EP2640251B9 - Floor cleaning device - Google Patents

Floor cleaning device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2640251B9
EP2640251B9 EP11778567.5A EP11778567A EP2640251B9 EP 2640251 B9 EP2640251 B9 EP 2640251B9 EP 11778567 A EP11778567 A EP 11778567A EP 2640251 B9 EP2640251 B9 EP 2640251B9
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cover
cleaning machine
floor cleaning
accordance
outlet
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.)
Active
Application number
EP11778567.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2640251B1 (en
EP2640251A1 (en
Inventor
Frank Nonnenmann
Michael Oesterle
Armin Klenk
Rainer Schäfer
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.)
Alfred Kaercher SE and Co KG
Original Assignee
Alfred Kaercher SE and Co KG
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 Alfred Kaercher SE and Co KG filed Critical Alfred Kaercher SE and Co KG
Publication of EP2640251A1 publication Critical patent/EP2640251A1/en
Publication of EP2640251B1 publication Critical patent/EP2640251B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2640251B9 publication Critical patent/EP2640251B9/en
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Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • 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
    • A47L11/302—Floor-scrubbing machines characterised by means for taking-up dirty liquid by suction having rotary tools
    • 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
    • A47L11/408—Means for supplying cleaning or surface treating agents
    • A47L11/4083—Liquid supply reservoirs; Preparation of the agents, e.g. mixing devices
    • 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
    • A47L11/408—Means for supplying cleaning or surface treating agents
    • A47L11/4088—Supply pumps; Spraying devices; Supply conduits

