EP1241972A1 - Wall and floor cavitation cleaner - Google Patents

Wall and floor cavitation cleaner

Info

Publication number
EP1241972A1
EP1241972A1 EP00981384A EP00981384A EP1241972A1 EP 1241972 A1 EP1241972 A1 EP 1241972A1 EP 00981384 A EP00981384 A EP 00981384A EP 00981384 A EP00981384 A EP 00981384A EP 1241972 A1 EP1241972 A1 EP 1241972A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cleaning device
ultrasound
cleaning
cleaned
sonotrode
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP00981384A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Kai Desinger
Harald Hielscher
Gerhard Müller
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Laser und Medizin Technologie GmbH
Original Assignee
Laser und Medizin Technologie GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Laser und Medizin Technologie GmbH filed Critical Laser und Medizin Technologie GmbH
Publication of EP1241972A1 publication Critical patent/EP1241972A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B3/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
    • B08B3/04—Cleaning involving contact with liquid
    • B08B3/10—Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration
    • B08B3/12—Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/29—Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid
    • A47L11/30—Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4011—Regulation of the cleaning machine by electric means; Control systems and remote control systems therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4036—Parts or details of the surface treating tools
    • A47L11/405—Machines using UV-lamps, IR-lamps, ultrasound or plasma cleaning
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4077—Skirts or splash guards

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a cleaning device for the ultrasound-assisted cleaning of stationary surfaces of use, with an ultrasound source and an ultrasound transmitter connected to it, hereinafter also referred to as ultrasound transducer.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a cleaning device of the type mentioned, with which larger areas can be cleaned as effectively as possible.
  • this object is achieved in a cleaning device of the type mentioned at the outset, which has a fluid film unit which is at least indirectly connected to the ultrasound transmitter and is designed to generate or hold a fluid film between the ultrasound transmitter and a surface to be cleaned.
  • the ultrasound source and the ultrasound transmitter preferably comprise at least one ultrasound generator, at least one ultrasound transducer and at least one sonotrode, the fluid film unit having a sealing device which is connected to the sonrode, the ultrasound transducer and ultrasound generator and is designed to form a fluid cushion between the sonotrode and a surface to be cleaned to obtain.
  • the sealing device preferably comprises a sealing lip system which is designed to move a limited fluid cushion over a usable surface to be cleaned and which is preferably at least two-shell.
  • the central sonotrode preferably has a feed for cleaning liquid.
  • the fluid film unit preferably comprises suction means for extracting excess fluids. These suction means are preferably provided within the sealing lip system.
  • the free end of the central sonotrode is preferably designed in the form of a beam-shaped bending oscillator. If the central sonotrode has an end surface facing the surface to be cleaned, this end surface is preferably essentially rectangular.
  • the cleaning device has a handle which enables the ultrasound cleaning device to be easily moved over the usable surface to be cleaned.
  • the cleaning device preferably has a power regulator for ultrasound power to be emitted, which can preferably be operated from the handle.
  • the cleaning device preferably comprises an adjusting device for a quantity of fluid to be supplied and / or extracted. This is preferably adjustable from the handle.
  • the cleaning device preferably has a limit value unit which is designed to set and detect limit values for switching off the energy and fluid supply.
  • An alternative cleaning device with a cleaning end surface facing a surface to be cleaned is characterized in that the cleaning end surface is designed as an array of individually excited sonotrodes, each with a round end surface.
  • a bending beam which is matched to the resonance frequency of the ultrasound used is preferably coupled at the end of the ultrasound transducer and can then be excited to bending vibrations in the ultrasound range.
  • a suitably dimensioned disk can also be fitted instead of the bending beam, which is also excited via an ultrasound sonotrode.
  • Both the beam as well as the plate transducer are preferably designed in a rectangular shape, so that right-angled room and facade corners can also be cleaned with such a cleaning system.
  • the bending beam or plate and in a preferred embodiment also the ultrasound-feeding sonotrode, are provided with a central bore through which the fluid adapted to the cleaning problem is supplied.
  • the bending oscillator (beam / plate) is mounted in a frame with the ultrasound transducer, so that the ultrasound vibrations generated are not transmitted to it.
  • the system can be stored and fixed in the vibration nodes of the ultrasound resonance system using suitable mechanical connections (e.g. pressing in, shrinking of bearing rings).
  • This storage frame is provided on its circumference with a highly flexible, abrasion-resistant sealing lip, which is preferably made of silicone rubber or polyurethane (Vulkollan), so that the liquid supplied can be held as a fluid cushion between the bending vibrator and the surface to be cleaned.
