EP3016566B1 - Steam unit and method for operating a steam unit - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a steam device, comprising a clear water supply device, a steam generator which is fluidly connected to the clear water supply device, a cleaning agent supply device, a mixing device for clear water and cleaning agent, which is fluidly connected to the clear water supply device and the cleaning agent -Providing device stands, a dispensing device for fluid, and a control device, through which operating modes of the steam device can be set, wherein in a steam mode with the dispensing device steam can be dispensed and in a detergent mode a mixture of clear water and detergent can be dispensed, and wherein the control device includes a rinsing unit which operates a rinsing mode after the cleaning agent mode has ended, in which the dispensing device is rinsed with clear water.

The invention also relates to a method for operating a steam device, in which steam is discharged in a steam mode and a mixture of cleaning agent and clear water is discharged in a detergent mode, with a discharge device of the steam device in a rinsing mode after a detergent mode, which Dispensing device for fluid is rinsed with clear water for fluid.

From the U.S. 5,558,108 a steam cleaning process is known.

Out of DE 34 28 720 A1 a method for cleaning and/or drying the inner walls of long-distance pipelines is known.

From the DE 195 22 893 A1 discloses a cleaning device with multiple functions, comprising a supply element with a suction nozzle, which is connected to a collection container and cooperates with an outlet nozzle for dispensing liquid, which is connected via a pipe to a container containing water in two separate chambers and contains a cleaning substance and is connected to a dosing and mixing device and a dispensing pump, a lever being provided on a handle part of the supply member for dispensing the liquid.

The object of the invention is to provide a steam device of the type mentioned at the outset, which is very easy to operate. This object is achieved according to the invention with the steam device mentioned at the outset in that the rinsing mode is automatically controlled by the rinsing unit of the control device and is carried out for a specific period of time. Further embodiments of the invention are shown in dependent claims 2-14.

In cleaning agent mode, clear water with added cleaning agent is applied via the application device. The detergent is a chemical cleaning additive, which is provided in particular in liquid form via the cleaning agent supply device. After the end of the dispensing process, there is usually still a residue of cleaning agent in the dispensing device.

If the steam device is then operated in the steam mode, an aerosol can be formed as a result of the steam being applied to the cleaning agent residues in the dispensing device. The aerosols are discharged by the discharge device.

In the solution according to the invention, a rinsing unit is provided, by means of which a rinsing mode can be carried out. The discharge device is rinsed with clear water, which means that most of the cleaning agent residues in the discharge device are removed. In the event of subsequent operation in vapor mode, this prevents or greatly minimizes the formation of aerosols.

It is favorable if the discharge device comprises a first coupling point for steam, which is in fluidic connection with the steam generator, a second coupling point for clear water, which is in fluidic connection with the clear water supply device, and a third coupling point for a mixture of clear water and Includes cleaning agent, which is in fluid communication with the mixing device. The steam device can then be operated optionally in a steam mode, in a detergent mode and in a rinsing mode.

It is advantageous if the second coupling point is arranged in front of the third coupling point in relation to a main fluid flow direction in the dispensing device or the second coupling point coincides with the third coupling point. As a result, cleaning agent residues can be effectively removed from the dispensing device in a rinsing mode. If the second launch point with the third launch point coincides, resulting in a simple structural design. For example, only one common line for clear water and for the mixture of clear water and cleaning agent has to be provided downstream of a mixing device. This one line can then be effectively flushed even if only clear water is fed through it. In principle, the clear water supply device can include a connection via which clear water can be coupled. It is favorable if the clear water supply device is or includes a clear water tank. This means that a steam device that is independent of an external water supply can be implemented.

Advantageously, the cleaning agent supply device comprises a cleaning agent tank or is a cleaning agent tank. In particular, a liquid cleaning agent is held in the cleaning agent tank as a chemical cleaning additive.

In the flushing mode, the control device sets a specific duration of the flushing process. This ensures reproducible effective flushing in order to remove cleaning agent residues from the dispensing device with high efficiency.

For example, the specific period of time is in the range between 10 s and 30 s and in particular in the range between 15 s and 20 s.

It is particularly advantageous if the control device sets or is set on it that the steam mode can only be carried out if a rinsing mode has been carried out after a detergent mode. This ensures that cleaning agent residues are largely removed from the dispensing device before operation in the steam mode. This effectively prevents or reduces the formation of aerosols.

It is also favorable if the control device is set or this sets that the steam mode can only be operated without dispensing cleaning agent. As a result, contact between steam and cleaning agent is largely avoided and as a result aerosol formation is largely avoided or prevented.

It is favorable if the steam device includes a Hydrovapo mode in which steam clear water can be mixed in. Such a hydrovapo mode can be advantageous for certain cleaning purposes.

In one embodiment, the dispensing device includes at least one pipe and/or hose. A cleaning process can be carried out via this or these at a distance from a body of the steam device.

In one embodiment, the steam device includes a controllable first valve, which is connected downstream of the steam generator and which is controlled by the control device, with the first valve in particular being multi-stage. The first valve can be used to set whether steam generated by the steam generator is coupled into the dispensing device in order in particular to carry out a cleaning process with steam. The amount of steam emitted can be adjusted by a multi-stage design of the first valve.