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a floor cleaning machine, comprising a cleaning device and a reservoir for cleaning liquid, having an outlet for the cleaning liquid in fluid communication with the cleaning device and a discharge opening for discharging the cleaning liquid, wherein the reservoir has a cover for closing and releasing the discharge opening, in which cover the outlet is integrated.
  • the generic floor cleaning machine comprises the drain opening, through which cleaning liquid can be drained through during prolonged work breaks or during temporary shutdown of the floor cleaning machine. In this way, it is possible, for example, to prevent the cleaning additive from flocculating as a result of the service life and from clogging the outlet when the floor cleaning machine is put back into service. It is further provided to drain the cleaning liquid from the reservoir in order to clean the interior of foreign particles such as dirt.
  • the US 4,741,069 describes a mobile floor cleaning machine with a reservoir comprising a connected by means of a discharge line to the cleaning device outlet.
  • the reservoir has at the bottom a drain opening, which can be closed with a cover.
  • An outlet is integrated in the cover and includes a valve. When positioning the reservoir on a base of the floor cleaning machine, the valve is automatically actuated so that cleaning liquid can flow out of the reservoir.
  • the US 2006/0272120 A1 describes a cleaning device, which also has a reservoir with a valve disposed on the bottom side.
  • the valve may be actuated by positioning the reservoir on a base of the cleaning device.
  • Object of the present invention is to provide a floor cleaning machine of the type mentioned, which can be produced in a simpler manner.
  • the drain opening is closed, and cleaning liquid can be supplied to the cleaning device via the outlet. If the cleaning liquid is to be drained off, for example to clean the storage container, the drainage opening can be released and the cleaning liquid drained off.
  • the above embodiment of the floor cleaning machine according to the invention makes it possible to combine the cover and the outlet, which functionally have the same purpose, namely to enable or prevent the discharge of cleaning liquid from the storage container, into an assembly. During a uniform, common manufacturing process, the outlet can be easily integrated into the cover in terms of manufacturing technology, in order subsequently to be installed with the reservoir produced in a separate production method for the purpose of completing the reservoir.
  • the reservoir is made, as usual, by a rotation sintering process which does not permit integration of the outlet during the manufacturing process, subsequent integration of the outlet and so that a manufacturing step can be saved.
  • the handling of the in practice often unwieldy reservoir is facilitated when the outlet is integrated into the comparatively small cover.
  • the floor cleaning machine according to the invention not only receives a simpler structural design, but it can also be produced in a simpler way.
  • the outlet can in the present case in the simplest case be an outlet opening formed in the cover, into which, for example, a supply line for cleaning liquid for the cleaning device can be inserted. It is also conceivable embodiment of the outlet as a connection element for the supply.
  • connection element can be provided on the cover.
  • the floor cleaning machine comprises a connection element forming the outlet and otherwise integrated in the cover for a supply line, with which cleaning liquid can be fed to the cleaning device.
  • the supply line can be reliably connected, thereby largely avoiding leakage in the region of the outlet.
  • the floor cleaning machine comprises a supply line releasably connectable with the connection element.
  • the supply line is conveniently in particular manually connected to the connection element and / or manually detachable from this, for example by plugging or by peeling.
  • the connection element opposite end of the supply line is also preferably manually connected to the cleaning device and / or manually detachable from this.
  • the cross-sectional area of the discharge opening is substantially larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet through which the cleaning liquid can flow.
  • the cross-sectional area of the outlet can be selected during production such that the cleaning device can be supplied with the required amount of cleaning liquid.
  • the reservoir can be emptied and cleaned very quickly after releasing the discharge opening.
  • the cross-section of the outlet is approximately finger-thick, whereas the cross section of the outlet opening is approximately arm-thick, so that a user can also intervene through the discharge opening into the reservoir and clean it.
  • the cross-sectional area of the discharge opening is about 20 cm 2 to about 180 cm 2 , more preferably about 50 cm 2 to about 110 cm 2 and even more preferably about 80 cm 2 . If the discharge opening is circular, this corresponds to a diameter of the discharge opening of about 5 cm to about 15 cm, more preferably about 8 cm to about 12 cm or even more preferably about 10 cm.
  • connection element is formed separately from the cover and connected to this, in order to integrate them in this.
  • the cover has a plate-shaped lid which can be produced in a structurally simple manner and for the connection element is a standardized component is used, welchs also manufactured in large quantities production technology simple and can be connected to a lid.
  • the connection element with the cover is otherwise screwed, glued or welded.
  • connection element integral with the cover and to integrate in this way in this.
  • the connecting element may be molded, for example, to the cover, for example, by casting.
  • connection element and / or the cover are made of a plastic material, because this allows their cost-effective and structurally simple production.
  • connection element is formed angled and defines, for example, a connection axis for the supply line, which forms an angle with a surface normal of the cover. This is advantageous, for example, if the cover is arranged at or near a lateral boundary of the floor cleaning machine, so that it can be reached by a user in a simpler manner.
  • the angled connection element makes it possible that the supply line does not protrude beyond the lateral boundary of the floor cleaning machine, which may be perceived by the user as disturbing.
  • connection element is designed to be rotatable relative to the cover. This makes it possible to adjust the connection element so that the supply line is aligned in the direct direction of the cleaning device.
  • the reservoir is pivotable relative to a chassis to expose a arranged below the reservoir suction unit, so that it is freely accessible to the user for maintenance.
  • the cover is pivoted together with the reservoir otherwise.
  • connection element is designed to be rotatable with respect to the cover, this allows the supply container to be pivoted in the opposite direction of rotation while rotating the connection element, so that the supply line can not be separated from the connection element.
  • the pivot axis of the reservoir preferably extends horizontally and through the cover, for example, perpendicular to the cover.
  • the supply line is designed as a hose, because it is structurally simple to manufacture and flexible installation.
  • the handling of the floor cleaning machine is made easier for the user if the discharge opening is manually releasable and / or closable.
  • the cover is detachably connectable to the reservoir. In the connected state, the cover closes the drain opening. If the cover is otherwise released from the storage container, the discharge opening is released. As a result, the cover can be made structurally simple.
  • the floor cleaning machine comprises at least one fastening element for fixing the cover to the storage container in a closed position in which the discharge opening is closed.
  • the cover on the storage container is otherwise fixed.
  • the cover can be transferred to a release position, for example, be detached from the reservoir, moreover, in order to release the discharge opening.
  • the at least one fastener is screwed to the reservoir, i. the at least one fastening element and the reservoir form a screw, by means of which the cover is fixable on the reservoir.
  • the at least one fastener is screwed to the reservoir, i. the at least one fastening element and the reservoir form a screw, by means of which the cover is fixable on the reservoir.
  • the at least one fastening element is formed separately from the cover. This facilitates the production of the cover, for example, if this comprises a structurally simple to produce plate-shaped lid. Furthermore, this also makes it easier to rotatably form the cover, as mentioned below, relative to the reservoir, in order to turn it and thus the outlet into a suitable position.
  • the fastening element is formed integrally with the cover, for example, is formed on this.
  • the at least one fastener engages over the cover in the closed position, because this allows a structurally simple way the fixation of the cover on the reservoir.
  • the at least one fastening element forms a screw ring or a union nut for the cover, which can otherwise be screwed to the reservoir for fixing the cover.
  • the outlet is arranged off-center of the cover on the same. If the cover assumes an orientation oriented obliquely or transversely to a horizontal plane, this makes it possible to align the outlet in a position that occupies the smallest distance from the bottom surface. This will ensure that the reservoir can be emptied as far as possible through the outlet before adding cleaning fluid.
  • the outlet is arranged on an edge region of the cover.
  • the cover is rotatable relative to the reservoir, for example in the last-described embodiment of the floor cleaning machine.
  • the outlet can be transferred to the position with the smallest distance to the bottom surface.
  • the cover is rotatable relative to the reservoir only if it is held by means of the at least one fastening element while loosely on this, but not fixed in the closed position.
  • the cover in the closed position in which it sealingly closes the discharge opening, is rotatable relative to the storage container.
  • the floor cleaning machine preferably has a filter element for filtering cleaning liquid flowing out of the outlet, because this allows the cleaning liquid to be freed of foreign particles and clogging of the components of the floor cleaning machine that carry the cleaning liquid to be avoided.
  • the filter element is fixable by means of the cover in its closed position on the reservoir. This allows a structurally simple embodiment of the floor cleaning machine, can be dispensed with in a separate attachment for the filter element. Further, the filter element can be easily removed, replaced or maintained by the cover is transferred from the closed position to the release position, so that the filter element is freely accessible to the user.
  • the filter element is applied to an edge of the discharge opening between the cover and the reservoir.
  • the filter element is attached to the edge and inserted into the discharge opening, covered by the cover, which is then fixed by means of the at least one fastening element on the reservoir otherwise. This also allows a particularly simple handling of the floor cleaning machine.
  • the cross-sectional area of the filter element is greater than the cross-sectional area of the outlet which can be flowed through by cleaning fluid, with a filter medium of the filter element favorably being at a distance from the outlet. Due to the large cross-sectional area, the cleaning liquid can be effectively filtered for a long period of time without the outlet becoming contaminated with foreign particles. By the distance of the filter medium from the outlet is further ensured that even with partially added filter medium of the cleaning device still cleaning liquid can be supplied through the outlet.
  • the cross-sectional area of the filter element may be as large or substantially as large as the cross-sectional area of the discharge opening, for example by the filter medium extending over the entire discharge opening.
  • the filter element comprises a filter medium as a filter, because this allows a cost-effective production of the filter medium.
  • a volume flow of cleaning liquid can be achieved, which is sufficient for loading the cleaning device, without the need for a pump unit must be used.
  • the discharge opening is arranged in a vertical plane, ie the edge of the discharge opening defines a vertical plane.
  • the cover may be at least partially plate-shaped.
  • it may comprise a plate-shaped lid into which a connection element forming the outlet is integrated.
  • FIG. 1 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention, which is designed as a so-called scrubbing or scrubber-suction and is generally designated by the reference numeral 10.
  • the scrubber-drier 10 has a cleaning device 14 at the bottom on its front side 12.
  • the cleaning device 14, a so-called “brush head” comprises two cleaning tools not shown in the drawing in the form of brush rollers. Using the brush rollers, dirt can be removed from a floor surface 16 to be cleaned after the cleaning device 14 has been lowered.
  • a cleaning liquid can be supplied in the manner explained below, which is stored in a covered by the scrubber 10 reservoir 18, hereinafter tank 20.
  • the cleaning liquid is preferably water, to which a cleaning additive may be added to increase the cleaning effect.
  • the mixture of loosened dirt and cleaning liquid can be sucked off a dirt-collecting container 22, which is arranged on the bottom side on a rear side 24 of the scrubber-suction machine 10 and is placed on the bottom surface 16 in the lowered state.
  • the suction is carried out under the action of a suction unit, not shown in the drawing.
  • the dirty liquid container is also not shown in the drawing, and it is located below a lid 26 at the top of the scrubber 10th
  • the bearing portion 28 rests on a formed by a chassis 30 of the scrubber 10, also cylindrical bearing shell 32 ( FIG. 2 ).
  • a control unit 34 is pivotally mounted on the back 24 about a horizontal pivot axis 36.
  • the storage portion 28 of the tank 20 has at its lowest point a lateral discharge opening 38 at the left side of the scrubber 10.
  • the discharge opening 38 is bordered by a vertical plane defining edge 40 so that the discharge opening 38 is in a vertical plane is aligned.
  • a fastening element 42 is formed in the form of an external thread 44 on the wall of the tank 20.
  • the external thread 44 can cooperate with a further fastening element 46 in the form of a threaded ring 48, which comprises an internal thread 50 and thereby detachably screwed onto the external thread 44 ,
  • the tank 18 For closing the discharge opening 38, the tank 18 comprises a cover 52, which has the cover in the closer sense, namely a plate-shaped circular cover 54, and an outlet 56 integrated in the plate-shaped cover 54 for cleaning fluid.
  • Both the plate-shaped cover 54 and the outlet 56 are manufactured from a simple plastic material manufacturing technology, wherein the outlet 56 is an angled connecting nipple 58 produced inexpensively by a standardized method.
  • the nipple 58 is arranged eccentrically on the cover 54, approximately at half the distance from the center to the outer edge.
  • the plate-shaped cover 54 has an opening 60 which is penetrated by one end side of the connection nipple 58, which cooperates by means of a fastening element in the form of a lock nut for fixing the connection nipple 58 on the cover 54.
  • a polygonal recess 64 is provided in the cover 54, which can cooperate with a polygon and in particular hex 66 at the connection nipple 58. This ensures that the connection nipple 58 with a first, the lid 54 facing portion 68, which is parallel to the pivot axis 36, is rotatably held on the cover 54.
  • a second section 70 of the connecting nipple 58 is aligned at right angles to the first section 68 and is freely rotatable relative to the first section 68 about a rotation axis 72 defined by it, which is aligned parallel to the pivot axis 36.
  • the tank 20 includes a filter element 74 that can be placed between the cover 52 and the rim 40, positively engaging the vent opening 38 can be used.
  • the cover 52 can be placed on the outside of the filter element 74 and by means of the threaded ring 48 firmly bolted to the tank 20 otherwise to seal the discharge opening 38.
  • the filter element 74 has a screen 76, which is arranged in the interior of the tank 20 at a distance from the connection nipple 58 and which covers a cross-sectional area which is substantially as large as that of the discharge opening 38.
  • Sectionally illustrated supply line 78 in the form of a tube 80 is on the second portion 70 of the nipple 58 manually releasably attachable.
  • the hose 80 extends from the connection nipple 58 to the cleaning device 14, to which it also, this is not shown in the drawing, is detachably connectable.
  • a trough-shaped recess 82 is provided in the chassis 30.
  • the scrubber-drier 10 has the following properties:
  • the cover 52 In normal operation, the cover 52 assumes a closed position in which the drain opening 38 is sealed. As mentioned, this is the filter element 74 at the edge 40, the cover 52 covers the filter element 74, and it is fixed by means of the threaded ring 48 on the tank 20 otherwise. This is possible for the user manually without the use of tools.
  • the user can align the off-center held on the cover 54 connecting nipple 58 so that it occupies the smallest possible distance from the bottom surface 16 (see. FIG. 1 ). This can ensure that a maximum possible amount of cleaning liquid of the cleaning device 14 can be supplied from the tank 20.
  • cleaning fluid passes through filter element 74 of very large cross-sectional area as compared to the cross-sectional area of port nipple 58. Since the strainer 76 has a distance from the connection nipple 58, the risk that the Connecting nipple 58 with foreign particles contained in the cleaning fluid, extremely low. Even if a portion of the screen 76 is already added with foreign particles, cleaning liquid can still be discharged via the connection nipple 58.
  • the hose 80 which can be connected manually to the connection nipple 58, supplies the cleaning liquid to the cleaning device 14, so that the bottom surface 16 can be supplied with cleaning liquid.
  • the second section 70 of the connecting nipple 58 which is rotatable relative to the first section 68, it is possible to prevent kinks from forming in the hose 80. Rather, the second section 70 automatically adjusts relative to the first section 68 so that the tube 80 is free of kinking.
  • the second portion 70 can rotate relative to the first portion 68 so that the hose 80 does not come off either from the connection nipple 58 or from the cleaning device 14 and further also not kinked.
  • the discharge opening 38 It may be necessary to release the discharge opening 38, for example, to clean or replace the filter element 74 or to drain cleaning liquid from the tank 20.
  • the user can solve the screw ring 48 manually and without tools from the tank 20 incidentally, the cover 52 of the Transfer closed position into a release position and thereby release the discharge opening 38.
  • the filter element 74 since only inserted, can also be removed without tools from the tank 20 and cleaned or replaced, if necessary.
  • To drain cleaning liquid from the tank 20 may be necessary at a longer standstill or inoperative position of the scrubber 10, to prevent a cleaning additive flocculates. Furthermore, it may occasionally be necessary to drain the cleaning fluid to remove foreign particles from the interior of the tank 20.
  • the tank 20 can be emptied particularly quickly when the drain opening is released.
  • the discharge opening 38 is formed comparatively large. Its diameter is approximately 10 cm, which corresponds to a cross-sectional area of approximately 80 cm 2 .
  • the cross section of the discharge opening 38 is more than armdick. This allows the user to intervene with the tool or the forearm in the interior of the tank 20 and remove foreign particles with tool or by hand from the tank 20.
  • the intervention in the tank 20 in a simple manner possible because the discharge opening, as mentioned, vertically aligned and arranged laterally on the scrubber 10. A cleaning of the interior of the tank 20 via the discharge opening 38 is therefore possible for the user without excessively crooked posture.
  • the drain opening 38 can be closed again.
  • the filter element 74 is again applied to the edge 40 and to insert into the discharge opening 38, to cover by the cover 52, which can be manually fixed by means of the screw ring 48 on the tank 20 otherwise.
  • connection nipple 58 ie the outlet 56
  • cover 52 of the discharge opening 38 offers the advantage of a structurally simple, easy to manufacture and easy-to-use floor cleaning machine.
  • blockages can be corrected easily.
  • blockages of the filter element 74 this is also possible in the case of blockages of the tube 80, they should occur at all.
  • the hose 80 can be released manually from the connection nipple 58 and from the cleaning device 14, a cleaning or replacement of the hose 80 can also be carried out particularly easily.
  • the hose 80 is accessible to the user by the arrangement on the side of the scrubber 10 in a simple manner. He is not beyond a lateral boundary of the scrubber 10, which is possible by the angled configuration of the connection nipple 58.
  • annular sealing element 84 may be arranged between the filter element 74 and the cover 52 .
  • Such an arrangement of the sealing element 84 offers the advantage that when the screw ring 48 is screwed onto the edge 40 no rotational movement of the sealing surfaces occurs relative to one another.

