a substantially rotationally symmetrical, preferably circular cross-section. Due to the vacuum on the suction side, the flow of the liquid-air mixture inside the swirling section again obtains a movement component in the suction direction, but at the same time retains its rotational component. The phase separation device is thus designed as a cyclone separator known in the art for phase separation and which can also be used here.

In the matter of separating the liquid from the gas phase, it is further proposed that the swirling of the flow of the liquid-air mixture is achieved by guide vanes which are arranged on the outside of the nozzle body. The nozzle body is preferably designed to be hemispherical or mushroom-shaped, with the rounded outer side facing the general direction of flow. In particular, the rounded head of the nozzle body has a smaller diameter compared to the suction channel. The annular intermediate space thus formed is then partially obstructed by guide vanes arranged on the outside of the head of the nozzle body. These guide vanes cause radial acceleration of the incoming liquid-air mixture. In one embodiment of the suction lance, the guide vanes are oriented radially.

However, it has also proven to be advantageous to provide a suction nozzle in which the guide blade is a continuous helix. The helix is wrapped around the nozzle body and is preferably an integral part of the nozzle body. This helical guide blade also achieves a radial acceleration of the incoming liquid-air mixture.

A further improvement of the suction nozzle according to the invention is that the guide blade is in the radial direction aligned with the inner wall of the suction channel. In this way, it is ensured that, irrespective of the design of the guide vanes, the guide vanes achieve fixation of the nozzle body in the suction channel in the radial direction, so that other fastening elements and means for positively positioning the nozzle body in the suction channel can be omitted.

In the case of using a guide blade in the form of a continuous through helix, it is furthermore advantageous if the helix is double-ended. The guide blade of the nozzle body in this case resembles a double-ended thread.

It is furthermore advantageous if the nozzle body is provided with radial gas phase passages. The nozzle body, which is preferably rotationally symmetrical, is hollow for this purpose, the suction being carried out from the inside thereof. The radial passageways extend approximately transversely to the axis direction. By using the swirling to achieve radial acceleration forces and the sharp deviation of the flow direction in the region of the radial passages to achieve the inertial forces, the liquid phase is separated from the gas phase.

In this direction, it is further proposed that the radial passages in the nozzle body are adapted to pass the gaseous phase from the outside of the nozzle body radially inwards. Due to the acceleration in the radial direction, the liquid phase is discharged through these radial passages into the annular space outside the radial direction.

An embodiment in which the radial passages in the flow direction are arranged downstream of the guide vanes is advantageous. In this sense, a solution can also be used in that the part of the nozzle body in the axial direction behind the guide vanes has a slightly smaller diameter than the rounded part of the nozzle body carrying the guide vanes. In the region of transition between the two parts of the nozzle body, said radial passages are arranged.

-5 CZ 294910 B6

In order to separate the residual moisture from the gaseous phase, the so-called liquid droplet, the nozzle body is at least partially filled with liquid-absorbing material in the region upstream of the radial passages. This material, for example foam, is arranged behind the undercut shoulder in the inner space of the nozzle body. Due to the sharp deviation of the flow direction in the region of the radial passages, the air flow inside the nozzle body is initially deflected against the general flow direction. The rounded region of the head of the nozzle body then subsequently reverses in the general direction of flow. In the region of this inversion there is provided a liquid-absorbing material which removes any residual moisture from the gas phase.

The nozzle body is arranged upstream of the separated water reservoir in the flow direction. The separated liquid phase is transported along the outer surface of the nozzle body around the radial passages further downstream to be subsequently collected in a separate water reservoir arranged downstream of the nozzle body.

In order to prevent the mixing of the liquid phase from the gas phase at the transition point between the nozzle body and the drained water reservoir, to prevent the phases from being mixed again, the nozzle body is spring-pressed against the front side of the drained water reservoir. The drained water reservoir and the nozzle body can thus be designed as separate parts, thereby giving the possibility that the drained water reservoir can be designed as replaceable. The separated water reservoir is preferably a liquid-absorbent material, for example a sponge-like separating material.

The phase separation can also be carried out in such a way that the liquid-air mixture with the rotating movement component in the suction channel encounters a funnel-shaped constriction which almost fills the cross-section of the suction channel and further conducts the gas phase while the liquid phase is separated over is discharged, for example, to the aforementioned ring-shaped separated water tank. Due to centrifugal forces, heavier water droplets, entrained particles and the like will concentrate at the outer edge of the cross-section of the suction channel, from where they are drained off over the funnel-shaped constriction. The dimensions of the funnel-shaped constriction must be adapted to the operating conditions already described, for example, the diameter of the suction channel, the flow rate, the proportion of liquid phase in the liquid-air mixture and the like. In practice, a gap of several millimeters wide has remained between the funnel-shaped constriction and the wall of the suction channel.

In another embodiment, downstream of the phase separation device, there is also an anti-splash valve which is arranged such that a valve gate is arranged inside the suction channel transverse to the flow direction, closing the cross section of the suction channel in the flow direction against the spring force. In this embodiment, the liquid present and the suction vacuum act on the spool in the same direction, thereby also ensuring a reliable closure of the spool. The spring can in this case be designed as a tension or compression spring and is then arranged in the upstream or downstream direction in engagement with the slide accordingly.

It is further preferred that the slide is annular in the tubular section and the gas phase passes through radially outwardly directed passages of the slide. These passages may simply engage the annular shoulder when the gate closes, or may be closed, or may be located in a radial direction outside the suction channel, the cross section of which is tapered by the annular shoulder.

Another advantageous embodiment of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention consists in that the drained water container is filled with an absorbent which increases its volume with increasing humidity, and by this increasing the volume the water spray valve is closed. Said closure can be achieved, for example, by means of a simple rod or lever assembly, possibly also directly so that one of the walls of the container is movable and abuts against the spray valve valve.

-6GB 294910 B6

Especially in the annular design of the separated water container, it is preferred that the separated water container is of an annular design and an increase in the absorbent volume in the axial direction causes the valve to close against the splashing water.

For example, the slide has a plate shape and is arranged transversely to the flow direction, usually only the gaseous phase.

