CZ316097A3 - Exhaust adapter for cleaning wet surfaces - Google Patents

Abstract

The attachment piece (1) has a suction channel (20) arranged in the suction channel housing (15), issuing in a slot-shaped suction mouth (21). The housing covers the fluid application device (3) in an arc formation. The fluid application device is secured in the arc interior, to at least one slide (25), which penetrates the housing (15). On the upper side of the housing, the slide is formed as a handle (26) for position adjustment. The suction mouth is divided crossways to its longitudinal extent into individual suction sections, which in the suction direction issue into a common suction chamber (53).

Description

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

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 to an operating position about an axis parallel to the surface to be cleaned. A slot-shaped suction mouth is also arranged above the surface to be cleaned evenly with the longitudinal side of the sponge or its axis and thus transversely to the usual direction of cleaning, which only abuts against the surface to be cleaned. The suction bell shell and the suction mouth are connected to a suction channel, within which a pressure line for cleaning fluid supply is also arranged.

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 such a way that the liquid applicator surrounds the suction channel housing with an annular connecting element and is guided on the housing in an axial direction against the action of an externally arranged spring. it surrounds the suction channel housing. The above-described uncovered line is susceptible 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 e r p a a a a a a a a a a a a d

due to the high pressure drop across the filter 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 is liquid-permeable. 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 as to be 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, which comprises a liquid applicator which is positionally adjustable relative to a separate housing of the suction channel which extends in the suction mouth. a slot-shaped casing, wherein the casing overlaps the liquid applicator which is disposed within the arch on at least one slide which passes through the casing of the suction channel and is provided with a position adjusting handle on the upper side of the casing a 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 design 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 duct channel housing, for example to change the cleaning cloth, bristles or the like. Inside the arc, i.e. in the working position between the surface to be cleaned and the suction channel which covers the applicator for

liquid, the liquid applicator is mounted on at least one slide. This attachment may optionally be a detachable connection or the slide itself may be separated from the housing I of the suction channel through which it passes, on the upper side. In the housing of the suction channel, the slide is provided with 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 above-mentioned features in relation to the cleaning liquid to be applied to the surface to be cleaned by dividing the suction mouth transversely to its longitudinal direction into individual suction sections which in the suction direction. 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.

Measures consisting of • 4 also contribute to increasing suction power

in that the suction mouth defining the inner wall immediately and continuously merges into a sealing lip. These sealing flaps, which serve to draw off the applied cleaning fluid, are usually mounted in a U-shaped groove 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 precipitated, for example also in the area of the common suction chamber, this liquid will collect in the area of this cross-sectional 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 adapter only retracts and / or sucks the 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, a linear displacement of the applicator is preferred.

- 6 devices for liquid, since 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 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 dust vacuum cleaners A solution is provided in that a phase separation device is provided between the suction mouth and the suction apparatus, 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, it is furthermore advantageous to design a vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing which extends in the suction mouth, through which the suction device sucks the liquid-air mixture from the surface. an orifice and suction apparatus is provided for any phase separation device in which the liquid-air mixture is divided into a liquid phase and a gaseous phase and downstream of which a spray valve is arranged in the exhaust direction which closes the cross section of the suction channel.

Conventional modern household vacuum cleaners are now equipped with overload safety devices, so closing the suction channel is no problem and the suction device is reliably protected against the ingress of liquids, even if larger amounts of water occur that exceed the performance of the separation device. phases. 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. This measure avoids narrowing the cross section of the suction channel and maintains low flow losses in the suction channel. The described solution has the further advantage that when the liquid leaks out of the reservoir. the liquid does not enter the actual suction channel.

A further refinement of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention is that the container is operatively detachably connected to the vacuum cleaner attachment. Thus, irrespective of the spatial arrangement and the attachment to the support element of the vacuum lance, there is the possibility that the full container can be quickly replaced by an empty container, or that the filled container can be emptied and then reused, i.e. inserted into the vacuum lance. The described measure greatly facilitates handling of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention.

In particular, this may be in one of the preferred embodiments

arranged so that the reservoir annularly forms 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 standpoint of easy handling of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention, it is further advantageous if the container is designed to be plugged into the vacuum cleaner attachment.

In a further refinement of the vacuum attachment, the cartridge is designed as a disposable cartridge.