  • a further sealing lip is provided circumferentially to the first sealing lip, the space between the first and second sealing lip being connected to a suction device, so that fluid which emerges from the first sealing lip is then transferred the suction in the space between the first and second sealing lips can be sucked off.
  • this extracted fluid is returned to the fluid circuit via a suitable filter device, so that as little fluid loss as possible occurs through the process.
  • the fluid supply is further controlled via the control circuit of the sonotrode or via corresponding microswitches in the area of the sealing lips, in order to ensure that there is always sufficient fluid cushion for the cavitation process, on the other hand to ensure that when the cleaning head is lifted off the surface to be cleaned Fluid supply is interrupted to prevent uncontrolled leakage or to protect the system and the items to be cleaned from damage.
  • a mutually offset, linear array of power ultrasound transducers in the form of longitudinally oscillating composite transducers with flanged amplidans transformers can also be used, which are each provided with the cleaning liquid (for example tensides, Bases, acids, enzymes, special ultrasonic cleaning agents) can be supplied.
  • the cleaning liquid for example tensides, Bases, acids, enzymes, special ultrasonic cleaning agents
  • two coaxially arranged sealing lips serve to hold and then suck off the cleaning liquid. Due to the liquid cavitation, the vibrating sonotrode is lifted by a few hundredths of a millimeter from the cleaning material in a kind of hydrodynamic bearing. The high alternating pressures of a few kilobars that occur during cavitation clean the surface gently and efficiently.
  • FIG. 1 shows a basic arrangement of an ultrasonic cleaning head according to the invention with a sonotrode designed as a flexural oscillator;
  • FIG. 2 shows an at least two-shell sealing lip system for an ultrasonic cleaning head according to FIG. 1;
  • Figure 3 is a view of the bending vibrator shown in Figure 1 from the
  • Figure 4 is a plan view of an array-shaped arrangement of individual round
  • Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of a handheld ultrasonic floor or wall cleaner.
  • FIG. 1 shows the basic arrangement of an ultrasonic cleaning head according to the invention, consisting of the ultrasonic generator 1, the sound transducer 2 and the sonotrode 3.
  • the supply of electrical energy takes place via an energy supply 5 and the supply and suction of the cleaning fluid via the hose system 4.
  • the sonotrode 3 designed as a beam-shaped bending oscillator.
  • Figure 2 illustrates the principle of an at least two-shell sealing lip system 8 and 9, the sonotrode 3 protruding through the opening 6 into the area of the inner sealing lip ring 8 and suction of the centrally supplied amount of fluid through a circumferential hose and groove system 7 within the sealing lip ring 9 ,
  • FIG. 3 shows a view of the bending vibrator 3 shown in FIG. 1 from the active side.
  • the fluid supplied via the feed line 4 is flushed through individual pores 11 into the area of the ultrasound effect.
  • FIG. 4 shows a plan view of an array-like arrangement of individual round sonotrodes within a rectangular end frame.
  • the round sonotrodes 10 are arranged within a two-shell sealing lip system 8 and 9 and also have a central fluid supply 11.
  • the rectangular frame 7 is not itself an ultrasonic vibrator, but rather a guide.
  • Figure 5 shows the basic structure of a hand-held ultrasonic floor or wall cleaner with a handle 12, which is articulated to the generator 1, ultrasonic transducer 2 and sonotrode 3 and has operating options for power control 1 3 and electrical connection line 5 and suction / Flushing connection line 4 to a mobile supply device 14, which contains the energy supply and suction / flushing device and filter device.
  • the mobile supply part 14 is connected to the regular power supply via a normal mains connection 15.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Plasma & Fusion (AREA)
  • Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)
  • Apparatuses For Generation Of Mechanical Vibrations (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and device for effecting the ultrasound-supported cleaning of stationary use-surfaces. The inventive device is comprised of one or more ultrasound generators (1), ultrasonic transducers (2) and of one or more essentially flat sonotrodes (3), whereby the unit consisting of a sonotrode (3), an ultrasonic transducer (2) and of a generator (1) can be guided in a mobile manner on a fluid pad, which is delimited by a sealing lip system (8, 9), over the use-surface that is to be cleaned.

Description

Wand- und Boden-KavitationsreinigerWall and floor cavitation cleaner
Die Erfindung betrifft eine Reinigungsvorrichtung zur ultraschallgestützten Reinigung von ortsfesten Gebrauchsflächen, mit einer Ultraschallquelle und einem mit dieser verbunden Ultraschallübertrager, im Folgenden auch Ultraschall-Trans- ducer genannt.The invention relates to a cleaning device for the ultrasound-assisted cleaning of stationary surfaces of use, with an ultrasound source and an ultrasound transmitter connected to it, hereinafter also referred to as ultrasound transducer.