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  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
  • Nozzles For Electric Vacuum Cleaners (AREA)
  • Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Bodenreinigungsmaschine, umfassend eine Reinigungsvorrichtung sowie einen Vorratsbehälter für Reinigungsflüssigkeit, der einen mit der Reinigungsvorrichtung in Strömungsverbindung stehenden Auslass für die Reinigungsflüssigkeit sowie eine Ablassöffnung zum Ablassen der Reinigungsflüssigkeit aufweist, wobei der Vorratsbehälter eine Abdeckung zum Verschließen und Freigeben der Ablassöffnung aufweist, in welche Abdeckung der Auslass integriert ist.The invention relates to a floor cleaning machine, comprising a cleaning device and a reservoir for cleaning liquid, having an outlet for the cleaning liquid in fluid communication with the cleaning device and a discharge opening for discharging the cleaning liquid, wherein the reservoir has a cover for closing and releasing the discharge opening, in which cover the outlet is integrated.

Bei einer derartigen Bodenreinigungsmaschine kann Reinigungsflüssigkeit; insbesondere Wasser, dem ein Reinigungszusatz zugesetzt sein kann, über den Auslass der Reinigungsvorrichtung zugeführt werden, um eine zu reinigende Bodenfläche zur Steigerung der Reinigungswirkung zu beaufschlagen. Zusätzlich zum Auslass umfasst die gattungsgemäße Bodenreinigungsmaschine die Ablassöffnung, durch die hindurch während längerer Arbeitspausen oder bei vorübergehender Stilllegung der Bodenreinigungsmaschine Reinigungsflüssigkeit abgelassen werden kann. Auf diese Weise lässt sich zum Beispiel verhindern, dass der Reinigungszusatz infolge der Standzeit ausflockt und bei der Wiederinbetriebnahme der Bodenreinigungsmaschine den Auslass verstopft. Ferner ist vorgesehen, die Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Vorratsbehälter abzulassen, um dessen Innenraum von Fremdpartikeln wie etwa Schmutz zu reinigen.In such a floor cleaning machine cleaning liquid; In particular, water to which a cleaning additive may be added, are supplied via the outlet of the cleaning device in order to act on a floor surface to be cleaned to increase the cleaning effect. In addition to the outlet, the generic floor cleaning machine comprises the drain opening, through which cleaning liquid can be drained through during prolonged work breaks or during temporary shutdown of the floor cleaning machine. In this way, it is possible, for example, to prevent the cleaning additive from flocculating as a result of the service life and from clogging the outlet when the floor cleaning machine is put back into service. It is further provided to drain the cleaning liquid from the reservoir in order to clean the interior of foreign particles such as dirt.

Die US 4,741,069 beschreibt eine fahrbare Bodenreinigungsmaschine mit einem Vorratsbehälter, der einen mittels einer Abgabeleitung an die Reinigungsvorrichtung angeschlossenen Auslass umfasst.The US 4,741,069 describes a mobile floor cleaning machine with a reservoir comprising a connected by means of a discharge line to the cleaning device outlet.

In der US 6,081,962 ist eine gattungsgemäße Bodenreinigungsmaschine beschrieben. Der Vorratsbehälter weist untenseitig eine Ablassöffnung auf, die mit einer Abdeckung verschließbar ist. Ein Auslass ist in die Abdeckung integriert und umfasst ein Ventil. Beim Positionieren des Vorratsbehälters auf einer Basis der Bodenreinigungsmaschine wird das Ventil automatisch betätigt, so dass Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Vorratsbehälter ausfließen kann.In the US 6,081,962 is a generic floor cleaning machine described. The reservoir has at the bottom a drain opening, which can be closed with a cover. An outlet is integrated in the cover and includes a valve. When positioning the reservoir on a base of the floor cleaning machine, the valve is automatically actuated so that cleaning liquid can flow out of the reservoir.

Die US 2006/0272120 A1 beschreibt eine Reinigungsvorrichtung, die ebenfalls einen Vorratsbehälter mit einem bodenseitig angeordneten Ventil aufweist. Das Ventil kann durch Positionieren des Vorratsbehälters auf einer Basis der Reinigungsvorrichtung betätigt werden.The US 2006/0272120 A1 describes a cleaning device, which also has a reservoir with a valve disposed on the bottom side. The valve may be actuated by positioning the reservoir on a base of the cleaning device.

Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es, eine Bodenreinigungsmaschine der eingangs genannten Art bereitzustellen, die auf einfachere Weise herstellbar ist.Object of the present invention is to provide a floor cleaning machine of the type mentioned, which can be produced in a simpler manner.

Die Aufgabe wird bei einer gattungsgemäßen Bodenreinigungsmaschine erfindungsgemäß mit den Merkmalen des kennzeichnenden Teils von Anspruch 1 gelöst.The object is achieved in a generic floor cleaning machine according to the invention with the features of the characterizing part of claim 1.

Im Betrieb der Bodenreinigungsmaschine ist die Ablassöffnung verschlossen, und Reinigungsflüssigkeit kann der Reinigungsvorrichtung über den Auslass zugeführt werden. Ist die Reinigungsflüssigkeit abzulassen, etwa zur Reinigung des Vorratsbehälters, kann die Ablassöffnung freigegeben und die Reinigungsflüssigkeit abgelassen werden. Vorstehende Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Bodenreinigungsmaschine ermöglicht es, die Abdeckung und den Auslass, die in funktioneller Hinsicht denselben Zweck verfolgen, nämlich die Abgabe von Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Vorratsbehälter zu ermöglichen oder zu verhindern, in einer Baugruppe zusammenzufassen. Während eines einheitlichen, gemeinsamen Herstellungsprozesses kann der Auslass herstellungstechnisch einfach in die Abdeckung integriert werden, um anschließend mit dem in einem davon getrennten Herstellungsverfahren gefertigten Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen zur Vollendung des Vorratsbehälters verbaut zu werden. Ist der Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen, wie üblich, durch ein die Integration des Auslasses während des Herstellungsverfahrens nicht erlaubendes Rotationssinterverfahren hergestellt, kann eine nachfolgende Integration des Auslasses und damit ein Herstellungsschritt eingespart werden. Zudem wird das Hantieren des in der Praxis oft unhandlichen Vorratsbehälters erleichtert, wenn der Auslass in die vergleichsweise kleine Abdeckung integriert wird. Somit erhält die erfindungsgemäße Bodenreinigungsmaschine nicht nur eine einfachere konstruktive Ausgestaltung, sondern sie lässt sich auch auf einfachere Weise herstellen.In operation of the floor cleaning machine, the drain opening is closed, and cleaning liquid can be supplied to the cleaning device via the outlet. If the cleaning liquid is to be drained off, for example to clean the storage container, the drainage opening can be released and the cleaning liquid drained off. The above embodiment of the floor cleaning machine according to the invention makes it possible to combine the cover and the outlet, which functionally have the same purpose, namely to enable or prevent the discharge of cleaning liquid from the storage container, into an assembly. During a uniform, common manufacturing process, the outlet can be easily integrated into the cover in terms of manufacturing technology, in order subsequently to be installed with the reservoir produced in a separate production method for the purpose of completing the reservoir. Incidentally, if the reservoir is made, as usual, by a rotation sintering process which does not permit integration of the outlet during the manufacturing process, subsequent integration of the outlet and so that a manufacturing step can be saved. In addition, the handling of the in practice often unwieldy reservoir is facilitated when the outlet is integrated into the comparatively small cover. Thus, the floor cleaning machine according to the invention not only receives a simpler structural design, but it can also be produced in a simpler way.

Bei dem Auslass kann es sich vorliegend im einfachsten Fall um eine in der Abdeckung gebildete Auslassöffnung handeln, in die beispielsweise eine Zuführleitung für Reinigungsflüssigkeit für die Reinigungsvorrichtung eingeführt werden kann. Denkbar ist auch die Ausgestaltung des Auslasses als Anschlusselement für die Zuführleitung.In the present case, the outlet can in the present case in the simplest case be an outlet opening formed in the cover, into which, for example, a supply line for cleaning liquid for the cleaning device can be inserted. It is also conceivable embodiment of the outlet as a connection element for the supply.

Wie bereits erwähnt, kann an der Abdeckung ein Anschlusselement vorgesehen sein. Die Bodenreinigungsmaschine umfasst ein den Auslass bildendes, in die Abdeckung im Übrigen integriertes Anschlusselement für eine Zuführleitung, mit der der Reinigungsvorrichtung Reinigungsflüssigkeit zuführbar ist. Am Anschlusselement lässt sich die Zuführleitung zuverlässig anschließen und dadurch eine Undichtigkeit im Bereich des Auslasses weitgehend vermeiden.As already mentioned, a connection element can be provided on the cover. The floor cleaning machine comprises a connection element forming the outlet and otherwise integrated in the cover for a supply line, with which cleaning liquid can be fed to the cleaning device. At the connection element, the supply line can be reliably connected, thereby largely avoiding leakage in the region of the outlet.

Die Bodenreinigungsmaschine umfasst eine mit dem Anschlusselement lösbar verbindbare Zuführleitung. Die Zuführleitung ist günstigerweise insbesondere manuell mit dem Anschlusselement verbindbar und/oder manuell von diesem lösbar, beispielsweise durch Aufstecken bzw. durch Abziehen. Das dem Anschlusselement entgegengesetzte Ende der Zuführleitung ist mit der Reinigungsvorrichtung ebenfalls bevorzugt manuell verbindbar und/oder manuell von dieser lösbar.The floor cleaning machine comprises a supply line releasably connectable with the connection element. The supply line is conveniently in particular manually connected to the connection element and / or manually detachable from this, for example by plugging or by peeling. The connection element opposite end of the supply line is also preferably manually connected to the cleaning device and / or manually detachable from this.

