EP2147625A1 - Cleaning device - Google Patents

Abstract

The apparatus has an inlet for a working fluid e.g. water, and a drive part (27) for driving a set of cleaning members (11) e.g. brushes, to perform a cleaning movement. An adjusting unit adjusts the cleaning members relative to each other such that the separation of adjacent cleaning members and perpendicular spacings between axes of rotation of adjacent cleaning members is changed. A supply device supplies the working fluid to the cleaning members. The drive part has a common shaft and a worm gear, which are set into rotation centrally and simultaneously co-operate with the cleaning members.

Description

The invention relates to a cleaning device, in particular a portable hand cleaner to which a working fluid can be supplied.

Such devices are basically known, for example DE 10 2004 034 819 B3 , Also the post-published EP 1 949 836 describes such cleaning devices.

The object of the invention is to develop a cleaning device of the type mentioned in such a way that it is even more versatile.

The solution of this object is achieved by the features of claim 1. According to the invention the cleaning device comprises a plurality of, in particular brush-like, cleaning members which are drivable for a cleaning movement, wherein the cleaning members are adjustable relative to each other.

Regardless of the type of drive for the cleaning members, the adjustability of the cleaning members makes it possible to adapt the cleaning apparatus as a whole to the object to be cleaned in each case. In particular, it is possible to adapt the distances of adjacent cleaning organs to the lamellar spacing of louvers to be cleaned.

The invention also relates to the use of a cleaning device of the type specified here for cleaning blinds.

Possible developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

It may be provided that the cleaning elements are components of, in particular identical, modules or as, in particular identical, modules are formed, wherein the modules are detachably attached to the cleaning device and relative to each other adjustable. In this way, e.g. the number of cleaning modules of a cleaning device can be changed easily. Also, it is easily possible to replace cleaning modules to either replace damaged cleaning modules or to install cleaning modules of a different type. Each module preferably comprises a drive device in addition to the cleaning element. The cleaning member or a cleaning member e.g. in the form of a brush part on the one hand and the drive means on the other hand form in this way a structural unit that can be replaced as a whole or replaced by a module of another type.

In connection with this module structure, each cleaning member may, for example, comprise a cleaning part, in particular designed as a brush part, which rotates during operation, and a drive part with which the cleaning part is interchangeably coupled, by means of which the module is attached to the cleaning device, for example a support and which in particular serves to communicate with one or more fluid supply means to convert the incoming fluid into the desired movement of the cleaning member. In particular, the drive part of each module may comprise a blade or turbine wheel, which is acted upon by the fluid entering the module or the drive part, in order to be rotated in this way and thus the cleaning part or the To set the brush part in rotation. Several modules can be attached to a common carrier. The number of modules is basically not limited. Restrictions can be given for example by the design of the carrier or the fluid supply means. In particular, the carrier or the fluid supply devices can be designed such that only at a certain number of connection points modules can be supplied with fluid.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the modules are each designed such that they can be used on envelopes, i. can be coupled in two different orientations with a carrier or a fluid supply device of the cleaning device. In this way, different directions of rotation of the cleaning part relative to the carrier or the cleaning device can be achieved overall simply by attaching the module either in one or the other orientation. Depending on the orientation, in particular a different direction then results for the loading of a blade or turbine wheel of the module provided in the drive device. Furthermore, it is possible to install a module in a first orientation and another module in a second orientation when using multiple modules. Two simultaneously operated modules can be operated in this way in opposite directions, whereby arising during use moments at least partially cancel and a so-called "migration effect" of the cleaning device during use is at least largely avoided.

Furthermore, it can be provided that a device for adjusting and / or holding the cleaning members on the one hand and a device for supplying working fluid and / or cleaning fluid to the cleaning members on the other hand are different from each other. This decoupling Adjusting or holding on the one hand and fluid supply on the other hand can increase the flexibility and versatility of the cleaning device. In particular, it is not necessary to take into account the boundary conditions affecting the fluid supply when adjusting the cleaning devices. The cleaning devices can preferably be driven by means of the working fluid that can be fed to the cleaning device. In this case, the kinetic energy of the supplied fluid can be used to apply a drive device. A use of the recoil principle, for example, is not required. The drive of the cleaning devices can be based, for example, on the impeller or turbine principle, ie, the kinetic energy of the supplied fluid is used by the fluid with a correspondingly formed drive means, in particular a blade or turbine wheel, cooperates and this set in rotation. The advantage here is that the drive is independent of the configuration of the cleaning organs or provided for example in the form of brush parts cleaning parts and, for example, in particular within a modular design of the cleaning device can be coupled with differently shaped cleaning parts to realize different applications.

