SK143297A3 - Suction device attachment for wet cleaning surfaces - Google Patents

Abstract

The attachment piece (1) has a suction channel (20) arranged in the suction channel housing (15), issuing in a slot-shaped suction mouth (21). The housing covers the fluid application device (3) in an arc formation. The fluid application device is secured in the arc interior, to at least one slide (25), which penetrates the housing (15). On the upper side of the housing, the slide is formed as a handle (26) for position adjustment. The suction mouth is divided crossways to its longitudinal extent into individual suction sections, which in the suction direction issue into a common suction chamber (53).

Description

Technical field

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Wet surface cleaning devices, in particular vertical window areas, are known in many embodiments. Known cleaning devices of this kind usually consist of a suction device which, in addition to the suction device, also contains a container for cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is supplied from the suction apparatus via a pressure line to the actual cleaning attachment from which it is applied to the surface to be cleaned by means of nozzles, bristles, sponges or the like. The deposited liquid is then again sucked off by a suction apparatus, which is most often provided with a suction mouth in the form of a slot, to which the suction channel is connected. These cleaning devices are usually designed as industrial devices and are accordingly bulky and expensive and also unsuitable for normal household use.

From EP-0 243 323 a cleaning apparatus is known in which a liquid applicator is supplied with a cleaning liquid, or in this case with cleaning steam, by means of a pressure line. In this case, the liquid applicator is provided with a sponge in order to apply the cleaning liquid to the surface to be cleaned, which is pivoted within the suction bell housing into a working position about an axis parallel to the surface to be cleaned. Evenly with the longitudinal side of the sponge or its axis, and thus across the usual direction of cleaning, a slot-shaped suction mouth is placed above the surface to be cleaned, which only rests on the surface to be cleaned with a sealing lip. The suction bell housing and suction mouth are connected to a suction channel, within which a pressure line for the supply of cleaning liquid is also located. Here, the cleaning attachment and the cleaning apparatus form a unit from a functional point of view and cannot be used alone.

Non-published WO 96/01614 discloses a vacuum cleaner! a wet cleaning surface attachment, which can advantageously also be used in the sense of the present invention as a representative device for suction devices as such, for example also as a representative device for household vacuum cleaners. It is essential, as well as here, that the pressure supply from the suction apparatus to the liquid applicator can be omitted and that the suction apparatus can also only be suctioned, i.e. it contains no reservoirs and pressure devices, in particular for the cleaning liquid. For this purpose, the liquid applicator of the described vacuum cleaner is equipped with its own cleaning liquid reservoir, so that a separate supply of cleaning liquid is eliminated. The possibility of adjusting the position of the liquid applicator is further described in the cited document, which is achieved by the liquid applicator enveloping the suction channel housing with an annular connecting element and displaceably guided on the housing in the axial direction against the action of an internally located spring. surrounds the suction channel housing. The uncovered line described is susceptible to pollution and, due to its good accessibility, also carries the risk of injury.

In the suction channel of the suction head there is furthermore a moisture absorbing filter which removes moisture from the sucking liquid-air mixture and accumulates this moisture. This equipment achieves a feature which is essential for the use of the vacuum cleaner in conjunction with household vacuum cleaners, i.e. the separation of the individual phases of the liquid / air mixture to be extracted. This is necessary in the case of the use of conventional household vacuum cleaners with regard to their electric propulsion and the way of extraction for safety reasons. However, this phase separation, which is based on filtering, is in contrast to conventional suction technologies due to the high pressure drop across the filter. This drawback is particularly pronounced when a further gas-permeable membrane is used which still retains the liquid phase which passes when the storage capacity of the filter material in which the liquid phase is deposited is exceeded.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of these drawbacks, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved design of a vacuum cleaner of this kind for wet cleaning surfaces so that it can be handled and operated more reliably, especially when used in conjunction with conventional household vacuum cleaners.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This problem is solved and the drawbacks of known vacuum nozzles of this kind are largely eliminated by the vacuum cleaner for the wet cleaning of surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator which is displaceably adjustable relative to a separate housing of the suction channel extending into the suction mouth. a slot-shaped casing, wherein the casing overlaps the liquid applicator which is disposed within the arc on at least one slider passing through the casing of the suction channel and provided with a handle for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator on the upper side of the casing. Thus, the liquid applicator is at least partially covered and hence also protected by an arc of the suction channel housing that is designed separately from the liquid applicator. Due to the separate construction of the suction channel housing and the liquid applicator, the liquid applicator also constitutes a substantially separate unit, which can be simply replaced by another or separated from the suction channel housing, for example to change the cleaning cloth, bristles or the like. Within the arc, that is, in the operating position between the surface to be cleaned and the suction channel that covers the liquid applicator, the liquid applicator is mounted on at least one slider. Optionally, the attachment may be a detachable connection or the pusher itself may be detached from the suction channel housing through which it extends, and on the top of the suction channel housing the latter is provided with a handle for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator. Thus, the various individual operating positions of the liquid applicator mentioned above are not adjusted by manipulating the rotary knobs or the like on the side of the vacuum attachment, as in EP-0 243 323, which substantially obstruct the window frame or corner. Similarly, compared to the vacuum attachment described in WO 96/01614, handling and reliability are greatly simplified.

In particular, household vacuum cleaners must also take into account their limited suction power. Long exhaust ducts, such as hoses, and possible filtering devices represent additional aerodynamic resistances that further reduce suction power. The suction power of the suction nozzle can be further improved in combination with the aforementioned features in that the suction mouth is divided into individual suction sections which, in the direction of suction, enter into the suction mouth in relation to the cleaning liquid to be applied to the surface to be cleaned. common suction chamber.

Advantageously, a plurality of suction branches are connected to the suction chamber and are further associated in the suction direction into a common section of the suction channel. This equipment achieves a uniform velocity profile at the inlet to the suction mouth. This is also due to the fact that a plurality of suction branches which are connected to a common suction chamber achieve a uniform vacuum there. Further, in the direction of suction, the suction branches are then combined into a common cross section of the suction channel, which then terminates in the suction device.

To increase the suction power also contributes to the fact that the suction mouth defining the inner wall immediately and continuously passes into the sealing flap. These sealing flaps, which serve to draw down the cleaning fluid to be applied, are usually held in a U-shaped groove in the suction channel housing. As a result, there is a degree in the wall in which, depending on the circumstances, the evacuated water can accumulate during extraction.