Vorteilhafterweise ist die Querschnittsfläche der Ablassöffnung wesentlich größer als die von der Reinigungsflüssigkeit durchströmbare Querschnittsfläche des Auslasses. Die Querschnittsfläche des Auslasses kann bei der Herstellung derart gewählt werden, dass der Reinigungsvorrichtung die erforderliche Menge an Reinigungsflüssigkeit zuführbar ist. Wird die Querschnittsfläche der Ablassöffnung wesentlich größer gewählt als die Querschnittsfläche des Auslasses, kann der Vorratsbehälter nach dem Freigeben der Ablassöffnung besonders zügig entleert und gereinigt werden. Beispielsweise ist der Querschnitt des Auslasses ungefähr fingerdick, wohingegen der Querschnitt der Ablassöffnung ungefähr armdick ist, so dass ein Benutzer auch durch die Ablassöffnung hindurch in den Vorratsbehälter eingreifen und diesen reinigen kann.Advantageously, the cross-sectional area of the discharge opening is substantially larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet through which the cleaning liquid can flow. The cross-sectional area of the outlet can be selected during production such that the cleaning device can be supplied with the required amount of cleaning liquid. Will the cross-sectional area of the discharge opening chosen substantially larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet, the reservoir can be emptied and cleaned very quickly after releasing the discharge opening. For example, the cross-section of the outlet is approximately finger-thick, whereas the cross section of the outlet opening is approximately arm-thick, so that a user can also intervene through the discharge opening into the reservoir and clean it.

Bei einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Bodenreinigungsmaschine erweist es sich in der Praxis als günstig, wenn die Querschnittsfläche der Ablassöffnung ungefähr 20 cm2 bis ungefähr 180 cm2, bevorzugter ungefähr 50 cm2 bis ungefähr 110 cm2 und noch bevorzugter ungefähr 80 cm2 beträgt. Ist die Ablassöffnung kreisrund, entspricht dies einem Durchmesser der Ablassöffnung von ungefähr 5 cm bis ungefähr 15 cm, bevorzugter ungefähr 8 cm bis ungefähr 12 cm bzw. noch bevorzugter von ungefähr 10 cm.In a preferred embodiment of the floor cleaning machine according to the invention, it proves to be favorable in practice if the cross-sectional area of the discharge opening is about 20 cm 2 to about 180 cm 2 , more preferably about 50 cm 2 to about 110 cm 2 and even more preferably about 80 cm 2 . If the discharge opening is circular, this corresponds to a diameter of the discharge opening of about 5 cm to about 15 cm, more preferably about 8 cm to about 12 cm or even more preferably about 10 cm.

Bei einer vorteilhaften Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Bodenreinigungsmaschine erweist es sich in der Praxis als günstig, wenn das Anschlusselement getrennt von der Abdeckung gebildet und mit dieser verbunden ist, um sie in diese zu integrieren. Dies ist zum Beispiel dann von Vorteil, wenn die Abdeckung einen plattenförmigen Deckel aufweist, der auf konstruktiv einfache Weise herstellbar ist und für das Anschlusselement ein standardisiertes Bauteil zum Einsatz kommt, welchs in großen Stückzahlen ebenfalls herstellungstechnisch einfach gefertigt und mit einem Deckel verbunden werden kann. Zum Beispiel ist das Anschlusselement mit der Abdeckung im Übrigen verschraubt, verklebt oder verschweißt.In an advantageous embodiment of the floor cleaning machine according to the invention, it proves to be advantageous in practice, when the connection element is formed separately from the cover and connected to this, in order to integrate them in this. This is for example advantageous if the cover has a plate-shaped lid which can be produced in a structurally simple manner and for the connection element is a standardized component is used, welchs also manufactured in large quantities production technology simple and can be connected to a lid. For example, the connection element with the cover is otherwise screwed, glued or welded.

Bei einer andersartigen Ausführungsform der Bodenreinigungsmaschine hingegen kann es günstig sein, das Anschlusselement einstückig mit der Abdeckung zu bilden und auf diese Weise in diese zu integrieren. Dass Anschlusselement kann beispielsweise an die Abdeckung im Übrigen angeformt sein, etwa angegossen.In a different embodiment of the floor cleaning machine, however, it may be convenient to form the connecting element integral with the cover and to integrate in this way in this. The connecting element may be molded, for example, to the cover, for example, by casting.

Vorzugsweise sind das Anschlusselement und/oder die Abdeckung aus einem Kunststoffmaterial gefertigt, denn dies ermöglicht deren preisgünstige und konstruktiv einfache Herstellung.Preferably, the connection element and / or the cover are made of a plastic material, because this allows their cost-effective and structurally simple production.

Von Vorteil ist es, wenn das Anschlusselement abgewinkelt ausgebildet ist und beispielsweise eine Anschlussachse für die Zuführleitung definiert, die einen Winkel mit einer Flächennormalen der Abdeckung einschließt. Dies ist beispielsweise von Vorteil, wenn die Abdeckung an oder nahe einer seitlichen Begrenzung der Bodenreinigungsmaschine angeordnet ist, so dass sie von einem Benutzer auf einfachere Weise erreicht werden kann. Durch das abgewinkelte Anschlusselement wird ermöglicht, dass die Zuführleitung nicht über die seitliche Begrenzung der Bodenreinigungsmaschine hinaus ragt, was vom Benutzer eventuell als störend empfunden werden kann.It is advantageous if the connection element is formed angled and defines, for example, a connection axis for the supply line, which forms an angle with a surface normal of the cover. This is advantageous, for example, if the cover is arranged at or near a lateral boundary of the floor cleaning machine, so that it can be reached by a user in a simpler manner. The angled connection element makes it possible that the supply line does not protrude beyond the lateral boundary of the floor cleaning machine, which may be perceived by the user as disturbing.

Günstig ist es, wenn das Anschlusselement relativ zur Abdeckung drehbar ausgebildet ist. Dies ermöglicht es, das Anschlusselement so einzustellen, dass die Zuführleitung in direkter Richtung auf die Reinigungsvorrichtung ausgerichtet ist. Bei der Bodenreinigungsmaschine kann beispielsweise vorgesehen sein, dass der Vorratsbehälter relativ zu einem Chassis verschwenkbar ist, um ein unterhalb des Vorratsbehälters angeordnetes Saugaggregat freizulegen, so dass dieses für den Benutzer zur Wartung frei zugänglich ist. In diesem Fall ist es möglich, dass die Abdeckung zusammen mit dem Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen verschwenkt wird. Ist das Anschlusselement drehbar zur Abdeckung im Übrigen ausgebildet, erlaubt dies, den Vorratsbehälter unter Verdrehen des Anschlusselementes in entgegengesetztem Drehsinn zu verschwenken, so dass die Zufuhrleitung nicht vom Anschlusselement zu trennen ist. Die Schwenkachse des Vorratsbehälters verläuft vorzugsweise horizontal und durch die Abdeckung hindurch, beispielsweise senkrecht zur Abdeckung.It is advantageous if the connection element is designed to be rotatable relative to the cover. This makes it possible to adjust the connection element so that the supply line is aligned in the direct direction of the cleaning device. In the floor cleaning machine can be provided, for example, that the reservoir is pivotable relative to a chassis to expose a arranged below the reservoir suction unit, so that it is freely accessible to the user for maintenance. In this case, it is possible that the cover is pivoted together with the reservoir otherwise. If the connection element is designed to be rotatable with respect to the cover, this allows the supply container to be pivoted in the opposite direction of rotation while rotating the connection element, so that the supply line can not be separated from the connection element. The pivot axis of the reservoir preferably extends horizontally and through the cover, for example, perpendicular to the cover.

Vorzugsweise ist die Zuführleitung als Schlauchleitung ausgebildet, denn dadurch ist sie konstruktiv einfach herstellbar und flexibel verlegbar.Preferably, the supply line is designed as a hose, because it is structurally simple to manufacture and flexible installation.

Die Handhabung der Bodenreinigungsmaschine wird dem Benutzer erleichtert, wenn die Ablassöffnung manuell freigebbar und/oder verschließbar ist.The handling of the floor cleaning machine is made easier for the user if the discharge opening is manually releasable and / or closable.

Günstig ist es, wenn die Abdeckung mit dem Vorratsbehälter lösbar verbindbar ist. Im verbundenen Zustand verschließt die Abdeckung die Ablassöffnung. Wird die Abdeckung vom Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen gelöst, ist die Ablassöffnung freigegeben. Dadurch kann die Abdeckung konstruktiv einfach ausgestaltet werden.It is advantageous if the cover is detachably connectable to the reservoir. In the connected state, the cover closes the drain opening. If the cover is otherwise released from the storage container, the discharge opening is released. As a result, the cover can be made structurally simple.

Vorteilhafterweise umfasst die Bodenreinigungsmaschine mindestens ein Befestigungselement zum Fixieren der Abdeckung am Vorratsbehälter in einer Schließstellung, in der die Ablassöffnung verschlossen ist. In der Schließstellung ist die Abdeckung am Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen fixiert. Durch Einwirken auf, Entfernen oder Betätigung des mindestens einen Befestigungselementes kann die Abdeckung in eine Freigabestellung überführt werden, beispielsweise vom Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen gelöst werden, um die Ablassöffnung freizugeben.Advantageously, the floor cleaning machine comprises at least one fastening element for fixing the cover to the storage container in a closed position in which the discharge opening is closed. In the closed position the cover on the storage container is otherwise fixed. By acting on, removing or actuating the at least one fastening element, the cover can be transferred to a release position, for example, be detached from the reservoir, moreover, in order to release the discharge opening.