The working fluid can simultaneously serve as a cleaning fluid. Alternatively, the cleaning device may be supplied in addition to the working fluid, a cleaning fluid. The fluid supplied to the cleaning device can thus serve in one variant both to drive the cleaning members, as are also used for cleaning by exiting, for example in the range of in particular in the form of brushes cleaning parts and / or additionally provided outlet nozzles of the respective cleaning member or ejected as a cleaning jet. In another variant can be provided be that the working fluid is used exclusively to drive the cleaning organs in the desired manner, and does not leak.

For the working fluid, a closed at least with respect to the cleaning organs circuit may be provided, i. an outlet of the working fluid in the region of the cleaning organs and in particular a use of the working fluid at the same time as a cleaning fluid is not provided in this embodiment. As a result, for example, a "dry operation" can be realized, in which only the moving due to the working fluid cleaning organs are used for cleaning. It is possible that such a closed-loop operation of the working fluid can be selectively selected by means of a correspondingly configured switching device. With this switching device can then be switched as needed to another operation in which the working fluid is then also used for cleaning purposes, for example, for wetting the cleaning members and / or the object to be cleaned.

Preferably, the cleaning members are drivable to a rotational movement. However, this is not mandatory. It is also possible, for example, to put the cleaning organs in vibration or vibration. This can be achieved, for example, by applying special components assigned to the cleaning members, for example swashplates, by means of the working fluid. It is also possible to apply to the cleaning members such that so-called "Feebewegungen" set, which are characterized in that the trained in particular in the form of brushes cleaning devices reciprocate in a linear manner.

It can be provided that in addition to a main mode in which the cleaning members rotate, for example, can be realized by switching a different mode from a rotation mode, in such a way that the user can switch back to the main mode again.

According to a further embodiment, a central drive device can be provided for the cleaning devices. A whatsoever type of drive source, for example a working fluid or an electric motor, does not need to interact directly with each cleaning device or each individual drive device. In this way, a considerably simplified structure of the cleaning device can result.

The central drive device can, for example, have a common shaft, which can be displaced centrally in rotation, in particular a worm, which interacts simultaneously with all the cleaning devices, in particular with the gearwheels associated with the cleaning devices.

In general, the type of drive source for the cleaning device according to the invention is arbitrary. A drive by means of a supplied fluid is not mandatory. In particular, an electric, a pneumatic or operated by means of negative pressure drive means may be provided for the cleaning members.

The cleaning device may comprise a common carrier for the cleaning organs, relative to which the cleaning means can be adjusted. The carrier may have a longitudinal extent, wherein the cleaning members are arranged distributed along the carrier and in the longitudinal direction of the carrier relative to each other adjustable. The carrier can Include fluid supply means which serve to supply a centrally supplied to the cleaning device fluid to the individual cleaning members. In such an embodiment, the carrier not only means for adjusting and / or for holding the cleaning means, but at the same time a means for supplying a fluid. As already mentioned above, such a multiple function is not mandatory. For example, the support can be used exclusively for holding and adjusting the cleaning devices, while the supply of working fluid and / or cleaning fluid takes place with the aid of additional devices.

In one embodiment it can be provided that the cleaning organs are connected to one another by at least one flexible fluid line permitting an adjustment of the cleaning organs. This variant is a way to realize the fluid supply independently of a device for holding and / or adjusting the cleaning organs.

In another embodiment, each cleaning member may be associated with a supply means for an additional medium, wherein in particular the supply means by the working fluid and / or a cleaning fluid in the region of the cleaning member is operable. The supplemental medium may be a liquid containing certain chemical constituents which enhance the cleaning effect. The supply of an additional medium to the cleaning member itself has the advantage that the additional medium does not need to go through the entire system together with the working fluid and / or cleaning fluid. A changeover from an operation with additional medium to an operation without additional medium can thus be achieved without delay and without delays, which would result if the passage of the additional medium through the entire system would have to wait.

The supply device for the additional medium can be operated in particular by means of negative pressure. This negative pressure can be generated in particular by utilizing the flow of the working fluid and / or cleaning fluid supplied to the cleaning devices. Consequently, the additional medium can simply be sucked in with the aid of the fluid supplied to the cleaning member. Of particular advantage here is that sufficient for the additional medium, a comparatively small additional tank, which can be integrated into the cleaning device itself and is connected for example via short tubes to the respective cleaning organs. Alternatively, it is possible that each cleaning member has its own tank for the additional medium. The supply of the additional medium can be switched, so that you can work with or without additional medium.