Similarly, cone-shaped spindles are known per se, for example from so-called industrial vacuum cleaners, which are equipped for liquid evacuation.

As already mentioned, the spray-water valve spring can be designed as a compression spring.

Another possibility is that said spring is designed as a tension spring.

The invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner attachment having a cleaning cloth which is tensioned over a liquid applicator which is wetted from behind, wherein the cleaning cloth is provided at the edges with frame side panels for an exact fit to the liquid applicator. The cleaning cloth is usually detachably attached to the holder to allow the cleaning cloth to be replaced, for example, when it is worn or soiled. There are various embodiments of form or clamp attachment of the cleaning fabric. It is known, for example, that the edge of the cleaning fabric can be attached with clips or adhesive tape. Furthermore, joints are known in which the suspension of the cleaning fabric is achieved by means of bristles, as is the case, for example, with commercial brushes on the shaft. It is also known from the state of the art by means of sewn pockets in which the corresponding tongues engage. The drawbacks of these solutions are, on the one hand, the relatively large dimensions of the fasteners and, on the other hand, the difficulty of handling when attaching the fabric, which may possibly result in an inaccurate position of the cleaning fabric. The embodiment with sewn pockets or the like has the drawback of a very expensive sewing. Only the solution according to the invention offers the possibility of cost-effective, simple and quick attachment of the cleaning fabric. The fasteners themselves are small in size, lightweight and self-cleaning. The cleaning cloth can therefore be replaced with one hand, holding the vacuum cleaner attachment with the other hand.

Said frame sidewalls are preferably designed as reinforced trims on a cleaning fabric. After cutting to the desired dimensions, the cleaning fabric is provided with reinforced trim on opposite longitudinal edges.

A solution is possible in which the frame siderails are attached to the cleaning fabric. For example, the frame side members may be sprayed or glued onto the cleaning fabric.

However, it is particularly advantageous that the frame siderails are formed of a cleaning fabric. In this way, the otherwise usual crimping or sewing on the edges of the cleaning fabric is eliminated. The described solution can be further improved by spraying plastic layers at the edges of the cleaning fabric, and this manufacturing operation can be carried out fully automatically. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when a plastic identical or similar to the mass of the cleaning fabric is used, since the entire cleaning fabric can then be easily recycled.

When attached to the liquid applicator, the cleaning fabric is applied or stretched onto the pressure surface of the liquid applicator. For example, the thickened trims or frame sidewalls of the cleaning fabric are then snapped into corresponding areas of the liquid applicator. In practice, this can be done in such a way that the liquid applicator is provided with groove recesses for receiving the frame side members. These grooves cut through

Advantageously, it protects transversely to the usual working direction of the liquid applicator and is formed on both sides of the application or wetting surface.

For ease of handling, it is preferable that said groove recesses are undercut, thereby substantially simplifying the handling of the cleaning fabric. The thickened edging or frame siderails are pushed into the recesses or grooves thus performed.

Another possible alternative is an embodiment in which the groove recesses are provided with resiliently pliable fingers for the precise fit of the frame side members. Preferably, these resiliently pliable fingers are distributed over the entire length of the groove recesses with uniform spacing. If the reinforced edging is made compliant, the attachment can also be achieved only by friction.

A further advantageous embodiment of the suction nozzle according to the invention is characterized in that the groove recesses have offset sections perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, the frame side alternating in portions on one side and the other side of the groove recess. In this way, the possibility of a simple and reliable attachment of the cleaning fabric, which is provided with frame seams formed of reinforced trim, is achieved. The fastening is performed without the need for movable or additional elements by simply inserting the frame side of the cleaning fabric into a groove recess consisting of the aforementioned offset sections. During assembly, the frame siderail or the reinforced edging is pressed into the groove recess, which consists of offset sections, slightly zigzagged. After insertion, the frame sideboard is straightened again along its length. To this end, mutually aligned receptacles for the frame sidepiece are formed in the individual sections of the groove recess offset from one another. On the inlet side, these offset sections are provided with slats which alternately partially overlap the stowage space for the frame sider, which is located below these slats in the inserted position. In this way, the cleaning fabric is reliably fixed in the groove recess by the region of its frame siderail or the reinforced trim. The groove recess itself does not contain any movable elements so that the vacuum attachment can have a massive construction in this area. In this case, the frame siderail or the reinforced bead, which can be formed both by sewing the edge of the cleaning cloth and by sewing, welding or spraying onto the cleaning cloth, is used as a spring to reversibly attach the cleaning cloth to the vacuum cleaner attachment. Thus, this spring is attached to the replaceable component, i.e. the cleaning fabric. Accordingly, when the cleaning cloth is replaced, this spring element is also replaced. The clamping force can be adjusted in almost any range by the dimensions and geometric conditions of the groove recess. It is also conceivable for the frame side of the cleaning fabric to slide into the groove recess provided with offset sections from one another, wherein the individual offset sections are formed so that the frame side alternates with a slight undulation on one side and the other side side of the offset sections. This additionally provides a clamping effect.

It is further preferred that six to ten offset sections are formed along the length of the groove recess.

Further improvements in the groove recess are provided with a finger access opening to facilitate and simplify disassembly of the cleaning fabric. Due to this access opening, the frame siderail or the reinforced trim of the cleaning fabric can be gripped and the frame siderail can simply be pulled out through the mouth of the groove recess due to its elasticity.

The finger access opening extends through the side wall of the vacuum attachment. When removing the cleaning cloth, the end of the frame siderail can thus be gripped.

-8EN 294910 B6

Further preferred is an embodiment in which the finger access aperture fully replaces a small portion of the length of the groove recess such that a portion of the length of the frame sider is fully exposed in the finger access aperture.