Vorzugsweise ist das mindestens eine Befestigungselement mit dem Vorratsbehälter verschraubbar, d.h. das mindestens eine Befestigungselement und der Vorratsbehälter bilden eine Schraubverbindung aus, mittels derer die Abdeckung am Vorratsbehälter fixierbar ist. Dies ermöglicht eine konstruktiv einfache Ausgestaltung der Bodenreinigungsmaschine unter gleichzeitiger zuverlässiger Fixierung der Abdeckung in der Schließstellung.Preferably, the at least one fastener is screwed to the reservoir, i. the at least one fastening element and the reservoir form a screw, by means of which the cover is fixable on the reservoir. This allows a structurally simple embodiment of the floor cleaning machine with simultaneous reliable fixation of the cover in the closed position.

Vorteilhafterweise ist das mindestens eine Befestigungselement getrennt von der Abdeckung gebildet. Dies erleichtert die Herstellung der Abdeckung beispielsweise dann, wenn diese einen konstruktiv einfach herstellbaren plattenförmigen Deckel umfasst. Ferner wird dadurch auch erleichtert, die Abdeckung, wie nachfolgend erwähnt, relativ zum Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen drehbar auszubilden, um sie und damit den Auslass in eine geeignete Stellung zu verdrehen.Advantageously, the at least one fastening element is formed separately from the cover. This facilitates the production of the cover, for example, if this comprises a structurally simple to produce plate-shaped lid. Furthermore, this also makes it easier to rotatably form the cover, as mentioned below, relative to the reservoir, in order to turn it and thus the outlet into a suitable position.

Bei einer andersartigen bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Bodenreinigungsmaschine kann vorgesehen sein, dass das Befestigungselement integral mit der Abdeckung gebildet ist, beispielsweise an diese angeformt ist.In a different preferred embodiment of the floor cleaning machine can be provided that the fastening element is formed integrally with the cover, for example, is formed on this.

Bevorzugt übergreift das mindestens eine Befestigungselement die Abdeckung in der Schließstellung, denn dies ermöglicht auf konstruktiv einfache Weise die Fixierung der Abdeckung am Vorratsbehälter. Beispielsweise bildet das mindestens eine Befestigungselement einen Schraubring oder eine Überwurfmutter für die Abdeckung, der bzw. die mit dem Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen zur Fixierung der Abdeckung verschraubbar ist.Preferably, the at least one fastener engages over the cover in the closed position, because this allows a structurally simple way the fixation of the cover on the reservoir. For example, the at least one fastening element forms a screw ring or a union nut for the cover, which can otherwise be screwed to the reservoir for fixing the cover.

Günstig ist es, wenn der Auslass außermittig der Abdeckung an derselben angeordnet ist. Nimmt die Abdeckung eine schräg oder quer zu einer Horizontalebene ausgerichtete Orientierung ein, ermöglicht dies, den Auslass in einer einen geringsten Abstand zur Bodenfläche einnehmenden Stellung auszurichten. Dadurch wird sichergestellt, dass über den Auslass der Vorratsbehälter so weit wie möglich entleert werden kann, bevor Reinigungsflüssigkeit nachzufüllen ist. Beispielsweise ist der Auslass an einem Randbereich der Abdeckung angeordnet.It is advantageous if the outlet is arranged off-center of the cover on the same. If the cover assumes an orientation oriented obliquely or transversely to a horizontal plane, this makes it possible to align the outlet in a position that occupies the smallest distance from the bottom surface. This will ensure that the reservoir can be emptied as far as possible through the outlet before adding cleaning fluid. For example, the outlet is arranged on an edge region of the cover.

Günstig ist es, wenn die Abdeckung relativ zum Vorratsbehälter drehbar ist, beispielsweise bei der zuletzt beschriebenen Ausführungsform der Bodenreinigungsmaschine. Durch Verdrehen der Abdeckung relativ zum Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen kann der Auslass in die Stellung mit dem geringsten Abstand zur Bodenfläche überführt werden. Es kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Abdeckung nur dann relativ zum Vorratsbehälter drehbar ist, wenn sie mittels des mindestens einen Befestigungselementes zwar lose an diesem gehalten, nicht aber in der Schließstellung fixiert ist. Denkbar ist jedoch auch, dass die Abdeckung in der Schließstellung, in der sie die Ablassöffnung dichtend verschließt, drehbar relativ zum Vorratsbehälter ist.It is advantageous if the cover is rotatable relative to the reservoir, for example in the last-described embodiment of the floor cleaning machine. By turning the cover relative to the reservoir, moreover, the outlet can be transferred to the position with the smallest distance to the bottom surface. It can be provided that the cover is rotatable relative to the reservoir only if it is held by means of the at least one fastening element while loosely on this, but not fixed in the closed position. However, it is also conceivable that the cover in the closed position, in which it sealingly closes the discharge opening, is rotatable relative to the storage container.

Vorzugsweise weist die Bodenreinigungsmaschine ein Filterelement zum Filtern von aus dem Auslass ausströmender Reinigungsflüssigkeit auf, denn dadurch kann die Reinigungsflüssigkeit von Fremdpartikeln befreit und ein Verstopfen der die Reinigungsflüssigkeit führenden Komponenten der Bodenreinigungsmaschine vermieden werden.The floor cleaning machine preferably has a filter element for filtering cleaning liquid flowing out of the outlet, because this allows the cleaning liquid to be freed of foreign particles and clogging of the components of the floor cleaning machine that carry the cleaning liquid to be avoided.

Von Vorteil ist es, wenn das Filterelement mittels der Abdeckung in deren Schließstellung am Vorratsbehälter fixierbar ist. Dies ermöglicht eine konstruktiv einfache Ausgestaltung der Bodenreinigungsmaschine, bei der auf eine separate Befestigung für das Filterelement verzichtet werden kann. Ferner kann das Filterelement auf einfache Weise entfernt, ausgetauscht oder gewartet werden, indem die Abdeckung von der Schließstellung in die Freigabestellung überführt wird, so dass das Filterelement dem Benutzer frei zugänglich ist.It is advantageous if the filter element is fixable by means of the cover in its closed position on the reservoir. This allows a structurally simple embodiment of the floor cleaning machine, can be dispensed with in a separate attachment for the filter element. Further, the filter element can be easily removed, replaced or maintained by the cover is transferred from the closed position to the release position, so that the filter element is freely accessible to the user.

Bevorzugt ist das Filterelement an einen Rand der Ablassöffnung zwischen der Abdeckung und dem Vorratsbehälter angelegt. Dadurch ist auf konstruktiv einfache Weise die Möglichkeit gegeben, das Filterelement mittels der Abdeckung zu fixieren. Beispielsweise wird das Filterelement an den Rand an- und in die Ablassöffnung eingelegt, von der Abdeckung überdeckt, welche anschließend mittels des mindestens einen Befestigungselementes am Vorratsbehälter im Übrigen fixiert wird. Dies ermöglicht auch eine besonders einfache Handhabung der Bodenreinigungsmaschine.Preferably, the filter element is applied to an edge of the discharge opening between the cover and the reservoir. As a result, it is possible in a structurally simple way to fix the filter element by means of the cover. For example, the filter element is attached to the edge and inserted into the discharge opening, covered by the cover, which is then fixed by means of the at least one fastening element on the reservoir otherwise. This also allows a particularly simple handling of the floor cleaning machine.

Von Vorteil ist es, wenn die Querschnittsfläche des Filterelementes größer ist als die von Reinigungsflüssigkeit durchströmbare Querschnittsfläche des Auslasses, wobei ein Filtermedium des Filterelementes günstigerweise einen Abstand zum Auslass aufweist. Aufgrund der großen Querschnittsfläche kann die Reinigungsflüssigkeit für eine lange Zeitdauer wirkungsvoll gefiltert werden, ohne dass sich der Auslass mit Fremdpartikeln zusetzt. Durch den Abstand des Filtermediums vom Auslass ist weiter sichergestellt, dass selbst bei teilweise zugesetztem Filtermedium der Reinigungsvorrichtung noch Reinigungsflüssigkeit über den Auslass zugeführt werden kann. Insbesondere kann die Querschnittsfläche des Filterelementes so groß oder im Wesentlichen so groß sein wie die Querschnittsfläche der Ablassöffnung, beispielsweise indem sich das Filtermedium über die gesamte Ablassöffnung hinweg erstreckt.It is advantageous if the cross-sectional area of the filter element is greater than the cross-sectional area of the outlet which can be flowed through by cleaning fluid, with a filter medium of the filter element favorably being at a distance from the outlet. Due to the large cross-sectional area, the cleaning liquid can be effectively filtered for a long period of time without the outlet becoming contaminated with foreign particles. By the distance of the filter medium from the outlet is further ensured that even with partially added filter medium of the cleaning device still cleaning liquid can be supplied through the outlet. In particular, the cross-sectional area of the filter element may be as large or substantially as large as the cross-sectional area of the discharge opening, for example by the filter medium extending over the entire discharge opening.

Günstig ist es, wenn das Filterelement als Filtermedium ein Sieb umfasst, denn dies ermöglicht eine kostengünstige Herstellung des Filtermediums. Zudem kann durch das Filtermedium hindurch ein Volumenstrom an Reinigungsflüssigkeit erzielt werden, der hinreichend für eine Beaufschlagung der Reinigungsvorrichtung ist, ohne dass hierfür ein Pumpaggregat eingesetzt werden muss.It is advantageous if the filter element comprises a filter medium as a filter, because this allows a cost-effective production of the filter medium. In addition, through the filter medium through a volume flow of cleaning liquid can be achieved, which is sufficient for loading the cleaning device, without the need for a pump unit must be used.

