EP3185743B1 - Vacuum nozzle and vacuum cleaner for hard surfaces - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a suction nozzle, in particular for a vacuum extraction device comprising a portable Hartflächenabsauggerät, which suction nozzle has a suction port, which is followed by a suction channel, the suction port remote suction port end is connected to the suction device, wherein disposed between the suction port and the Saugkanalende a joint or is designed to move the suction opening relative to the Saugkanalende and wherein a blocking device is provided for non-positive and / or positive locking of the joint in at least one blocking position.

Furthermore, the present invention relates to a Hartflächenabsauggerät with a suction device and connected to the suction or connectable suction duct connection, which is connected to a Saugkanalende a suction duct of a suction port having a suction nozzle or connectable, wherein between the Saugkanalanschluss and the suction means a joint is arranged or formed to Moving the Saugkanalanschlusses relative to the suction device and wherein a blocking device is provided for non-positive and / or positive locking of the joint in at least one blocking position.

Hard surface cleaning devices are known in particular in the form of Hartflächenabsauggeräten of the type described above. These are used, for example, as so-called window vacs. Slices or hard surfaces of all kinds, which are wetted with cleaning fluid in particular, can be easily and quickly cleaned with such devices with no streaks.

A problem with available on the market window suckers, however, it is especially vertical surfaces floor to ceiling with a single continuous vertical movement of the window suction sucked from top to bottom. It has hitherto been necessary when cleaning floor-deep slices with an example from the WO 2009/086891 A1 known portable Hartflächenabsauggerät the surface to be cleaned near the bottom by a horizontal movement of the Hartflächenabsauggeräts parallel to the surface with substantially vertically aligned suction aspirate.

From the WO 2010/018312 A2 is a cleaning device for smooth surfaces known. The EP 1 214 902 A2 describes a nozzle for a vacuum cleaner. In the DE 10 2011 000 465 A1 is a locking connection between a vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner attachment disclosed. Furthermore, the GB 495,698 tubular coupling devices. Another cleaning device is out of the CN 202 537 394 U known.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a suction nozzle and a Hartflächenabsauggerät of the type described above so that in particular a handling thereof is improved in the cleaning of hard surfaces.

This object is achieved in a suction nozzle of the type described above according to the invention in that the joint defines at least one pivot axis, that the joint first and second, mutually engaging and cooperating joint elements, which pivot in an adjustment relative to each other about the at least one pivot axis in that the blocking device comprises a locking mechanism with first and second locking elements, which engage in at least one locking position and are disengaged in the adjustment position, that the first and second locking elements are associated on the one hand with the first hinge element and on the other hand with the second hinge element and in that the at least one locking position the first and second hinge elements are immovably held together, that the locking mechanism comprises at least one biasing element which the first and second Hold locking elements in a basic position of the locking mechanism in the locking position, and that the biasing element on the first or second hinge member or on the first or second locking element is arranged or formed.

The inventively proposed training known suction nozzles makes it possible in particular to change an orientation or orientation of the suction opening relative to the Saugkanalende means of the joint. If the suction nozzle is coupled to a hard-surface suction device, which may be designed to be portable in particular, then the suction opening can be changed in its orientation relative to the housing in accordance with the design of the joint due to the joint. For example, the hinge may define a pivot axis so that the suction port and the hard surface aspirator are relatively rotatable or pivotable about the pivot axis. Thus, it is in particular possible to move the suction nozzle with the suction opening in a certain direction, but the Hartflächenabsauggerät or the housing thereof can be pivoted about the pivot axis, so that it can be pivoted away, in particular in the ground-level area of vertical hard surfaces. This makes it possible in particular to suck a floor-deep window in a train from top to bottom for cleaning streak-free. The further provided blocking device makes it possible in particular, a mobility of the joint quasi off. So it is in particular possible that a user uses a Hartflächenabsauggerät with the inventively proposed suction nozzle as a conventional, for example from the WO 2009/086891 A1 However, if necessary, the blocking device is deactivated in order to lift a blockage of the joint, so that it can be moved in the desired manner known Hartflächenabsauggerät. In order to further improve the handling of the hard surface suction device and the suction nozzle, the blocking device can also be designed such that it defines more than one blocking position, for example two, three, four, five or even more blocking positions. Thus, a user of the Hartflächenabsauggeräts adjust an orientation of the suction opening relative to the housing of Hartflächenabsauggeräts so temporarily or permanently, as it is optimal for his individual operation, for example, on the size and range of the user and how strong he is is. According to the invention it is provided that the blocking device comprises a locking mechanism with first and second locking elements, which engage in at least one locking position, in particular form-fitting, and are disengaged in the adjustment that the first and second locking elements are assigned on the one hand to the first hinge element and on the other hand the second hinge element and that in the at least one locking position, the first and second hinge elements immovably to each other are held. The locking mechanism makes it possible in particular to block the joint in at least one locking position in a defined manner. In particular, two, three, four or more locking positions can be defined by the locking mechanism. This can be achieved in particular via the structural design of the first and second locking elements. In particular, the locking mechanism allows a user to fully re-release the joint on the suction nozzle or hard surface aspirator so as to allow for mobility dictated by the joint, or to temporarily or permanently block the joint, particularly through the engaged first and second locking elements to lock. It is advantageous that the locking mechanism comprises at least one biasing element which holds the first and second locking elements in a basic position of the locking mechanism in the locking position. The at least one biasing element may, for example, form part of a biasing device which serves exactly the purpose described. By means of the at least one biasing element is achieved, in particular, that the cooperating hinge elements can not be moved unintentionally relative to each other. A particularly compact construction of the suction nozzle or of the hard surface suction device is achieved in that the biasing element is arranged or formed on the first or second joint element or on the first or second locking element. In particular, the biasing element may be formed integrally with the first or second hinge element or the first or second locking element. For example, a one-piece design can be achieved in a simple manner by producing the respective parts by means of a plastic injection molding process.