Finally, it has proven to be extremely advantageous if the cleaning fabric is double mirror-symmetrical. The cleaning fabric can then be attached to the liquid applicator in up to four different positions so that its cleaning capacity can be fully utilized.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is illustrated by the following non-limiting examples, which are described in the accompanying drawings, which show:

FIG. 1 shows an axial longitudinal section through a first embodiment of a vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention with flow ratios indicated to explain these ratios,

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the suction mouth of FIG. 1,

FIG. 3 shows a bottom view in the direction of arrow III of FIG. 1, with the liquid applicator removed;

FIG. 4 shows an axial longitudinal section through a vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention with a liquid applicator in the inactive position,

FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the line of the liquid applicator of FIG. 4,

FIG. 6 shows an axial longitudinal section through the vacuum attachment with the applicator in the active position, in which the applied liquid is also sucked off,

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the liquid delivery device of FIG. 6,

- Fig. 8 closed water spray valve,

- in Fig. 9, a liquid applicator in the operating position advanced in front of the suction mouth, in which only the cleaning liquid is applied but not sucked out,

FIG. 10 shows a disposable cartridge as disposable cartridge;

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a container with a device for closing the valve against splash water when the storage capacity of the absorbent mass in the container is exhausted,

FIG. 12 shows an axial longitudinal section through a region of the container with a phase separation device upstream of the container,

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the cleaning fabric of the liquid applicator;

- FIG. 14 is a side view of the cleaning fabric,

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the area of the liquid applicator over which the cleaning fabric is stretched,

FIG. 16 shows a section XVI-XVI in FIG. 15 showing the attachment area of the cleaning fabric,

-9EN 294910 B6

17 shows a side view of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention,

-naobr. 18 is a view corresponding to FIG. 15 but relates to another embodiment of tensioning the cleaning fabric,

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of the groove recess that serves to attach the cleaning fabric, in the direction of the arrow XIX in FIG. 18,

20 shows a representation corresponding to FIG. 19, but during the insertion of the cleaning cloth,

FIG. 21 is a further illustration corresponding to FIG. 19, after the frame side of the cleaning fabric has been completely inserted into the groove,

- Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXII - XXII of Fig. 21;

- Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXIII - XXIII in Fig. 21;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the groove recess area of the vacuum cleaner attachment with the frame side of the cleaning fabric inserted;

FIG. 25 is a view corresponding to FIG. 12, but relating to another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In FIG. 1, the suction nozzle 1 is shown in longitudinal section perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned 2 with the liquid applicator 3 in the working position to which it is elastically pressed.

The liquid applicator 3 is provided with its own container 4 for a cleaning liquid (not shown). As a result of this, the pressure supply line for the cleaning liquid can be discharged from the vacuum cleaner. Thus, the basic prerequisites for the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 to be used, for example, are to be used with conventional household vacuum cleaners. The capillary device, which here consists of a row of bristles 5 extending into the container 4 and resting on the transverse plate 6, provides by the capillary forces a slow, uniform transport of the cleaning liquid up to the surface to be cleaned. As a result, the bristle row 5 thus arranged also has a good mechanical cleaning effect which is comparable to that of a scraper. The cleaning liquid, upon leaving the capillaries located between the individual bristles, wets the back of the cleaning fabric 7, which is stretched across the bristle row 5 perpendicular to the usual cleaning direction 8 indicated by the double arrow. One edge of the cleaning fabric 7 is clamped in the grip 9 of the liquid applicator 3. The opposite edge of the cleaning fabric 7, for example a micro-fleece, is connected transversely to the cleaning direction 8 with the frame side walls 16, which here have a circular cross-section. The frame side members 16 are snapped into the undercut recesses 17 in the housing of the liquid applicator 3.

The liquid applicator 3, shown in the operating position in FIG. 1, is displaceable in the direction of the bi-directional arrow 10 against the action of a spring 11, which here is designed as a compression spring and mounted on a pin 12. o the pin 13 on the support plate 14 of the housing 15 of the suction channel 20.

A suction channel 20 is disposed within the housing 15, the suction channel 20 also being understood to mean the entire evacuation of the liquid-air mixture from the surface to be cleaned from the suction mouth 21 through the suction hose 22 to a suction device not shown here, for example a conventional domestic vacuum cleaner. .

-10GB 294910 B6

The suction mouth 21 has, as can be seen from FIG. 1, a substantially slit-like shape and is arranged along its entire length parallel to the liquid applicator 3, i.e. transversely to the normal cleaning direction 8.

The housing 15 in which the suction channel 20 extending in the aperture 21 in the form of a slot is disposed over an arc at an angle of approximately 70 ° of the liquid applicator 3. The overlap of the sheath 15 may also be in the edge regions transverse to the cleaning direction 8, but it is preferred that these areas are not covered and can possibly reach the cleaning frame 2 perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned, for example to a window frame or the like.

The liquid applicator 3 is mounted within said arc on a centrally disposed slide 25 which extends through the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 and is formed as a handle 26 for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator 3 according to FIGS. 4, 6 and 9. The slide 25 is substantially ribbon-shaped and a 180 ° bend 27 is formed thereon so that the handle 26 can be compressed in the manner of a protruding leaf spring. By this depression, the latch 28 extends from its locked position in the middle of the three recesses 29 and can then be moved within the groove 30 in the housing 15 of the suction channel 20. By engaging the latch 28 in one of the recesses 29, the slide 25 can be locked in one of three different positions .

In Fig. 4, the handle 26 is shown in a rearwardly displaced position compared to Fig. 1. Consequently, by means of the slide 25, the liquid applicator 3 is also moved against the action of the spring 11 to the inactive position in which it is retracted against the suction mouth 21. In this inactive position of the liquid applicator 3, only the suction surface 2 is in contact with the surface to be cleaned. In this position, the sealing flap 31 can, for example, retract and / or suck off the cleaning liquid which has been applied to the surface to be cleaned 2. However, the actual application of the cleaning liquid does not take place in this position of the liquid applicator 3.

In order to position the liquid applicator 3 against the action of the spring 11 on the casing 15 of the suction channel 20 in its inactive position, as shown in FIG. 4, the slide 25 is provided with a carrier 32, with a circular cross-section. The carrier 32 is mounted in a guide recess 33 in which it is otherwise freely movable - see also FIGS. 6 and 7.

In the inactive position of FIGS. 4 and 5, the gripper 32 abuts the defining surface 34 of the guide recess 33 and prevents the latch 28 from engaging the rear recess 29 of the liquid applicator 3 with the slide 25 abutting the housing 15 of the suction channel 20.