Bevorzugt ist die Ablassöffnung in einer vertikalen Ebene angeordnet, d.h. der Rand der Ablassöffnung definiert eine vertikale Ebene. Dadurch kann nicht nur Reinigungsflüssigkeit zuverlässig aus dem Vorratsbehälter abgelassen werden, sondern der Benutzer kann auch handhabungsfreundlich von der Seite in den Innenraum des Vorratsbehälters eingreifen und diesen reinigen.Preferably, the discharge opening is arranged in a vertical plane, ie the edge of the discharge opening defines a vertical plane. As a result, not only cleaning fluid can be reliably drained from the reservoir, but the user can also handle friendly from the side into the interior of the reservoir and clean it.

Bei einer konstruktiv einfachen Ausgestaltung kann die Abdeckung zumindest teilweise plattenförmig sein. Beispielsweise kann sie einen plattenförmigen Deckel umfassen, in den ein den Auslass bildendes Anschlusselement integriert ist.In a structurally simple embodiment, the cover may be at least partially plate-shaped. For example, it may comprise a plate-shaped lid into which a connection element forming the outlet is integrated.

Die nachfolgende Beschreibung einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung dient im Zusammenhang mit der Zeichnung der näheren Erläuterung der Erfindung. Es zeigen:

Figur 1:
eine Seitenansicht einer erfindungsgemäßen Bodenreinigungsmaschine;
Figur 2:
eine Rückansicht der Bodenreinigungsmaschine aus Figur 1 und
Figur 3:
eine perspektivische Teildarstellung eines rückwärtigen Bereiches eines Vorratsbehälters für Reinigungsflüssigkeit der Bodenreinigungsmaschine aus Figur 1 in einer Explosionsdarstellung.
The following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention serves in conjunction with the drawings, the detailed explanation of the invention. Show it:
FIG. 1:
a side view of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention;
FIG. 2:
a rear view of the floor cleaning machine FIG. 1 and
FIG. 3:
a partial perspective view of a rear portion of a reservoir for cleaning liquid of the floor cleaning machine FIG. 1 in an exploded view.

Figur 1 zeigt in einer Seitenansicht eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Bodenreinigungsmaschine, die als so genannte Schrubb- oder Scheuersaugmaschine ausgestaltet und insgesamt mit dem Bezugszeichen 10 belegt ist. Die Scheuersaugmaschine 10 weist untenseitig an ihrer Vorderseite 12 eine Reinigungsvorrichtung 14 auf. Die Reinigungsvorrichtung 14, ein so genannter "Bürstenkopf", umfasst zwei in der Zeichnung nicht dargestellte Reinigungswerkzeuge in Gestalt von Bürstenwalzen. Unter Einsatz der Bürstenwalzen kann nach Absenken der Reinigungsvorrichtung 14 Schmutz von einer zu reinigenden Bodenfläche 16 abgelöst werden. FIG. 1 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of a floor cleaning machine according to the invention, which is designed as a so-called scrubbing or scrubber-suction and is generally designated by the reference numeral 10. The scrubber-drier 10 has a cleaning device 14 at the bottom on its front side 12. The cleaning device 14, a so-called "brush head" comprises two cleaning tools not shown in the drawing in the form of brush rollers. Using the brush rollers, dirt can be removed from a floor surface 16 to be cleaned after the cleaning device 14 has been lowered.

Zur Steigerung der Reinigungswirkung kann der Reinigungsvorrichtung 14 eine Reinigungsflüssigkeit auf nachfolgend erläuterte Weise zugeführt werden, die in einem von der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 umfassten Vorratsbehälter 18, nachfolgend Tank 20, bevorratet ist. Bei der Reinigungsflüssigkeit handelt es sich vorzugsweise um Wasser, dem zur Steigerung der Reinigungswirkung ein Reinigungszusatz zugesetzt sein kann.To increase the cleaning effect of the cleaning device 14, a cleaning liquid can be supplied in the manner explained below, which is stored in a covered by the scrubber 10 reservoir 18, hereinafter tank 20. The cleaning liquid is preferably water, to which a cleaning additive may be added to increase the cleaning effect.

Das Gemisch aus abgelöstem Schmutz und Reinigungsflüssigkeit kann von einer im abgesenkten Zustand auf der Bodenfläche 16 aufliegenden Schmutzabsaugvorrichtung 22, die untenseitig an einer Rückseite 24 der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 angeordnet ist, abgesaugt und einem Schmutzflüssigkeitsbehälter zugeführt werden. Das Absaugen erfolgt unter der Wirkung eines in der Zeichnung nicht dargestellten Saugaggregates. Der Schmutzflüssigkeitsbehälter ist in der Zeichnung ebenfalls nicht dargestellt, und er befindet sich unterhalb eines Deckels 26 an der Oberseite der Scheuersaugmaschine 10.The mixture of loosened dirt and cleaning liquid can be sucked off a dirt-collecting container 22, which is arranged on the bottom side on a rear side 24 of the scrubber-suction machine 10 and is placed on the bottom surface 16 in the lowered state. The suction is carried out under the action of a suction unit, not shown in the drawing. The dirty liquid container is also not shown in the drawing, and it is located below a lid 26 at the top of the scrubber 10th

Wie insbesondere aus Figur 3 deutlich wird, bildet der Tank 20 oberhalb der Schmutzabsaugvorrichtung 22, von der Rückseite 24 etwas nach vorne versetzt, einen hohlzylindrischen Lagerabschnitt 28. Der Lagerabschnitt 28 liegt auf einer von einem Chassis 30 der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 gebildeten, ebenfalls zylindrischen Lagerschale 32 auf (Figur 2). Über den Lagerabschnitt 28 und die Lagerschale 32 ist der Tank 20 sowie der oberhalb von ihm angeordnete Schmutzflüssigkeitsbehälter und eine Bedieneinheit 34 an der Rückseite 24 um eine horizontale Schwenkachse 36 schwenkbar gelagert. Durch Verschwenken des Tanks 20 relativ zum Chassis 30 wird das vorstehend erwähnte Saugaggregat, das obenseitig auf dem Chassis 30 gehalten ist, freigelegt, so dass es von einem Benutzer für die Wartung frei zugänglich ist.As in particular from FIG. 3 becomes clear, the tank 20 above the Schmutzabsaugvorrichtung 22, offset from the rear side 24 slightly forward, a hollow cylindrical bearing portion 28. The bearing portion 28 rests on a formed by a chassis 30 of the scrubber 10, also cylindrical bearing shell 32 ( FIG. 2 ). About the bearing portion 28 and the bearing shell 32 of the tank 20 and the dirt liquid container arranged above it and a control unit 34 is pivotally mounted on the back 24 about a horizontal pivot axis 36. By pivoting the tank 20 relative to the chassis 30, the above-mentioned suction unit, which is held on the top of the chassis 30, exposed, so that it is freely accessible by a user for maintenance.

Der Lagerabschnitt 28 des Tanks 20 weist an dessen tiefstem Punkt eine seitliche Ablassöffnung 38 auf, und zwar an der linken Seite der Scheuersaugmaschine 10. Die Ablassöffnung 38 wird von einem eine vertikale Ebene definierenden Rand 40 eingefasst, so dass die Ablassöffnung 38 in einer vertikalen Ebene ausgerichtet ist.The storage portion 28 of the tank 20 has at its lowest point a lateral discharge opening 38 at the left side of the scrubber 10. The discharge opening 38 is bordered by a vertical plane defining edge 40 so that the discharge opening 38 is in a vertical plane is aligned.

Am Rand 40 ist an der Wand des Tanks 20 ein Befestigungselement 42 gebildet in Gestalt eines Außengewindes 44. Das Außengewinde 44 kann mit einem weiteren Befestigungselement 46 in Gestalt eines Schraubrings 48 zusammenwirken, der ein Innengewinde 50 umfasst und dadurch lösbar auf das Außengewinde 44 aufschraubbar ist.At the edge 40, a fastening element 42 is formed in the form of an external thread 44 on the wall of the tank 20. The external thread 44 can cooperate with a further fastening element 46 in the form of a threaded ring 48, which comprises an internal thread 50 and thereby detachably screwed onto the external thread 44 ,

Zum Verschließen der Ablassöffnung 38 umfasst der Tank 18 eine Abdeckung 52, die die Abdeckung im näheren Sinne, nämlich einen plattenförmigen kreisrunden Deckel 54, sowie einen in den plattenförmigen Deckel 54 integrierten Auslass 56 für Reinigungsflüssigkeit aufweist. Sowohl der plattenförmige Deckel 54 als auch der Auslass 56 sind herstellungstechnisch einfach aus einem Kunststoffmaterial gefertigt, wobei es sich bei dem Auslass 56 um einen preiswert nach einem standardisierten Verfahren hergestellten abgewinkelten Anschlussnippel 58 handelt. Der Anschlussnippel 58 ist außermittig am Deckel 54 angeordnet, ungefähr in halbem Abstand von dessen Zentrum zu dessen äußerem Rand.For closing the discharge opening 38, the tank 18 comprises a cover 52, which has the cover in the closer sense, namely a plate-shaped circular cover 54, and an outlet 56 integrated in the plate-shaped cover 54 for cleaning fluid. Both the plate-shaped cover 54 and the outlet 56 are manufactured from a simple plastic material manufacturing technology, wherein the outlet 56 is an angled connecting nipple 58 produced inexpensively by a standardized method. The nipple 58 is arranged eccentrically on the cover 54, approximately at half the distance from the center to the outer edge.