Es ist bekannt, dass mittels geeigneter Ultraschallschwinger auf entweder piezoelektrischer oder elektrostriktiver Basis mittels daran angekoppelter mechanischer Amplitudentransformationseinrichtungen Ultraschallschwingungen axial in entsprechend zylindrische - zumindest axialsymmetrische - Stäbe oder Scheiben eingebracht werden können. Es ist weiterhin bekannt, diese Stäbe am Ende pilzartig aufzuweiten, um damit die Kontaktfläche, an der Ultraschall abgegeben wird, zu vergrößern bzw. die Amplitude zu erhöhen. Derartige Konfigurationen haben jedoch den Nachteil, dass der Ultraschall mehr oder weniger punktuell abgegeben wird und dass es in der Regel erforderlich ist, die entsprechenden Stäbe und Stempel in eine Flüssigkeit einzutauchen und den zu reinigenden Gegenstand sodann in die Nähe des Stabes und/oder Stempels zu bringen. Bisher sind jedoch keine technischen Lösungen bekannt, Ultraschall flächig an offenen Boden- oder Wandflächen zu applizieren und das Kavitationsmedium lokal im Bereich der Ultraschallapplikation zu halten.It is known that by means of suitable ultrasonic vibrators on either a piezoelectric or electrostrictive basis and by means of mechanical amplitude transformation devices coupled thereto, ultrasonic vibrations can be introduced axially into correspondingly cylindrical - or at least axially symmetrical - rods or disks. It is also known to widen these rods at the end in a mushroom-like manner in order to increase the contact area at which ultrasound is emitted or to increase the amplitude. However, such configurations have the disadvantage that the ultrasound is emitted more or less selectively and that it is usually necessary to immerse the corresponding rods and stamps in a liquid and then to bring the object to be cleaned in the vicinity of the rod and / or stamp. So far, however, no technical solutions have been known to apply ultrasound flatly to open floor or wall surfaces and to keep the cavitation medium locally in the area of the ultrasound application.
Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Reinigungsvorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art anzugeben, mit der sich möglichst wirksam auch größere Flächen reinigen lassen.The invention has for its object to provide a cleaning device of the type mentioned, with which larger areas can be cleaned as effectively as possible.
Erfindungsgemäß besteht die Lösung dieser Aufgabe in einer Reinigungsvorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art, welche eine Fluidfilm-Einheit aufweist, die mit dem Ultraschallübertrager zumindest mittelbar verbunden und ausgebildet ist, einen Fluidfilm zwischen dem Ultraschallübertrager und einer zu reinigen Fläche zu erzeugen oder zu halten.According to the invention, this object is achieved in a cleaning device of the type mentioned at the outset, which has a fluid film unit which is at least indirectly connected to the ultrasound transmitter and is designed to generate or hold a fluid film between the ultrasound transmitter and a surface to be cleaned.
Vorzugsweise umfasst die Ultraschallquelle und der Ultraschallübertrager mindestens einen Ultraschallgenerator, mindestens einen Ultraschallwandler sowie mindestens eine Sonotrode, wobei die Fluidfilmeinheit eine Dichteinrichtung aufweist, die mit der Sontrode, dem Ultraschallwandler und Ultraschallgenerator verbunden und ausgebildet ist, ein Fluidpolster zwischen der Sonotrode und einer zu reinigen Fläche zu erhalten.The ultrasound source and the ultrasound transmitter preferably comprise at least one ultrasound generator, at least one ultrasound transducer and at least one sonotrode, the fluid film unit having a sealing device which is connected to the sontrode, the ultrasound transducer and ultrasound generator and is designed to form a fluid cushion between the sonotrode and a surface to be cleaned to obtain.
Die Dichteinrichtung umfasst vorzugsweise ein Dichtlippensystem, welches ausgebildet ist, ein begrenztes Fluidpolster über eine zu reinigende Gebrauchsfläche mobil zu führen und welches vorzugsweise mindestens zweischalig ist.The sealing device preferably comprises a sealing lip system which is designed to move a limited fluid cushion over a usable surface to be cleaned and which is preferably at least two-shell.
Bei einer Reinigungsvorrichtung mit einer zentralen Sonotrode, verfügt die zentrale Sonotrode vorzugsweise über eine Zuführung für Reinigungsflüssigkeit. Außerdem umfasst die Fluidfilm-Einheit vorzugsweise Absaugmittel zur Absaugung überständigen Fluids. Diese Absaugmittel sind vorzugsweise innerhalb des Dichtlippensystems vorgesehen.In the case of a cleaning device with a central sonotrode, the central sonotrode preferably has a feed for cleaning liquid. In addition, the fluid film unit preferably comprises suction means for extracting excess fluids. These suction means are preferably provided within the sealing lip system.