By pressing the handle 26, the latch 28 is released in the rear recess 29 and the slide 25 can be moved towards the middle recess 29. As a result, the carrier 32 exits the spacer surface 34 and moves the liquid applicator 3 to the middle working position 1 and 6, respectively. The carrier 32 is now located approximately in the center of the guide recess 33, thereby allowing the liquid applicator 3 to move flexibly in the direction of the bi-directional arrow 10, but limited by the spacing surfaces 34, 35. 25 may take place in the conduit. For this purpose, the lateral regions of the slide 25 (not shown) can be guided in corresponding grooves 36 in the housing 15 of the suction channel 20.

In addition, inside the arc are also provided guides 37, 38 for the linear displacement of the liquid applicator 3, which is controlled by the slide 25. The duct 37 is formed by an extension 39 on the liquid applicator 3, terminated by a sliding stone 40 with circular cross section. The conduits 37 are preferably arranged transversely to the cleaning direction 8 with their ends in the direction of the longitudinal dimension of the liquid applicator 3. On the other hand, the guide 38 is preferably arranged in the middle - see also FIG. 3. The guide 38 is preferably formed by a mushroom-shaped head 41

The cap 42, the undercut groove 43, the guide recess 33 and the guide channel 44 extend in parallel planes to each other. . As a result, in the central arrangement of the guide 38, even if the head 41 is rotationally symmetrical, a pivoting movement about its axis 45 is also possible. Said pivoting movement about the axis 45 is defined by abutment of the slide blocks 40 at the ends of the extensions 39 to the face 46 of the guide channel 44 or another suitably shaped bearing surface.

A further displacement of the slide 25 from the position shown in FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 9 results in the carrier 32 abutting the defining surface 35 of the guide recess 33. The liquid applicator 3 is thus brought to a position in which it exits the suction mouth. If the latch 28 then engages in the front recess 29, the liquid applicator 3 is supported by the slide 25 on the housing 15 of the suction channel 20. The further displacement of the liquid applicator 3 can still be limited by the stops of the guides 37, 38. In this position only applying liquid to the surface to be cleaned 2.

1 to 3, a suction device is described in more detail.

The outer side of the cross section of the suction mouth 21 facing the surface to be cleaned is tapered relative to the adjacent section 51 of the suction channel 20 in a suction nozzle 50 having a width of less than 5 mm, here approximately 1.5 mm to 2 mm. In the suction direction, this taper of the cross-section has a length approximately equal to its width. Downstream of the suction nozzle 50, the flow direction of the aspirated liquid-air mixture is diverted for the first time, for which purpose a corner 57 is formed in the sealing lip 31 in which the flow direction changes. The sealing flap 31 thus passes immediately and continuously into the inner wall 52 of the suction mouth 21 of the suction channel 20 through the section 51 of the suction channel 20, which is connected to the suction nozzle 50. 54 is diverted again in the Z-shaped path before the liquid-air mixture enters the suction chamber 53. This deflection at 54 due to the knives facing each other faces 55, 56 and in conjunction with the shaping of the suction nozzle 50 prevents the suction nozzle from disconnecting. equipment such as vacuum cleaners, dripping from the suction mouth 21.

The slit-shaped suction mouth 21 is divided in its longitudinal direction and thus transverse to the cleaning direction 8 into individual suction sections 60 - see also FIG. 3 and the deviating illustration in FIGS. 1 and 3, which is also slightly offset in the area of the suction mouth 21 . Ribs 61 with different heights and different adjustment angles serve to divide the individual suction sections 60. This angle of adjustment with respect to the vertical increases towards the outside, i.e. to the side edges 62 of the suction mouth 21. In addition, the length of the exhaust portions 60 also increases transversely to the outward direction 8. By these measures, uniform exhaustion is ensured over the entire length of the exhaust port 21. The ribs 61 thus define a plurality of portions 51 of the exhaust port 20 which enter the common exhaust chamber 53. To this common suction chamber 53 is connected more, here two suction branches 63, 64, which here are idealized only by the mutual conduction of the paths 65 of the sucked-off liquid-air mixture. The paths 65 and / or the suction branch 63, 64 are further associated in a common cross section of the suction channel 20 in the direction of suction indicated by the arrow 66.

Since the slide 25 in the exemplary embodiment passes through the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 approximately centrally with respect to its mouth 21, the slide 25 and here the conduit 38 is located between the suction branches 63, 64. In FIG. 3, the liquid applicator 3 is not shown. The head 41 of the guide 38 located on the axis 68 can be seen. The central arrangement of the pin 13 for the spring 11 is also disposed on the support plate 14 immovably with respect to the housing 15 of the suction channel 20. The pin 13 is simultaneously arranged between the grooves 36. side slide guide 25.

- 12GB 294910 B6

A phase separation device 70 is arranged downstream of the connection 67 of the suction branches 63, 64 in the suction direction indicated by the arrow 66 and is located here in the suction nozzle 1, i.e. between the suction mouth 21 and the suction device (not shown here). for example with a vacuum cleaner - see also Fig. 4. The phase separation device 70 divides the liquid-air mixture into a liquid and a gaseous phase, in this case by centrifugal forces due to deviations of the flow direction which can be achieved e.g. Surfaces 55, 56 arranged obliquely in the suction channel 20 act as reflective walls. Here, however, centrifugal forces are induced by swirling the liquid-air mixture stream. In the swirl section 71, the aspirated liquid-air mixture, as also indicated by the arrow 66 in Fig. 3, is introduced into the swirling section 71 transversely to its longitudinal axis 72. The movement of the aspirated liquid-air mixture thus gives a rotating component which it also forms in known cyclone separators. Thus, a rotating liquid-air mixture emerges from the end of the swirl section 71 of the exhaust duct 20, in which heavier particles, i.e. liquid phase particles, move radially outwardly, i.e. to a funnel-shaped constriction 73 that fills almost the entire cross-section of the exhaust duct. 20. Only the gas phase is guided through the interior 74 of this funnel-shaped constriction 73. The liquid phase is separated and discharged through the edge 75 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73 into the container 76. This container 76 has a rotationally symmetrical shape and surrounds the inner space 74 which is part of the suction channel 20. In the embodiment of FIG. The container 76 is closed by a bottom 78, which also rests on the housing 15 of the suction channel 20. A star support 80 is indicated in the region of the inlet 79 to the container 76. Inside the container 76 there is still an anti-spraying sheet 81 with annularly distributed through the apertures 82, which acts as a valve when aspirated cleaning fluid accumulates in the rear portion 83 of the cartridge 76. In addition, the anti-splash sheet 71 is also elastically expanded against the casing 15 of the suction channel 20. The reservoir 76 is typically preferably still filled with suction liquid material in which the fluids are deposited, so that the cleaning liquid is bound in the reservoir 76 to a considerable extent. this prevents leakage from the container 76, for example, in case of mishandling.