A further increase in the speed of the exhaust air or of the water / air mixture is achieved in that the exhaust port is tapered to a suction nozzle with a width of up to 5 mm, preferably up to 2 mm, in cross-section of the suction channel. roughly corresponds to its width. This equipment largely suppresses dripping from the suction mouth after the suction attachment or the suction device has been disconnected, since when the suction liquid is precipitated, for example also in the area of the common suction chamber, this liquid will collect in the area of this cross-sectional change. The leakage of liquid through a suction nozzle or orifice with such a small width is almost eliminated due to the surface tension of the water droplets. In addition, the described equipment also achieves the fact that only very small solid bodies are sucked out, so that it is indeed justified if only the sucked-in air-air mixture is mentioned.

As already indicated, it is contemplated that the position of the liquid applicator is changed, for example from an inactive position when the vacuuming attachment merely withdraws and / or draws liquid from the surface to be cleaned and no liquid is applied to the operating position when the applied liquid is sucked. and to a further position in which the cleaning liquid is only applied and there is no suction and / or removal of the cleaning liquid from the cleaning surface. In order to change the position of the liquid applicator, a guide is arranged inside the arc in which a linearly displaceable liquid applicator is provided. Despite the arc overlap of the specially designed suction channel housing through the liquid applicator, the linear displacement of the liquid applicator is preferred because the guide for such displacement is structurally simple.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the liquid applicator moves from the inactive position, when it is retracted behind the suction mouth, to the middle working position under the action of a spring, the liquid applicator is movable against the spring force in this intermediate position independently of the slider. the middle position by means of the slider is moved to a position in front of the suction mouth and where it is supported by the slider against the housing of the suction channel. Two sliders can be used, which are located transverse to the prevailing working direction and are connected to the ends of the liquid applicator.

Nevertheless, it is preferred to centrally locate a single slider, which then extends approximately centrally through the housing of the suction channel, with the slider and possibly the guides being located between the suction branches. The slider then does not pass through its own exhaust duct so that sealing problems or the like are eliminated.

To be a vacuum cleaner for wet surface cleaning, especially vertical surfaces, which comprises a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing that extends into the suction mouth through which the suction device sucks off a liquid-air mixture from the surface, also usable in conjunction with dust vacuum cleaners A solution is provided between the suction mouth and the suction apparatus, in which a phase separation device is additionally provided in which the liquid-air mixture is distributed by centrifugal forces when the flow direction is diverted into the liquid phase and the gas phase. Due to this phase separation or phase separation, the suction device itself does not suck in any liquid. Thus, there are no problems with the presence of liquid in the electric suction apparatus, nor air-conditioning problems associated with the suction of liquids.

From the safety point of view, the construction of a vacuum cleaner for the wet cleaning of surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing which extends into a suction mouth through which the suction device sucks a liquid-air mixture from the surface an orifice and suction apparatus is provided with any phase separation device in which the liquid-air mixture is divided into a liquid phase and a gaseous phase and downstream of which there is a valve against splashing water which closes the cross-section of the suction channel in insufficient phase separation.

Conventional modern household vacuum cleaners are now equipped with overload protection, so closing the suction channel is no problem and the suction device is reliably protected against the ingress of liquids, even if larger amounts of water occur that exceed the performance of the appliance. phase separation. This problem is solved in one embodiment of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention in that in the phase separation device the separated water is collected in a container within the exhaust duct. This equipment avoids a narrowing of the cross section of the suction channel and maintains low flow losses in the suction channel. The described solution has the further advantage that in the event of leakage of liquid from the container, the liquid does not enter its own suction channel.

A further improvement of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention is that the container is operatively separable with the vacuum cleaner attachment. Irrespective of the spatial location and the attachment to the support element of the vacuum cleaner, there is thus the possibility that the full container can be quickly replaced by an empty container, or the filled container can be emptied and then used again, that is inserted into the vacuum container. The described apparatus considerably facilitates handling of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention.

In particular, this may in one preferred embodiment be arranged such that the container annularly forms and / or surrounds the suction channel and / or forms the outer wall of the suction nozzle. In this way, a construction is obtained which, at its minimum dimensions, is characterized by a balanced and largely symmetrical geometry of the vacuum attachment.

From the standpoint of simple handling of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention, it is furthermore advantageous if the container is designed to be plugged into the vacuum cleaner attachment.

In a further refinement of the vacuum cleaner attachment, the cartridge is designed as a disposable cartridge.

This is particularly advantageous when the container according to another embodiment is filled with a liquid absorbing absorbent. This avoids splashing and spilling of liquid inside the container. Due to this equipment, even when entering the container, for example due to improper handling of the suction lance, no liquid can escape and could possibly enter the downstream suction channel.

Especially in this case, it is then possible to use the solution in that the container is connected to the suction channel with the suction channel in the direction of suction after the inlet of the separated liquid into the container. The suction channel is designed so that without any liquid flowing into the suction channel, for example by filling the reservoir with a liquid absorbing material, a vacuum is created in the reservoir which promotes phase separation. At the same time, this equipment also prevents leakage of liquid from the supply to the reservoir.

The centrifugal forces required for phase separation are usually generated by deflecting the flow direction, for example, so that the flow is deflected by the thrust faces, such that the flow path within the exhaust duct is substantially Z-shaped. flow of the separated liquid into the reservoir can then be placed. It is of course advantageous if said outlet is located at a location where the radius of the flow direction is the smallest.

However, it is particularly preferred that the centrifugal forces are induced by swirling the liquid-air mixture. That is, the flow of the aspirated liquid-air mixture is rotated. In conjunction with the movement of the mixture in the suction direction, it is thus achieved that the paths along which the particles move are in the form of helices. Due to the centrifugal forces, heavier particles, i.e. entrained water droplets, impurities or the like, then travel towards the outer perimeter and can be separated from the gas phase there.

Such a rotating flow component can be induced in the swirl section of the suction channel.

The aspirated liquid-air mixture is therefore introduced as tangentially as possible into the swirl section, which has a substantially rotationally symmetrical, preferably circular cross-section. Due to the vacuum on the suction side, the flow of the liquid-air mixture within the swirling section again obtains the movement component in the suction direction, but at the same time retains its rotational component. The phase separation device is therefore designed as a cyclone separator known in the art for phase separation and can also be used here.

In the matter of separating the liquid from the gas phase, it is further suggested that the swirling of the flow of the liquid-air mixture is achieved by guide vanes located on the outside of the nozzle body. The nozzle body is preferably designed to be hemispherical or mushroom-shaped, with the rounded outer side facing the general direction of flow. In particular, the rounded head of the nozzle body then has a smaller diameter compared to the suction channel.

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The thus formed annular space is then partially obstructed by guide vanes located on the outside of the head of the jet body. These guide vanes cause radial acceleration of the incoming liquid-air mixture. In one embodiment of the extension, the guide vanes are oriented radially.

However, it has also proved to be advantageous to provide an extension in which the guide blade is formed by a continuous helix. The helix is wrapped around the nozzle body and is preferably an integral part of the nozzle body. Also, this helical guide blade achieves radial acceleration of the incoming liquid-air mixture.