It is advantageous if the suction nozzle comprises a wiper lip and a support lip, which wiper lip and which support lip define the suction opening between them. In particular, the wiper lip and the support lip are flexible and / or elastic. In particular, the wiper lip and the support lip permit optimum sealing of the suction nozzle relative to the hard surface to be suctioned off in order to be able to extract cleaning liquid with a suction power which is as low as possible between the wiper lip and the support lip on the hard surface to be suctioned off. This is particularly advantageous for portable, powered by a battery with electrical energy, off-grid Hartflächenabsauggeräte advantageous, as for example, a deployment time of the devices can be optimized.

It is favorable if the suction nozzle comprises a support lip receptacle for the support lip and / or a wiper lip receptacle for the wiper lip and if the joint is arranged or formed in the region of the support lip receptacle and / or the wiper lip receptacle. In this way, a particularly compact suction nozzle can be formed. The handling of the Hartflächenabsauggeräts changes so practically not for a user. Also, the construction of the device can be substantially the same. The joint is arranged or formed as close as possible to the suction opening, so that no strong deformation of the wiper lip and the support lip is required to pivot against a Abstreiflippenkante the wiper lip and a support lip edge of the support lip, the housing of Hartflächenabsauggeräts significantly to obstacles, such as a floor when cleaning floor-deep windows, to be able to dodge.

The object stated in the introduction is further achieved according to the invention in a hard surface suction device of the type described above in that the joint defines at least one pivot axis, that the joint comprises first and second, mutually engaging and cooperating joint elements, which in an adjustment relative to each other at least a pivot axis are pivotable, that the blocking device comprises a locking mechanism having first and second locking elements, which engage in at least one locking position and are disengaged in the adjustment position, that the first and second locking elements on the one hand, the first hinge element and on the other hand are associated with the second hinge element and that in the at least one locking position, the first and second hinge elements are immovably held together, that the locking mechanism comprises at least one biasing element, which holds the first and second locking elements in a basic position of the locking mechanism in the locking position, and in that the biasing element is arranged or formed on the first or second joint element or on the first or second locking element.

As already described above in connection with the proposed development of a suction nozzle, such a further developed Hartflächenabsauggerät allows a change in the orientation between the Saugkanalanschluss and the suction device. The suction device can be arranged, for example, in a housing of the hard surface suction device, so that the suction channel connection can be changed relative to the housing by means of the joint in its orientation. Such trained Hartflächenabsauggerät also makes it possible to couple conventional suction nozzles in unmodified form with the Hartflächenabsauggerät and an orientation of the suction nozzle, which can be coupled immovably in particular with the Saugkanalanschluss, relative to the suction and in particular to the housing of Hartflächenabsauggeräts. Thus, in cleaning situations in which the housing of the Hartflächenabsauggeräts would hinder the suction, the housing are pivoted away relative to the suction, for example, so as to allow for example floor to ceiling windows optimal extraction to the ground at a constant angle to the hard surface aligned suction nozzle. As already described above in connection with the further developed suction nozzle, a blocking position or even a plurality of blocking positions can be defined with the blocking device, in order to limit some or all of the mobility of the joint. According to the invention, it is provided that the blocking device comprises a locking mechanism with first and second locking elements, which engage in at least one locking position, in particular form-fitting, and are disengaged in the adjustment position, in that the first and second locking elements are assigned on the one hand to the first joint element and on the other hand to the second joint element and that in the at least one locking position the first and second joint elements are held immovably to one another. The locking mechanism makes it possible in particular to block the joint in at least one locking position in a defined manner. In particular, two, three, four or more locking positions can be defined by the locking mechanism. This can be achieved in particular via the structural design of the first and second locking elements. In particular, the locking mechanism allows a user to fully re-release the joint on the suction nozzle or hard surface aspirator so as to allow for mobility dictated by the joint, or to temporarily or permanently block the joint, particularly through the engaged first and second locking elements to lock. It is advantageous that the locking mechanism comprises at least one biasing element which holds the first and second locking elements in a basic position of the locking mechanism in the locking position. The at least one biasing element may, for example, form part of a biasing device which serves exactly the purpose described. By means of the at least one biasing element is achieved, in particular, that the cooperating hinge elements can not be moved unintentionally relative to each other. A particularly compact construction of the suction nozzle or of the hard surface suction device is achieved in that the biasing element is arranged or formed on the first or second joint element or on the first or second locking element. In particular, the biasing element may be formed integrally with the first or second hinge element or the first or second locking element. For example, a one-piece design can be achieved in a simple manner by producing the respective parts by means of a plastic injection molding process.

The hard surface suction device preferably has a suction nozzle with a suction opening, to which a suction channel adjoins, the suction channel end facing away from the suction opening being connected or connectable to the suction channel connection. In particular, the suction nozzle may be releasably connectable to the hard surface suction device or a housing thereof to be able to use different widths suction nozzles for the suction of hard surfaces can. Even damaged suction nozzles can then be easily replaced.

It is advantageous if the suction nozzle comprises a wiper lip with a wiper lip edge and a support lip with a support lip edge and if the wiper lip and the support lip define the suction opening between them. The wiper lip and the support lip allow optimal sealing of the suction nozzle relative to the hard surface in order to be able to extract cleaning liquid between the wiper lip and the support lip on the hard surface to be suctioned off with the lowest possible suction power. In particular, for portable, network-independent devices, this is advantageous for increasing a deployment time.

Conveniently, the Hartflächenabsauggerät comprises a housing in which the suction device is arranged or formed, wherein the suction nozzle is coupled in a working position with the housing and separated in a disconnected position from the housing. The housing can in particular be designed ergonomically for optimized handling of the Hartflächenabsauggeräts. For example, a handle for holding and guiding the Hartflächenabsauggeräts may be provided on the housing.

For optimal extraction of wetted with cleaning liquid hard surfaces, it is advantageous if the suction opening is formed at least partially rectilinear or curved. For example, the suction opening may be formed curved to a curvature of a hard surface adapted.

It is advantageous if the joint defines at least one pivot axis. Thus, the parts of the suction nozzle or of the hard surface suction device which are coupled to one another via the joint can be pivoted relative to one another about the at least one pivot axis. For example, the joint can also define a plurality of pivot axes that are transverse to each other.