In a further embodiment, each cleaning member may be assigned a fluid outlet for the working fluid and / or a cleaning fluid which is spatially separate from the cleaning member, in particular designed as a nozzle. Such a fluid outlet may be provided in addition to one or more fluid outlets, which are provided directly on the cleaning member or a cleaning part of the cleaning member designed in particular as a brush part. The additional fluid outlet can be used to apply directly to the object to be cleaned with a fluid jet in order to support in this way the cleaning effect of a cleaning part of the cleaning member.

For the fluid outlet can be provided between an effective and an inoperative position adjustable shielding. The cleaning member may for example be associated with a pivotable baffle element, which pivots as needed, for example, before the fluid outlet or is pushed, so that the still exiting fluid does not hit the object to be cleaned, but bounces against the shielding. In addition, a suitable collecting device can be provided, which captures the fluid and removes it in a suitable manner.

The invention will be described below by way of example with reference to the drawing, wherein Fig. 1 to 11 and the accompanying description are merely for the better understanding of the invention, of which the Fig. 12 to 17 possible embodiments show:

Fig. 1

eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Reinigungsvorrichtung,

Fig. 2

eine andere perspektivische Ansicht der Reinigungsvorrichtung von Fig. 1,

Fig. 3

eine Antriebseinrichtung der Reinigungsvorrichtung von Fig. 1,

Fig. 4

eine mögliche Ausführungsform für eine mit einem Getriebe versehene Antriebseinrichtung,

Fig. 5

zwei Ansichten einer weiteren Ausführungsform einer Reinigungsvorrichtung,

Fig. 6 bis 11

weitere mögliche Ausgestaltungen einer Reinigungsvorrichtung, und

Fig. 12 bis 17

mögliche Ausgestaltungen einer erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungsvorrichtung.

Show it:

Fig. 1

a perspective view of an embodiment of a cleaning device,

Fig. 2

another perspective view of the cleaning device of Fig. 1 .

Fig. 3

a drive device of the cleaning device of Fig. 1 .

Fig. 4

a possible embodiment for a geared drive device,

Fig. 5

two views of a further embodiment of a cleaning device,

Fig. 6 to 11

Other possible embodiments of a cleaning device, and

Fig. 12 to 17

possible embodiments of a cleaning device according to the invention.

In the in the Fig. 1-3 The cleaning device shown is a lamellar or blind cleaner with four cleaning members in the form of brushes 11, which are arranged in series along a common elongated support 13 with distance from each other. The carrier 13 is in particular a sheet-metal profile.

Connected to the carrier 13 is a handle 15, in particular made of plastic, which comprises two half-shells. The cleaning device is designed so that it can be held and operated by a person in one hand during operation. On the handle 15, an actuating device 17 is provided in the form of a release lever, with which the below-explained fluid supply to the brushes 11 can be released and interrupted.

The supply of the fluid, in particular water, takes place via a fluid inlet 19, which is arranged in the lower grip region, and to which a fluid supply line formed, for example, as a hose can be connected.

The fluid flows via a distributor device 21 into one of two distributor lines 23, which extend parallel to one another along the carrier 13 and thus on both sides along the row of cleaning brushes 11. By switching to the manifold 21, the user can supply the fluid to either one or the other manifold 23. As a result, either the cleaning brushes 11 can be operated in one direction or in the other direction of rotation, which will be described in more detail below will be received. The distributor lines 23 are closed in a fluid-tight manner at their free ends remote from the distributor device 21.

The switching over to the distributor device 21 takes place, for example, by providing a movably mounted slider which is arranged on both sides, in Fig. 1 and 2 Switching buttons 25 shown without sealing can be moved. The position of the slider then determines the direction of rotation of the brushes 11th

In particular Fig. 3 showing a section perpendicular to the axes of rotation of the cleaning brushes 11 and along the central axes of the distribution lines 23, each cleaning device 11 comprises a housing-like, forwardly open carriage 27 having on opposite sides of a sleeve-shaped portion 29, with the the carriage 27 is inserted over the respective distribution line 23.