It is also favorable if a controllable second valve is provided, which is arranged between the clear water supply device and the dispensing device and which is controlled by the control device. The controllable second valve can be used to set whether clear water is supplied to the dispensing device or whether clear water is supplied for mixing with cleaning agent.

It is also favorable if a controllable third valve is provided, which between the cleaning agent supply device and the Dispensing device is arranged and which is controlled by the control device. This allows the admixture of cleaning agent to clear water to be adjusted in order in particular to operate the steam device in the cleaning agent mode.

In particular, the control device sets or is set on this that when the third valve is open, a first valve, which is connected downstream of the steam generator, is closed. In this way, it can be ensured in an effective manner that no steam is applied to the dispensing device by cleaning agent in the cleaning agent mode.

In particular, the mixing device is connected downstream of the third valve and a second valve, which is connected to the clear water supply device. When the third valve is closed, clear water can be fed through the mixing device (without mixing) in order to couple this into the dispensing device. When the third valve and the second valve are open, a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent can be produced at the mixing device. In particular, the control device sets that the third valve can only be open if the second valve is also open.

A first pump for conveying clear water and/or a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent is advantageously provided in the dispensing device, with the first pump being controlled by the control device. In particular, the first pump is connected downstream of the mixing device. Fluid (clear water or a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent) can thus be effectively discharged with the discharge device.

It is also favorable if a second pump is provided for conveying clear water from the clear water supply device to the steam generator. Clear water can then be conveyed to the steam generator in order to provide a sufficient quantity of clear water for steam generation.

In one embodiment, the steam device is designed as a suction device and is therefore designed as a steam suction device with a suction unit and a suction connection. Because it is designed as a suction device, a suction process can be carried out. In particular, dirty water can be sucked in. This means that flushing liquid, with which the discharge device was cleaned of cleaning agent residues, can be sucked in again directly. As a result, the "outside world" is minimally burdened by the operation of the vaping device in purge mode.

In particular, the steam device then has at least one dirty water tank, which can hold dirty water that has been sucked in.

It is favorable if a suction line device is at least partially mechanically connected to the dispensing device. This results in easy handling for an operator. He only has to hold one element, which includes part of the suction line device and the dispensing device.

It is favorable if a selector switch is provided for setting a respective operating mode. As a result, an operator can set the appropriate operating mode in a simple manner. In particular, the selector switch is in operative contact with the control device. Appropriate operating modes are specified by the control device through appropriate activation of valves, pumps, etc., through settings on the selector switch.

After starting the rinsing mode, the control device carries this out automatically, which means that the rinsing mode itself can then be operated without operator access. It is advantageous if the rinsing mode is started manually by the operator himself, for example using a switch which is arranged on or in the vicinity of a handle. In the flushing mode, flushing liquid basically comes out of a mouth of the discharge device on. A manual start allows an operator to prepare for this.

It is favorable if the steam device is designed as a mobile device and can in particular be moved. This results in a wide range of possible uses.

The invention is also based on the object of providing a method of the type mentioned at the outset, which enables effective operation.

In the method mentioned at the outset, this object is achieved according to the invention with the features of claim 15 . Subclaims 16 and 17 show further embodiments of the method according to the invention.

In the method according to the invention, after cleaning agent mode operation, cleaning agent residues are effectively removed from the dispensing device in order to prevent or minimize aerosol formation when operating in vapor mode.

Further advantageous configurations of the method according to the invention have already been explained in connection with the steam device according to the invention.

It is particularly advantageous if, after operation in the detergent mode, the steam device can only be operated in the steam mode if a rinsing mode is carried out before the steam mode. This minimizes the risk of aerosol formation.

The rinsing mode is carried out in an automatically controlled manner, with an operator command being necessary in particular to start the rinsing mode. This results in user-friendly operation.

The rinsing mode is carried out for a specific period of time in order to achieve effective rinsing and thus the removal of cleaning agent residues in the dispensing device.

The method according to the invention can be carried out with the steam device according to the invention.

The steam device according to the invention can be operated with the method according to the invention.

The steam device can also be designed as a suction device, comprising a suction unit and a suction line device which is in fluid communication with the suction unit.

Advantageously, a fluid supply device is provided, a discharge device for fluid is provided, which is in fluid communication with the fluid supply device, and a guide element is provided, which can be coupled to the discharge device and to the suction line device and which transfers fluid from the discharge device into the suction line device and for cleaning the suction line device.

Basically, after a suction operation of the suction device, there are residues of dirt in the suction line device. These can, for example, lead to increased nucleation.

In the solution described, a discharge device for fluid (the fluid is, for example, clear water or steam or a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent) is used to flush the suction line device in order to carry out an "internal" cleaning of the suction line device. This effectively counteracts nucleation.

A (detachable) guide element is provided, which ensures that fluid is diverted from the discharge device into the suction line device. As a result, the suction device itself provides the fluid required for cleaning.

As a result, the suction line device can be cleaned in an effective and structurally simple manner.

In particular, the guide element is designed for connection to a discharge outlet of the discharge device and/or to a suction outlet of the suction line device. This allows a “short circuit” to be achieved in a simple manner between the dispensing device and the suction line device in order to carry out flushing cleaning of the suction line device.