This is particularly advantageous if, according to another embodiment, the container is filled with a liquid absorbing absorbent. This prevents splashing and spilling of liquid inside the container. As a result of this, no liquid can escape even if it enters the reservoir, for example as a result of incorrect handling of the suction lance, which could possibly enter the downstream suction channel.

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

The centrifugal forces required for phase separation are usually generated by deviating the flow direction, for example, so that the flow is deflected by the thrust surfaces, which causes the flow to flow inside the exhaust duct to be

In the region of deflection 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.

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 interspace thus formed

The lo 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, an embodiment of the vacuum adapter in which the guide blade is formed by a continuous helix has also proved to be advantageous. 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 the radial acceleration forces and the sharp deviation of the flow direction in the region of the radial passages to achieve the inertia forces, separation is achieved ·· ····

liquid phase from gas phase.

In this respect, it is further proposed that the gaseous phase extend radially inwardly from the outside of the nozzle body. 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.

In order to separate the residual moisture from the gaseous phase, the so-called liquid droplets, 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 oblong of the sponge px then causes the reversal to revert to 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 container 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 reservoir which is arranged downstream of the nozzle body.

In order to prevent the phases from mixing again at the transition point between the nozzle body and the reservoir where the liquid phase is to be separated from the gas phase, the nozzle body is spring-loaded to the front side of the reservoir. The cartridge and the nozzle body can thus be designed as separate parts, thereby giving the possibility of the cartridge being replaceable. The 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 for example to the aforementioned ring-shaped container. 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, it has proven to be suction-free between the funnel-shaped constriction and the wall.

gap

a few millimeters wide.

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 tension or compression

Accordingly, in engagement with the slide, the spring a is arranged upstream or downstream.

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 is that the container is filled with an absorbent increasing its volume with increasing moisture 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 in such a way that one of the container walls is movable and abuts against the spray valve valve.

Especially in the annular design of the reservoir, it is advantageous if the volume increase in the axial direction acts on the valve slide against splashing water so that when the absorbency is exhausted. absorbent. with the valve, the spray valve closes;

For example, the spool has the shape of a plate and is disposed transversely to the flow direction of the gas phase only.

Similarly, a cone-shaped spindle is 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 provided

as a tension spring.

The invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator with a cleaning fabric which is tensioned over a liquid applicator which is wetted from the rear, the cleaning fabric being provided with frame sidewalls at the edges. for precise fit on 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 preferred that the frame siderails are formed from a cleaning liquid. 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 to or similar to that 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 groove recesses preferably extend transversely to the usual working direction of the liquid applicator and are formed on either side of the application or wetting surface.

For ease of handling, it is preferable that said groove recesses are undercut to puutouabuc 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 trim is reinforced

As a result, the fastening 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 portions are provided with slats which alternately partially overlap the storage spaces for the frame sider which, in the inserted position, is located below the slats, the cleaning fabric. in this way, it is reliably retained in the groove recess by the region of its frame siderail or reinforced bead. Own groove recess

so the vacuum cleaner attachment can have a massive construction in this area. In this case, the frame siderail, or possibly a thickened 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 for reversibly attaching 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 dimensions and geometric conditions

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.

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.

• · · ·

- 18 · Overview 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:

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,

- in FIG. 6, an axial longitudinal cutting attachment with the applicator in the active position, where 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,

- 19, for a disposable cartridge, on a device for closing the cartridge design with a spray valve when the storage capacity of the absorbent mass in the cartridge is exhausted, for an axial longitudinal section through the region of the cartridge with the phase separation device in the cartridge; upstream of the container, detail view of the liquid applicator cleaning cloth, top plan view, side view of the fabric cleaner, a section of the liquid applicator device over which the cleaning fabric is stretched, a section XVI-XVI from the region The attachment of FIG. 15, from which the cleaning fabric is shown in FIG.

The vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention in side view, in the figure corresponding to FIG. 15, relates to a further embodiment of tensioning of the cleaning fabric, however

Fig. 18 shows an enlarged view of a groove for attaching the cleaning cloth, XIX in Fig. 18, a representation corresponding to the insertion of the cleaning cloth, a recess which serves to view in the direction of the arrow

19, but in the course of FIG. 21, another illustration corresponding to FIG. 19, after the frame side of the cleaning fabric has been completely inserted into the

groove recesses,

- 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 using the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 can be used, for example, with conventional household vacuum cleaners. The capillary device, which here comprises a row of bristles 5 extending into the container 4 and resting on the transverse plate 6, provides capillary forces a slow, uniform transport of 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 as indicated by the double arrow.