Conveniently, the at least one pivot axis extends parallel or transverse to the suction opening. In particular, it can run perpendicular to the suction opening. If the pivot axis runs parallel to the suction opening, it can in particular also run parallel to the wiper lip and / or parallel to the support lip, so that an intuitive operation of the hard surface suction device is made possible for the user. A pivot axis transversely to the suction opening, ie at any angle, in particular 90 °, but not parallel to the suction opening, in particular makes it possible to move the suction nozzle, for example, in the vertical direction from top to bottom on a vertical hard surface along, but the Hartflächenabsauggerät or a housing thereof can be pivoted about the pivot axis, so that the Hartflächenabsauggerät occupies a substantially position, as is the case with horizontal suction with known from the prior art Hartflächenabsauggeräten. Due to the pivotability of the suction nozzle and the Hartflächenabsauggeräts to a transverse to the suction opening rotation or pivot axis, so a vertical hard surface, such as a floor-deep window, be sucked streak-free in a train from top to bottom for cleaning.

A particularly flexible alignment between the Hartflächenabsauggerät and the suction nozzle can be achieved when the joint is in the form of a ball joint.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the joint comprises a pivot bearing. The pivot bearing, for example, define a single pivot axis or but also several swivel axes. In particular, the pivot bearing may be designed in the form of a ball joint bearing.

It is advantageous if the joint comprises first and second, mutually engaging and cooperating joint elements, which are pivotable in an adjustment position relative to each other about the at least one pivot axis. By the two joint elements can be easily form a joint, depending on the design of the joint elements, for example, as a ball joint or as a pure, a single pivot axis defining swivel joint.

In a particularly simple manner, the hinge can be locked when the locking mechanism is designed in the form of a Rastverstellmechanismus with first and second locking elements, which form the first and second locking elements. The locking elements may in particular be designed such that they engage positively and only by an active release, so bring an active disengage, disable the Rastverstellmechanismus for moving the joint. Alternatively, the first and second locking elements may also be designed such that they can be disengaged by applying a certain torque about a pivot axis of the joint and, if appropriate, automatically engage again in a further locking position.

Conveniently, the first and second latching elements comprise at least one row of teeth having at least one latching tooth. For example, the number of ratchet teeth of the row of teeth can define the number of possible locking positions. In particular, the first and second latching elements in the form of rows of teeth may be formed with two or more ratchet teeth.

Preferably, the first and second locking elements against the action of the biasing element from the locking position can be converted into the adjustment position. By this configuration, it is particularly difficult or impossible, the first and second locking elements unintentionally disengage. Here, against a force exerted by the biasing member, one locking member must be moved relative to the other locking member to disengage it.

The suction nozzle or the hard surface suction device can be produced particularly easily if the prestressing element is designed in the form of a spring; in particular, the spring can be in the form of a leaf spring or helical spring.

Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the blocking device comprises a clamping mechanism with first and second clamping elements, which cooperate with each other to specify an adjustment force required for adjusting the joint. The clamping mechanism thus makes it possible, in particular, to positively lock the joint or to release it completely. Furthermore, it is also possible with the clamping mechanism to achieve an adjustment of the joint against a clamping force defined by the clamping mechanism. Depending on how strongly the first and second clamping elements cooperate with each other, that is, for example, pressed against each other, so an adjusting force for moving the joint can vary and in principle be adjusted continuously.

In order to enable a simple adjustment of the clamping mechanism, it is advantageous if the first and second clamping elements relative to each other are movably arranged or formed. For example, they can be arranged to be displaceable and / or pivotable.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a clamping force acting between the first and second clamping elements can be varied in defined steps or steplessly. Thus, an adjustment of the joint can be achieved in different power levels or specified with virtually any set forces.

It is advantageous if the first and second clamping elements engage and cooperate in at least one clamping position in such a way that the first and second hinge elements are held immovably relative to one another. In this way, the joint of the suction nozzle or the Hartflächenabsauggeräts can block completely.

It is advantageous if the first and second clamping elements cooperate in the adjustment position of the joint such that the first and second hinge elements are movable relative to each other against a clamping force effect of the first and second clamping elements, and / or if the first and second clamping elements in the adjustment except Engage. When the clamping elements are disengaged in the adjustment position, movement of the joint can be achieved only against a prevailing frictional force between the hinge elements. To complicate the adjustment of the joint, the clamping elements can cooperate in the adjustment position, so that the first and second hinge elements can be moved relative to each other only against the acting clamping force.

Advantageously, the clamping mechanism comprises at least one biasing element, which holds the first and second clamping elements in a basic position of the clamping mechanism in the at least one clamping position. The at least one biasing element thus acts in particular such that the first and second clamping elements cooperate with each other and occupy a clamping position. A clamping force is thus defined directly or proportionally to the biasing force exerted by the biasing element.

It is favorable if the first and second clamping elements can be moved against the action of the biasing element from the clamping position into the adjustment position. The clamping mechanism can thus be completely or partially deactivated when the first and second clamping elements are moved against the action of the biasing member relative to each other. Partial deactivation means in particular that a clamping force between the first and second clamping elements is reduced.

It is advantageous if the biasing element is arranged or formed on the first or second joint element or on the first or second clamping element. In particular, the biasing element may be formed integrally with the first or second hinge element or with the first or second clamping element. In particular, a production can be simplified if the biasing element is formed integrally with one of the hinge elements or one of the clamping elements, for example by injection molding of a plastic.

A compact design of the suction nozzle or the Hartflächenabsauggeräts can be achieved in particular when the biasing element is in the form of a spring. Preferably, the spring is in the form of a leaf spring or a coil spring.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the suction nozzle or the hard surface suction device comprises an anti-blocking device for deactivating the blocking device in a deactivation position. The anti-lock device makes it possible in particular to completely deactivate the blocking device. It is then present, but does not perform any function. Thus, the blocking device can be permanently deactivated with the antilock device. This may be advantageous if a permanent mobility of the joint is desired.

Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the anti-lock device can be brought from the deactivation position into an activation position for activating the blocking device. In particular, this means that the anti-lock device can quasi turn on the blocking device when it is brought into an activation position. A user can then select, in particular superordinate, whether the blocking device is to be used or not to be used.