The guide element is in particular a part that can be detached from the suction line device and/or the dispensing device and is arranged on the suction device or a part that can be separated or separated from the suction device. The guide element has no function in normal operation of the suction device. It is only required if the suction line device is to be cleaned. It is possible that the guide element is arranged on the suction device and has additional functions there, such as a holding function for the suction line device or for a part of the suction line device, such as a suction pipe.

It is favorable if the guide element is designed as a support element on which a suction pipe of the suction line device can be placed. As a result, it can be used as a holding element for fixing the suction line device to a body of the suction device. In particular, the suction tube can be set up on the support element and, with appropriate correct positioning, a cleaning process can then take place by diverting fluid from the discharge device into the suction line device. As a result, sensor monitoring can also be implemented in a simple manner, for example with regard to correct positioning of the intake manifold on the guide element.

A holder for the suction pipe is advantageously provided, which is arranged in particular on a body of the suction device and by means of which the suction pipe can be fixed on the suction device, in particular with a guide element coupled to the suction line device and to the dispensing device. As a result, a storage holder for the intake manifold can be implemented in a simple manner. Furthermore, this makes it easy to carry out a cleaning process in which the suction tube is fixed to the body of the suction device. The holder in turn ensures a secure fixation with a fluid-tight transition of fluid from the discharge device into the suction line device.

The guide element favorably comprises at least one channel through which fluid can flow from the discharge device into the suction line device. This enables fluid to be coupled in from the dispensing device into the suction line device in a simple manner.

It is then also favorable if the guiding element comprises a sealing device for a fluid-tight connection of the dispensing device and a fluid-tight connection of the suction line device. This minimizes the burden on the "environment" caused by a cleaning process involving the decoupling of fluid from the dispensing device and the coupling of the fluid into the suction line device.

It is particularly advantageous if the suction line device and the dispensing device are mechanically connected to one another at least in a partial area, with the suction line device and the dispensing device in particular being mechanically connected to one another in the region of their mouths. This results in effective operability for an operator, since in particular he only has to hold one element, such as a grip element for a suction pipe. Positioning and in particular achieve joint positioning on the guide element in order to be able to carry out a cleaning process.

In particular, the dispensing device and the suction line device are fluidly separated from one another without the guide element, that is to say they each have one or more channels for fluid which are not in fluidly effective contact. The fluid-effective contact is only established by the guide element, which provides a type of short circuit in order to be able to introduce fluid from the discharge device into the suction line device.

In one embodiment, the suction line device comprises at least one pipe and/or at least one hose. For example, a one-piece or multi-piece suction tube is provided, which is then connected to a body of the suction device via a hose. This results in easy operability for an operator.

It is also favorable if the dispensing device comprises at least one tube and/or at least one hose. For example, the dispensing device includes a hose which is connected to a body of the suction device and which is held on a hose or a pipe of the suction line device.

In particular, the fluid supply device comprises a clear water supply device and/or cleaning agent supply device and/or supply device for a mixture of cleaning agent and clear water and/or a steam generator. The clear water supply device provides clear water. The cleaning agent supply device provides cleaning agents. The preparation device for the mixture provides a mixture of detergent and clear water. The steam generator provides steam. The suction line device can be cleaned with one or more of these fluids (liquids in the case of clear water and the mixture of cleaning agent and clear water or steam). Furthermore, this indicates Suction device then further operating modes. For example, the steam generator can be used to provide steam for cleaning purposes. For example, clear water can be mixed with steam via the clear water supply device. Clear water with a chemical cleaning additive can be provided by providing the mixture of cleaning agent and clear water.

It is then fundamentally possible for clear water, or a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent, or steam to be used as the cleaning fluid for the suction line device.

In one exemplary embodiment, the guide element is assigned a sensor which detects correct positioning on the suction line device and/or the dispensing device. For example, the sensor can then issue a release signal, in which case a cleaning process cannot be carried out without a release signal.

In particular, the sensor is arranged on the guide element. This results in a construction that is simple in terms of manufacturing technology and design.

In one exemplary embodiment, the sensor is designed as a switch, with the switch being actuated by a specific positioning of the suction line device and/or the dispensing device on the guide element. For example, the sensor is designed as a microswitch. If the positioning is correct, a release signal can then be issued so that the cleaning process of the suction line device can basically be carried out.

In particular, a control device is provided which, in a cleaning mode, automatically carries out a cleaning process of the suction line device, with the cleaning process in particular being started by an operator. A cleaning process can then be carried out by the control device in accordance with a specific specification in which case, in particular, even after a cleaning process has been triggered, fluid is conveyed in the dispensing device for a specific period of time and at the same time suction is carried out in the suction line device.

A pump is advantageously provided, which pumps fluid in the dispensing device in the cleaning mode and which is controlled by the control device. Fluid is then pumped from the dispensing device into the suction line device.

Advantageously, the fluid is conveyed for a specific first period of time, with the corresponding activation being carried out by the control device. Effective cleaning of the suction line device can thereby be achieved in order in particular to minimize the risk of germ formation.

It is also favorable if the control device controls the suction unit, with the suction unit in particular being operated in cleaning mode while fluid is being conveyed in the dispensing device. Simultaneously with the coupling of fluid into the suction line device, this is then also sucked off.

Advantageously, the suction unit is operated for a specific second period of time after the delivery of fluid in the dispensing device has been switched off. This ensures that fluid and in particular liquid in the suction line device cannot flow out in the direction of the suction mouth.