The reservoir 76 is connected to the suction channel 20 in the suction direction downstream of the separated liquid inlet 79, which is here formed by the interior 74 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73 through the suction channels 84, 85. This creates a negative pressure inside the reservoir 76. 71 supports phase separation.

FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the cartridge 90, which is detachably connected to the vacuum adapter 91 during operation. Such a design makes it much easier to empty the container 90. For this purpose, the suction nozzle 91 needs to be disconnected from the suction hose 22, for example, which is easily possible with a locking device 92. The container 90, which has a cross-sectional shape, can be easily slid over a wall 94 which defines a funnel interior 93 where the container 90 is then positioned between the wall 94 and the wall 95 of the suction channel housing 96. In particular, if the container 90 is filled with a liquid soaking material, it may be a disposable cartridge.

In the suction direction, downstream of the phase separation device 70, there is also a water spray valve 100 which closes the suction channel 20 within the suction nozzle 1. If sudden suction of large quantities of liquid occurs, the power of the phase separation device 70 may be insufficient. The liquid-air mixture with a high liquid phase content is sucked from the phase separation device 70 in the suction direction. In order to prevent this liquid-air mixture from entering the suction hose 22 into a suction device (not shown), for example a dust vacuum cleaner, the spray water valve 100 closes the cross section of the suction channel 20 through a plate-shaped slide. the spring 102, the spring force of which determines the closure of the slide 101 when more liquid is present.

-13 GB 294910 B6

Alternatively, a splash-proof valve with, for example, a ball valve in an embodiment known from so-called industrial vacuum cleaners can also be used.

Here, the plate-shaped slide 101 is guided axially in the tubular section 103 and, in its open position, the exhausted air stream passes through the passages 104 at its periphery. In the closed position shown in FIG. 8, the passages 104 are closed by an annular shoulder 105 which reduces the cross-section of the suction channel 20 and also supports the compression spring 102. The plate-shaped slide 101 disposed between the passages 104 thus closes the free cross section of the suction channel 20, which is narrowed by the annular shoulder 105.

Instead, a plurality of tension springs may be used instead of the compression spring 102, which are disposed between the projection 106 which is rigidly connected to the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 and the star-shaped supports 107 of the slide 101.

In another embodiment of FIG. 11, a spray water valve 110 is shown which has yet another function. The reservoir 111 is filled with a liquid-absorbing material, an absorbent 112, which increases its volume as liquid is received. However, in the fit between the radial walls 113, 114, the volume of the absorbent 112 can only increase in the axial direction, for this purpose the container 111 is designed as a two-piece in the axial direction. As a result, in the front seating in FIG. 11, the left half 115 of the cartridge 111 onto the suction channel housing 117 and the volume of the absorbent 11, 2 in the axial direction increases, the right half 116 of the cartridge 111 will move to the right. The bottom 118 of the cartridge 111 will, as it moves, carry the slider 119 of the valve 110 against the splashing water by the slider 120 toward the closed position. When the closing path of the valve 110 of the spray valve 110 is adjusted appropriately, and if the volume of the absorbent 112 increases due to the liquid uptake here in the axial direction, the spray valve 110 closes when the storage capacity of the absorbent 112 is exhausted. , the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 can be removed after releasing the locking device 92, and the container 111 with exhausted storage capacity of the absorbent 112 contained therein, which can be designed for single use, can be replaced by a new container 111. Otherwise, only the absorbent 112 needs to be replaced. which may optionally be reusable, i.e. regenerate and / or dry for reuse.

The connection of the vacuum cleaner 1 to the suction hose 22 is carried out in a conventional manner. A suction hose 22, such as a conventional household vacuum cleaner, is provided at the end with, for example, an injection sleeve 125 which is locked in the connection flange 126. A sealing ring 127 is disposed between this connection flange 126 and the suction hose sleeve 22. aside also against the splash housing 128 of the valve 110. After pressing the button 130, which is pivotable about the axis 129, against the action of the leaf spring 131, the locking tab 132 is released and the vacuum adapter 1 can then be detached from the suction hose 22.

It is at the discretion of the person skilled in the art whether the spray water valve 100 will be a component part of the suction hose 22 or the suction nozzle 1. Depending on this, the connection or splitting construction is carried out, since the two possible solutions are practically applicable.

Fig. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70. Here, a jet body 150 is upstream of the reservoir 90, which is filled with the liquid soaking material. This jet body 150 is substantially sponge-shaped, and its rounded first hemispherical portion 151 is turned with its rounded side up against the general flow direction. The downstream second portion 152 is cylindrical in shape and coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the suction channel 20. The diameter of the second cylindrical portion 152 is somewhat smaller than the largest diameter of the first hemisphere portion 151.

- 14GB 294910 B6

The nozzle body 150 is hollow, its first part 151 of hemispherical shape on its outer side being provided with radially oriented guide vanes 153 whose tear edges 154 terminate at the level of transition of the first part 151 to the second part 152 of the nozzle body 150.

In the region of the step transition from the first portion 151 to the second portion 152 of the nozzle body 150, radial passages 155 are formed that extend substantially transverse to the axial direction.