One edge of the cleaning fabric 7 is clamped in the grip 9 of the applicator 3 for the liquid. 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 2 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 is mounted on the pin 12. it rests on a 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), e.g. household.

The suction mouth 21 has, as can be seen from FIG. 1, a substantially slot-like shape and is arranged parallel to the applicator 3 along its entire length. pro_kapalinu, that 'j, est ...... across the' normal 'direction ... 8.

cleaning.

15 in which the orifice 21 is in the form of a liquid applicator 2. The overlap of the housing 15 locates the suction channel 20 of the projecting slots, extending in an arc at an angle

The skirt in the extractor approximately 70 may also be in the marginal areas transverse to the cleaning direction 8. However, it is preferred that these areas are not covered and can possibly reach the cleaning surface 2 perpendicular to the cleaning surface 2, for example, to a window frame or the like.

The liquid applicator 3 is mounted within said arc on a centrally-actuated slide 25 which extends therethrough.

4, 6 and 9. The slider 25 is substantially strip-shaped and a bend 27 is formed thereon on the upper side of the housing 15 and is formed as a handle 26 for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator 3. FIGS. 180 ° so that the handle 26 can be compressed in the manner of a protruding leaf spring. By pushing the latch 28 out of its locked position in the middle of the three recesses 29, it can then be moved inside 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 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 towards 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. mouth 21, with its sealing flap 31. In this position, the sealing flap 31 can, for example, contract and / or suck off the cleaning liquid that 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.

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 here with a circular cross section. 5. The gripper 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 carrier 32 abuts on the delimitation surface 34 of the guide recess 33 and prevents the latch 28 from engaging the liquid applicator 3 due to the latch 28 engaging, the slide 25 abutting the housing 15.

suction channel 20.

Pressing the handle 26 releases the latch 28 in the rear recess 29 and the slide 25 can slide toward the middle recess 29. As a result, the driver 32 leaves the spacer 34 and the liquid applicator 3 is moved to the middle working position according to FIGS. 1 and 6 by the expanding spring 11, respectively. The driver 32 is now located approximately in the middle of the guide recess 33, a flexible movement of the liquid applicator 3 in the direction of the bidirectional arrow 10 is allowed, but this is limited by the confining surfaces 3.4, 35.

The slide 25 can be moved in the guide. 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, guides 37 are also provided within said arc for the linear displacement of the liquid applicator 3, which is controlled by the slide 25. The guide 37 is formed by an extension 39 on the liquid applicator 3, which is terminated by a sliding stone 40 with a circular cross-section, which is linearly displaceable in the guide channel 44 of the housing 15 of the suction channel 2.0. Said conduits 37 are preferably arranged transverse to the cleaning direction 8 with their ends in the direction of the longitudinal dimension of the liquid applicator 3. The conduit.

on the other hand, it is preferably arranged in the middle - see also FIG.

3. This guide 38 is preferably formed by a mushroom-shaped head 41 with a circular cross section 42 which extends into the undercut grooves 43 in the liquid applicator 3. FIG.

The surface of the hat 42, the undercut groove 43, the guide recess 33 and the guide channel 44 extend in mutually parallel planes. 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. a suitably shaped bearing surface.

· ♦ · ♦ ·

A further displacement of the slide 25 from the position of FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 9 results in the carrier 32 abutting on the defining surface 35 of the guide recess 33. The liquid applicator 3 is thus brought to a position in which it extends before the suction mouth 21. If the latch 28 then snaps into the front recess 29, the liquid applicator 3 is supported by the slide 25 on the casing 15 of the suction channel 20. Further displacement of the applicator 3 for the liquid can still be defined by the stops of the conduits 37, 38. In this position it is only possible to apply the 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 lip 31 thus passes immediately and continuously into the inner wall 52 of the suction orifice 21 of the suction channel 20 with the air via the section 51 of the suction channel 20, which is connected to the suction nozzle 50.

The flow of the suction mixture capsule 51 of the suction channel 20 at location 54 is again diverted in a Z-shaped path before the liquid-air mixture enters the suction chamber 53. This deflection at 54 due to the knives facing the surfaces 5.5, 56 and in conjunction with the shape of the suction nozzle 50 prevents dripping from the suction mouth 21 when the suction device, for example a vacuum cleaner, is disconnected.