Bei einer Reinigungsvorrichtung mit einer zentralen Sonotrode mit einem freien Ende, ist das freie Ende der zentralen Sonotrode vorzugsweise in Form eines balkenförmigen Biegeschwingers ausgelegt. Besitzt die zentrale Sonotrode eine der zu reinigenden Fläche zugewandte Endfläche, ist diese Endfläche vorzugsweise im Wesentlichen rechteckigförmig ausgebildet.In the case of a cleaning device with a central sonotrode with a free end, the free end of the central sonotrode is preferably designed in the form of a beam-shaped bending oscillator. If the central sonotrode has an end surface facing the surface to be cleaned, this end surface is preferably essentially rectangular.
Die Reinigungsvorrichtung weist in einer bevorzugten Ausführungsvariante einen Handgriff auf, der ein leichtes Verschieben der Ultraschallreinigungsvorrichtung über die zu reinigende Gebrauchsfläche ermöglicht.In a preferred embodiment variant, the cleaning device has a handle which enables the ultrasound cleaning device to be easily moved over the usable surface to be cleaned.
Außerdem besitzt die Reinigungsvorrichtung vorzugsweise einen Leistungsregler für abzugegebende Ultraschall-Leistung, der vorzugsweise von dem Handgriff aus bedienbar ist.In addition, the cleaning device preferably has a power regulator for ultrasound power to be emitted, which can preferably be operated from the handle.
Die Reinigungsvorrichtung umfasst vorzugsweise eine Einsteileinrichtung für eine zuzuführende und/oder abzusaugende Fluidmenge. Diese ist vorzugsweise vom Handgriff aus einstellbar.The cleaning device preferably comprises an adjusting device for a quantity of fluid to be supplied and / or extracted. This is preferably adjustable from the handle.
Vorzugsweise besitzt die Reinigungsvorrichtung eine Grenzwerteinheit, die ausgebildet ist, Grenzwerte zum Abschalten der Energie- und Fluidversorgung einzustellen und zu detektieren.The cleaning device preferably has a limit value unit which is designed to set and detect limit values for switching off the energy and fluid supply.
Eine alternative Reinigungsvorrichtung mit einer einer zu reinigenden Fläche zugewandten Reinigungsendfläche, zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Reinigungsendfläche als Array einzeln angeregter Sonotroden mit jeweils runder Endfläche ausgeführt ist. Im Folgenden werden sinnvolle Kombinationen und Vorteile der zuvor genannten Merkmale erläutert.An alternative cleaning device with a cleaning end surface facing a surface to be cleaned is characterized in that the cleaning end surface is designed as an array of individually excited sonotrodes, each with a round end surface. Useful combinations and advantages of the aforementioned features are explained below.
Zur flächenhaften Erzeugung von Ultraschall wird vorzugsweise am Ende des Ultraschall übertragenden Schallwandlers ein auf die Resonanzfrequenz des benutzten Ultraschalls abgestimmter Biegebalken angekoppelt, der sodann zu Biegeschwingungen im Ultraschallbereich angeregt werden kann. In Weiterführung des Erfindungsgedankens kann statt des Biegebalkens auch eine geeignet dimensionierte Scheibe angebracht werden, die ebenfalls über eine Ultraschallsonotrode angeregt wird. Sowohl der Balken- wie der Plattenschwinger werden vorzugsweise in rechteckiger Form ausgelegt, so dass mit einem derartigen Reinigungssystem auch rechtwinklige Raum- und Fassadenecken reinigbar sind. Um nunmehr an der zu reinigenden Oberfläche Kavitation erzeugen zu können, wird der biegeschwingende Balken bzw. die biegeschwingende Platte, und in einem bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiel auch die Ultraschall zuführende Sonotrode, mit einer zentralen Bohrung versehen, über die das der Reinigungsproblematik angepasste Fluid zugeführt wird. Gleichzeitig wird derBiegeschwinger (Balken/Platte) mit dem Ultraschall-Transducer in einem Rahmen gelagert, so dass die erzeugten Ultraschall-Schwingungen auf diesen nicht übertragen werden. Dazu kann man in den Schwingungsknoten des Ultraschall-Resonanzsystems das System über geeignete mechanische Verbindungen (z. B. Einpressen, Einschrumpfen von Lagerungsringen) lagern