Because the liquid phase in the exhaust air stream has a higher inertia and specific gravity than the gaseous phase, the vortexing in the area of the guide vanes 153 and the sharp diversion due to radial passageways 155 separate the liquid phase from the gas phase. The liquid phase thus separated is then introduced into and stored in the reservoir 90. Any residual moisture, the so-called entrained liquid droplets, is then filtered off by the liquid soaking material 156, for example a sponge, arranged inside the first portion 151 of the hemispherical shape of the nozzle body 150.

To prevent the separate liquid and gaseous phases from being mixed again in the region of transition from the nozzle body 150 to the cartridge 90, the nozzle body 150 is pressed against the front side 157 of the cartridge 90. A compression spring 158 is provided. the region of the suction channel 20 and with its other end on the front sides of the guide vanes 153 facing this compression spring 158.

Due to the described alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70, a position of independent liquid phase separation is achieved in a minimal design space. This provides a number of advantages in terms of function and handling, since no electrical energy and therefore no energy converters, such as motors or electromagnets, are required for phase separation. In addition, the phase separation device 70 thus performed does not contain any moving parts.

13 and 14, an alternative embodiment of the cleaning fabric 160 is shown in detail. After cutting to the desired dimensions, the cleaning fabric 160 is provided at its two opposite edges 161 and 162 with reinforced flanges 163 which represent frame side 16. The reinforced flanges 163 may be sprayed or glued onto the cleaning fabric 160, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, a preferred embodiment is shown in which the frame side members 16 or thickened skirts 163 are formed from the fabric of the cleaning fabric 160 itself. This avoids otherwise conventional crimping or other edge reinforcement 161, 162 of the fabric cleaning 160. In the illustrated embodiment the thickened skirt 163 has a circular cross-section, wherein the cleaning fabric 160 extends between the thickened skirt 163 in the radial direction of the thickened skirt 163.

The cleaning cloth 160 is, as already mentioned, stretched over the liquid applicator 3 by means of which it is moistened from the rear - see FIG. 15. For this purpose, the cleaning cloth 160 is applied to the application surface of the liquid applicator 3 and the reinforced bead 163 are snapped into groove recesses 164 and 165 which are formed on both sides of the liquid applicator 3. These groove recesses 164, 165 are designed as undercut grooves so that the thickened flanges 163 are firmly attached thereto. The groove recesses 164, 165 are provided with a protruding projection 166, 167 on at least one edge thereof at least at one edge thereof. The thickened skirts 163 are pressed into the groove recesses 164, 165 to secure the cleaning cloth 160. During this pressing the projections 166 must be overcome. 167 of these groove recesses 164, 165, which assume that the reinforced flanges 163 are resilient. Upon pressing, the protrusions 166, 167 engage the thickened selvedges 163, thereby reliably securing the position of the cleaning fabric 160 on the liquid applicator 3.

In one alternative embodiment, the groove recesses 164, 165 may be provided with resiliently flexible fingers to form the reinforced flanges 163. Further, it is possible to imagine the embodiment, in

294910 B6 wherein the attachment of the reinforced flanges 1 in the groove recesses 164, 165 will only be ensured by friction, provided that the reinforced flanges 163 are resiliently flexible.

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 15, only a small portion of the total area of the cleaning fabric 160 is used when the suction nozzle 1 is applied. This cleaning area 168 is shown in hatched pattern in FIG. 13, which is a plan view of the cleaning fabric 160. In order to take full advantage of the cleaning capacity of the cleaning cloth 160, the cleaning cloth 160 is twice mirror-symmetrical so that it can be attached to the liquid applicator 3 in four different positions.

The thickened flanges 163 and the groove recesses 163, 164 into which the thickened flanges 163 fit can, in contrast to the described embodiments, also have other cross-sectional shapes. For example, it is conceivable that the cross-sections will have the shape of a groove and tongue in the form of a dovetail joint.

Further, it is conceivable that the thickened skirts 163 will be formed on the entire circumference, i.e., on all sides of the cleaning fabric 160. These additional thickened skins 163, when the cleaning fabric 160 is attached to the liquid applicator 3, are disposed sideways of the applicator 3. It has proven to be particularly advantageous if these further thickened flanges form an elastic connection between the thickened flanges 163 which are pressed into the groove recesses 164, 165.

Due to the described embodiment of the cleaning fabric 160, a cost-effective, simple and quick attachment of the cleaning fabric 160 to the liquid applicator 3 is achieved. The mounting has small constructional dimensions and is also self-cleaning. The cleaning cloth 160 can be replaced by hand, no tools required. In addition, the cleaning cloth 160, together with the fasteners consisting of the reinforced beading 163, can also be washed.

If the cleansing fabric 160 is provided with reinforced plastic bands 163 sprayed on the periphery, expensive sewn flanges and the like will be dispensed with. The production of the cleaning fabric 160 can then be fully automated. It has proven to be a particular advantage that the use of the same or similar materials for the cleaning fabric 160 and the thickened trim 163 also achieves a good recyclability of the cleaning fabric 160.

Figures 17 to 24 show an alternative embodiment of the attachment of the cleaning cloth 160. The cleaning cloth 160 is tensioned over the liquid applicator 3 in the suction lance 1 and is moistened from behind by the liquid applicator 3 - see Fig. 18. for this purpose, they are applied to the application surface of the liquid applicator 3 and subsequently the frame side walls 16 of the cleaning fabric 160, which are formed by reinforced beading 163, are pressed into the groove recesses 164, 165 formed on both sides of the liquid applicator 3. .

The groove recesses 164, 165 are designed such that each of these groove recesses 164, 165 is provided with perpendicular portions 169, 170 offset perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recesses 164, 165. In the illustrated embodiment, along the length eight offset sections 169, 170 are formed in each case of the groove recess 164, 165.

19 to 24, an exemplary embodiment of the groove recess 164. Each offset section 169, 170 of the groove recess 164 consists essentially of an inlet region 171 and 172, respectively, which faces the mouth of the groove recess 164, and a gripping region 173 and 174, respectively. at the bottom of the groove recess 164, wherein the gripping regions 173, 174 have an enlarged cross-section compared to the inlet regions 171, 172. The alignment is such that the gripping areas 173, 174 on one side in alignment extend into respective entry areas 171, 172. Due to the increased cross-section of the gripping areas 173, 174 there are between these gripping areas

- 16GB 294910 B6

173, 174 and the associated orifices of the groove recess 164 formed by bridges projecting into the respective inlet regions 171, 172 with projections 175, 176.