The slit-shaped suction mouth 21 is divided into individual slits in its longitudinal direction and thus transversely to the direction of cleaning 8. ······

25 and FIG. 3 and the deviating representation in FIGS. 1 and 3, which is also slightly offset in the region of the suction mouth 21. Ribs 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. towards the side edges of the suction mouth 21. In addition, the length of the suction sections 60 also increases transversely to the outward direction 8. By these measures, uniform suction is ensured along the entire length of the suction mouth 21. The ribs 61 thus define among themselves a plurality of sections 51 of the suction channel 20 which open into the common suction 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 exhaust duct 20 approximately centrally with respect to its mouth 21, the slide 25 and here the conduit 38 is positioned between the exhaust branches 63, 64. FIG. The head 41 of the guide 3.8 located on the axis 68 can be seen. The central arrangement of the pin 13 for the spring 11, which is immovable to the suction channel housing 15 at the same time, can also be seen.

a phase separation device 70 is provided in the suction direction indicated by the arrow 66 and is located in the suction nozzle 1, i.e. between the suction mouth 21 and the suction device (not shown here), for example a dust 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 means of centrifugal forces which arise due to the deviation of the direction n into the t-phase.

The measured pin 13 is arranged between the grooves 36 for guiding the slide sideways

Downstream of the connection 67 of the suction branches 63, the flow can be achieved, for example, by means of opposing Z-shaped obliquely arranged surfaces 55, 56 acting as reflective walls in the suction channel 20. Here, however, the 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 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 obtains a rotating component which is similarly it also forms in known cyclone separators. Thus, a rotating liquid-air mixture emerges from the end of the swirl section 71 of the suction channel 20, in which the heavier particles, i.e. the liquid phase particles, move radially outward, i.e. the funnel-shaped constriction 73, by centrifugal forces. which fills almost the entire cross section of the suction channel 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 interior space 74, which is part of the suction channel 20 here. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the interior space 74 and the reservoir 76 are provided with a common partition 77. The reservoir 76 is closed by a bottom 78 which also rests on the casing 15 of the suction channel 20. A star support 80 is indicated in the inlet region 79 to the reservoir 76. Inside the cartridge 76, there is still an anti-spatter sheet 81 with annularly extending through holes 82, which acts as a valve when the 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 preferably preferably still filled with suction liquid material in which these liquids are deposited, so that the cleaning liquid is bound in the reservoir 76 it is thereby largely prevented from leaking from the container 76, for example in the case of mishandling.

The cartridge 76 is separated in the suction direction downstream of the inlet 79

• • • · • · • · · · · · • • • • · 4 • • · · • • • • · • · • • · · • • • • • • · • • · • • • · • · · • · • · ·

2Ί of the liquid communicates with the suction channel 20, which here is formed by the interior space 74 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73, through the suction channels 84, 85. This creates a vacuum inside the reservoir 76 which supports the phase separation following the swirling section 71.

FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the cartridge 90, which is detachably connected to the vacuum adapter 91 during operation. Due to such an embodiment, the emptying of the container 90 is substantially facilitated. For this purpose, the vacuum adapter 91 has to be disconnected from the suction hose 22, which is easily possible by means of a locking device 92. The cartridge 90, which has a cross-sectional shape, can then be easily slid onto the wall 94 which defines the funnel interior 93, where the cartridge 90 is disposed 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 more liquid occurs, the power of the phase separation device 70a and beyond may be insufficient. into the suction channel 20. The phase separation device 70 sucks the liquid / air mixture with a high liquid phase content 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 vacuum cleaner, the water spray valve 100 closes the cross section of the suction channel 20 through a plate-shaped slide 101 - see FIGS. a compression spring 102, the resilient force of which determines the closure of the slide 101 when more liquid is formed.

Alternatively, a splash-proof valve with, for example, a ball valve in an embodiment known from so-called industrial dust extractors 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 on which the compression spring 102 is also supported. Thus, the plate-shaped slide 101 disposed between the passages 104 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 arranged 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 cartridge 111 is filled here with a liquid-absorbing material, an absorbent 112 which increases its volume as the 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 of the left half 115 of the container 111 to the suction channel shell 117 and as the absorbent volume 112 increases in the axial direction, the right half 116 of the container 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 is adjusted appropriately, and if the volume of the absorbent 112 increases as a result of receiving liquid therein in the axial direction, the valve 110 will be closed when the storage capacity of the absorbent 112 is exhausted. It has been noted that the vacuum cleaner attachment χ can be removed after releasing the locking device 92 and the container 111 with the spent storage capacity of the absorbent 112 therein that can be designed for single use can be replaced by a new container 111. Otherwise only the absorbent needs to be replaced 112, 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.

t

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 20. Here, the nozzle body 150 is upstream of the reservoir 90, which is filled with the liquid soaking material. This nozzle body 150 is substantially sponge-shaped and has a rounded first hemispherical portion 151 with its rounded side facing the general direction of flow. 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.