Preferably, the anti-lock device comprises at least one anti-lock element for deactivating the blocking device in the deactivation position. With the at least one anti-lock element, the blocking device can in particular be deactivated in a simple manner by the anti-lock device is transferred to the deactivation position.

Conveniently, the at least one anti-lock element from the deactivation position in the activation position can be brought to activate the blocking device. In this way, the blocking device can be quasi re-activated with the at least one anti-lock element.

The suction nozzle or the hard surface suction device can be handled in a particularly manner if the at least one anti-blocking element is arranged or designed to be movable on the suction nozzle or on the hard surface suction device. In particular, the at least one anti-lock element can be arranged and / or designed to be displaceable and / or pivotable. For activating or deactivating the blocking device, it is therefore only necessary in particular to move the at least one antilocking element, for example to move it and / or to pivot it.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention can be provided that the at least one anti-lock element with one of Locking elements and / or with one of the clamping elements and / or with one of the biasing elements cooperatively arranged or formed to hold the first and second locking elements and / or the first and second clamping elements in the anti-lock position out of engagement. This embodiment allows a particularly compact construction of the suction nozzle or the Hartflächenabsauggeräts. In particular, it is thus possible to bring the at least one anti-lock element directly into contact with the elements encompassed by the blocking device. For example, the anti-lock element can also be held against the action of a biasing element in the blocking position and / or in the activation position. In particular, the biasing element of the locking mechanism or the biasing element of the clamping mechanism can be used as a biasing element.

For the handling of the suction nozzle or the Hartflächenabsauggeräts it is advantageous if the blocking device comprises at least one actuating element for transferring the blocking device of the at least one blocking position in the adjustment position in which the joint is movable. By operating the at least one actuating element, for example by pressing it, an operator can thus move the blocking device from the at least one blocking position into the adjustment position or a release position, move the joint and then no longer actuate or release the at least one actuating element in order to restore the blocking device in a blocking position to convict. With appropriately arranged biasing elements this can be done automatically.

It is advantageous if the at least one actuating element with one of the locking elements and / or with one of the clamping elements and / or with one of the biasing elements cooperatively arranged or formed to the first and second locking elements and / or the first and second clamping elements due to a Disengage operation. By an actuation of the at least one actuating element Thus, it is possible to act directly on the locking elements, the clamping elements or the biasing elements of the suction nozzle or of the hard surface suction device in order to lift a blockage of the joint and to be able to move it.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the Hartflächenabsauggerät is designed in the form of a window suction. In particular, the Hartflächenabsauggerät be portable and / or network-independent. Hard surfaces, for example, can be easily and effectively cleaned without the hassle of cables.

Figur 1:

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Hartflächenabsauggeräts;

Figur 2:

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines ersten Ausführungsbeispiels einer Saugdüse;

Figur 3:

eine Explosionsdarstellung der in Figur 2 dargestellten Saugdüse;

Figur 4:

eine teilweise Explosionsdarstellung der Anordnung aus Figur 3 im Wesentlichen in entgegengesetzter Richtung;

Figur 5:

eine Schnittansicht längs Linie 5-5 in Figur 4;

Figur 6:

eine Ansicht ähnlich Figur 5, in welcher die Saugdüse eine zweite Blockierstellung einnimmt;

Figur 7:

eine Ansicht ähnlich Figur 6 mit dauerhaft deaktivierter Blockiereinrichtung mittels einer Antiblockiereinrichtung, welche eine Deaktivierungsstellung einnimmt;

Figur 8:

eine teilweise geschnittene, perspektivische Ansicht eines Antiblockierelements und eines Teils des Gehäuses der Saugdüse; und

Figur 9:

eine teilweise geschnittene Seitenansicht der Saugdüse mit dem Antiblockierelement in der Aktivierungsstellung.

The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention is used in conjunction with the drawings for further explanation. Show it:

FIG. 1:

a perspective view of a Hartflächenabsauggeräts;

FIG. 2:

a perspective view of a first embodiment of a suction nozzle;

FIG. 3:

an exploded view of in FIG. 2 illustrated suction nozzle;

FIG. 4:

a partial exploded view of the arrangement FIG. 3 essentially in the opposite direction;

FIG. 5:

a sectional view taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 4 ;

FIG. 6:

a view similar FIG. 5 in which the suction nozzle assumes a second blocking position;

FIG. 7:

a view similar FIG. 6 with permanently disabled blocking means by means of an anti-lock device, which occupies a deactivation position;

FIG. 8:

a partially sectioned perspective view of an anti-lock element and a part of the housing of the suction nozzle; and

FIG. 9:

a partially sectioned side view of the suction nozzle with the anti-lock element in the activation position.

In FIG. 1 schematically a portable hard surface cleaning device 10 is shown, in particular in the form of a portable, network-independently operable handset designed Hartflächenabsauggeräts 12, with which liquid from a hard surface, such as water from a window can be sucked. The Hartflächenabsauggerät 12 can be held by a user with one hand on a handle 14 thereof and guided in the manner of a conventional, having a rubber lip puller on the hard surface along.

The Hartflächenabsauggerät 10 includes a housing 16 which also forms the handle 14 and a suction device 18 with a suction turbine 20 and an electric motor 22 for driving the same receives.

In the housing 16 is also at least one rechargeable battery, in particular a lithium-ion battery, arranged to supply power to the electric motor 22nd

The housing 16 further defines a standing surface 26 which allows the hard surface suction device 12 in an upright position, as shown schematically in FIG FIG. 1 shown to be able to place on a footprint, such as a table surface.

On the housing 16, a recess is formed, in which a removable dirty liquid tank 28 is arranged. It serves to receive dirty liquid that has been transported with the suction device 18. On the upper side, ie facing away from the standing surface 26, the housing 16 of the hard surface suction device 12 is detachably connectable to a suction nozzle 30. In particular, for cleaning purposes, the suction nozzle 30 can be removed from the housing 16.