Within each sleeve-shaped portion 29 an effective as a print cartridge inner sleeve 31 is arranged. The print cartridges 31 are each configured such that they define together with the outer wall of the respective distribution line 23 a pressure chamber 33 which is sealed at the ends of the print cartridges 31 each by an O-ring 35 to the outside. Both an inlet opening 37 formed in the distribution line 23 and a drive opening 39 formed in the print cartridge communicate with the pressure space 33.

The drive opening 39 is designed, arranged and aligned such that fluid flowing via the drive opening 39 from the pressure space 33 into the carriage housing in the form of a fluid pressure jet onto a turbine or paddle wheel section 41 of the respective cleaning element 11 impinges and in this way the cleaning member 11 is set in rotation, which is rotatably mounted on the carriage 27 for this purpose.

The rotatable mounting of the vane or turbine section 41 may be e.g. via a simple hub / axle connection. Alternatively, for example, ball bearings can be used. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a transmission with which a respective application requests corresponding translation or reduction of the rotation of the blade or turbine wheel 41 can be realized.

Coupled to the blade or turbine wheel 41 is an elongate cylindrical brush 43, which is provided with cleaning bristles 45 in the exemplary embodiment illustrated here. Alternatively, for example, 43 disc-shaped disc brushes may be provided instead of these brushes. The cleaning device can be realized in a modular design such that the illustrated cylinder brushes 11 can be replaced by the mentioned plate brushes or other cleaning devices if necessary. By such a replacement possibility, the versatility of the device is increased in a simple manner.

An advantage of this arrangement is therefore that the drive of the cleaning devices is independent of their design. In particular, a special embodiment of the cleaning elements or brushes with regard to the cleaning effect is not a prerequisite for the fluid-rotation drive, since this takes place at the end of the axis of rotation of the cleaning elements 11 close to the carrier.

It is also conceivable to provide a blade or turbine wheel section which always remains on the carriage 27, and differently configured brush sections with the blade or turbine wheel, for example be coupled by attaching to configure the cleaning device according to the application or to be able to equip.

A rotationally fixed coupling between interchangeable brush parts and the blade or turbine wheel sections rotatably mounted on the carriage can be achieved, for example, by means of a suitably configured corking, which ensures that the brush parts are entrained.

In particular from Fig. 3 It can be seen that the modules, that is to say the carriages 27 carrying the cleaning member 11, are adjustable along the distributor lines 23 in order to set different distances between the cleaning brushes 11 in this way. In the embodiment of the cleaning device as a slat or blinds cleaner accordingly Fig. 1 to 3 can be adjusted by the brush spacing to the fin spacing.

The height adjustment of the carriage 27 is in each case possible in the scope of the axial extent of the pressure chamber 33 defined by the print cartridge 31, i. as long as the inlet openings 37 formed in the distribution lines 23 are in the region of the respective pressure chamber 33, the function of the cleaning elements 11 is ensured.

By providing two distribution lines 23, between which by means of the distribution device 21 - as explained above - can be switched, it is possible, as in particular from Fig. 3 appears to switch between the directions of rotation of the cleaning brush 11. The two drive bores 39 of each carriage 27 act on the blade or turbine wheel 41 in the opposite direction of rotation. The blades of the blade or turbine wheel 41 are symmetrical in this regard designed so that prevail in both directions of rotation the same conditions.

The structure of the cleaning device of an elongated support 13 with along the support 13 extending manifolds 23 allows in principle an arbitrarily large working length and thus a basically arbitrarily large number of cleaning members 11th

The provided in the carrier 13 rows of holes 47 can provide a grid for positioning the carriage 27 in the height adjustment available. The grid of the rows of holes 47 can be adapted to common slat spacing of blinds.

In an embodiment given here by way of example only, the hand cleaner described here is designed for a working pressure of at least 50 bar, whereby speeds of about 1.500 rpm are achieved for the cleaning brushes 11. A working pressure of up to 100 bar is just as conceivable. By means of a gearbox, the speed can be halved, for example.

In each of the forwardly open carriage housings, means e.g. be provided in the form of one or more arranged in the lower region slopes, which promote a flow of the fluid out of the housing and on the points to be cleaned in the area of action of the brushes 11 inside.

Fig. 4 shows a sectional side view of an example of a transmission 49, as already mentioned above in general. In the illustrated embodiment, it is a reduction gear, the speed of the paddle wheel 41 for the cleaning or brush part 43 of the cleaning member 11 bisected. The turbine wheel 41 is rotatably provided with two outer rings 61, 65. Instead of two outer rings 61, 65, a single, continuous in the axial direction outer ring could be provided. Furthermore, the two outer rings 61, 65 or a single outer ring could be formed integrally with the paddle wheel 41. The outer rings 61, 65 form the outer part of a ball bearing, which also comprises a cage 51 in which a plurality of balls 53 are held such that all balls 53 can only rotate together with the cage 51.