The offset sections 169, 170 are shaped alternately along the groove recess 164 so that parallel to the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recess 164 and the longitudinal x-x projections 175, 176 form a slot-like opening along the groove recess 164. the gripping regions 173, 174, when viewed in the direction of the length of the groove recess 164, form a receiving space 178 which is approximately adapted to the contour of the inserted frame side panels 16 or the reinforced beading 163 - see FIGS. 22 and 23.

The thickened skirt 163 is pushed into the groove recesses 164 and 165. When the cleaning fabric 160 is mounted, the thickened skirt 163 can be slightly deformed due to the offset arrangement of the individual offset sections 169 and 170 for inserting the thickened skirt 163. Thus, the thickened skirt 163 is crimped crimped, corresponding to the inlet regions 171, 172 of the offset sections 169, 170. Subsequently, the thickened skirt 163 automatically springs into a flat shape along the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recess 164 in the region of the recess 178. The cleaning fabric 160, which follows the thickened selvedge 163, passes through the slit-through opening 177.

Due to the embodiment of the invention, it is possible to simply attach the cleaning fabric 160, which is provided with thickened skirts 163, by simply inserting it into the groove recess 164 with its offset sections 169, 170 spaced along its length, without requiring any moving or additional components. The thickened selvedges 163 may be formed from the material of the cleansing fabric 160 itself and stitched. Furthermore, it is possible that the thickened skirts 163 can be sewn, welded or sprayed onto the cleaning fabric 160.

The thickened skirt 163 is straight in the inserted state, but must be slightly deformed during assembly, so that it cannot fall out of the groove 164 spontaneously.

It has proved to be advantageous here that the thickened skirt 163 acts as a spring mounted on the replaceable part, i.e. the cleaning fabric 160. The clamping force can be adjusted to virtually any extent by the dimensions of the groove recesses 164, 165. In the case of any movable or compliant components, the region of these groove recesses 164, 165 may have a massive construction.

The offset portions 169, 170 of the groove recesses 164, 165 can alternatively also be designed such that after the introduction of the thickened skirt 163, which can also be accomplished by lateral insertion, the thickened skirt 163 remains slightly wavy and follows the contour of the offset sections 169, 170. as a result, the cleaning fabric 160 is additionally clamped in the region of the thickened skirt 163.

To facilitate easy disassembly of the cleaning fabric 160, the vacuum attachment 1 is provided with a finger access aperture 179. This finger access aperture 179 is formed in the region of the side wall 180 of the suction extension 1 and extends through the side wall 180. This finger access aperture 179 replaces a small portion of the length of the groove recess 164 and 165, so that the finger access aperture 179 is completely a portion of the length of the frame sidebar 16 or a thickened trim 163 of the cleaning fabric 160 is exposed. Thereafter, the cleaning fabric 160 is removed, either by pulling the thickened skirts 160 from the groove recesses 164, 165 along the x-x axis of the groove recesses 164, 165, or by pulling the thickened skins 163 from the groove recesses 164, 165 through the inlet regions 171, 172. that are formed on the offset sections 169, 170.

Fig. 25 shows another alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70 of Fig. 12. The jet body 150, which is also upstream of the reservoir 90, which is filled with liquid-absorbing material, is also provided with guide vanes 153, which are

-17GB 294910 B6 are designed as a continuous helix. The guide vanes 153 thus form a double-ended thread which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the suction channel 20. The nozzle body 150 has a rounded hemispherical shape, the rounded side of its head facing the general direction of flow. The diameter of the nozzle body 150 is smaller than the diameter of the suction channel 20 in which the nozzle body 150 is arranged.

The guide vanes 153, which are helically arranged around the nozzle body 150, align radially with the inner wall of the suction channel 20, and in a preferred embodiment in which the nozzle body 150 is integrally formed with the guide vanes 153, the guide vanes 153 provide radial fixation of the nozzle body 150 in the suction channel 20.

The nozzle body 150, which is provided with guide vanes 153, is arranged downstream of the cartridge 90 in the flow direction. Thus, a free space 200 is created between the nozzle body 150 and the cartridge 90.

Through the helical guide vanes 153, the liquid phase is reliably separated from the gas phase, and the separated liquid phase is then introduced into and stored in the container 90. The gas phase, which is dehumidified due to the described embodiment of the guide vanes, flows after leaving guide vanes 153 through clearance 200.

In this case, too, it is conceivable that the nozzle body 150 is hollow and, in the direction of flow, a hollow section of cylindrical shape whose diameter is smaller than the largest diameter of the nozzle body 150 in the shape of a hemisphere. This cylindrical section is provided with radial passages extending transversely to the axial direction through which the gas phase separated from the liquid phase passes. A sponge or similar mass may be provided within the nozzle body 150 in the region of its head.

PATENT CLAIMS

Claims (50)