The structure of the suction nozzle 30 and the Hartflächenabsauggeräts will be described below in connection with the FIGS. 2 to 9 explained in more detail.

The suction nozzle 30 comprises a suction nozzle housing, designated overall by the reference numeral 32, which is formed in several parts. In a Saugdüsengehäuseunterteil 34, a suction channel 36 is arranged or formed, the rear end, also referred to as Saugkanalende 38, with the housing 16 or a hinge unit 48 can be coupled. In this way, the suction channel end 38 of the suction channel 36 is coupled to the suction device 18.

The suction channel 36 defines, with its end remote from the suction channel end 38, a suction opening 40 which extends rectilinearly, optionally also curved, and which is formed between a wiper lip 42 and a support lip 44 cooperating therewith. The wiper lip 42 and the support lip 44 are formed of a flexible material.

The Hartflächenabsauggerät 12 further includes a hinge 46. It is formed on the hinge unit 48 and includes a first hinge member 50 with a receptacle 52 for the Saugkanalende 38 of the suction nozzle 30 and a second hinge member 54 with a coupling device 56 for coupling the second hinge member 54 with a Suction port not shown in the figures, which is arranged or formed on the housing 16 of the Hartflächenabsauggeräts 12.

The first and second hinge members 50 and 54 together form the hinge 46. It is in the form of a pivot joint 58 which defines a single pivot axis 60 which is parallel to one of the wiper lip 42 defined Abstreiflippenkante 62 and thus also parallel to the suction port 40 extends.

The pivot joint 58 comprises a pivot bearing 64 with two first bearing elements 66 on the first joint element 50 and two second bearing elements 68 on the second joint element 54. The first bearing elements 60 are in the form of short cylindrical sleeve sections 70 facing away from each other in a direction towards the second hinge member 54 facing, elastic support member 72 are formed.

The second joint element 54 comprises two joint element parts 74 and 76 which can be brought into engagement with one another in a form-fitting manner. These each comprise one of the two second bearing elements 68. The second bearing elements 68 are in the form of mutually facing sleeve sections 78 whose inside diameter substantially corresponds to an outside diameter of the sleeve sections 70 so that the sleeve portions 70 can be inserted into receptacles 80 formed by the sleeve portions 78. The longitudinal axes of the sleeve sections 70 and 78 thus define the pivot axis 60.

The first and second hinge members 50 and 54 are each made of plastic injection molded parts.

The suction channel 36 extends through the hinge unit 48 therethrough. A channel end 82 of the second joint element 54 pointing in the direction of the housing 16 is then coupled to the suction device 18 via the suction channel connection.

The receptacle 52, which is substantially elongate in cross-section oval and parallel to the pivot axis 60, has at its in the direction of the second hinge member 54 toward the end of a sleeve-shaped channel portion 84 on the outside circumferential annular groove 86. The annular groove 86 serves to couple the channel section 84 to a flexible and / or elastic tube section 88 of the suction channel 36. The tube section 88 points its pointing in the direction of the first joint member 50 toward a pointing towards a longitudinal axis 90 of the same annular bead 92. The tube section 88 is dimensioned such that the annular bead 92 can be connected in a clamping manner to the channel section 84.

On the second joint member 54 is a self-contained, in the direction of the first joint member 50 toward pointing projection 94 is formed, which carries a circumferential, away from the longitudinal axis 90 nose 96.

At the hose section 88, a circumferential nose receptacle 98 corresponding to the nose 96 is formed on an end facing away from the annular bead 92. The tube portion 88 and the projection 94 are sized so that the tube portion 88 can be slipped over the projection 94 so that the circumferential nose 96 engages the nose receptacle 98. As in particular in the views of FIGS. 5 to 7 As can be clearly seen, a continuous flow channel 100 is formed through the joint 46.

Instead of the pivot joint 58, it would alternatively also be possible for the joint 46 to be designed in the form of a ball joint or in the form of a pivot joint with a pivot axis which extends transversely, in particular vertically, to the suction opening 40 or the wiper lip edge 62.

The Hartflächenabsauggerät 12 further includes a blocking device 102 for positive and / or positive locking of the joint 46 in at least one blocking position. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the blocking device 102 defines a total of four blocking positions.

The blocking device 102 comprises a locking mechanism 104 with first and second locking elements 106 and 108. These are designed such that they can be engaged in at least one exemplary embodiment illustrated in the figures in a total of four locking positions.

In the Figures 5 and 6 Two different locking positions are shown. In FIG. 7 schematically shows how the first and second locking elements 106 and 108 are disengaged and take an adjustment of the blocking device 102.

The first locking elements 106 are assigned to the first joint element 50 or formed thereon. The second locking elements 108 are assigned to the second joint element 54 or formed thereon. In the locking positions, the first and second hinge elements 50 and 54 are immovably held together.

The locking mechanism 104 is in the form of a Rastverstellmechanismus 110 with first and second locking elements 112 and 114 is formed. The first and second latch members 112 and 114 define the first and second latch members 106 and 108.

The first latching element 112 is formed in the form of a row of teeth 118 with a plurality of latching teeth 116. Between the locking teeth 116 a total of four locking recesses 120 are formed on the row of teeth 118, in which the second locking element 114, which is in the form of an elongated cylindrical pin 122, can engage in a locking position.

The first locking elements 106 are integrally formed on the first joint element 50 pointing in the direction of the annular groove 86, in a recess 124 in mutually parallel side walls 126 of the first joint member 50th

The locking mechanism 104 further includes a biasing member 128. It is in the form of a curved leaf spring 130 which is centrally located below the second detent member 114 and has two free ends 132 which abut a support wall 134 extending substantially parallel to the row of teeth 118.

The biasing member 128 is configured to press the second locking member 108 toward the first locking members 106 in a home position. It thus holds the locking mechanism 104 in one of the locking positions.

The blocking device 102 further comprises an actuating element 136 in the form of a pivotable about a pivot axis 138 pivotally mounted actuating knob 140. This has from a bottom projecting from a bottom parallel to the pivot axis 138 open, hollow cylindrical bearing shaft receiving 142, which corresponds to a formed on the second joint member 54, cylindrical bearing shaft 144 is formed. An opening width of the bearing shaft receptacle 142 is slightly smaller than a diameter of the bearing shaft 144, so that the actuating knob 140 with the bearing shaft receptacle 142 can be latched onto the bearing shaft 144.