A further improvement of the extension according to the invention is that the guide blade is in the radial direction aligned with the inner wall of the suction channel. In this way, it is ensured that, irrespective of the design of the guide vanes, the guide vanes achieve fixation of the nozzle body in the suction channel in the radial direction, so that other fastening elements and means for positively fixing the nozzle body in the suction channel can be omitted.

In the case of the use of a guide blade in the form of a continuous through helix, it is further preferred that the helix is double-walled. The guide blade of the nozzle body in this case resembles a double-threaded thread.

It is furthermore advantageous if the nozzle body is provided with radial passages for the gas phase. The nozzle body, which is preferably rotationally symmetrical, is hollow for this purpose, and the suction takes place from the inside thereof. The radial passageways extend approximately transversely to the direction of the axis. By utilizing the swirling to achieve the radial acceleration forces and the sharp deviation of the flow direction in the region of the radial passages, which achieve the inertia forces, the liquid phase is separated from the gas phase.

In this respect, it is further proposed that the gaseous phase extend radially inwardly from the outside of the nozzle body. Due to the acceleration in the radial direction, it is achieved that the liquid phase is led through these radial passages into the annular space located in the radial direction.

An embodiment in which the radial passages in the flow direction are located downstream of the guide vanes is advantageous. In this sense, a solution can also be used in that the part of the jet body in the axial direction behind the guide vanes has a slightly smaller diameter than the rounded part of the jet body carrying the guide vanes. Said radial passageways are located in the region of the transition between the two parts of the nozzle body.

In order to separate the residual moisture from the gas phase, the so-called nozzle-dispersed drops of liquid, the nozzle body is at least partially filled with liquid-absorbing material in the region upstream of the radial passages. This material, for example foam, is located behind the undercut shoulder in the inner space of the nozzle body. Due to the sharp deviation of the flow direction in the region of the radial passages, the air flow inside the nozzle body deviates initially against the general flow direction. The rounded region of the head of the nozzle body then subsequently reverses in the general direction of flow. In the region of this inversion there is a liquid-absorbing material which removes any residual moisture from the gas phase.

The nozzle body is located upstream of the container in the flow direction. The separated liquid phase is transported along the outer surface of the nozzle body around the radial passages further downstream to be subsequently collected in a reservoir located downstream of the nozzle body.

In order to prevent these phases from being mixed again at the transition point between the nozzle body and the container where the liquid phase is to be separated from the gas phase, the nozzle body is spring pressed against the front side of the container. The cartridge and the nozzle body can thus be designed as separate parts, thereby giving the possibility that the cartridge can be designed as a replacement. Preferably, the reservoir is a liquid-absorbent material, for example a sponge-separating mass.

The phase separation can also be carried out in such a way that the liquid-air mixture with the rotating movement component in the suction channel impinges on a funnel-shaped constriction which almost fills the cross-section of the suction channel and which is further guided by the gas phase. and discharged, for example, to the aforementioned ring-shaped container. Due to centrifugal forces, heavier water droplets, entrained particles and the like will concentrate at the outer edge of the cross-section of the suction channel, from where they are discharged away through the funnel-shaped constriction. The funnel funnel dimensions must be adapted to the operating conditions already described, for example, the diameter of the suction channel, the flow rate, the proportion of the liquid phase in the liquid-air mixture and the like. In practice, it has proved to be useful if a clearance gap of several millimeters remains between the funnel-shaped constriction and the wall of the suction channel.

In a further embodiment, downstream of the phase separation device, there is also a water spray valve which is designed such that a valve slider is disposed downstream of the flow direction within the suction channel, closing the cross section of the suction channel in the flow direction against the spring force. . In this embodiment, the liquid present and the suction vacuum act on the slider in the same direction, thereby also ensuring a reliable closure of the slider. In this case, the spring can be designed as a tension spring or a compression spring and is then positioned in the upstream or downstream direction in the engagement with the slider accordingly.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the slider is guided annularly in the tubular section and the gas phase passes through radially outwardly directed slider passages. These passages may simply engage the annular shoulder when the slider is closed and thus be closed or may be located in a radial direction within the exhaust duct, the cross section of which is tapered by the annular shoulder.

A further preferred embodiment of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention is that the container is filled with an absorbent increasing its volume with increasing humidity and by this increasing the volume the water spray valve is closed. Said closure can be achieved, for example, by means of a simple rod or lever assembly, or also directly so that one of the container walls is movable and abuts the valve slider against the splashing water.

Especially in the annular version of the cartridge, it is advantageous if the volume increase in the axial direction acts on the valve slider against the splashing water such that when the absorbent capacity of the absorbent is exhausted, the valve slider is closed against the splashing water.

For example, the slider has the shape of a plate and is located transverse to the flow direction of the gas phase only.

Similarly, a cone-shaped slider is known per se, for example from so-called industrial vacuum cleaners, which are equipped for liquid evacuation.

As already mentioned, the spray spring against the splashing water can be designed as a compression spring.

Another possibility is that said spring is designed as a tension spring.

The present invention also provides a vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, especially vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator, with a cleaning fabric that is stretched through a liquid applicator wetted from behind, the cleaning fabric being provided with frame sidewalls at the edges. for precise fit on the liquid applicator. The cleaning cloth is usually removably attached to the holder to allow replacement of the cleaning cloth, for example when it is worn or dirty. There are various embodiments of shaped or animal fastening of the cleaning fabric. It is known, for example, that the edge of the cleaning fabric can be fastened with clips or adhesive tape. Furthermore, joints are known in which the cleaning cloth is suspended by means of bristles, as is the case, for example, with commercial brush sticks. It is also known from the state of the art to make a connection by means of sewn bags, which are received by the corresponding tongues. The drawbacks of these solutions are, on the one hand, the relatively large dimensions of the fastening elements and, on the other hand, the difficulty of handling when attaching the fabric, which may possibly result in an inaccurate position of the cleaning fabric. The embodiment with sewn bags or the like has the drawback of a very expensive sewing. Only the solution according to the invention offers the possibility of cost-effective, simple and quick attachment of the cleaning fabric. The fasteners themselves have small constructional dimensions, are lightweight and self-cleaning. As a result, the cleaning cloth can be replaced with one hand while holding the vacuum cleaner attachment with the other hand.

Said frame sidewalls are preferably designed as reinforced flaps on a cleaning cloth. The scrubbing fabric is trimmed to the desired longitudinal edges after cutting to the desired dimensions.

A solution is possible in which the frame sidewalls are attached to the cleaning fabric. For example, the frame sidewalls may be sprayed or glued onto the cleaning fabric.