und fixieren. Dieser Lagerungsrahmen wird an seinem Umfang mit einer hoch flexiblen, abriebfesten Dichtlippe versehen, die vorzugsweise aus Silikonkautschuk oder Polyurethan (Vulkollan) besteht, so dass die zugeführte Flüssigkeit als Fluidpolster zwischen Biegeschwinger und zu reinigender Oberfläche gehalten werden kann. Um beim Traversieren des Reinigungskopfes ein Ausströmen überschüssiger Flüssigkeit zu verhindern, wird erfindungsgemäß zirkumferent zur ersten Dichtlippe eine weitere Dichtlippe vorgesehen, wobei der Zwischenraum zwischen erster und zweiter Dichtlippe an eine Saugvorrichtung angeschlossen wird, so dass Fluid, das aus der ersten Dichtlippe austritt, dann über die Absaugung im Zwischenraum zwischen erster und zweiter Dichtiippe abgesaugt werden kann. Erfindungsgemäß wird dieses abgesaugte Fluid über eine geeignete Filtervorrichtung wieder dem Fluidkreislauf zugeführt, so dass ein möglichst geringer Fluidverlust durch den Prozess eintritt. Erfindungsgemäß wird weiterhin die Fluidzufuhr über den Regelkreis der Sonotrode gesteuert bzw. über entsprechende Mikroschalter im Bereich der Dichtlippen, um sicherzustellen, dass für den Kavitationsprozess immer ein ausreichendes Fluidpolster vorhanden ist, um andererseits sicherzustellen, dass bei Abheben des Reinigungskopfes von der zu reinigenden Oberfläche die Fluidzufuhr unterbrochen wird, um ein unkontrolliertes Ausströmen zu vermeiden bzw. das System und das Reinigungsgut vor Beschädigung zu schützen.For the areal generation of ultrasound, a bending beam which is matched to the resonance frequency of the ultrasound used is preferably coupled at the end of the ultrasound transducer and can then be excited to bending vibrations in the ultrasound range. As a continuation of the inventive concept, a suitably dimensioned disk can also be fitted instead of the bending beam, which is also excited via an ultrasound sonotrode. Both the beam as well as the plate transducer are preferably designed in a rectangular shape, so that right-angled room and facade corners can also be cleaned with such a cleaning system. In order to be able to generate cavitation on the surface to be cleaned, the bending beam or plate, and in a preferred embodiment also the ultrasound-feeding sonotrode, are provided with a central bore through which the fluid adapted to the cleaning problem is supplied. At the same time, the bending oscillator (beam / plate) is mounted in a frame with the ultrasound transducer, so that the ultrasound vibrations generated are not transmitted to it. For this purpose, the system can be stored and fixed in the vibration nodes of the ultrasound resonance system using suitable mechanical connections (e.g. pressing in, shrinking of bearing rings). This storage frame is provided on its circumference with a highly flexible, abrasion-resistant sealing lip, which is preferably made of silicone rubber or polyurethane (Vulkollan), so that the liquid supplied can be held as a fluid cushion between the bending vibrator and the surface to be cleaned. In order to prevent excess liquid from flowing out when the cleaning head is being traversed, a further sealing lip is provided circumferentially to the first sealing lip, the space between the first and second sealing lip being connected to a suction device, so that fluid which emerges from the first sealing lip is then transferred the suction in the space between the first and second sealing lips can be sucked off. According to the invention this extracted fluid is returned to the fluid circuit via a suitable filter device, so that as little fluid loss as possible occurs through the process. According to the invention, the fluid supply is further controlled via the control circuit of the sonotrode or via corresponding microswitches in the area of the sealing lips, in order to ensure that there is always sufficient fluid cushion for the cavitation process, on the other hand to ensure that when the cleaning head is lifted off the surface to be cleaned Fluid supply is interrupted to prevent uncontrolled leakage or to protect the system and the items to be cleaned from damage.