In a method for operating the suction device, a discharge device for fluid is provided, and to clean the suction line device, fluid is coupled from the discharge device into the suction line device and the suction line device is sucked off via a suction unit of the suction device.

As a result, the suction line device can be cleaned in a simple and effective manner with "internal means" of the suction device after normal operation of the suction device has ended.

This effectively minimizes the risk of germ formation in the suction line device.

In particular, a guide element is provided for coupling fluid from the dispensing device into the suction line device, which is positioned at the respective openings of the dispensing device and the suction line device. As a result, fluid can be coupled directly from the dispensing device into the suction line device.

In one embodiment, a sensor checks the correct position of the guide element with respect to the suction line device and/or the dispensing device. This allows a cleaning process to be carried out in the suction line device in a simple manner.

It is advantageous if a control device carries out cleaning automatically, with the start of the cleaning process in particular being actuated manually. As a result, effective and reproducible cleaning of the suction line device can be achieved. By manually actuating the triggering process, an operator can "prepare" for the cleaning process.

In particular, the control device adjusts the delivery of fluid in the dispensing device to a specific first period of time and adjusts suction of the suction line device via a suction unit. This achieves effective rinsing of the suction line device with simultaneous suction of the dirty liquid.

It is also advantageous if the control device, after switching off the funding in the discharge device, the operation of the suction unit for a maintains a certain second period of time. This prevents liquid from running back to the outside from the suction line device.

In particular, fluid that has flowed through the suction line device is received in a dirty water tank. This minimizes the impact on the outside world caused by the cleaning process.

The following description of preferred embodiments serves to explain the invention in more detail in conjunction with the drawings.

Figur 1

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Dampfgeräts, welches auch als Sauggerät ausgebildet ist;

Figur 2

eine schematische Blockschaltbilddarstellung von Komponenten des Dampfgeräts gemäß Figur 1;

Figur 3

eine perspektivische Teildarstellung des Dampfgeräts gemäß Figur 1 ohne Außenverkleidung in einer ersten Ansicht;

Figur 4

eine perspektivische Teildarstellung ohne Außenverkleidung in einer zweiten Ansicht;

Figur 5

eine vergrößerte Darstellung des Bereichs gemäß Figur 3 mit einem Bedienungspanel und einer Steuerungseinrichtung;

Figur 6

die gleiche Ansicht wie Figur 1, wobei Betriebsmodi des Dampfgeräts schematisch dargestellt sind;

Figur 7

das Dampfgerät gemäß Figur 1 als Sauggerät, bei dem ein Saugrohr für einen Reinigungsmodus an dem Sauggerät positioniert ist;

Figur 8

eine Variante mit einem Leitelement; und

Figur 9

eine Schnittansicht eines Leitelements mit positioniertem Saugrohr und positionierter Ausbringeinrichtung.

Show it:

figure 1

a perspective view of an embodiment of a steam device, which is also designed as a suction device;

figure 2

a schematic block diagram representation of components of the vapor device according to FIG figure 1 ;

figure 3

a perspective partial view of the steam device according to figure 1 without outer paneling in a first view;

figure 4

a perspective partial view without outer paneling in a second view;

figure 5

an enlarged view of the area according to figure 3 with an operating panel and a control device;

figure 6

the same view as figure 1 , wherein operating modes of the vapor device are shown schematically;

figure 7

the steam device according to figure 1 as a suction device in which a suction tube for a cleaning mode is positioned on the suction device;

figure 8

a variant with a guide element; and

figure 9

a sectional view of a guiding element with positioned suction tube and positioned dispensing device.

An embodiment of a vapor device, which in the Figures 1 to 5 shown and denoted there by 10 is also designed as a suction device. The steam device 10 is then a steam suction device.

The steam device 10 has a base 14 which is in particular plate-shaped. A wheel device 16 is arranged on the base 14, via which the steam device 10 can be moved as a whole. The steam device 10 is designed as a mobile device. The base 14 holds a body of the steam device 10.

In one embodiment, the wheel assembly 16 includes a rear wheel assembly 18 and a front wheel assembly 20. The rear wheel assembly 18 includes a rear right wheel 24a and a rear left wheel 24b relative to a front side 22 of the vapor device 10. The front wheel assembly 20 includes a right caster 26a and a left caster 26b. The steam device 10 can be set up on a base via the wheel device 16 .

Components of the steam device 10 are arranged on the base 14 .

The steam device 10 includes a fluid supply device 28 through which fluid can be supplied.

In one exemplary embodiment, the fluid supply device 28 includes a clear water supply device 30. The clear water supply device 30 is a clear water tank 32, which is seated, for example, on or in the area of the front side 22 on the base 14.

Specifically, the clear water tank 32 is positioned on the base 14 so that it is removable for refilling.

In principle, it is also possible for the clear water supply device 30 to be formed, for example, by a connection to a clear water line.

The fluid delivery device 28 also includes a cleaning agent delivery device 34 . This is designed in particular as a cleaning agent tank 36 .

The cleaning agent supply device 34 provides an in particular liquid chemical cleaning additive in order to be able to provide in particular a mixture of clear water (supplied by the clear water supply device 30) and cleaning agent.

The cleaning agent tank 36 is arranged on the base 14 next to the clear water tank 32 .

The fluid supply device 28 also has a steam generator 38 which is arranged on the base 14 .