However, it is particularly preferred that the frame sidewalls are formed from a cleaning liquid. In this way, otherwise the usual flanging or sewing of the edges of the cleaning fabric is eliminated. The described solution can be further improved by spraying plastic layers at the edges of the cleaning fabric, and this manufacturing operation can be carried out fully automatically. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when a plastic identical or similar to the mass of the cleaning fabric is used, since then the entire cleaning fabric can be easily recycled.

When attached to the liquid applicator, the cleaning fabric is applied or stretched to the pressing surface of the liquid applicator. For example, the reinforced trim or frame sidewalls of the cleaning fabric are allowed to snap into corresponding regions of the liquid applicator. In practice, this can be accomplished by providing the liquid applicator with groove recesses for receiving the frame sidewalls. These groove recesses preferably extend transversely to the usual working shift of the liquid applicator and are formed on both sides of the application or wetting surface.

For ease of handling, it is preferred that said groove recesses are undercut, thereby substantially simplifying the handling of the cleaning fabric. The reinforced trims or frame sidewalls are pressed into the recesses or grooves thus produced with a finger.

Another possible alternative is an embodiment in which the groove recesses are provided with resiliently pliable fingers for positioning the frame sidewalls precisely. Preferably, these resilient pliable fingers are distributed over the entire length of the groove recesses with uniform spacing. If the reinforced edging is made flexible, the fastening can also be achieved only by friction.

One further advantageous embodiment of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention consists in that the groove recess is provided with offset sections perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, wherein the frame side panel alternately rests on one and the other side of the groove recess. In this way, the possibility of a simple and reliable fastening of the cleaning fabric, which is provided with frame sidewalls formed by reinforced beading, is achieved. The fastening is performed without the need for movable or additional elements by simply inserting the frame sidewall of the cleaning fabric into a groove recess consisting of the above-mentioned offset sections. During assembly, the frame side wall or the reinforced edging is pressed into the groove recess, which consists of offset sections, slightly cranked. After insertion, the frame sidewall is straight again along its length. For this purpose, mutually matching receptacles for the frame side wall are provided in the individual recessed sections of the groove recess. On the inlet side, these offset sections are provided with leaf protrusions which alternately partially overlap through the receptacles for the frame sidewall, which is located below these leaf protrusions in the inserted position. In this way, the cleaning fabric is reliably retained in the groove recess by the region of its frame sidewall or the reinforced trim. The groove recess itself does not contain any movable elements, so that the vacuum attachment can have a massive construction in this area. In this case, the frame sidewall or the reinforced bead, which can be formed both by sewing the edge of the cleaning fabric and by sewing, welding or spraying onto the cleaning fabric, is used as a spring for reversibly attaching the cleaning fabric to the vacuum cleaner attachment. This spring is therefore attached to the replaceable part, i.e. the cleaning cloth. Accordingly, when the cleaning fabric is changed, this elastic element is also replaced. The clamping force can be adjusted in almost any range by the dimensions and geometric proportions of the groove recess. It is also conceivable for the frame sidewall of the cleaning fabric to be slid into the groove recess provided with mutually offset sections, the individual offset sections being constructed so that the frame sidewall alternates slightly against one another with a slight undulation. the side of the offset sections. In addition, an animal effect is achieved.

It is further preferred that six to ten offset sections are provided along the length of the groove recess.

Further improvements in the groove recess are provided with a finger access opening to facilitate and simplify the removal of the cleaning fabric. Due to this access opening, the frame sidewall or the reinforced trim of the cleaning fabric can be gripped, whereby the frame sidewall can be simply pulled out through the mouth of the groove recess due to its elasticity.

The finger access opening extends through the side wall of the vacuum cleaner attachment. When removing the cleaning cloth, it is thus possible to grip the end of the frame sidewall.

Further preferred is an embodiment in which the finger access opening fully replaces a small portion of the length of the groove recess such that a portion of the length of the frame sidewall is fully exposed in the finger access opening.

Finally, it has proven to be particularly advantageous if the cleaning fabric is designed to be twice mirror-symmetrical. The cleaning fabric can then be attached to the liquid applicator in up to four different positions so that its cleaning capacity can be fully utilized.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is further elucidated by means of non-limiting examples of embodiments thereof, which are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows an axial longitudinal section through a first embodiment of a vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention with flow ratios indicated to explain these ratios; FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the suction mouth of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 shows a bottom view in the direction of the arrow ΙΠ of FIG. 1, with the liquid applicator removed; FIG. 4 shows an axial longitudinal section of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention with the liquid applicator in the inactive position, FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the liquid delivery device of FIG. 4; FIG. 6 shows an axial longitudinal section through the vacuum attachment with the applicator in the active position when the liquid to be applied is also aspirated, FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the liquid delivery device of FIG. 6, FIG. 8 shows a closed water spray valve; FIG. 9 shows a liquid applicator in the operating position advanced in front of the suction mouth, in which only the cleaning liquid is applied but is not sucked; FIG. 10 shows a disposable cartridge, FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a container with a device for closing the valve against splashing water when the storage capacity of the absorbent mass in the container is exhausted, FIG. 12 shows an axial longitudinal section through a region of the cartridge with a phase separation device upstream of the cartridge in the flow direction; FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the cleaning fabric of the liquid applicator; FIG. 14 is a side view of the cleaning fabric; FIG. 15 shows a section through the area of the liquid applicator through which the cleaning cloth is stretched; FIG. 16 shows a section XVI XVI of FIG. 15, from which the attachment area of the cleaning fabric is apparent; FIG. 17 shows a side view of the vacuum cleaner attachment according to the invention, FIG. 18 is a view corresponding to FIG. 15, but relates to a further embodiment of stretching the cleaning fabric; FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of the groove recess that serves to attach the cleaning fabric, the view in the direction of the arrow XIX in FIG. 18, FIG. 20 is a view corresponding to FIG. 19, but during insertion of the cleaning fabric, FIG. 21 shows a further illustration corresponding to FIG. 19, after the frame side of the cleaning fabric has been fully inserted into the groove recess, FIG. 22 is a section along line XXIIXXII of FIG. 21; FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXHIXXIII of FIG. 21; FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the groove recess area of the vacuum cleaner attachment with the frame sidewall of the cleaning fabric inserted; FIG. 25 is a view corresponding to FIG. 12, but relating to another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In FIG. 1 shows the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 in a longitudinal section perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned 2, with the liquid applicator 3 in the working position to which it is elastically pressed.