Der plattenförmige Deckel 54 weist eine Durchbrechung 60 auf, die von einer Endseite des Anschlussnippels 58 durchgriffen wird, welche mittels eines Befestigungselementes in Gestalt einer Kontermutter zur Festlegung des Anschlussnippels 58 am Deckel 54 zusammenwirkt. Außerdem ist im Deckel 54 eine mehrkantförmige Ausnehmung 64 vorgesehen, die mit einem Mehrkant und insbesondere Sechskant 66 am Anschlussnippel 58 zusammenwirken kann. Dies stellt sicher, dass der Anschlussnippel 58 mit einem ersten, dem Deckel 54 zugewandten Abschnitt 68, der parallel zur Schwenkachse 36 verläuft, am Deckel 54 drehfest gehalten ist. Ein zweiter Abschnitt 70 des Anschlussnippels 58 ist rechtwinklig zum ersten Abschnitt 68 ausgerichtet und um eine von diesem definierte Drehachse 72, die parallel zur Schwenkachse 36 ausgerichtet ist, relativ zum ersten Abschnitt 68 frei drehbar.The plate-shaped cover 54 has an opening 60 which is penetrated by one end side of the connection nipple 58, which cooperates by means of a fastening element in the form of a lock nut for fixing the connection nipple 58 on the cover 54. In addition, a polygonal recess 64 is provided in the cover 54, which can cooperate with a polygon and in particular hex 66 at the connection nipple 58. This ensures that the connection nipple 58 with a first, the lid 54 facing portion 68, which is parallel to the pivot axis 36, is rotatably held on the cover 54. A second section 70 of the connecting nipple 58 is aligned at right angles to the first section 68 and is freely rotatable relative to the first section 68 about a rotation axis 72 defined by it, which is aligned parallel to the pivot axis 36.

Weiter umfasst der Tank 20 ein Filterelement 74, das zwischen die Abdeckung 52 und den Rand 40 angelegt werden kann, wobei es formschlüssig in die Ablassöffnung 38 eingesetzt werden kann. Die Abdeckung 52 kann außenseitig auf das Filterelement 74 aufgelegt werden und mittels des Schraubringes 48 fest mit dem Tank 20 im Übrigen verschraubt werden, um die Ablassöffnung 38 abzudichten. Als Filtermedium weist das Filterelement 74 ein Sieb 76 auf, das im Inneren des Tankes 20 im Abstand zum Anschlussnippel 58 angeordnet ist und das eine Querschnittsfläche überdeckt, die im Wesentlichen so groß ist wie diejenige der Ablassöffnung 38.Further, the tank 20 includes a filter element 74 that can be placed between the cover 52 and the rim 40, positively engaging the vent opening 38 can be used. The cover 52 can be placed on the outside of the filter element 74 and by means of the threaded ring 48 firmly bolted to the tank 20 otherwise to seal the discharge opening 38. As a filter medium, the filter element 74 has a screen 76, which is arranged in the interior of the tank 20 at a distance from the connection nipple 58 and which covers a cross-sectional area which is substantially as large as that of the discharge opening 38.

Eine nur in Figur 2 abschnittsweise dargestellte Zuführleitung 78 in Form eines Schlauches 80 ist auf den zweiten Abschnitt 70 des Anschlussnippels 58 manuell lösbar aufsteckbar. Der Schlauch 80 erstreckt sich vom Anschlussnippel 58 bis zur Reinigungsvorrichtung 14, an der er ebenfalls, dies ist in der Zeichnung nicht dargestellt, lösbar anschließbar ist. Zur Führung des Schlauches 80 ist im Chassis 30 eine muldenförmige Ausnehmung 82 vorgesehen.An only in FIG. 2 Sectionally illustrated supply line 78 in the form of a tube 80 is on the second portion 70 of the nipple 58 manually releasably attachable. The hose 80 extends from the connection nipple 58 to the cleaning device 14, to which it also, this is not shown in the drawing, is detachably connectable. To guide the tube 80, a trough-shaped recess 82 is provided in the chassis 30.

Mit vorstehend erläuterter Ausgestaltung weist die erfindungsgemäße Scheuersaugmaschine 10 folgende Eigenschaften auf:With the refinement explained above, the scrubber-drier 10 according to the invention has the following properties:

Im Normalbetrieb nimmt die Abdeckung 52 eine Schließstellung ein, in der die Ablassöffnung 38 dichtend verschlossen ist. Wie erwähnt, liegt hierbei das Filterelement 74 am Rand 40 an, die Abdeckung 52 überdeckt das Filterelement 74, und sie ist mittels des Schraubringes 48 am Tank 20 im Übrigen fixiert. Dies ist dem Benutzer manuell ohne Einsatz von Werkzeug möglich. Bei der Fixierung der Abdeckung 52 kann der Benutzer den außermittig am Deckel 54 gehaltenen Anschlussnippel 58 so ausrichten, dass er den kleinstmöglichen Abstand zur Bodenfläche 16 einnimmt (vgl. Figur 1). Dadurch kann sichergestellt werden, dass eine maximal mögliche Menge an Reinigungsflüssigkeit der Reinigungsvorrichtung 14 aus dem Tank 20 zugeführt werden kann.In normal operation, the cover 52 assumes a closed position in which the drain opening 38 is sealed. As mentioned, this is the filter element 74 at the edge 40, the cover 52 covers the filter element 74, and it is fixed by means of the threaded ring 48 on the tank 20 otherwise. This is possible for the user manually without the use of tools. When fixing the cover 52, the user can align the off-center held on the cover 54 connecting nipple 58 so that it occupies the smallest possible distance from the bottom surface 16 (see. FIG. 1 ). This can ensure that a maximum possible amount of cleaning liquid of the cleaning device 14 can be supplied from the tank 20.

Im Betrieb der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 gelangt Reinigungsflüssigkeit durch das Filterelement 74 von sehr großer Querschnittsfläche, verglichen mit der Querschnittsfläche des Anschlussnippels 58, in diesen hinein. Da das Sieb 76 einen Abstand zum Anschlussnippel 58 aufweist, ist die Gefahr, dass sich der Anschlussnippel 58 mit in der Reinigungsflüssigkeit enthaltenen Fremdpartikeln zusetzt, äußerst gering. Selbst dann, wenn bereits ein Teil des Siebes 76 mit Fremdpartikeln zugesetzt ist, kann über den Anschlussnippel 58 noch Reinigungsflüssigkeit abgegeben werden.During operation of scrubber-drier 10, cleaning fluid passes through filter element 74 of very large cross-sectional area as compared to the cross-sectional area of port nipple 58. Since the strainer 76 has a distance from the connection nipple 58, the risk that the Connecting nipple 58 with foreign particles contained in the cleaning fluid, extremely low. Even if a portion of the screen 76 is already added with foreign particles, cleaning liquid can still be discharged via the connection nipple 58.

Der manuell an den Anschlussnippel 58 anschließbare Schlauch 80 führt die Reinigungsflüssigkeit der Reinigungsvorrichtung 14 zu, so dass die Bodenfläche 16 mit Reinigungsflüssigkeit beaufschlagt werden kann. Durch den relativ zum ersten Abschnitt 68 drehbaren zweiten Abschnitt 70 des Anschlussnippels 58 kann vermieden werden, dass sich im Schlauch 80 Knicke bilden. Vielmehr stellt sich der zweite Abschnitt 70 relativ zum ersten Abschnitt 68 automatisch so ein, dass der Schlauch 80 frei von Knicken verläuft.The hose 80, which can be connected manually to the connection nipple 58, supplies the cleaning liquid to the cleaning device 14, so that the bottom surface 16 can be supplied with cleaning liquid. By virtue of the second section 70 of the connecting nipple 58 which is rotatable relative to the first section 68, it is possible to prevent kinks from forming in the hose 80. Rather, the second section 70 automatically adjusts relative to the first section 68 so that the tube 80 is free of kinking.

Wird der Tank 20, wie erwähnt, um die Schwenkachse 36 relativ zum Chassis 30 verschwenkt, kann sich der zweite Abschnitt 70 relativ zum ersten Abschnitt 68 verdrehen, so dass sich der Schlauch 80 weder vom Anschlussnippel 58 noch von der Reinigungsvorrichtung 14 löst und ferner auch nicht geknickt wird.If the tank 20, as mentioned, pivots about the pivot axis 36 relative to the chassis 30, the second portion 70 can rotate relative to the first portion 68 so that the hose 80 does not come off either from the connection nipple 58 or from the cleaning device 14 and further also not kinked.

Es kann erforderlich sein, die Ablassöffnung 38 freizugeben, beispielsweise zum Reinigen oder Austausch des Filterelementes 74 oder zum Ablassen von Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Tank 20. Hierfür kann der Benutzer den Schraubring 48 manuell und werkzeuglos vom Tank 20 im Übrigen lösen, die Abdeckung 52 von der Schließstellung in eine Freigabestellung überführen und dadurch die Ablassöffnung 38 freigeben. Das Filterelement 74, da nur eingelegt, kann ebenfalls werkzeuglos vom Tank 20 entnommen und gereinigt oder ausgetauscht werden, falls erforderlich.It may be necessary to release the discharge opening 38, for example, to clean or replace the filter element 74 or to drain cleaning liquid from the tank 20. For this, the user can solve the screw ring 48 manually and without tools from the tank 20 incidentally, the cover 52 of the Transfer closed position into a release position and thereby release the discharge opening 38. The filter element 74, since only inserted, can also be removed without tools from the tank 20 and cleaned or replaced, if necessary.

Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Tank 20 abzulassen kann bei längerem Stillstand oder Außerbetriebstellung der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 vonnöten sein, um zu verhindern, dass ein Reinigungszusatz ausflockt. Ferner kann es ab und an erforderlich sein, die Reinigungsflüssigkeit abzulassen, um Fremdpartikel aus dem Innenraum des Tanks 20 zu entfernen.To drain cleaning liquid from the tank 20 may be necessary at a longer standstill or inoperative position of the scrubber 10, to prevent a cleaning additive flocculates. Furthermore, it may occasionally be necessary to drain the cleaning fluid to remove foreign particles from the interior of the tank 20.