The steam generator 38 is in fluid communication with the clear water tank 32. The steam generator 38 generates steam from clear water.

Furthermore, a suction unit 40 is arranged on the base 14 and includes a suction fan device 42 . A suction flow for suction operation of the steam device 10 can be generated via the suction fan device 42 .

A dirty water tank 44 is arranged on the base 14 . In particular, the dirty water tank 44 is positioned detachably. In the dirty water tank 44 is taken by means of the suction fan device 42 sucked dirty water.

The steam device 10 can be supplied with energy via mains current or a battery device can be provided. In the latter case, a receiving device for the battery device is arranged on the base 14, the battery device in particular comprising one or more rechargeable batteries.

The steam device 10 has an outer covering 46 on the body, which delimits an interior space 48 in which the corresponding components of the steam device 10 are arranged in a protected manner.

Outer panel 46 may include one or more removable panels or doors to allow access to related components.

In one embodiment, the clear water tank 32 and the detergent tank 36 are positioned on the base 14 in the manner of drawers. The clear water tank 32 and the detergent tank 36 can be pulled out via a guide and removed from the steam device 10 . In particular, the clear water tank 32 and the detergent tank 36 can be removed independently of one another.

In one exemplary embodiment, the waste water tank 44 is arranged on a transverse side 50 and can be removed.

In one exemplary embodiment, the steam device 10 has a loop handle 52 . This loop handle 52 is arranged on a rear side 54 facing away from the front side 22 . An operator can push the steam device 10 as a whole using the loop handle 52 . For example, the operator can also tilt the vaporizer 10 about an axis on the rear wheel assembly 18 so that the vaporizer 10 is only on the rear wheel assembly 18 on a surface is supported, in particular to allow easier sliding operation.

In one exemplary embodiment, holders 56 for accessories, such as cleaning nozzles, are arranged on the rear side 54 or the loop handle 52 .

In a further exemplary embodiment, spaced-apart holders 58a, 58b are arranged on the rear end 54 for an electrical supply line, onto which the supply line can in particular be wound.

The steam device 10 has a control device 60 . Different operating modes of the steam device 10 can be controlled by the control device 60 .

The steam device 10 has a control panel 62 . In one exemplary embodiment, a selector switch 64, which is in particular a rotary switch, is arranged on the operating panel 62, with which an operator can select the appropriate operating mode.

Furthermore, one or more switches 66 are arranged on the operating panel 62 . For example, certain operating modes of the steam device 10 can be initiated by one or more switches.

The steam device 10 includes a dispensing device 68 via which fluid can be dispensed. The dispensing device 68 (also compare figure 2 ) is in fluid communication with the fluid supply device 28.

In one embodiment, the dispensing device 68 includes a first injection point 70 for steam from the steam generator 38. The first injection point 70 is connected downstream of a controllable first valve 72. This first valve 72 is a solenoid valve, for example, and is activated by the control device 60 . It is designed in several stages, for example.

The first valve 72 can be used to set whether steam is coupled into the dispensing device 68 and what quantity of steam is coupled from the steam generator 38 into the dispensing device 68 .

In figure 2 the flow of steam is symbolized by an arrow with a superscript 1.

A controllable second valve 74 , which is a solenoid valve, for example, is connected downstream of the clear water supply device 30 . This second valve 74 is activated by the control device 60 . Downstream of the second valve 74 is a mixing device 76 in which clear water can be mixed with cleaning agent when the mixing device 76 is provided with cleaning agent. The mixing device 76 is designed, for example, as a Y-piece.

A controllable third valve 78 , which is controlled by the control device 60 , is connected downstream of the cleaning agent supply device 34 . The third valve 78 is a solenoid valve, for example.

The mixing device 76 is connected downstream of the third valve 78 .

When the second valve 74 is open, clear water flows to the mixing device 76 . When the third valve 78 is open, detergent flows from the detergent tank 36 to the mixing device 76 and mixing can take place there.

For example, the third valve 78 is designed as a metering valve to set the mixing ratio of cleaning agent and clear water.

When the second valve 74 is open and the third valve 78 is closed, only clear water is supplied to the mixing device 76 .

If the second valve 74 is closed and the third valve 78 is closed, then the mixing device 76 is not provided with any subsequent fluid.

In particular, it is contemplated that the third valve 78 cannot be open when the second valve 74 is closed. The control device 60 accordingly ensures that the third valve 78 cannot be open when the second valve 74 is closed.

A first pump 80 is connected downstream of the mixing device 76. On the inlet side, the first pump 80 is fluidically connected to the mixing device 76.

The dispensing device 68 is fluidically connected to the clear water supply device 30 via a second coupling point 82 . The dispensing device 68 is fluidically connected to the mixing device 76 via a third coupling point 84 .

At the in figure 2 The exemplary embodiment shown coincides with the second coupling point 82 and the third coupling point 84 . These are connected to the first pump 80 on the output side.

Clear water can be made available to the dispensing device 68 by the mixing device 76 . this is in figure 2 indicated by an arrow with a superscript 3. In this case, the third valve 78 is closed.

A mixture of clear water and cleaning agent can also be provided by the mixing device 76 . this is in figure 2 indicated by an arrow with a superscript 4.

It is also possible that the dispensing device 68 is not provided with any fluid by the mixing device 76 .