At the other end of the actuating button 140, a carrier plate 146 is substantially following a curvature of the actuating head 140 and formed substantially parallel to the support wall 134. The support plate 146 carries along its projecting free end 148, the second locking element 114th

If a force is exerted on the actuating element 136 in the direction of the arrow 150, that is, a torque about the pivot axis 138 in the in FIG. 7 illustrated view in the counterclockwise direction, the second locking element 114 is moved against the action of the biasing member 128 from one of the recesses 120 until the second locking element 114, the first locking elements 112 completely releases. The blocking device 102 now assumes the adjustment position or release position. The hinge elements 50 and 54 can now be pivoted substantially freely relative to each other about the pivot axis 60.

When the actuating button 140 is released, the deformed biasing element 128 forces the first locking element 106 toward the second locking elements 108 again and preferably between two locking teeth 116 into one of the locking recesses 120. The blocking device 102 is now completely blocked again. A change in an orientation of the suction nozzle 30 relative to the housing 16 can only take place when the first and second locking elements 106 and 108 have been disengaged by actuation of the actuating element 136.

Of course, the blocking device 102 may alternatively be formed such that the locking mechanism 104 is triggered by applying a corresponding torque to the hinge elements 50 and 54 relative to each other about the pivot axis 60. This can then be achieved, for example, by allowing the locking elements 106 and 108 to slide on one another. Corresponding shapes for forming the locking elements 106 and 108 are familiar to the person skilled in the art.

As described, the actuator 136 is cooperatively disposed with the latch members 106 and 108 and the biasing member 128 and is configured to disengage the first and second latch members 106 and 108 as a result of actuation.

The blocking device 102 optionally also comprises a clamping mechanism 150 with first and second clamping elements 154 and 156, which are formed in particular by the first and second locking elements 106 and 108. They interact with each other to specify an adjustment force required for adjusting the joint 46. They are also arranged or formed movable relative to each other. In the embodiment shown in the figures, a clamping force acting between the first and second clamping elements 154 and 156 is infinitely variable. Alternatively, it can be provided changeable in defined steps.

The first and second clamping members 154 and 156 engage and cooperate in a clamping position such that the first and second hinge members 50 and 54 are immovably held relative to each other. In the embodiment shown in the figures, this can be achieved in particular by supporting the locking elements 106 and 108. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide clamping elements 154 and 156 which engage directly against each other and which cooperate in a purely frictional engagement without entering into a positive engagement. In this case, the clamping elements 154 and 156 in the adjustment position of the joint 46 can then cooperate such that the first and second hinge elements 50 and 54 are movable relative to each other against a clamping force action of the first and second clamping elements 154 and 156. Further, the first and second Clamping elements 154 and 156 are completely disengaged in the adjustment position, so in particular do not touch.

In order to engage the clamping members 154 and 156 with each other, a biasing member 158 formed by the leaf spring 130 serves. It holds the first and second clamping elements 154 and 156 in a basic position of the clamping mechanism 152 in a clamping position.

As already described above in connection with the locking mechanism 104, the first and second clamping elements 154 and 156 can also be transferred from the clamping position into the adjustment position against the action of the biasing element 158.

Unlike the exemplary embodiment of a hard surface suction device 12 exemplified in the figures, the blocking device 102 may optionally also comprise two independently acting locking mechanisms and clamping mechanisms which are not formed by the same parts or elements. So a redundant construction can be achieved.

The hard surface suction device 12 further comprises an anti-lock device 160 for deactivating the blocking device 102 in a deactivation position. It comprises an anti-lock element 162, which is movably mounted on the first joint element 50. It is of an activation position, as in the Figures 5 and 6 is shown schematically, can be brought into a deactivation position, as in FIG. 7 is shown schematically.

The anti-lock element 162 has two end edges 164 projecting in the direction of the carrier plate 146, which are formed substantially parallel to the support wall 134. Side walls 166 of the anti-lock member 162 have a slot 168 formed between two projections 170 and 172 which project away from the side walls 166 away from each other. The slot 168 is oriented toward the end edges 164 of the side walls 166.

On the first joint member 50 is further from an end wall 174, which points in the direction of the suction nozzle 30, in the opposite direction, ie in the direction of the second joint member 54 out, a support wall 176 protruding, which engages from below into the anti-lock member 162. From the support wall 176 extending parallel to each other two side walls 178, which are spaced by a gap 180 of further side walls 182. Each side wall 166 engages one of the gaps 180 between the side walls 178 and 182.

From the side wall 182 is a projection 184 obliquely in the direction of the support wall 134 facing out, which is formed corresponding to the slot 168 and can engage in these in the deactivation position. In this position, the anti-lock element 162 is held by the first locking element 106, which abuts against the end edges 164 by the biasing element 128.

In order to permanently deactivate the blocking device 102, it is necessary to move from above in the direction of the arrow 188 onto an actuating surface 186 of the anti-blocking element 182 are pressed. This is done against the action of the biasing member 128. The projections 170 and 172 and thus the slot 168 can be moved so far towards the support wall 134 that the slot 168 and the projection 184 are disengaged.

The antilocking element 182 can now be pushed away from the end wall 174 on the supporting wall 176, specifically until a locking tooth 192 projecting from the projection 172 in the direction of the actuating surface 186 engages in a recess 190 provided on the side wall 182. In this, in FIG. 7 illustrated position, the end edges 164 protrude so far that the support plate 146 can not be further moved in the direction of the row of teeth 118 down. The first locking element 106 can thus no longer be brought into engagement with the second locking elements 108. The blocking device 102 is permanently deactivated by the anti-lock device 160 as described. There is now a continuous pivoting of the hinge elements 50 and 54 relative to each other about the pivot axis 60 possible, in the context of the predetermined end stop positions, ie in a predetermined angular range.