PATENT CLAIMS A vacuum cleaner attachment (1) for cleaning surfaces (2) in wet conditions, in particular vertical surfaces (2), comprising a liquid applicator (3) which is positionally adjustable relative to a separate housing (15), characterized in that: according to claim 1, characterized in that in the housing (15) a suction channel (20) extends in a slot-like suction mouth (21), the housing (15) archingly overlapping a liquid applicator (3) which is mounted on at least one slide ( 25), which passes through the housing (15) of the suction channel (20) and is provided on the upper side of the housing (15) with a handle (26) for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator (3). Vacuum nozzle according to claim 1, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is divided transversely to its longitudinal direction into individual suction sections (60) which open into a common suction chamber (53) in the suction direction. Vacuum attachment according to claim 2, characterized in that a plurality of suction branches (63, 64) are connected to the suction chamber (53), which are further associated in the suction direction in a common section (67) of the suction channel (20). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) defining the inner wall (52) immediately and continuously merges into the sealing lip (31). -18GB 294910 B6 Vacuum nozzle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is tapered in relation to the adjacent section (51) of the suction channel (20) in a suction nozzle (50) with a width of up to 5 mm, preferably up to 2 mm, wherein the length of the suction nozzle (50) in the suction direction approximately corresponds to its width. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 1, characterized in that a guide (37, 38) is arranged inside the arc, in which a liquid dispensing device (3) is linearly displaceable on the slide (25). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid applicator (3) is provided with a spring (11) for moving the liquid applicator (3) from the inactive position when it is retracted behind the suction mouth (21). ), to a central operating position, wherein the liquid applicator (3) independently of the slide (25) is movably opposed to the spring force (11) and is displaceably displaced by the slide (25) to the position in front of and where it is supported by the slide (25) against the housing (15) of the suction channel (20). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the slide (25) passes through the housing (15) of the suction channel (20) centrally and that the slide (25) and possibly the duct (38) are arranged between the suction branches (63). 64). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a phase separation device (70) is arranged between the suction mouth (21) and the suction apparatus, in which the liquid-air mixture is distributed by centrifugal forces when the flow direction is deviated into liquid. phase and gas phase. Vacuum attachment according to Claim 9, characterized in that a downstream valve (100) is arranged downstream of the phase separation device (70) for closing the cross section of the suction channel (20) in the event of insufficient phase separation. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 9 and 10, characterized in that the phase separation device (70) is provided outside the suction channel (20) with a reservoir (76, 90) for separated water. Vacuum lance according to claim 11, characterized in that the separated water container (90) is detachably connected to the vacuum lance (91). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separated water container (76) annularly forms and / or surrounds the suction channel (20) and / or forms the outer wall of the suction attachment (1). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separated water container (90) is designed to be plugged into the vacuum cleaner attachment (91). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separated water container (90, 111) is designed as a disposable cartridge. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 15, characterized in that the separated water container (111) is filled with a liquid-absorbing absorbent (112). -19GB 294910 B6 Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drained water container (76) is connected to the suction channel (84, 85) with the suction channel in the suction direction downstream of the drained liquid (79) into the container (76). (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the phase separation device (70) is designed as a cyclone separator. Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the phase separation device (70) is provided with guide vanes (153) which are arranged outside the flow body (150) in the phase separation device (70). . Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 19, characterized in that the guide blade (153) has the shape of a continuous helix. Vacuum nozzle according to one of the preceding claims 19 and 20, characterized in that the guide vane (153) is aligned in the radial direction with the inner wall of the suction channel (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 20, characterized in that the continuous helix of the guide blade (153) is two-pronged. Vacuum nozzle according to claim 19, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is provided with radial gas passages (155). Vacuum nozzle according to claim 23, characterized in that the radial passages (155) in the nozzle body (150) are adapted to pass the gaseous phase from the outside of the nozzle body (150) radially inwards. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 23 and 24, characterized in that the radial passages (155) in the nozzle body (150) are arranged downstream of the guide vanes (153) in the flow direction. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to any one of the preceding claims 19 to 25, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is at least partially filled with liquid-absorbing material (156) in the region upstream of the radial passages (155). Vacuum nozzle according to one of the preceding claims 19 to 26, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is arranged upstream of the separated water reservoir (90) in the flow direction. Vacuum nozzle according to one of the preceding claims 19 to 27, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is pressed by a spring (158) to the front side (157) of the separated water reservoir (90). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a funnel-shaped constriction (73) is provided in the suction channel (20) for guiding the gas phase and for separating the liquid phase over the edge (75) of the funnel-shaped constriction (73). almost fills the cross section of the suction channel (20). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a valve slide (101) is arranged transversely to the flow direction inside the suction channel (20), which closes the cross section of the suction flow in the direction of flow against the spring force (102). channel (20). -20GB 294910 B6 Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 30, characterized in that the slide (101) is guided annularly in the tubular section (103) and the gas phase passes through radially outwardly directed passages (104) of the slide (101). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drained water container (111) is filled with an absorbent (112) increasing its volume with increasing moisture, and by this increasing the volume the water spray valve (110) closes. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 32, characterized in that the separated water container (111) has an annular design and an increase in the volume of the absorbent (112) in the axial direction causes the valve (110) to close against the water splash. Vacuum extension according to any one of the preceding claims, the slide (101) having the shape of a plate. Vacuum extension according to any one of the preceding claims, the spool (101) being cone-shaped. characterized in that: Vacuum nozzle according to claim 30, designed as a compression spring. Vacuum attachment according to claim 30, designed as a tension spring. characterized in that the spring (102) is characterized in that the spring (102) is Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a cleaning cloth (7, 160) which is tensioned over a liquid applicator (3) with which it is wetted from the rear, wherein the cleaning cloth (7, 160) is provided at the edges with frame side members (16) for precise fit on the liquid applicator (3). Vacuum attachment according to claim 38, characterized in that the frame side members (16) are designed as reinforced beadings (163). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 38 and 39, characterized in that the frame side members (16) are attached to the cleaning fabric (7, 160). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 38 to 40, characterized in that the frame side members (16) are formed from a cleaning fabric (160). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid applicator (3) is provided with groove recesses (17, 164, 165) for receiving the frame side members (16). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 42, characterized in that the groove recesses (164, 165) are undercut. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 and 43, characterized in that the groove recesses (164, 165) are provided with resiliently flexible fingers for the precise fit of the frame side members (16). -21 GB 294910 B6 Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 to 44, characterized in that the groove recess (164, 165) has offset sections (169, 170) disposed perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis (xx), wherein the frame siderail (16) alternatingly engages one side and the other side of the groove recess (164, 165). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 to 45, characterized in that six to ten offset sections (169, 170) are formed along the length of the groove recess (164, 165). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims 42 to 46, characterized in that the groove recess (164, 165) is provided with a finger access opening (179). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to claim 47, characterized in that the finger access opening (179) passes through the side wall (180) of the vacuum cleaner attachment (1). Vacuum attachment according to one of the preceding claims 47 and 48, characterized in that the finger access opening (179) fully replaces a small part of the length of the groove recess (164, 165) such that in the finger access opening (179) fully exposed part of the length of the frame siderail (16). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning fabric (160) is designed to be mirror-symmetrically doubled. 11 drawings