A second pump 86 is arranged between the clear water supply device 30 with the clear water tank 32 and the steam generator 38 . This second pump 86 conveys clear water from the clear water tank 32 to the steam generator 38 when the liquid level there falls below a threshold, so that sufficient clear water is available at the steam generator 38 for generating steam.

The steam device 10 has a steam mode in which only steam is provided by the dispensing device 68 . Only steam then flows in the discharge device 68, which figure 2 indicated by the arrow with the superscript 1.

In this vapor mode, the second valve 74 and the third valve 78 are closed. The first valve 72 is open and the amount of steam that is provided can be adjusted in particular. This setting is made in particular on the control panel 62, for example via the selector switch 64.

The steam device 10 also has a Hydrovapo mode in which liquid clear water is added to the steam provided by the steam generator 38 . In this hydrovapo mode, the dispenser 68 provides a two-phase mixture of vapor and liquid. this is in figure 2 indicated by the arrow with the superscript 2.

In this hydrovapo mode, the first valve 72 and the second valve 74 are open. The third valve 78 is closed.

The coupling and thus the admixture of clear water at the discharge device 68 takes place at the second coupling point 82. A Y-piece is provided there in particular.

The steam device 10 also has a detergent mode in which a mixture of clear water and detergent (as a chemical additive to the clear water) can be discharged via the discharge device 68 .

No steam is provided in this detergent mode; the first valve 72 is closed. The second valve 74 and the third valve 78 are open, with a fixed dosage or an adjustable dosage of cleaning agent being able to take place.

The mixture of clear water and cleaning agent is produced at the mixing device 76 . Via the first pump 80, this mixture is introduced into the dispensing device 68 at the third coupling point 84 and transported there.

The flow of this mixture of clear water and detergent is in figure 2 indicated by the arrow with superscript 3.

In the steam device 10 according to the invention, there is a rinsing mode in which clear water is introduced into the dispensing device 68, as will be described in more detail below. The corresponding flow is in figure 2 indicated by the arrow with superscript 4. In this purge mode, the first valve 72 is closed and the third valve 78 is closed. The second valve 74 is open, so that clear water flows from the clear water tank 32 through the mixing device 76 (in which case there is then no mixing) conveyed by the first pump 80 into the discharge device 68 and then flows in it.

The valves 72, 74, 78 are located on the base 14.

The vapor device 10 comprises a suction line device 88 which is in fluid communication with the suction fan device 42 in order to enable suction and in particular liquid suction.

In one embodiment, the suction line device 88 includes a suction pipe 90, which can be designed in one piece or in multiple pieces. A handle element 92 is seated on the suction tube 90 for holding by an operator. That In particular, the suction tube 90 is rigid and the handle element 92 is designed accordingly.

A switching device 94 with one or more switches can be located on the handle element 92, via which specific settings for the operation of the steam device 10 can be carried out. Correspondingly, the switching device 94 is coupled to the control device 60 in a signal-effective manner.

A hose 96 is arranged on the handle element 92, from which figure 1 only partial areas are shown. The hose 96 is in particular flexible and connected in a fixed or detachable manner via a connection 98 which is seated on a housing arranged on the base 14 .

The suction line device 88 has a suction port 100 on the pipe 90 . A nozzle 102 or the like can be connected to the suction pipe 90 in the region of the suction mouth 100 .

The dispensing device 68 includes a hose 104. This hose 104 is at least partially mechanically connected to the suction line device 88.

In one embodiment, hose 104 is routed to and connected to hose 96 (suction hose).

The hose 104 of the dispensing device 68 is also guided on or in the handle element 92 and is arranged on the suction pipe 90 .

The dispensing device 68 has a dispensing opening 106 which is arranged on or in the vicinity of the suction opening 100 .

In particular, the dispensing orifice 106 and the suction orifice 100 are in a mechanically fixed relation to one another.

A tool that can be connected to the suction pipe 90 is designed in particular in such a way that suction operation and discharge operation are possible.

The suction line device 88 and the discharge device 68 also extend up to a certain area into the interior space 48 of the steam device 10.

After the steam device 10 has been operated in a cleaning agent mode, there are basically residues of chemical cleaning agent in the dispensing device 68 . In subsequent steam operation, this can result in aerosols being discharged via the discharge opening 106 . Aerosol formation is undesirable. The flushing mode is provided to prevent the formation of aerosols.

In purge mode, as in figure 6 indicated, the discharge device 68 flows through with clear water. As a result, cleaning agent residues in the dispensing device 68 are flushed out. In a subsequent operation in steam mode, such cleaning agent residues are then largely discharged and aerosol formation can no longer take place or aerosol formation is minimized.

To carry out the rinsing mode, the control device 60 includes a rinsing unit 108 which controls the carrying out of the rinsing mode.

Provision is made here for the steam device 10 to be able to be operated in the steam mode only if a rinsing process has been carried out in the rinsing mode after operation in the detergent mode.

For this purpose, for example, the rinsing unit 108 has a corresponding memory, which sets a specific memory value if operation was carried out in cleaning agent mode.

For example, if an operator desires to operate in a vapor mode, then the controller 60 will only allow such operation if the specified memory value is not set. To this end, the control device 60 interrogates the rinsing unit 108 in particular.