The inner part of the ball bearing form two inner rings 59, 63. The two inner rings 59, 63 are rotatably mounted on a stationary shaft 55 serving as a bearing. At least the in Fig. 4 right, second inner ring 63 is movable in the axial direction on the shaft 55. By means of a spring 67, the second inner ring 63 is biased in the direction of the first inner ring 59. Since the balls 53 run in grooves formed on the mutually facing inner sides of the rings 59, 61, 63, 65, this pretensioning of the right inner ring 63 eliminates any play that may be present in the ball bearing. This ensures that during operation, when the paddle wheel 41 is charged with fluid and thus rotates about the shaft 55, the balls 53 held in the cage 51 roll in a defined manner between the outer rings and the inner rings.

The defined rolling of the balls 53 has the result that the arrangement described above is effective as a reduction gear, which halves the speed of the paddle wheel 41 with respect to the cage 51 containing the rolling balls 53. To the cage 51 rotatably coupled to the drive member 27 about the bearing shaft 55 rotatably mounted intermediate piece 57, which in turn rotatably connected to the brush or

Cleaning part 43 is connected. In this cleaning member 11 is thus achieved in the result that the respective brush of the cleaning member 11 rotates half as fast as the paddle wheel 41st

A particular advantage of this transmission 49 is in addition to the reliable operation of the particularly simple structure that can be realized with inexpensive available components. Such a reduction gear could alternatively be realized in the form of a gear constructed from gears, in particular a planetary gear. However, the required components would be associated with significantly higher costs.

The left illustration in Fig. 5 corresponds to the illustration in Fig. 3 however, the module 27, 43 is not shown together with the fluid supply lines. It is therefore not the opening formed in the fluid lines, opening into the respective pressure chamber 33 inlet openings, but only to see in the ink cartridges forming inner sleeves 31 formed driving openings 39.

The one in the right-hand illustration of the Fig. 5 In particular, the symmetrical structure of the module consisting of drive part 27 and cleaning part 43 with regard to the arrangement of the fluid supply lines with respect to the cleaning part 43 is taken from above.

Fig. 6 shows an example of a cleaning device in which only a single module is used. In a proper hold the device on the handle 15 here runs the axis of rotation of the brush portion 43 in the vertical direction. This embodiment shows that the functioning of the cleaning member 11 is basically independent of its orientation in space. In addition, here in particular show the advantages of modular design: Regardless of how the fluid supply lines 23 extend in space, the cleaning module according to the invention need only be pushed onto the line 23 with the driving part 27 comprising the drive device in order to ensure a rotation of the brush part 43. The free end of the supply line 23 is only rotatably supported in an upper arm of the device.

Fig. 7 shows another example in which two cleaning modules projecting in opposite directions are present, wherein the axes of rotation of the cleaning parts 43 coincide and in a normal hold the device on the handle 15 in the horizontal direction, but - unlike Fig. 1 - not away from the user, but to each side. Each module is pushed with its drive part 27 on a single fluid supply line 23.

Between the two modules, a support wheel 69 is arranged. The support wheel 69 is not driven and serves to unroll the device on a surface to be cleaned. This relieves the user. At the same time a defined cleaning distance between the surface to be cleaned on the one hand and the axes of rotation of the cleaning parts 43 on the other hand is maintained.

The example of Fig. 8 with respect to the orientation of the axes of rotation of the cleaning parts 43 the example of Fig. 1 , Instead of cylindrical brushes here so-called disc brushes are provided. The two modules can according to the embodiment of Fig. 1 be slid on two parallel fluid supply lines 23 to change the direction of rotation of the cleaning parts 43 by operating a corresponding switching device. However, this is not mandatory, ie it is also possible to provide only a single fluid supply line 23.

Identically configured modules 27, 43 may be coupled in opposite orientation to the fluid supply conduit 23 to rotate in an opposite sense during operation.

The example of Fig. 9 is similar to the example of Fig. 8 , but with the plate brushes - seen from the user - not forward, but to the side is working. The modules 27, 43 may be configured such that they can be adjusted relative to the fluid supply line 23 about its central axis, in order to adjust the working direction of the disc brushes with respect to the orientation of the handle 15 of the device as desired. Alternatively, the modules 27, 43 and the device may be configured such that a certain relative orientation is required in connecting the modules 27, 43 to the fluid supply line 23, in order to realize the illustrated work orientation of the disc brushes 43.