In order to re-activate the blocking device 102, it is necessary to press again on the actuating surface 186 in the direction of the arrow 188, so that the latching noses 192 can emerge from the recesses 190, whereby a movement of the anti-blocking element 162 in the direction of the end wall 174 is made possible again. If the anti-lock element 162 is displaced far enough in the direction of the end wall 174, the projections 184 can again engage in the slots 168 and hold the anti-lock element 162 in the deactivation position.

With the Hartflächenabsauggerät 12 hard surfaces can be easily rid of them wetting a liquid. An angle of incidence of the suction nozzle 30 relative to the hard surface can be maintained, even if a relative orientation between the suction nozzle 30 and the housing 16 by pivoting about the pivot axis 60 by means of the hinge 46 takes place. Such Pivoting can be prevented by the blocking device 102 in a plurality of defined positions. The blocking device 102 can be deactivated in the manner described by the anti-lock device 160.

The hard surface cleaning device 10 is designed in particular in the form of a window vacuum 194, which allows easy cleaning, in particular vertical hard surfaces, for example of window panes, into a floor-deep area due to the intended joint 46, by changing an orientation of the housing 16 and the suction nozzle 30th relative to each other. If no pivoting between the suction nozzle 30 and the housing 16 is desired, the hinge 46 can be locked or blocked by means of the blocking device 102.

Instead of the articulation 46 described, a joint can also be arranged or formed in the region of a wiper lip receptacle 196 for receiving a rear region of the wiper lip 42 or in the region of a support lip receptacle (not illustrated in the figures). In this case, the joint would then be arranged or formed completely on the suction nozzle 30.

The exemplary embodiment of a hard surface suction device 12 shown in the figures has the joint 46 optionally on the suction nozzle 30 or on the hard surface suction device 12, depending on whether the joint unit 48 is coupled to the suction nozzle 30, such as in FIG FIG. 2 represented, or with the housing 16, in which case the suction nozzle 30 from the hinge unit 48, namely from the first joint member 50, can be decoupled. In this case, the joint 46 would then be arranged on the hard surface suction device 12 or coupled to its housing 16.

For handling the Hartflächenabsauggeräts 12 ultimately it does not matter where and in what form the joint is formed. Especially it is favorable that the joint can be either released by means of a blocking device or completely or partially locked.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

Hard surface cleaning device

12

Hartflächenabsauggerät

14

Handle

16

casing

18

suction

20

suction turbine

22

electric motor

24

battery

26

footprint

28

Dirty liquid tank

30

suction nozzle

32

suction nozzle

34

Saugdüsengehäuseunterteil

36

suction

38

Saugkanalende

40

suction opening

42

wiping lip

44

supporting lip

46

joint

48

joint unit

50

first joint element

52

admission

54

second joint element

56

coupling device

58

pivot

60

swivel axis

62

Abstreiflippenkante

64

pivot bearing

66

first bearing element

68

second bearing element

70

sleeve section

72

support element

74

Joint element part

76

Joint element part

78

sleeve section

80

admission

82

channel end

84

channel section

86

ring groove

88

hose section

90

longitudinal axis

92

torus

94

head Start

96

nose

98

nose receiving

100

flow channel

102

blocking device

104

locking mechanism

106

first locking element

108

second locking element

110

Rastverstellmechanismus

112

first locking element

114

second locking element

116

ratchet

118

teeth

120

recess

122

pen

124

deepening

126

Side wall

128

biasing element

130

leaf spring

132

The End

134

retaining wall

136

actuator

138

swivel axis

140

actuating button

142

Bearing shaft receiving

144

bearing shaft

146

support plate

148

The End

150

arrow

152

clamping mechanism

154

first clamping element

156

second clamping element

158

biasing element

160

Anti blocking device

162

Anti-lock element

164

front edge

166

Side wall

168

slot

170

head Start

172

head Start

174

bulkhead

176

support wall

178

Side wall

180

gap

182

Side wall

184

head Start

186

actuating surface

188

arrow

190

recess

192

ratchet

194

window sucker

196

Abstreiflippenaufnahme

Claims (15)

1. Vacuum nozzle (30), in particular for a portable hard surface vacuum device (12) comprising a vacuum apparatus (18), said vacuum nozzle (30) having a suction opening (40) which a suction channel (36) adjoins, the end (82) of the suction channel that faces away from the suction opening (40) being connectable to the vacuum apparatus (18), wherein a joint (46) is arranged or formed between the suction opening (40) and the suction channel end (82) for moving the suction opening (40) relative to the suction channel end (82) and wherein a blocking device (102) is provided for blocking the joint (46) in force-locking and/or positive-locking manner in at least one blocking position, characterised in that the joint (46) defines at least one pivot axis (60), in that the joint (46) comprises first and second joint elements (50, 54) which engage and cooperate with one another, and which, in an adjusting position, are pivotable relative to one another about the at least one pivot axis (60), in that the blocking device (102) comprises a locking mechanism (104) with first and second locking elements (106, 108), which in at least one locking position are in engagement and, in the adjusting position, are out of engagement, in that the first and second locking elements (106, 108) are associated on the one hand with the first joint element (50) and on the other hand with the second joint element (54) and in that in the at least one locking position, the first and second joint elements (50, 54) are held immovably against one another, in that the locking mechanism (104) comprises at least one biasing element (128) which, in a basic position of the locking mechanism (104), holds the first and second locking elements (106, 108) in the locking position, and in that the biasing element (128) is arranged or formed on the first or second joint element (50, 54) or on the first or second locking element (106, 108).
2. Vacuum nozzle according to claim 1, characterised by

   a) a wiping lip (42) and a support lip (44), said wiping lip (42) and support lip (44) defining between them the suction opening (40),
   and/or