When operation is set to flushing mode on the control panel 62, the control device 60 closes the first valve 72 and the third valve 78 or checks whether the first valve 72 and the third valve 78 are already closed. Clear water rinsing then takes place for a specific period of time, which is for example between 10 s and 30 s and in particular between 15 s and 20 s.

In order to trigger such a flushing process, the operator in particular must supply a trigger signal. This is provided, for example, by actuating a switch on the switching device 94 .

Liquid is then dispensed. This liquid can be sucked in via the suction line device 88 and received in the dirty water tank 44 . An operator can switch on a suction process manually, or the control device 60 controls the suction unit 40 in order to effect suction operation.

The steam device 10 also has a suction mode in which the suction unit 40 generates a suction flow through which suction material can be sucked in via the suction line device 88 . In particular, dirty water can be sucked in. The suction operation can be carried out alone or in combination with an operating mode in which fluid (liquid and/or vapor) is discharged.

Basically, after the end of the suction operation, an interior space of the suction line device 88 is soiled and increased nucleation can occur there, for example.

In principle, the suction line device 88 and the discharge device 68 are fluidly separated.

To clean suction line device 88, a guide element 110 is provided according to the invention, through which discharge device 68 in the region of discharge opening 106 and suction line device 88 in the region of suction opening 100 can be fluidically connected to one another, so that fluid can flow from discharge device 68 into suction line device 88 for flushing and thereby cleaning can be coupled. The flushing fluid can be received by the dirty water tank 44 .

The cleaning fluid for the suction line device 88 is provided by the fluid supply device 28 . In principle, it is possible for clear water, in particular from the clear water tank 32, to be used as the cleaning fluid, for the steam from the steam generator 38 to be used, or for a mixture of clear water with cleaning agent to be used.

In a structurally favorable embodiment, clear water is used as the cleaning liquid.

In one embodiment, the vane 110 is disposed on the base 14 . At a height distance from the guide element 110 there is a holder 112 for the suction tube 90 (with the part of the dispensing device 68 arranged thereon). The guide element 110 is designed in such a way that the suction tube with the part of the dispensing device 68 arranged on it rests on an upper side 114 (cf figure 6 ) can be set up. The suction tube 90 with the suction port 100 and the discharge port 106 can be set up. The nozzle 102 is then removed. This object can be fixed with respect to the base 14 via the holder 112 (cf figure 7 ).

The guide element 110 comprises, as in Figures 8 and 9 indicated, a first receptacle 116 for the suction pipe and a second receptacle 118 for the dispensing device 68 in the region of the dispensing mouth 106. The first Receptacle 116 and the second receptacle 118 are connected to one another via a channel 120 . The channel 120 provides a type of fluid short circuit between the deployment device 68 and the suction line device 88 .

The guide element 110 has a sealing device 122 which ensures a fluid-tight connection of the suction pipe to the first receptacle 116 and a fluid-tight connection of the discharge device 68 to the second receptacle 118 .

In the embodiment described above, the guide member 110 is firmly fixed to the base 14 with respect thereto.

A cleaning mode for the suction line device 88 can then be carried out when the suction pipe 90 is correspondingly fixed with respect to the base 14 via the holder 112 and the guide element 110 .

In principle, it is also possible, as in figure 8 indicated that the guide element 110 is an element that is separate from the base 14 or is a part that can be detached from the base 14 and can be connected to the suction line device 88 and the discharge device 68 in order to be able to carry out a cleaning mode even when the suction pipe 90 is not with respect to the base 14 is fixed.

In particular, when the guide element 110 is fixed with respect to the base 14 and is arranged on it, a sensor 124 is provided which detects whether the suction tube 90 with the corresponding part of the dispensing device 68 is correctly positioned on the guide element 110 in order to prevent fluid coupling of the dispensing device 68 into the suction line device 88. The sensor 114 is embodied, for example, as a (micro) switch which, when positioned correctly, supplies a signal and in particular a switching signal to the control device 60 . This switching signal is in particular a release signal for a flushing process.

The control device 60 controls the execution of the cleaning mode.

For example, the cleaning mode is initiated manually, for example by corresponding actuation on the control panel on the handle element 92. If a sensor 124 is provided, then it can only be carried out if a corresponding release signal is present.

In particular, the cleaning process in the cleaning mode is controlled by the control device 60 such that fluid (in particular clear water) is coupled from the discharge device 68 into the suction line device 88 by means of the guide element 110 for a specific first period of time. This period of time is, for example, in the range between 10 s and 30 s and for example around 20 s.

The control device 60 then also controls the suction unit 40 so that the liquid is sucked in and fed to the dirty water tank 44 .

During the specific first period of time, the control device 60 controls in particular the first pump 80 in order to pump fluid and in particular clear water in the dispensing device 68 .

After the specified first period of time has elapsed, the first pump 80 is switched off.

In one embodiment, the control device ensures, by appropriately controlling the suction unit 40, that suction operation is maintained for a specific second period of time. This specific second period of time is, for example, in the range between 10 s and 25 s and, for example, approximately 15 s.

After the cleaning mode has been carried out, the interior of the suction line device 88 is cleaned and the risk of germ formation, for example, is minimized.