The 10 and 11 suggest that the use of multiple cleaners, as in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 shown is not mandatory. The cleaning device may also have only a single cleaning member 11, wherein depending on the configuration of the cleaning member 11 and the device different working directions of the brush part are possible.

The Fig. 12 to 17 show advantageous embodiments of a cleaning device according to the invention, which is designed in particular to clean Venetian blinds. The cleaning devices described below each include a plurality of technical aspects and properties that are at least partially also in the cleaning devices according to Fig. 1 to 11 realized, described above and possibly identifiable by identical reference numerals. On these aspects and properties will therefore not be discussed further below. In general, unless otherwise stated or there are no technical contradictions, all of them are described above in connection with the Fig. 1 to 11 described and in the Fig. 1 to 11 shown technical aspects and properties, in particular independently of each other, also in the cleaning devices according to Fig. 12 to 17 are realized or can be realized, and vice versa. In the following, therefore, essentially only those technical aspects are dealt with, with regard to which the cleaning devices according to the invention according to FIG Fig. 12 to 17 from the cleaning devices according to Fig. 1 to 11 differ.

The cleaning device according to Fig. 12 is characterized in particular by the fact that a carrier 13, which serves for holding and for height adjustment of the cleaning modules 11, is different from means 77 for supplying working fluid to the cleaning members 11. The carrier 13, which comprises holding or guide rods 87 for the cleaning modules 11, which are provided in addition to or as components of a column 105, thus serves exclusively for holding and height adjustment of the cleaning modules 11.

The supply of working fluid, in particular water, to the cleaning modules 11 initially takes place via a central distributor 107, which is connected to a central fluid inlet, not shown, of the cleaning device. Starting from this central distributor 107, the cleaning modules 11 are cascaded via flexible hoses 77 supplied with the fluid, which acts on a provided on each cleaning module 11 drive means to enable the respective brush portion 43 in rotation. Here, each cleaning module 11 is provided with a connection piece 89. Between the in Fig. 12 left and the in FIG. 12 For example, the right-hand connection cascade, each comprising three connection tubes 77, can be switched in the manner described above, ie, the flow direction of the fluid through the tubes 77 and the cleaning modules 11 can be reversed so as to selectively guide the cleaning modules 11 either in one or the other direction of rotation to operate, as also described above.

The fluid supply via the external tubes 77 has the advantage that there are no restrictions on the height adjustment of the cleaning modules 11 on the rods 87 or the column 105, as is partially the case with the cleaning devices described above.

In general, a plurality of discretely distributed positions can be provided for the height adjustment of the cleaning modules 11. Here, between the carrier 13 and the cleaning modules 11 each have a locking effect. A stepless height adjustment of the cleaning modules 11 is possible in principle.

The cleaning device according to Fig. 12 also has in addition to the handle, not shown, two handles 85, where the user can hold the cleaning device with the other hand.

Fig. 13 1 illustrates an embodiment of a cleaning device according to the invention, in which a closed circuit with respect to the cleaning modules 11 is provided for the working fluid driving the cleaning modules 11. Working lines 91 for the working fluid serve to supply and discharge of the fluid. The working lines 91 correspond in principle to the previously described distributor lines 23 (cf., for example, US Pat Fig. 3 ), but with an outlet of the working fluid in the region of the cleaning organs 11 is not provided for cleaning purposes, so it is therefore a closed fluid circuit.

The working lines 91 can in turn serve to adjust the height of the cleaning modules 11. Alternatively or additionally, however, a central column 105 can also be provided for this purpose.

Through the arrows in Fig. 13 is a possible flow direction of the working fluid indicated. By a suitable optional switching device, as has also already been described above, the flow direction can optionally be reversed.

Fig. 14 shows in particular on the example of a cleaning module 11 provided in the form of two fluid outlets 81, which are provided in addition to the brush portion 43 and insofar spatially separated from the brush portion 43 on the cleaning module 11, as the fluid does not exit directly on the brush portion 43. The alignable outlet nozzles 81, whose orientation is variable with respect to the brush portion 43, serve to direct a jet of fluid at the respective object to be cleaned and in this way to support the brush portion 43. Such outlet nozzles 81 are also in the embodiment according to Fig. 12 intended. In the embodiment according to Fig. 14 In addition, a shielding device 43 is provided which in Fig. 14 is shown in an operative position in which fluid jets emerging from the nozzles 81 are blocked, so that the fluid jets do not strike the object to be processed. By adjusting the shielding device 83, for example by pivoting or moving, the path for the fluid jets on the object to be cleaned can be released.