The liquid applicator 3 is provided with its own container 4 for a cleaning liquid (not shown). Thanks to this equipment it is possible to discharge the pressure supply line for the cleaning liquid from the vacuum cleaner. Thus, the basic preconditions are provided for the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 to be used, for example, with conventional household vacuum cleaners. The capillary device, which here consists of a row of bristles 5 extending into the container 4 and resting on the transverse plate 6, ensures by the capillary forces a slow, uniform transport of the cleaning liquid up to the surface to be cleaned. As a result, the row of bristles 5 thus positioned also has a good mechanical cleaning effect which is comparable to that of a scraper. The cleaning liquid, after leaving the capillaries between the individual bristles, wets the back of the cleaning fabric 7, which is stretched through a row of bristles 5 perpendicular to the usual cleaning direction 8 indicated by the double arrow.

One edge of the cleaning fabric 7 is clamped in the retainer 9 of the applicator 3 for liquid. The opposite edge of the cleaning fabric 7, for example a micro-fleece, is connected transversely to the cleaning direction 8 with the frame side panels 16, which here have a circular cross-section. The frame side panels 16 are snapped into the undercut recesses 17 in the housing of the liquid applicator 3.

The liquid applicator 3 shown in FIG. 1, shown in the operating position, is displaceable in the direction of the two-way arrow K1 against the action of the spring U, which here is designed as a compression spring and is mounted on the pin 12. On the opposite end, this spring H rests on the pin 13 on the support plate 14 of the housing 15 suction channel 20.

An exhaust duct 20 is disposed within the housing 15, and exhaust duct 20 is also understood to mean the entire evacuation of the liquid-air mixture from the cleaned surface 2 from the exhaust port 21 through the suction hose 22 to a suction device not shown here, for example a conventional dust extractor. household.

The suction mouth 21 has, as shown in FIG. 1, is substantially in the form of a slot and is disposed along its length parallel to the liquid applicator 3, i.e. across from the conventional cleaning direction 8.

The housing 15, in which the suction channel 20 extending into the slot-shaped suction mouth 21, extends over a liquid arc at an angle of approximately 70 °. The overlap of the sheath 15 may also be in the marginal areas transverse to the cleaning direction 8, but it is preferred that these areas are not overlapped and can possibly reach cleaning surfaces perpendicular to the cleaning surface 2, for example to a window frame or the like.

The liquid applicator 3 is mounted within the arc on a centrally disposed slider 25 which extends through the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 and is designed as a handle 26 for adjusting the position of the liquid applicator 3 according to FIG. 4, 6 and 9. The slider 25 is substantially ribbon-shaped and has a 180 ° bend 27 formed thereon. so that the handle 26 can be pressed in the manner of a protruding leaf arm. By this depression, the latch 28 slides out of its locked position in the middle of the three recesses 29 and can then be displaced within the groove 30 in the housing 15 of the exhaust duct 20. By latching the latch 28 into one of the recesses 29, the slider 25 can be locked in one of three different positions.

In FIG. 4 is a handle 26 as compared to FIG. 1 shown in a rearwardly displaced position. Consequently, by means of the slider 25, the liquid applicator 3 is also moved against the action of the spring H to the inactive position in which it is retracted towards the suction mouth 21. In this inactive position of the liquid applicator 3, only the suction surface 2 is in contact mouth 2i, with its sealing lip 31 in this position, for example, the sealing lip 3i can draw and / or suck off the cleaning liquid that has been applied to the surface to be cleaned 2.

However, the actual application of the cleaning liquid does not take place in this position of the application device 3 on the liquid.

In order to position the liquid applicator 3 against the action of the spring H on the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 in its inactive position, as shown in FIG. 4, the slide 25 of the liquid applicator 3 is provided with a carrier 32, here with a circular cross-section that extends transversely to the cleaning direction 8, see FIG. 5. The driver 32 is mounted in a guide recess 33 in which it is otherwise freely movable, see also FIG. 6 and 7.

In the inactive position of FIG. 4 and 5, the gripper 32 engages the deflection surface 34 of the guide recess 33 and prevents the latch 28 from engaging the rear recess 29 from moving the liquid applicator 3, the slider 25 engaging the housing 15 of the suction channel 20.

By pressing the handle 26, the latch 28 in the rear recess 29 is released and the slider 25 can be moved towards the middle recess 29. As a result, the carrier 32 leaves the bounding surface 34 and the liquid applicator 3 is moved to the middle working position by the spring. FIG. 1 and FIG. 6. The carrier 32 is now located approximately in the middle of the guide recess 33, thereby allowing the liquid applicator 3 to move flexibly in the direction of the bi-directional arrow 10 but limited by the delimitation surfaces 34, 35. The slide 25 can be moved in the guide. For this purpose, the lateral areas of the slider 25 (not shown) can be guided in corresponding grooves 36 in the housing 15 of the suction channel 20.

Furthermore, inside said arc are also provided guides 37, 38 for the linear displacement of the applicator 3, which is controlled by the slider 25. The guide 37 is formed by an extension 39 on the applicator 3, terminated with a sliding stone 40 with a circular cross-section. The conduits 37 are preferably located transversely to the cleaning direction 8 with their ends in the direction of the longitudinal dimension of the liquid applicator 3. On the other hand, the guide 38 is preferably located in the middle, see also FIG. 3. This guide 38 is preferably formed by a mushroom-shaped head 41 with a hat 42 with a circular cross section, which extends into the undercut grooves 43 in the liquid applicator 3, see FIG. 7. The surface of the hat 42, the undercut groove 43, the guide recess 33 and the guide channel 44 extend in mutually parallel planes. As a result, in the central position of the guide 38, also, provided that the head 41 is rotationally symmetrical, a pivoting movement about its axis 45 is also possible. Said pivoting movement about the axis 45 is limited by abutment of the slide blocks 40 at the ends of the extensions 39 on the end 46 of the guide channel 44. shaped bearing surface.

Further displacement of the slider 25 from the position of FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 9 results in the gripper 32 engaging the deflection surface 35 of the guide recess 33. The liquid applicator 3 is thus brought to a position in which it exits the suction mouth 21. If the latch 28 then snaps into the front recess 29, the applicator is supported. 3 to the liquid by means of the slider 25 on the casing 15 of the suction channel 20. The further displacement of the liquid applicator 3 can still be limited by the stops of the lines 37, 38. In this position only the liquid can be applied to the surface to be cleaned.

Referring to FIG. 1 to 3, a suction device is described in more detail below.