The cleaning mode can also be carried out on the device 10 if it does not have a steam generation function and this is in particular a suction device.

reference list

10

steam device

12

steam vacuum cleaner

14

Base

16

wheel setup

18

rear wheel setup

20

front wheel setup

22

front

24a

right rear wheel

24b

left rear wheel

26a

right castor

26b

left castor

28

fluid delivery device

30

Clear water supply device

32

clear water tank

34

Detergent supply facility

36

detergent tank

38

steam generator

40

suction unit

42

suction fan device

44

recovery tank

46

outer lining

48

inner space

50

transverse side

52

bow handle

54

rear

56

holder

58a

holder

58b

holder

60

control device

62

control panel

64

selector switch

66

Switch

68

discharge device

70

first launch point

72

first valve

74

second valve

76

mixing device

78

third valve

80

first pump

82

second injection point

84

third coupling point

86

second pump

88

suction line device

90

intake manifold

92

grip element

94

switching device

96

Hose

98

connection

100

suction mouth

102

jet

104

Hose

106

discharge mouth

108

flushing unit

110

guiding element

112

bracket

114

top

116

first shot

118

second recording

120

channel

122

sealing device

124

sensor

Claims (17)

1. Steam apparatus, comprising a clear water providing device (30), a steam generator (38) which is operatively connected for fluid communication with the clear water providing device (30), a cleaning agent providing device (34), a mixing device (76) for clear water and cleaning agent which is operatively connected for fluid communication with the clear water providing device (30) and the cleaning agent providing device (34), a discharge device (68) for fluid, and a control device (60) by which operating modes of the steam apparatus are adjustable, wherein, by way of the discharge device (68), steam is dischargeable in a steam mode and a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent is dischargeable in a cleaning agent mode, and wherein the control device (60) comprises a rinse unit (108) which, after completion of the cleaning agent mode, operates a rinse mode in which the discharge device (68) is rinsed with clear water, characterized in that the rinse mode is performed pursuant to automatic control by the rinse unit (108) of the control device (60) for a certain period of time.
2. Steam apparatus in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that the discharge device (68) comprises a first point of incoupling (70) for steam which is operatively connected for fluid communication with the steam generator (38), a second point of incoupling (82) for clear water which is operatively connected for fluid communication with the clear water providing device (30), and a third point of incoupling (84) for a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent which is operatively connected for fluid communication with the mixing device (76), and in particular in that, relative to a fluid main flow direction in the discharge device (68), the second point of incoupling (82) is arranged upstream of the third point of incoupling (84), or the second point of incoupling (82) coincides with the third point of incoupling (84).
3. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clear water providing device (38) is or comprises a clear water tank (32) and/or in that the cleaning agent providing device (34) is or comprises a cleaning agent tank (36).
4. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (60), in the rinse mode, adjusts a certain period of time of the rinse operation, and in particular in that the certain period of time is in the range between 10 s and 30 s.
5. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (60) makes an adjustment or is adjusted such that the steam mode is only performable if, following a cleaning agent mode, a rinse mode has been performed.
6. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the steam mode is only operable without the discharge of cleaning agent.
7. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a Hydrovapo mode in which clear water is admixable with steam.
8. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the discharge device (68) is or comprises at least one tube and/or at least one hose (104).
9. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a controllable first valve (72) which is arranged downstream of the steam generator (38) and is controlled by the control device (60), in particular wherein the first valve (72) is of multi-stage configuration.
10. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a controllable second valve (74) which is arranged between the clear water providing device (30) and the discharge device (68) and which is controlled by the control device (60).
11. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a controllable third valve (78) which is arranged between the cleaning agent providing device (30) and the discharge device (68) and which is controlled by the control device (60), and in particular in that the control device (60) makes an adjustment such that when the third valve (78) is open, a first valve (72) which is arranged downstream of the steam generator (38) is closed, and in particular in that the mixing device (76) is arranged downstream of the third valve (78) and of a second valve (74) which is in communication with the clear water providing device (30).
12. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a first pump (80) for transporting clear water and/or a mixture of clear water and cleaning agent in the discharge device (68), wherein the first pump (80) is controlled by the control device (60), and/or characterized by a second pump (86) for transporting clear water from the clear water providing device (30) to the steam generator (38).
13. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the steam apparatus being configured as a suction device having a suction unit (40) and a suction port (98), and in particular characterized by at least one dirty water tank (44), and in particular in that a suction conduit device (88) is at least partially mechanically connected to the discharge device (68).
14. Steam apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a selector switch (64) for adjusting a respective operating mode, and in particular characterized by a starter switch for starting the rinse mode, and in particular characterized in that, once the rinse mode has started, the control device (60) automatically performs the rinse mode.
15. Method for operating a steam apparatus in accordance with claim 1, in which method steam is discharged in a steam mode and a mixture of cleaning agent and clear water is discharged in a cleaning agent mode, wherein following a cleaning agent mode, a discharge device (68) of the steam apparatus which is a discharge apparatus (68) for fluid, is rinsed with clear water in a rinse mode, wherein the rinse mode is performed pursuant to automatic control by a rinse unit (108) of a control device (60) of the steam apparatus for a certain period of time.
16. Method for operating a steam apparatus in accordance with claim 15, characterized in that, following operation in the cleaning agent mode, the steam apparatus is only operable in the steam mode if a rinse mode is performed before the steam mode.
17. Method for operating a steam apparatus in accordance with claim 15 or 16, characterized in that starting the rinse mode demands a user command.

Images