In einer weiterführenden Variante des erfindungsgemäßen Gedankens ist aber auch ein zueinander versetztes, lineares Array von Leistungs-Ultraschall-Wandlern in Form von longitudinal schwingenden Verbundwandlern mit angeflaschten Am- plidutentransformatoren einsetzbar, welche über je eine Zentralbohrung mit der Reinigungsflüssigkeit (z. B. Tenside, Basen, Säuren, Enzyme, spezielle Ultraschall- Reinigungsmittel) versorgt werden können. Durch den Einsatz als linear versetztes Array lassen sich damit ebenfalls großflächige, ebene Objekte effizient reinigen. Auch hier dienen zwei koaxial angeordnete Dichtlippen zum Halten und anschließenden Absaugen der Reinigungsflüssigkeit. Durch die Flüssigkeitskavitation wird die schwingende Sonotrode vom reinigenden Gut in einer Art hydrodynaischer Lagerung um einige hundertstel Millimeter angehoben. Durch die bei der Kavitation entstehenden hohen Wechseldrücke von einigen Kilobar wird die Fläche schonend und effizient gereinigt.In a further variant of the idea according to the invention, however, a mutually offset, linear array of power ultrasound transducers in the form of longitudinally oscillating composite transducers with flanged amplidans transformers can also be used, which are each provided with the cleaning liquid (for example tensides, Bases, acids, enzymes, special ultrasonic cleaning agents) can be supplied. By using it as a linearly offset array, large, flat objects can also be cleaned efficiently. Here, too, two coaxially arranged sealing lips serve to hold and then suck off the cleaning liquid. Due to the liquid cavitation, the vibrating sonotrode is lifted by a few hundredths of a millimeter from the cleaning material in a kind of hydrodynamic bearing. The high alternating pressures of a few kilobars that occur during cavitation clean the surface gently and efficiently.
Die Erfindung soll nun anhand von Ausführungsbeispielen mit Hilfe der Figuren näher erläutert werden. Die Figuren zeigen:The invention will now be explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments with the aid of the figures. The figures show:
Figur 1 eine prinzipielle Anordnung eines erfindungsgemäßen Ultraschallreinigungskopfes mit einer als Biegeschwinger ausgebildeten Sonotrode; Figur 2 ein mindestens zweischaligen Dichtlippensystem für einen Ultraschallreinigungskopf gemäß Fig. 1 ;Figure 1 shows a basic arrangement of an ultrasonic cleaning head according to the invention with a sonotrode designed as a flexural oscillator; FIG. 2 shows an at least two-shell sealing lip system for an ultrasonic cleaning head according to FIG. 1;
Figur 3 eine Ansicht des in Figur 1 gezeigten Biegeschwingers von derFigure 3 is a view of the bending vibrator shown in Figure 1 from the
Wirkseite;Active side;
Figur 4 eine Draufsicht auf eine arrayförmige Anordnung einzelner runderFigure 4 is a plan view of an array-shaped arrangement of individual round
Sonotroden einer alternativen Ausführungsform;Alternative embodiment sonotrodes;
Figur 5 eine alternative Ausführung eines handführbaren Ultraschall-Bodenoder -Wandreinigers.Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of a handheld ultrasonic floor or wall cleaner.
Figur 1 zeigt die prinzipielle Anordnung eines erfindungsgemäßen Ultraschallreinigungskopfes, bestehend aus dem Ultraschallgenerator 1 , dem Schallwandler 2 und der Sonotrode 3. Die Zufuhr elektrischer Energie erfolgt über eine Energiezufuhr 5 und die Zufuhr und Absaugung des Reinigungsfluids über das Schlauchsystem 4. Dabei ist die Sonotrode 3 als balkenförmiger Biegeschwinger ausgebildet.FIG. 1 shows the basic arrangement of an ultrasonic cleaning head according to the invention, consisting of the ultrasonic generator 1, the sound transducer 2 and the sonotrode 3. The supply of electrical energy takes place via an energy supply 5 and the supply and suction of the cleaning fluid via the hose system 4. The sonotrode 3 designed as a beam-shaped bending oscillator.
Figur 2 macht das Prinzip eines mindestens zweischaligen Dichtlippensystems 8 und 9 deutlich, wobei die Sonotrode 3 durch die Öffnung 6 in den Bereich des inneren Dichtlippenringes 8 hineinragt und durch ein umlaufendes Schlauch- und Nutensystem 7 innerhalb des Dichtlippenringes 9 die Absaugung der zentral zugeführten Fluidmenge erfolgt.Figure 2 illustrates the principle of an at least two-shell sealing lip system 8 and 9, the sonotrode 3 protruding through the opening 6 into the area of the inner sealing lip ring 8 and suction of the centrally supplied amount of fluid through a circumferential hose and groove system 7 within the sealing lip ring 9 ,
In Figur 3 ist eine Ansicht des in Figur 1 gezeigten Biegeschwingers 3 von der Wirkseite her dargestellt. Dabei wird das über die Zuleitung 4 zugeführte Fluid durch einzelne Poren 1 1 in den Bereich der Ultraschallwirkung gespült.FIG. 3 shows a view of the bending vibrator 3 shown in FIG. 1 from the active side. The fluid supplied via the feed line 4 is flushed through individual pores 11 into the area of the ultrasound effect.