The outer side of the cross section of the suction mouth 21 facing the surface to be cleaned is tapered relative to the downstream section 51 of the suction channel 20 into a suction nozzle 50 having a width of less than 5 mm, here approximately 1.5 mm to 2 mm. In the direction of suction, this cross-sectional narrowing has a length approximately equal to its width. Downstream of the suction nozzle 50 there is a first diverting of the flow direction of the aspirated liquid-air mixture, in the sealing flap 31 a corner 57 is formed for this purpose in which the flow direction changes. Sealing flap 3J. thus, through the section 54 of the suction channel 20, which extends to the suction nozzle 50, it flows immediately and continuously into the inner wall 52 of the suction mouth 21 of the suction channel 20. Further, the flow of the sucked liquid-air mixture is diverted again in the region 51 into the Z-path before the liquid-air mixture enters the suction chamber 53. This deflection at 54 due to the knives 55, 56 facing each other and in conjunction with the shape of the suction nozzle 50 prevents the suction device, e.g. dust, dripping from suction mouth 2L

The slot-shaped suction mouth 21 is divided into individual suction sections 60 in its longitudinal direction and thus across the cleaning direction 8. See also FIG. 3 and the deviating representation of FIG. 1 and 3, which is also slightly offset in the region of the suction mouth 21. Ribs 61 with different heights and different adjustment angles serve to divide them into individual suction sections 60. This angle of adjustment relative to the vertical extends outwardly, that is to the side edges 62 of the suction mouth 21, increases. In addition, the length of the suction sections 60 also increases towards the outward direction 8.

By these measures, uniform suction is ensured over the length of the suction mouth 21. The ribs 61 thus define among themselves a plurality of suction channel sections 51 that exit into the common suction chamber 53. More, here two suction branches 63 are connected to this common suction chamber 53. 64, which are idealized here only by raising the paths 65 of the aspirated liquid-air mixture relative to each other. The paths 65 and / or the suction branches 63, 64 are further coupled in the suction direction indicated by the arrow 66 at a location 67 to a common cross-section of the suction channel 20.

Since the slider 25 in the exemplary embodiment extends through the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 relative to its mouth 21, it is approximately centrally positioned, the slider 25 and here the conduit 38 is located between the suction branches 63, 64. FIG. 3, where the liquid applicator 3 is not shown, the head 41 of the guide 38 located on the axis 68 is evident. It is also evident that the central location of the pin 13 for the spring H which is fixed relative to the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 is located on the support plate 14. Said pin 13 is located at the same time between the grooves 36 for lateral guidance of the slider 25.

Downstream of the connection point of the suction branches 63, 64, there is a phase separation device 70 located in the suction nozzle 1, i.e. between the suction mouth 21 and the actual suction device (not shown here) in the suction direction indicated by the arrow 66. for example, with a vacuum cleaner, see also FIG. 4. The phase separation device 70 divides the liquid-air mixture into a liquid and a gas phase, in this case, by centrifugal forces due to a deflection of the flow direction which can be achieved, for example, by opposing Z-shaped obliquely in the suction channel 20 surfaces 55, 56 which act as reflective walls. Here, however, the centrifugal forces exerted by the swirling of the liquid-air mixture stream. In the swirl section 7 ', a liquid-air mixture is aspirated, as also indicated by arrow 66 in FIG. 3, introduced into the swirl section 11 across its longitudinal axis 12. The movement of the aspirated liquid-air mixture thus obtains a rotating component, which is likewise produced in known cyclone separators in a similar manner. Thus, from the end of the swirl section 71 of the exhaust duct 20, a rotating liquid-air mixture emerges in which heavier particles, i.e. liquid phase particles, move radially outwardly, i.e. to the funnel-shaped constriction 73, which fills almost the entire cross-section of the exhaust duct. 20. Only the gas phase is guided through the interior 74 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73. The liquid phase is separated and discharged through the rim 75 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73 into the container 76. This container 76 has a rotationally symmetrical shape and surrounds the interior space 74, which is part of the suction channel 20. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the interior 74 and the reservoir 76 are provided with a common partition 77. The reservoir 76 is closed by a bottom 78 which also rests on the housing 15 of the suction channel 20. A star support 80 is indicated in the region of the inflow 79 to the reservoir 76. a spray-proof plate 81 with annularly distributed through-holes 82 which acts as a valve when the aspirated cleaning fluid accumulates in the rear portion 83 of the cartridge 76. In addition, the anti-splash sheet 71 is also elastically expanded against the casing 15 of the exhaust duct 20. As a rule, the container 76 is preferably still filled with a liquid-absorbing material in which these liquids are deposited, so that the cleaning liquid is bound and largely contained in the container 76. this prevents it from leaking from the cartridge 76, for example in the case of improper handling.

The reservoir 76 is connected to the suction channel 20, which in this case is formed by the inner space 74 of the funnel-shaped constriction 73, through the suction channels 84 in the direction of suction downstream of the separated liquid inlet 79. Thus, a vacuum is created inside the reservoir 76. the section 71 supports phase separation.

In FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of the cartridge 90 is shown, which is operably coupled to the vacuum cleaner 91 during operation. Such a design will substantially facilitate the emptying of the cartridge 90. For this purpose, the vacuum cleaner attachment 91 has to be disconnected for example from the suction hose 22, which is simply possible by means of a locking device 92. The cartridge 90 which has an annular cross-section on a wall 94 which defines an inner space 93 of the funnel, where the container 90 is then positioned between the wall 94 and the wall 95 of the suction channel housing 96. In particular, if the container 90 is filled with a liquid soaking material, it may be a disposable cartridge.

In the exhaust direction downstream of the phase separation device 70 there is also a water spray valve 100 which closes the exhaust duct 20 inside the suction head 1. If suddenly sucking in a larger amount of liquid, the power of the phase separation device 70 may not be sufficient. a liquid-air mixture with a high liquid phase content is sucked from the phase separation device 70 in the suction direction 20 of the suction channel 20. In order to prevent this liquid-air mixture from entering the suction hose 22 into a suction device (not shown), for example a dust vacuum cleaner, the valve 100 closes the cross-section of the suction channel 20 with a slider 101 in the shape of a plate. 8 and 9. This is counteracted by the action of a compression spring 102, the resilient force of which determines the closing of the slider 101 when a larger amount of liquid is present.

Alternatively, it is also possible to use a water spray valve with, for example, a ball slider in an embodiment known from so-called industrial dust extractors.

Thus, the plate-shaped slider 101 is guided axially in the tubular section 103 and, in its open position, passes the exhaust air flow through the passages 104 at its periphery. In the closed position shown in FIG. 8, the passages 104 are closed by an annular shoulder 105 which reduces the cross-section of the suction channel 20 and which is also supported by a compression spring 102. The plate-shaped slider 101 located between the passages 104 thus closes the free cross-section of the suction channel 20 stocking 105.

Instead of a compression spring 102, a plurality of tension springs may be used, which are located between the projection 106 which is fixedly connected to the housing 15 of the suction channel 20 and the star-shaped supports 107 of the slider 101.