The embodiment according to Fig. 15 is characterized in particular by a supply device 79, which is provided for each cleaning module 11 and serves to the cleaning fluid, which is supplied to the cleaning module 11 and exiting the cleaning module 11, mixed. In this case, the cleaning fluid itself or the flow of the cleaning fluid is utilized to suck in the additional medium.

The supply of the cleaning fluid to the cleaning modules 11 and the rotary drive of the cleaning modules 11 by the cleaning fluid are in principle carried out as above in connection with Fig. 3 described. The entering into the pressure chamber 33 fluid exits through a nozzle 95 and acted through a bore 109 through the blade or Turbinenradabschnitt 41. In the embodiment of the Fig. 15 In addition, an annular space 97 is likewise connected to the bore 109, via which the cleaning fluid coming from the pressure chamber 33 reaches the blade or turbine wheel section 41. This annular space 97 is simultaneously in communication with an inlet section 93 of the feed device 79. About the inlet portion 93, the additional medium is supplied. The additional medium can be located, for example, in a tank integrated in the cleaning device, to which the inlet section 93 is connected by means of a hose.

The ejection of the cleaning fluid by means of the nozzle 95 generates a negative pressure in the annular space 97, whereby the additional medium is sucked in via the inlet section 93 of the supply device 79 and thus mixed with the cleaning fluid. The nozzle 95 is preferably designed such that a fanning out of the exiting fluid jet results, which results in a particularly effective suction effect.

Such a supply means 79 for an additional medium may be provided for each cleaning module 11, wherein each of the supply means 79 is selectively mounted on one or the other side of the cleaning module 11. By switching between the two sides, as described above, it is therefore also possible to select between operation with additional medium and operation without additional medium.

As Fig. 15 shows, is also the other, in Fig. 15 lower side of the cleaning module 11 adapted to be provided with a supply means 79. The corresponding opening in the housing or support of the cleaning module 11 is closed here with a plug 99.

The embodiment of Fig. 15 also shows on both sides of the cleaning module 11 provided retaining screws 101, which are adjustable by rotation by 180 ° between a holding position and a release position. The retaining screws 101 are - viewed in the circumferential direction - stepped, so that with a headband 111 of the cleaning module 11 either a holding portion (holding position, see. Fig. 15 ) or an outwardly recessed release portion (release position) of the retaining screws 101 cooperates. In the holding position of the retaining screws 101, the free ends of the retaining clip 111 are compressed. In the release position of the retaining screws 101 of the headband 111 can be removed and so the cleaning module 11 in a simple manner and in particular without tools removed or replaced.

Fig. 16 shows an example of a cleaning device according to the invention, in which for the three cleaning modules 11, a central drive means 71 is provided which has a central portion 113 and a with having the central portion 113 connected, formed as a screw shaft 73.

As in the left illustration of the Fig. 16 can be seen, showing only the drive principle, each cleaning module 11 is provided with a gear 75 which meshes with the common screw 73, so that rotation of the screw 73 simultaneously drives all three cleaning modules 11 and the respective brush parts 43 is rotated. This type of common drive allows height adjustment of the cleaning modules 11 relative to each other readily.

The central drive may also be a fluid drive. The fluid supplied to the cleaning device drives only the central portion 113, via which the shaft 73 is set in rotation. Alternatively, for example, a central electric motor, a hydraulic drive or a vacuum drive may be provided to enable the central portion 113 to rotate.

The supply of cleaning fluid to the individual cleaning modules 11 takes place in this embodiment only on one side. The previously described outlet nozzles 81 are arranged only on one side of the brush parts 43.

In the embodiment of the invention the Fig. 17 the cleaning device for a rotary drive of the cleaning modules 11 is designed by means of negative pressure. The cleaning modules 11 are connected on both sides with lines 103, one of which can be connected to a vacuum source, such as a commercial vacuum cleaner or industrial vacuum cleaner, the other line 103 with the Environment communicates, so that ambient air can be sucked.

The flow generated in this way drives in each of the cleaning modules 11 a correspondingly designed drive device in order to set the brush parts 43 in rotation.

An additional supply of cleaning fluid, for example water, can be provided, is in Fig. 17 but not shown.