The nozzle body 150 is hollow, with its

the first hemispherical portion 151 is provided on its outside with radially oriented guide vanes 153 whose tear edges 154 terminate at the level of transition of the first portion 151 to the second portion

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 drops of liquid, is then filtered out by the liquid soaking material 156, for example a sponge, arranged inside the first portion 151 of the spherical shape 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 reservoir 90, the nozzle body 150 is pressed against the front ... side 157 of the reservoir 90 ... the end abutting the annular shoulder 159 in 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 separation device 70 thus performed

.

phase contains no moving parts.

13 and 14 show in detail an alternative embodiment of the cleaning fabric 160. After the cutting fabric 160 has been trimmed to the desired dimensions at its two opposing edges 161 and 162, it has reinforced flanges 163 which represent frame side 16. The reinforced flanges 163 can be cleaning cloth ~ 160, for example, sprayed or glued. In the illustrated embodiment, a preferred embodiment is shown in which the frame side members 16 and / or the thickened skirts 163 are formed from the material of the cleaning fabric 160 itself. Thus, otherwise conventional flanging or other edge reinforcement 161, 162 of the cleaning fabric 160 is omitted. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforced skirts 163 have a circular cross-section, the cleaning fabric 160 extending between the reinforced skins 163 in the radial direction of the reinforced skins 163.

The cleaning cloth 160 is, as already mentioned, stretched over the liquid applicator 3 by which it is moistened from the rear side - see FIG. 15. For this purpose, the cleaning cloth 160 is applied to the application surface of the liquid applicator 3. and thickened. The flanges 163 snap into groove recesses 164 and 165 which are formed on both sides of the liquid applicator. These groove recesses 164, 165 are designed as undercut grooves so that the thickened flanges 163 are firmly attached thereto. To this end, the groove recesses 164, 165 are provided with a protruding projection 166, 167 on their cross-section at least at one edge. The thickened selvedges 163 are pushed into the groove recesses 164, 165 to secure the cleaning fabric 160. During this press, the projections 166, 167 of these groove recesses 164, 165 have to be overcome, assuming the thickened selvedges 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 conceivable that the attachment of the thickened skirt 163 in the groove recesses 164, 165 will only be secured by friction, provided that the thickened skirt 163 is 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 in the application of the vacuum cleaner. This cleaning area 168 is shown in hatched 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 fabric 160, the cleaning fabric 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 form of a groove and tongue in the form of a dovetail joint.

Further, it is conceivable that the thickened skirt 163 will be formed on the entire circumference, i.e. on all sides of the cleaning fabric 160. These additional thickened skirt 163, when affixing the cleaning fabric 160 to the liquid applicator 3, are disposed sideways of the applicator. 3, for the liquid outside the grooves 164, 165. It has proven to be particularly advantageous if these further reinforced flashings form an elastic connection between the reinforced flashings 163 which are pressed into the grooves 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. Attachment has

small design dimensions and is also self-cleaning. The cleaning cloth 160 can be replaced by hand, no tools required. The cleaning cloth 160, together with the fasteners consisting of reinforced ribbons 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 vacuum suction cup 1a by the liquid applicator 3 rearwardly wetted - 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 flanges 163, are pushed into the groove recesses 164, 165, which are formed after 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 is illustrated. Each offset section 169, 170 of the groove recess 164 consists essentially of an inlet region 171,

• · • · • ·· • · ···· • • • ·· 4 • 4 • 4 • • 4 · · • 4 • • 4 · • • • • · 4 4 • 4 4 • • · « • · 4 44 • 4 •

or 172, which faces the mouth of the groove recess 164, and the gripping areas 173 and 174, respectively, at the bottom of the groove recess 164, wherein the gripping areas 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 inlet areas 171, 172.

Due to the increased cross-sectional area of the gripping areas 173, 174, bridges 175, 176 extending into the respective inlet areas 171, 172 are formed between the gripping areas 173, 174 and their respective mouths of the groove recess 164.