   b) a support lip receptacle for the support lip (44) and/or a wiping lip receptacle (196) for the wiping lip (42), wherein the joint (46) is arranged or formed in the region of the support lip receptacle and/or the wiping lip receptacle (196).
3. Hard surface vacuum device (12) having a vacuum apparatus (18) and a suction channel connection which is connected or connectable to the vacuum apparatus (18), said suction channel connection being connected or connectable to a suction channel end (38) of a suction channel (36) of a vacuum nozzle (30) comprising a suction opening (40), wherein a joint (46) is arranged or formed between the suction channel connection and the vacuum apparatus (18), for moving the suction channel connection relative to the vacuum apparatus (18) and wherein a blocking device (102) is provided for blocking of the joint (46) in force-locking and/or positive-locking manner in at least one blocking position, characterised in that the joint (46) defines at least one pivot axis (60), in that the joint (46) comprises first and second joint elements (50, 54) which engage and cooperate with one another, which, in an adjusting position, are pivotable relative to one another about the at least one pivot axis (60), in that the blocking device (102) comprises a locking mechanism (104) with first and second locking elements (106, 108) which in at least one locking position, are in engagement and, in the adjusting position, are out of engagement, in that the first and second locking elements (106, 108) are associated on the one hand with the first joint element (50) and on the other hand with the second joint element (54) and in that in the at least one locking position, the first and second joint elements (50, 54) are held immovably against one another, in that the locking mechanism (104) comprises at least one biasing element (128) which, in a basic position of the locking mechanism (104), holds the first and second locking elements (106, 108) in the locking position, and in that the biasing element (128) is arranged or formed on the first or second joint element (50, 54) or on the first or second locking element (106, 108).
4. Hard surface vacuum device according to claim 3, characterised in that

   a) the hard surface vacuum device comprises a vacuum nozzle, in that the vacuum nozzle (30) comprises a suction opening (40) which a suction channel (36) adjoins, the suction channel end (38) of which facing away from the suction opening (40) is connected or connectable to the suction channel connection,
   wherein, in particular, the vacuum nozzle (30) comprises a wiping lip (42) with a wiping lip edge (62) and a support lip (44) with a support lip edge, and the wiping lip (42) and the support lip (44) define the suction opening (40) between them,
   and/or

   b) the hard surface vacuum device comprises a housing (16) in which the vacuum apparatus (18) is arranged or formed, wherein, in an operating position, the suction nozzle (30) is coupled to the housing (16) and, in a separation position, is separated from the housing (16)
   and/or

   c) the hard surface vacuum device is configured in the form of a window vacuum cleaner (194).
5. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that

   a) the suction opening (40) is configured, at least in sections, straight or curved
   and/or

   b) the at least one pivot axis (60) extends parallel or transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the suction opening (40).
6. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the joint (46)

   a) is configured in the form of a ball joint
   and/or

   b) comprises a pivot bearing (64).
7. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the locking mechanism (104) is configured in the form of a latching adjustment mechanism (110) with first and second latching elements (112, 114) which form the first and second locking elements (106, 108),
   wherein, in particular, the first and second latching elements (112, 114) comprise at least one row of teeth (118) comprising at least one latching tooth (116).
8. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that

   a) the first and second locking elements (106, 108) are transferable against the action of the biasing element (128) from the locking position into the adjusting position
   and/or

   b) the biasing element (128) is configured in the form of a spring, in particular in the form of a leaf spring (130).
9. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the blocking device (102) comprises a clamping mechanism (152) with first and second clamping elements (154, 156) which cooperate with one another in order to set an adjusting force necessary for adjusting the joint (46).
10. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to claim 9, characterised in that

    a) the first and second clamping elements (154, 156) are arranged or formed movable relative to one another
    and/or

    b) a clamping force acting between the first and second clamping elements (154, 156) is adjustable in defined steps or steplessly
    and/or

    c) the first and second clamping elements (154,156) are in engagement and cooperate in at least one clamping position such that the first and second joint elements (50, 54) are held against one another immovably relative to one another,
    and/or

    d) the first and second clamping elements (154, 156) cooperate in the adjusting position of the joint (46) such that the first and second joint elements (50, 54) are movable relative to one another against the clamping force effect of the first and second clamping elements (154, 156), and/or in that the first and second clamping elements (154, 156) are out of engagement in the adjusting position.
11. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to claim 9 or 10, characterised in that the clamping mechanism (152) comprises at least one biasing element (158) which, in a basic position of the clamping mechanism (152), holds the first and second clamping elements (154, 156) in the at least one clamping position.
12. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to claim 11, characterised in that

    a) the first and second clamping elements (154, 156) are transferable against the effect of the biasing element (158) from the clamping position into the adjusting position
    and/or

    b) the biasing element (158) is arranged or formed on the first or second joint element (50, 54) or on the first or second clamping element (154, 156), in particular, integrally,
    and/or

    c) the biasing element (158) is configured in the form of a spring, in particular in the form of a leaf spring (130),
13. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised by an antiblocking device (160) for deactivating the blocking device (102) in a deactivating position wherein, in particular, the antiblocking device (160) is configured to be brought from the deactivating position into an activating position for activating the blocking device (102).
14. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to claim 13, characterised in that the antiblocking device (160) comprises at least one antiblocking element (162) for deactivating the blocking device (102) in the deactivating position, wherein in particular

    a) the at least one antiblocking element (162) is configured to be brought from the deactivating position into the activating position for activating the blocking device (102)
    and/or

    b) the at least one antiblocking element (162) is arranged or formed movably, in particular translatably and/or pivotably on the vacuum nozzle (30) or on the hard surface vacuum device (12)
    and/or

    c) the at least one antiblocking element (162) is arranged or formed cooperating with one of the locking elements (106; 108) and/or with one of the clamping elements (154; 156) and/or with one of the biasing elements (158) in order to hold the first and second locking elements (106; 108) and/or the first and second clamping elements (154; 156) out of engagement in the antiblocking position.
15. Vacuum nozzle or hard surface vacuum device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the blocking device (102) comprises at least one actuating element (136) for transferring the blocking device (102) from the at least one blocking position into the adjusting position in which the joint (46) is movable,
    wherein, in particular, the at least one actuating element (136) is arranged or formed cooperating with one of the locking elements (106, 108) and/or with one of the clamping elements (154, 156) and/or with one of the biasing elements (158), in order to bring the first and second locking elements (106, 108) and/or the first and second clamping elements (154, 156) out of engagement as a result of an actuation.

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