Figur 4 zeigt eine Draufsicht auf eine arrayförmige Anordnung einzelner runder Sonotroden innerhalb eines rechteckigen Endrahmens. Die runden Sonotroden 10 sind dabei innerhalb eines zweischaligen Dichtlippensystems 8 und 9 angeordnet und haben ebenfalls eine zentrale Fluidzuführung 1 1 . Der rechteckige Rahmen 7 ist in diesem Fall nicht selbst Ultraschallschwinger, sondern Führungshilfe.FIG. 4 shows a plan view of an array-like arrangement of individual round sonotrodes within a rectangular end frame. The round sonotrodes 10 are arranged within a two-shell sealing lip system 8 and 9 and also have a central fluid supply 11. In this case, the rectangular frame 7 is not itself an ultrasonic vibrator, but rather a guide.
Figur 5 zeigt den Prinzipaufbau eines handführbaren Ultraschall-Boden- oder -Wandreinigers mit einem Handgriff 12, der an der Einheit Generator 1 , Ultraschallwandler 2 und Sonotrode 3 angelenkt ist und über Bedienmöglichkeiten zur Leistungsregelung 1 3 verfügt sowie über elektrische Anschlussleitung 5 und Saug- /Spülanschlussleitung 4 zu einem fahrbaren Versorgungsgerät 14, das die Energieversorgung sowie Saug-/Spüleinrichtung und Filtereinrichtung enthält. Dasfahrbare Versorgungsteil 14 wird über einen normalen Netzanschluss 1 5 an die reguläre Stromversorgung angeschlossen. Figure 5 shows the basic structure of a hand-held ultrasonic floor or wall cleaner with a handle 12, which is articulated to the generator 1, ultrasonic transducer 2 and sonotrode 3 and has operating options for power control 1 3 and electrical connection line 5 and suction / Flushing connection line 4 to a mobile supply device 14, which contains the energy supply and suction / flushing device and filter device. The mobile supply part 14 is connected to the regular power supply via a normal mains connection 15.

Claims

Patentansprüche claims
1 . Reinigungsvorrichtung zur ultraschallgestützten Reinigung von ortsfesten Gebrauchsflächen, mit einer Ultraschallquelle und einem mit dieser verbunden Ultraschallübertrager, gekennzeichnet durch eine Fluidfilm-Einheit, die mit dem Ultraschallübertrager zumindest mittelbar verbunden und ausgebildet ist, einen Fluidfilm zwischen dem Ultraschallübertrager und einer zu reinigen Fläche zu erzeugen und/oder zu erhalten.1 . Cleaning device for ultrasound-assisted cleaning of stationary surfaces of use, with an ultrasound source and an ultrasound transmitter connected to it, characterized by a fluid film unit which is at least indirectly connected to the ultrasound transmitter and is designed to generate a fluid film between the ultrasound transmitter and a surface to be cleaned and / or get.
2. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1 , bei der die Ultraschallquelle und der Ultraschallübertrager einen Ultraschallgenerator (1 ), einen Ultraschallwandler (2) sowie eine Sonotrode (3) umfassen, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Fluidfilmeinheit eine Dichteinrichtung aufweist, die mit der Son- trode (3), dem Ultraschallwandler (2) und Ultraschallgenerator (1 ) verbunden und ausgebildet ist, ein Fluidpolster zwischen der Sonotrode (3) und einer zu reinigen Fläche zu halten.2. Cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasound source and the ultrasound transmitter comprise an ultrasound generator (1), an ultrasound transducer (2) and a sonotrode (3), characterized in that the fluid film unit has a sealing device which is connected to the sontrode ( 3), the ultrasonic transducer (2) and ultrasonic generator (1) is connected and designed to hold a fluid cushion between the sonotrode (3) and a surface to be cleaned.
3. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Dichteinrichtung ein Dichtlippensystem (8, 9) umfasst, welches ausgebildet ist, ein begrenztes Fluidpolster über eine zu reinigende Gebrauchsfläche mobil zu führen.3. Cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized in that the sealing device comprises a sealing lip system (8, 9) which is designed to guide a limited fluid cushion over a usable surface to be cleaned.
4. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Dichtlippensystem (8, 9) mindestens zweischalig ist.4. Cleaning device according to claim 3, characterized in that the sealing lip system (8, 9) is at least two-shell.
5. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, mit einer zentralen Sonotrode, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die zentrale Sonotrode über eine Zuführung (1 1 ) für Reinigungsflüssigkeit verfügt. 5. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 4, with a central sonotrode, characterized in that the central sonotrode has a feed (1 1) for cleaning liquid.
6. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Fluidfilm-Einheit Absaugmittel zur Absaugung überständigen Fluids umfasst.6. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the fluid film unit comprises suction means for suction of excess fluids.
7. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach Anspruch 6 und 3 oder 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Absaugmittel innerhalb des Dichtlippensystems (8, 9) vorgesehen sind.7. Cleaning device according to claim 6 and 3 or 4, characterized in that the suction means are provided within the sealing lip system (8, 9).
8. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, mit einer zentralen Sonotrode mit einem freien Ende, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das freie Ende der zentralen Sonotrode in Form eines balkenförmigen Biegeschwingers (3) ausgelegt ist.8. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 7, with a central sonotrode with a free end, characterized in that the free end of the central sonotrode is designed in the form of a beam-shaped bending oscillator (3).
9. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, mit einer zentralen Sonotrode mit einer einer zu reinigenden Fläche zugewandten Endfläche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Endfläche der zentralen Sonotrode im Wesentlichen rechteckigförmig ist.9. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 8, with a central sonotrode with an end surface facing a surface to be cleaned, characterized in that the end surface of the central sonotrode is substantially rectangular.
10. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Reinigungsvorrichtung einen Handgriff (1 2) aufweist, der ein leichtes Verschieben der Ultraschallreinigungsvorrichtung über eine zu reinigende Fläche ermöglicht.10. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the cleaning device has a handle (1 2), which allows easy displacement of the ultrasonic cleaning device over a surface to be cleaned.
1 1 . Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem Anspruch 1 bis 10, gekennzeichnet durch einen Leistungsregeier (13) für abzugegebende Ultraschall-Leistung.1 1. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by a power regulator (13) for ultrasound power to be emitted.
12. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach Anspruch 10 und 1 1 , dadurch gekenzeichnet, dass der Leistungsregeier (1 3) von dem Handgriff (1 2) aus bedienbar ist. 12. Cleaning device according to claim 10 and 1 1, characterized in that the power regulator (1 3) from the handle (1 2) can be operated.
1 3. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1 bis 1 1 , gekennzeichnet durch eine EinStelleinrichtung für eine zuzuführende und/oder abzusaugende Fluid- menge.1 3. Cleaning device according to claim 1 to 1 1, characterized by an adjusting device for a quantity of fluid to be supplied and / or extracted.
14. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach Anspruch 10 und 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Einsteileinrichtung vom Handgriff (1 2) aus einstellbar ist.14. Cleaning device according to claim 10 and 13, characterized in that the adjusting device is adjustable from the handle (1 2).
1 5. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 14, gekennzeichnet durch eine Grenzwerteinheit, die ausgebildet ist, Grenzwerte zum Abschalten der Energie- und Fluidversorgung einzustellen und zu detektieren.1 5. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by a limit value unit which is designed to set and detect limit values for switching off the energy and fluid supply.
16. Reinigungsvorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 1 5, mit einer einer zu reinigenden Fläche zugewandten Reinigungsendfläche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Reinigungsendfläche als Array einzeln angeregter Sonotroden 10 mit jeweils runder Endfläche ausgeführt ist.16. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 1 5, with a cleaning end surface facing a surface to be cleaned, characterized in that the cleaning end surface is designed as an array of individually excited sonotrodes 10, each with a round end surface.
17. Verfahren zur ultraschallgestützten Reinigung von ortsfesten Gebrauchsflächen, mit den Schritten:17. A method for ultrasound-assisted cleaning of stationary surfaces, comprising the steps:
Erzeugen eines Fluidfilms zwischen der Gebrauchsfläche und einemCreate a fluid film between the usable area and one
UltraschallübertragerUltrasound transducer
Übertragen von Ultraschallschwingungen auf den FluidfilmTransfer of ultrasonic vibrations to the fluid film
Bewegen des Ultraschallübertragers und des Fluidfilms über die zu reinigende Gebrauchsfläche. Moving the ultrasound transducer and the fluid film over the surface to be cleaned.
EP00981384A 1999-12-16 2000-12-15 Wall and floor cavitation cleaner Withdrawn EP1241972A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19960591 1999-12-16
DE19960591A DE19960591A1 (en) 1999-12-16 1999-12-16 Wall and floor cavitation cleaner
PCT/EP2000/012839 WO2001043615A1 (en) 1999-12-16 2000-12-15 Wall and floor cavitation cleaner

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EP1241972A1 true EP1241972A1 (en) 2002-09-25

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JP (1) JP2003516793A (en)
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WO (1) WO2001043615A1 (en)

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