The offset portions 169, 170 are along the groove recess

164 are formed alternately such that the projections 175, 176 directed parallel to the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove 164 and the longitudinal x-x projections 175, 176 form a slot-like opening 173 along the length of the groove 164. The lengths of the groove recesses 164 form a receiving space 178 which is approximately adapted to the contour of the intermediate frame side members 16 and / or the reinforced flanges 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 installed. Due to the offset arrangement of the individual offset sections 169 and 170 for inserting the thickened skirt 163, the thickened skirt 163 can be slightly deformed. Thus, the thickened skirt 163 is crimped crimped, corresponding to the inlet regions 171, 172 of the offset portions 169, 170. Subsequently, the thickened skirt 163 automatically springs into a flat shape in the direction of the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recess 164 in the region of the receptacle 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 provided

thickened flanges 163, by simply inserting into the groove recess 164 with spaced apart 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 cleaning fabric 160 itself and stitched. Furthermore, it is possible that the reinforced trim

163 will be sewn, welded or sprayed onto the cleaning fabric 160.

The reinforced bead 163 is straight in the inserted state, but must be slightly deformed during assembly so that it cannot be removed from the groove recess

164 spontaneously fall out.

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

To facilitate easy disassembly of the cleaning cloth 160, the vacuum cleaner 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 exposed part of the length of the frame sidepiece 16, or the reinforced trim 163, is cleaned

fabrics 160. This exposed portion can therefore be simply gripped. 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. which are formed on the offset sections 169, 170.

Fig. 25 shows another alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70 of Fig. 12. The nozzle body 150, which is also upstream here of the reservoir 90, which is filled with liquid-absorbing material, is also provided with guide vanes 153, but 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 exhaust duct 20.

The nozzle body 150, which is provided with guide vanes 153, is arranged downstream of the reservoir 90 in the flow direction. Thus a free space 200 is created between the nozzle body 150 and the reservoir 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 the container 90 and stored therein 90. The gas phase due to

of the described embodiment of the guide vanes 153 free of moisture, flows after leaving the guide vanes 153 through the free space 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.

The features of the invention described in the foregoing description and claims and illustrated in the drawings may be relevant to the practice of the invention both individually and in any combination. All the features described are important to the invention. The scope of the invention is also determined by the content of the respective priority application, the full content of which is hereby claimed.

Claims (53)