Nach dem Lösen des Schraubrings 48, der Abdeckung 52 und des Filterelementes 74 kann bei freigegebener Ablassöffnung der Tank 20 besonders zügig entleert werden. Hierfür ist es von Vorteil, dass die Ablassöffnung 38 vergleichsweise groß ausgebildet ist. Ihr Durchmesser beträgt ungefähr 10 cm, was einer Querschnittsfläche von ungefähr 80 cm2 entspricht. Dadurch ist der Querschnitt der Ablassöffnung 38 mehr als armdick. Dies ermöglicht es dem Benutzer, auch mit Werkzeug oder dem Unterarm in das Innere des Tanks 20 einzugreifen und Fremdpartikel mit Werkzeug oder händisch aus dem Tank 20 zu entfernen. Für den Benutzer ist das Eingreifen in den Tank 20 auf einfache Weise möglich, weil die Ablassöffnung, wie erwähnt, vertikal ausgerichtet und seitlich an der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 angeordnet ist. Ein Reinigen des Innenraums des Tanks 20 über die Ablassöffnung 38 ist für den Benutzer daher ohne übermäßig verkrümmte Körperhaltung möglich.After loosening the screw ring 48, the cover 52 and the filter element 74, the tank 20 can be emptied particularly quickly when the drain opening is released. For this purpose, it is advantageous that the discharge opening 38 is formed comparatively large. Its diameter is approximately 10 cm, which corresponds to a cross-sectional area of approximately 80 cm 2 . As a result, the cross section of the discharge opening 38 is more than armdick. This allows the user to intervene with the tool or the forearm in the interior of the tank 20 and remove foreign particles with tool or by hand from the tank 20. For the user, the intervention in the tank 20 in a simple manner possible because the discharge opening, as mentioned, vertically aligned and arranged laterally on the scrubber 10. A cleaning of the interior of the tank 20 via the discharge opening 38 is therefore possible for the user without excessively crooked posture.

Nach dem Ablassen der Reinigungsflüssigkeit und/oder Reinigen oder Austauschen des Filterelementes 74 kann die Ablassöffnung 38 erneut verschlossen werden. Hierfür ist das Filterelement 74 wieder an den Rand 40 anzulegen und in die Ablassöffnung 38 einzusetzen, von der Abdeckung 52 zu überdecken, die mittels des Schraubrings 48 am Tank 20 im Übrigen erneut manuell fixiert werden kann.After draining the cleaning liquid and / or cleaning or replacing the filter element 74, the drain opening 38 can be closed again. For this purpose, the filter element 74 is again applied to the edge 40 and to insert into the discharge opening 38, to cover by the cover 52, which can be manually fixed by means of the screw ring 48 on the tank 20 otherwise.

Die Integration des Anschlussnippels 58, d.h. des Auslasses 56, an der Abdeckung 52 der Ablassöffnung 38 bietet den Vorteil einer konstruktiv einfachen, einfach herzustellenden und einfach zu handhabenden Bodenreinigungsmaschine. Insbesondere Verstopfungen können auf einfache Weise behoben werden. Neben Verstopfungen des Filterelementes 74 ist dies auch im Falle von Verstopfungen des Schlauches 80 möglich, sollten sie überhaupt einmal auftreten. Da der Schlauch 80 manuell vom Anschlussnippel 58 und von der Reinigungsvorrichtung 14 gelöst werden kann, kann auch eine Reinigung oder ein Austausch des Schlauches 80 besonders einfach erfolgen. Zudem ist der Schlauch 80 durch die Anordnung seitlich an der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 dem Benutzer auf einfache Weise zugänglich. Dabei steht er allerdings nicht über eine seitliche Begrenzung der Scheuersaugmaschine 10 hervor, was durch die abgewinkelte Ausgestaltung des Anschlussnippels 58 möglich ist.The integration of the connection nipple 58, ie the outlet 56, on the cover 52 of the discharge opening 38 offers the advantage of a structurally simple, easy to manufacture and easy-to-use floor cleaning machine. In particular blockages can be corrected easily. In addition to blockages of the filter element 74, this is also possible in the case of blockages of the tube 80, they should occur at all. Since the hose 80 can be released manually from the connection nipple 58 and from the cleaning device 14, a cleaning or replacement of the hose 80 can also be carried out particularly easily. In addition, the hose 80 is accessible to the user by the arrangement on the side of the scrubber 10 in a simple manner. He is not beyond a lateral boundary of the scrubber 10, which is possible by the angled configuration of the connection nipple 58.

Zwischen dem Filterelement 74 und der Abdeckung 52 kann ein in Figur 3 gestrichelt dargestelltes und insbesondere ringförmiges Dichtelement 84 angeordnet sein. Eine derartige Anordnung des Dichtelementes 84 bietet den Vorteil, dass beim Aufschrauben des Schraubringes 48 auf den Rand 40 keine Drehbewegung der Dichtflächen relativ zueinander auftritt.Between the filter element 74 and the cover 52 may be an in FIG. 3 dashed lines shown and in particular annular sealing element 84 may be arranged. Such an arrangement of the sealing element 84 offers the advantage that when the screw ring 48 is screwed onto the edge 40 no rotational movement of the sealing surfaces occurs relative to one another.

Claims (17)

  1. Floor cleaning machine, comprising a cleaning device (14) and a storage container (18) for cleaning liquid, said storage container (18) having an outlet (56) for cleaning liquid in flow communication with the cleaning device (14) and having a drain opening (38) for draining cleaning liquid, wherein the storage container (18) comprises a cover (52) for closing and opening the drain opening (38), which cover (52) has the outlet (56) integrated therein, characterized in that the floor cleaning machine (10) comprises a connecting element (58), forming the outlet (56) and being integrated in the cover (52), for connecting to a supply conduit (78) by which the cleaning device (14) is suppliable with cleaning liquid, and in that the floor cleaning machine (10) further comprises a supply conduit (78) releasably connectable to the connecting element (58).
  2. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that the cross-sectional area of the drain opening (38) is substantially larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet (56) allowing passage of the cleaning liquid therethrough.
  3. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (58) is formed separately from and connected to the cover (52).
  4. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (58) has an angled configuration.
  5. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (58) is configured for rotation relative to the cover (52).
  6. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supply conduit (78) is configured as a hose conduit (80).
  7. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drain opening (38) is manually openable and/or closable and/or in that the cover (52) is releasably connectable to the storage container (18).
  8. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the floor cleaning machine (10) comprises at least one fastening element (46) for fixing the cover (52) to the storage container (18) in a closing position in which the drain opening (38) is closed.
  9. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with claim 8, characterized in that the at least one fastening element (46) and the storage container (18) are interconnectable by screwing.
  10. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outlet (56) is arranged on the cover (52) in a position offset from the center thereof.
  11. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cover (52) is rotatable relative to the storage container (18).
  12. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the floor cleaning machine (10) comprises a filter element (74) for filtering cleaning liquid flowing out of the outlet (56).
  13. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with claim 12, characterized in that the filter element (74) is fixable to the storage container (18) by way of the cover (52) in the closing position thereof.
  14. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the filter element (74) is in contact against an edge (40) of the drain opening (38) between the cover (52) and the storage container (18).
  15. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the cross-sectional area of the filter element (74) is larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet (56) allowing passage of cleaning liquid therethrough.
  16. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the filter element (74) comprises, as the filter medium, a sieve (76).
  17. Floor cleaning machine in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drain opening (38) is arranged in a vertical plane and/or in that the cover (52) is at least partially formed with a plate-shaped configuration.
EP11778567.5A 2010-11-15 2011-10-28 Floor cleaning device Active EP2640251B9 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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DE202010015750U DE202010015750U1 (en) 2010-11-15 2010-11-15 Floor cleaning machine
PCT/EP2011/068986 WO2012065830A1 (en) 2010-11-15 2011-10-28 Floor cleaning machine

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EP2640251A1 EP2640251A1 (en) 2013-09-25
EP2640251B1 EP2640251B1 (en) 2016-10-19
EP2640251B9 true EP2640251B9 (en) 2017-03-15

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EP (1) EP2640251B9 (en)
CN (1) CN103220958B (en)
DE (1) DE202010015750U1 (en)
DK (1) DK2640251T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2012065830A1 (en)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2016037073A2 (en) 2014-09-05 2016-03-10 Tennant Company Systems and methods for supplying treatment liquids having nanobubbles
WO2020147970A1 (en) * 2019-01-18 2020-07-23 Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG Floor cleaning device
CN110495821B (en) * 2019-09-05 2023-11-28 北京石头世纪科技股份有限公司 Cleaning robot and control method thereof

Family Cites Families (7)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3540783A1 (en) 1985-11-16 1987-05-21 Hako Gmbh & Co DRIVABLE WET CLEANING MACHINE
US6081962A (en) * 1995-11-06 2000-07-04 Bissell Homecare, Inc. Upright water extraction cleaning machine with improved float assembly
GB2391459A (en) * 2002-08-09 2004-02-11 Dyson Ltd A surface treating appliance with increased manoeuverability
KR100519966B1 (en) * 2003-10-15 2005-10-13 삼성광주전자 주식회사 Apparatus for connecting hose of cleaner and wet/dry vacuum cleaner having the same
US7624473B2 (en) * 2004-01-07 2009-12-01 The Hoover Company Adjustable flow rate valve for a cleaning apparatus
GB2413943B (en) * 2004-05-13 2007-06-27 Dyson Ltd Cleaning appliance
US20060272120A1 (en) 2005-06-01 2006-12-07 Kenneth Barrick Extraction cleaner

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EP2640251B1 (en) 2016-10-19
WO2012065830A1 (en) 2012-05-24
DK2640251T3 (en) 2017-01-30
CN103220958A (en) 2013-07-24
CN103220958B (en) 2016-06-15
DE202010015750U1 (en) 2011-12-13
EP2640251A1 (en) 2013-09-25

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