In another embodiment of FIG. 11, a water spray valve 110 is shown which has yet another function. The reservoir 111 is filled with a liquid-absorbing material, an absorbent 112, which increases its volume upon liquid acquisition. However, in the fit between the radial walls 113, 114, the volume of the absorbent 112 can only increase in the axial direction, for this purpose the container 111 is designed as a two-piece container in the axial direction. As a result, the front seating of FIG. 11 of the left half 115 of the cartridge 111 onto the suction channel housing 117 and as the volume of the absorbent 112 increases in the axial direction, the right half 116 of the cartridge 111 will move to the right. The bottom 118 of the cartridge 111 will move the slider 119 of the valve 110 against the splashing water by the slider 120 toward the closed position as it moves. If the closing path of the slider 119 of the valve 110 against the splashing water is adjusted accordingly and the volume of the absorbent 112 due to liquid intake in the axial direction increases, then the valve 110 against the splashing water will close when the storage capacity of the absorbent 112 is exhausted. , the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 can be removed after releasing the locking device 92 and the container 111 with the spent storage capacity of the absorbent 112 contained therein, which can be designed for single use, can be replaced with a new container H1. Otherwise, only the absorbent 112 needs to be replaced. which may optionally be reusable, i.e., regenerate and / or dry for reuse.

The connection of the suction nozzle i to the suction hose 22 is carried out in a conventional manner. A suction hose 22, such as a conventional household vacuum cleaner, is provided at the end with, for example, an injection sleeve 125 which is locked in a connection flange 126. A sealing ring 127 is disposed between this connection flange 126 and the suction hose housing 125. also facing the bed 128 of the valve 110 against splashing water. Upon pressing the button 130 which is pivotable about the axis 129 against the action of the leaf spring 131, the engagement of the detent tooth 132 is released and the vacuum adapter 1 can then be detached from the suction hose 22.

It is a matter for the skilled person to decide whether the spray water valve 100 will be a structural part of the suction hose 22 or the suction nozzle L Depending on this, the design of the joint or splitting is made, since the two possible solutions are practically applicable.

In FIG. 12, an alternative embodiment of a phase separation device 70 is shown. Here, upstream of the container 90, which is filled with the liquid-absorbing material, is a downstream jet body 150. This jet body 150 is substantially mushroom-shaped and has a rounded first hemispherical portion 151 with its rounded side facing the general direction of flow. The downstream second portion 152 is cylindrical in shape and is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the suction channel 20. The diameter of the second cylindrical portion 152 is slightly smaller than the largest diameter of the first hemispherical portion 151.

The nozzle body 150 is hollow, and its first hemispherical portion 151 is provided on its outside with radially oriented guide vanes 153 whose tear edges 154 terminate at the level of the passage of the first portion 151 into the second portion 152 of the nozzle body 150.

In the region of the step transition from the first part 151 to the second part 152 of the nozzle body 150, radial passages 155 are formed which extend substantially transversely to the axial direction.

Because the liquid phase in the exhaust air stream has a higher inertia and specific gravity than the gas phase, there is a swirl in the area of the guide vanes 153 and a sharp diversion due to radial passageways 155 to separate the liquid phase from the gas phase. The liquid phase thus separated is then introduced into and stored in the reservoir 90. Any residual moisture, the so-called entrained drops of liquid, is then filtered out by the liquid-absorbing material 156, for example a sponge, located inside the first portion 151 of the hemispherical shape 150 .

To prevent the separate liquid and gaseous phases from mixing again in the region of transition from the nozzle body 150 to the cartridge 90, the nozzle body 150 is pressed against the front side 157 of the cartridge 90. This is accomplished by a compression spring 158 which abuts one end on the annular shoulder 159 in the region of the suction channel 20 and its other end on the faces of the guide vanes 153 facing this compression spring 158.

Due to the described alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70, a position-independent liquid phase separation is achieved in a minimal design space. Thus, a number of advantages in terms of function and handling are achieved, since no electrical energy and therefore no energy converters such as motors or electromagnets are required for phase separation. In addition, the phase separation device 70 thus constructed does not comprise any moving parts.

An alternative embodiment of the cleaning fabric 160 is shown in detail in Figures 13 and 14. This cleaning fabric 160 is trimmed to the desired dimensions at its two opposing edges 161 and 162 with reinforced flanges 16, which are frame sidewalls 16. Said reinforced flanges 163 may be a cleaning cloth 160, for example, sprayed or glued. In the illustrated embodiment, a preferred embodiment is shown in which the frame sidewalls 16 or thickened skirts 163 are formed from the material of the cleaning fabric 160 itself. Thus, otherwise conventional flanging or other edge reinforcement 161, 162 of the cleaning fabric 160 is omitted. the thickened flanges 163 have a circular cross-section, wherein the cleaning fabric 160 extends between the thickened flanges 163 in the radial direction of the thickened flanges 163.

As already mentioned, the cleaning fabric 160 is stretched through a liquid applicator 3, which is moistened from the rear as shown in FIG. 15. For this purpose, the cleaning fabric 160 is applied to the application surface of the liquid applicator 3 and the thickened flanges 163 snap into groove recesses 164 and 165 that are formed on both sides of the liquid applicator 3. These groove recesses 164, 165 are designed as undercut grooves so that the thickened skirts 163 are firmly attached thereto. To this end, the groove recesses 164, 165 are provided at least at one edge thereof with a projecting protrusion 166 projecting in their cross-section.

167. The reinforced trim 163 is pressed into the groove recesses 164.165 to secure the cleaning fabric 160. During this pressing, the projections 166. 167 of these groove recesses 164, 165 must be overcome, assuming that the reinforced bead 163 is resilient. Upon pressing, the protrusions 166, 167 engage the thickened selvedges 163, thereby reliably securing the position of the cleaning fabric 160 on the liquid applicator 3.

In one alternative embodiment, the groove recesses 164, 165 may be provided with resilient fingers to form the fit of the thickened flanges 163. Further, it is conceivable that an attachment of the thickened flanges 163 in the groove recesses 164, 165 will only be ensured by friction, provided that the thickened flanges 163 are resiliently flexible.

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 15, only a small portion of the total area of the cleaning fabric 160 is used when the vacuum attachment 1 is applied. This cleaning area 168 is shown in FIG. 13, which is a plan view of the cleaning fabric 160, shown in shaded pattern. In order to make full use of the cleaning capacity of the cleaning fabric 160, the cleaning fabric 160 is twice mirror-symmetrical so that it can be attached to the liquid applicator 3 in four different positions.

The thickened flanges 163 and the groove recesses 163,164 into which the thickened flanges 163 fit can, in contrast to the described embodiments, also have other cross-sectional shapes. For example, it is conceivable that the cross-sections will have the shape of a groove and tongue in the form of a dovetail joint.