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) of the suction channel (20), extending in the aperture (21) in the form of a slot, the casing (15) archingly overlaps a liquid applicator (3) disposed on the at least one slide (25) passing through the casing (15) of the suction channel (20) ) and on the upper side of the housing (15) is provided with a handle (26) for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator (3). A vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing that extends in a slot-like suction mouth, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is transverse to its longitudinal direction. divided into individual suction sections (60), which in the direction of suction discharge into a common suction chamber (53) ........ Vacuum attachment according to claim 2 or particularly according to this claim, 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 (67). 20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) defining the inner wall (52) immediately and continuously merges into the sealing lip (31). ·· ···· Vacuum nozzle according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is tapered in the suction nozzle (50) by its cross section relative to the adjacent section (51) of the suction channel (20). 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 one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to those claims, characterized in that a guide (37, 38) is arranged inside the arc, in which a liquid dispensing device (3) for the slide (25) is linearly displaceable. . Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the displacement of the liquid applicator (3) from the inactive position, when it is retracted behind the suction mouth (21), spring (11), the liquid applicator (3) is movable in this central position independently of the slide (25) against the force of the spring (11) and can be moved from this intermediate position by means of the slide (25) to the position and where it is supported by the slide (25) against the housing (15) of the suction channel (20). Vacuum nozzle according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the slider (25) passes through the housing (15) of the suction channel (20) centrally and that the slider (25) and possibly the guide (38) are arranged between the suction branches (63, 64). A vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing that extends in a suction mouth through which the suction device sucks a liquid-air mixture from the surface, characterized in that between the suction mouth (21) and a phase separation device (70) is provided in the suction apparatus, in which the liquid-air mixture is distributed by centrifugal forces as the flow direction is diverted into a liquid phase and a gaseous phase. Vacuum attachment (1) for cleaning surfaces (2) wet, in particular vertical surfaces (2), comprising a liquid applicator (3) and a casing (15) of a suction channel (20) that extends in the suction mouth (21) ) by means of which the suction device sucks a liquid-air mixture from the surface (2), wherein a phase separation device (70) is arranged between the suction mouth (21) and the suction apparatus, in which the liquid-air mixture is divided into a liquid phase and a gas phase and downstream of which a spray water valve (100) is provided in the exhaust direction, which closes the cross-section of the exhaust port (20) when the phases are not sufficiently separated. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or, in the name of the claims, of the claims. characterized in that in the phase separation device (70) the separated water is collected in a container (76) outside the suction channel (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (90) is detachably connected to the vacuum cleaner attachment (91). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the 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 or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to those claims, characterized in that the container (90) is designed to be plugged into the vacuum cleaner attachment (91). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (90) is designed as a disposable cartridge. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (111) is filled with a liquid-absorbing absorbent (112). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (76) is connected to the suction channel (84) downstream of the inlet (79) of the separated liquid into the container (76). , -85) with an exhaust duct (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the flow is deflected by the thrust faces (54, 55). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the centrifugal forces are induced by swirling the liquid-air mixture. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that in the swirl section (71) of the suction channel (20) the movement of the liquid-air mixture acquires a rotating component. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the phase separation device (70) is designed as a cyclone separator. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the swirling is achievable by guide vanes (153) arranged on the outside of the flow body (150). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the guide blade (153) is formed by a continuous helix. A vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the guide vane (153) aligns in the radial direction with the inner wall of the suction channel (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the helix is double-ended. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, - 43, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is provided with radial gas passages (155). . Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the gas phase extends radially inwardly from the outside of the nozzle body (150). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the radial passages (155) are arranged downstream of the guide vanes (153) in the flow direction. Vacuum nozzle according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is at least partially filled with liquid-absorbing material (156) inside, in the region upstream of the radial passages (155). . Vacuum nozzle according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is arranged upstream of the container (90) in the flow direction. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is pressed by a spring (158) to the front side (157) of the container (90). ·· ···· Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the liquid-air mixture with the rotating movement component in the suction channel (20) encounters a funnel-shaped constriction (73) which almost fills the cross section of the suction channel. (20) and through which the gas phase is guided while the liquid phase is separated over the edge (75) of the funnel-shaped constriction (73). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that a valve slide (101) is arranged transversely to the flow direction inside the suction channel (20), which in the flow direction opposes the force of the compression spring (102). ) closes the cross section of the suction channel (20) when water is present. Vacuum nozzle according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, 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) ..... gate (101) -. - - - ------------- Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (111) is filled with an absorbent (112) increasing its volume with increasing moisture and closing the valve (110) with this volume increase. ) against splashing water. Vacuum nozzle according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that, in the annular design of the container (111), an increase in volume is applied in the axial direction 45 in the direction of the water-jet valve slide (119) such that when the absorbent capacity of the absorbent (112) is exhausted, the water-jet valve slide (119) closes. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the slide (101) has the shape of a plate. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the slide (101) has the shape of a cone. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the spring (102) is designed as a compression spring. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, ....... with the spring (102) being. designed as a tension spring. A vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, with a cleaning fabric which is tensioned over the liquid applicator which is at the rear Wettable, characterized in that the cleaning fabric (7, 160) is provided at the edges with frame sidewalls (16) for a precise fit on the liquid applicator (3). · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the frame side members (16) are designed as reinforced beadings (163). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to those claims, characterized in that the frame side members (16) are attached to the cleaning fabric (7, 160). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the frame side members (16) are formed from a cleaning fabric (160). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the liquid applicator (3) is provided with groove recesses (1.7, 164, 165) for receiving the frame side members (16). A vacuum cleaner attachment according to any one or more of the preceding claims. or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recesses (164, 165) are undercut. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recesses (164, 165) are provided with resiliently flexible fingers for the precise fit of the frame side members (16). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recess 44 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 4 4 ······· · · 4 · 44 ·· ·· · 44 44 · 47 (164, 165) is provided along its length with offset sections (169, 170) perpendicular to its longitudinal axis (xx), wherein the frame side (16) alternately bears on one side and the other side of the groove recess (164, 165) ). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, 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 or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recess (164, 165) is provided with a finger access opening (179). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the finger access opening (179) passes through the side wall (180) of the vacuum cleaner attachment (1). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the finger access opening (179) fully replaces a small part of the length of the groove recess (164, 165) so that in the access opening (179) ) a portion of the length of the frame sill (16) is completely exposed for the finger. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the cleaning fabric (160) is designed to be mirror-symmetrically doubled.