The height adjustment of the cleaning modules 11 can take place via the mentioned vacuum lines 103, wherein alternatively or additionally thereto, a central column 105 can serve.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

11

Cleaning member, brush

13

carrier

15

handle

17

actuator

19

fluid inlet

21

distribution facility

23

Distribution line, fluid supply device

25

toggle

27

Carriage, drive part

29

sleeve-shaped section

31

Inner sleeve, print cartridge

33

pressure chamber

35

O-ring

37

inlet port

39

blowing opening

41

Blade or turbine section

43

Brush part, cleaning part

45

cleaning bristles

47

row of holes

49

transmission

51

Cage

53

Ball or rolling element

55

camp

57

connecting piece

59

first inner ring

61

first outer ring

63

second inner ring

65

second outer ring

67

biasing spring

69

stabilizer

71

central drive device

73

Wave, snail

75

gear

77

flexible fluid line

79

Supply device for additional medium

81

Fluid outlet, nozzle

83

shielding

85

handle

87

pole

89

connector

91

working line

93

Inlet section for additional medium

95

jet

97

annulus

99

Plug

101

retention screw

103

management

105

pillar

107

Central distribution

109

drilling

111

headband

113

Central section

Claims (15)

Cleaning device, in particular portable hand cleaner to which a working fluid can be supplied and which has a plurality of, in particular brush-like, cleaning members (11) which are drivable for a cleaning movement, wherein the cleaning means (11) are adjustable relative to each other. Cleaning device according to claim 1,
characterized,
that the cleaning elements (11) are components of, in particular structurally identical, modules or, in particular structurally identical, modules are formed, wherein the modules are detachably attached to the cleaning device and adjustable relative to each other, and wherein preferably each module in addition to the cleaning member (11) a Drive means (41). Cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized,
that a device for adjusting and / or for holding the cleaning members (11) on one side and means for supplying working fluid and / or cleaning fluid to the cleaning members (11) on the other hand, different from each other. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that the cleaning elements (11) are adjustable relative to one another in such a way that the distances between adjacent cleaning elements (11), in particular the vertical distances between axes of rotation of adjacent cleaning elements (11), are variable. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
that the cleaning members (11) are drivable by means of the working fluid, and / or
that the working fluid also serves as cleaning fluid or the cleaning device in addition to the working fluid, a cleaning fluid is supplied, and / or
in that a closed circuit is provided for the working fluid, at least as regards the cleaning means (11). Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
that the cleaning members (11) are drivable to a rotational movement. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that at least one drive device (41), which can be acted on by the working fluid in order to set the cleaning devices (11) in rotation, is provided for the cleaning devices (11), and / or
that a rotary drive of the cleaning members (11) is based on the impeller or turbine principle, and / or
in that a central drive device (71) is provided for the cleaning devices (11). Cleaning device according to claim 7,
characterized,
in that the central drive device (71) comprises a common shaft (73), which can be displaced centrally in rotation, in particular a worm, which interacts simultaneously with all the cleaning elements (11), in particular with the toothed wheels (75) associated with the cleaning elements (11). Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that the cleaning members (11) are arranged on a common carrier (13) and are adjustable relative to the carrier (13), wherein in particular the carrier (13) has a longitudinal extent and the cleaning members (11) are distributed along the carrier (13) , wherein the cleaning members (11) in the longitudinal direction of the carrier (13) are adjustable relative to each other. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that the cleaning elements (11) are connected to one another by at least one flexible fluid line (77) which permits adjustment of the cleaning elements (11) relative to one another. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that each cleaning element (11) is assigned an additional medium supply device (79), the supply device (79) by the working fluid and / or a cleaning fluid in the region of the cleaning member (11) is operable, in particular the supply means (79) is operable with negative pressure, which by means of the working fluid and / or the cleaning fluid in the region of the cleaning member (11) can be generated. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that each cleaning element (11) is assigned a fluid outlet (81) for the working fluid and / or a cleaning fluid that is spatially separated, in particular designed as a nozzle, in particular for the fluid outlet (81) between an effective and an ineffective one Position adjustable shielding (83) is provided. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that at least one or each drive device of the cleaning devices (11) comprises a gearbox (49) with which the rotational speed of at least one cleaning member (11) is changed, in particular reduced and preferably halved, relative to an input rotational speed, wherein in particular the gearbox (49) is a ball - Or roller bearing (51, 53). Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
that the cleaning device is designed as a blind cleaner. Use of a cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims for cleaning blinds.

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