Further, it is conceivable that the thickened skirts 163 will be formed on the entire circumference, i.e. on all sides of the cleaning fabric 160. These additional thickened skins 163 are attached to the liquid applicator 3 when the cleaning fabric 160 is attached to the liquid applicator 3. 3, it has proven to be particularly advantageous if the further reinforced flanges form a resilient connection between the reinforced flanges 16, which are pressed into the groove recesses 164, 165.

Due to the described embodiment of the cleaning fabric 160, a cost-effective, simple and quick attachment of the cleaning fabric 160 to the liquid applicator 3 is achieved. The mounting has small constructional dimensions and is also self-cleaning. The cleaning cloth 160 can be replaced by hand, no tools required. In addition, the cleaning cloth 160 can be washed together with the fastening elements, which are formed by the reinforced bands 163.

If the cleaning cloth 160 is provided with a reinforced plastic bead 163 sprayed on the circumference, expensive sewn flanges and the like are dispensed with. The production of the cleaning fabric 160 can then be fully automated. It has proved to be a particular advantage that the use of the same or similar materials for the cleaning fabric 160 and the reinforced trim 163 also achieves a good recyclability of the cleaning fabric 160.

In FIG. 17 to 24, an alternative embodiment of the attachment of the cleaning fabric 160 is shown. This cleaning fabric 160 is tensioned through the liquid applicator 3 in the vacuum cleaner attachment 1 and is moistened from behind by the liquid applicator 3, see FIG. 18. For this purpose, the cleaning fabric 160 is applied to the application surface of the liquid applicator 3, and subsequently the frame side walls 16 of the cleaning fabric 160, which are formed by reinforced flanges 163, are pushed into groove recesses 164, 165 which are formed on both sides. of the liquid applying device 3.

The groove recesses 164. 165 are designed such that each of these groove recesses 164. 165 is provided along its length perpendicular to the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recess 164, 165 with offset sections 169, 170. In the illustrated embodiment, it is along the length. groove recesses 164, 165 formed by eight offset portions 169.170 each.

Referring to FIG. 19 to 24, an exemplary embodiment of the groove recess 164. Each offset section 169. 170 of the groove recess 164 consists essentially of an inlet region 171 or 172 that faces the mouth of the groove recess 164, and a gripping region 173 or 174 at the bottom of the groove. The gripping areas 173, 174 have an enlarged cross-section compared to the inlet areas 171, 172. The alignment is such that the gripping areas Γ73, 174 on one side in alignment extend into the respective inlet areas ITL, 172. Due to the increased cross-section of the gripping areas 173, 174, the gripping areas 173, 174 and their associated groove recesses 164 are formed. bridges, into respective entry areas 171. 172 extending protrusions 175. 176.

The offset portions 169. 170 are shaped alternately along the length of the slot recess 164 such that parallel to the longitudinal axis x-x of the slot recess 164 and to this longitudinal axis x-x t

The protruding projections 175, 176 form a slot-like opening 172 along the length of the groove recess 164. The individual gripping areas 173, 174, when viewed in the direction of the length of the groove recess 164, create a receiving space 178 which approximately approximates the contour of the inserted frame shafts 16 see fig. 22 and 23.

The thickened skirt 163 is pushed into the groove recess 164 or 165 when the cleaning fabric 160 is mounted. Due to the offset position of the individual offset sections 169 and 170 for insertion of the thickened skirt 163, the thickened skirt 163 can be slightly deformed. Thus, the thickened skirt 163 is crimped crimped, which corrugation corresponds to the inlet regions 171. 172 of the offset portions 169. 170. Subsequently, the thickened skirt 163 in the region of the described storage space 178 automatically springs into a straight shape in the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recess 164. The cleaning fabric 160, which follows the reinforced trim 163, passes through the slit-through opening 177.

Due to the embodiment of the invention, it is possible to simply attach the cleaning fabric 160 which is provided with thickened skirts 163 by simply inserting it into the groove recess 164 with its offset sections 169, 170 extending along its length, without requiring any movable or additional components . The thickened selvedges 163 may be formed from the material of the cleaning fabric 160 itself and stitched. Furthermore, it is possible that the thickened skirts 163 will be sewn, welded or sprayed onto the cleaning fabric 160.

The thickened skirt 163 is straight in the inserted state, but must be slightly deformed during assembly so that it cannot fall out of the groove 164 spontaneously.

It has proven to be advantageous here that the thickened skirt 163 acts as a spring attached to the replacement part, i.e. the cleaning fabric 160. The clamping force can be adjusted to virtually any extent by the dimensions of the groove recesses 164, 165. no movable or flexible components are required, the region of these grooves 164, 165 may have a massive construction.

The offset portions 169. 170 of the groove recesses 164, 165 can alternatively also be designed so that after the introduction of the reinforced trim 163, which can also be done laterally retracted, the reinforced trim 163 remains slightly wavy and follows the contour of the offset sections 169. 170. as a result, the cleaning cloth 160 is additionally clamped in the region of the reinforced trim 163.

To facilitate easy disassembly of the cleaning fabric 160, the vacuum cleaner attachment I is provided with a finger access aperture 179. This finger access aperture 179 is formed in the region of the side wall 180 of the vacuum cleaner attachment I and extends through the side wall 180. This finger access aperture 179 replaces a small portion of the length of the groove recess 164 or 165 so that the finger access aperture 179 is completely the exposed portion of the length of the frame sidewall 16 or the reinforced trim 163 of the cleaning fabric 160. Thus, the exposed portion can be easily gripped. Thereafter, the cleaning fabric 160 is removed by either pulling the thickened skirts 160 from the groove recesses 164, 165 in the direction of the longitudinal axis x-x of the groove recess 164, 165, or pulling the thickened skins 163 from the groove recesses 164 through the entrance areas 171. which are formed on offset sections 169. 170.

In FIG. 25 shows another alternative embodiment of the phase separation device 70 of FIG. 12. The nozzle body 150, which is also upstream here of the reservoir 90, which is filled with liquid-absorbing material, is also provided with guide vanes 153, which, however, here are designed as continuous helices. The guide vanes 153 thus form a two-threaded thread which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the suction channel 20. The nozzle body 150 has a rounded hemispherical shape, with the rounded side of its head facing the general direction of flow. The diameter of the nozzle body 150 is smaller than the diameter of the suction channel 20 in which the nozzle body 150 is located.

The guide vanes 153 which are helically disposed around the nozzle body 150 are flush with the inner wall of the suction channel 20 in a radial direction, so that in a preferred embodiment in which the nozzle body 150 is integrally formed with the guide vanes 153, the guide vanes 153 provide radial fixation of the nozzle body 150 in the suction channel 20.

The nozzle body 150, which is provided with guide vanes 153, is positioned downstream of the cartridge 90 in the flow direction. Thus, a free space 200 is created between the nozzle body 150 and the cartridge 90.

Through the helical guide vanes 153, the liquid phase is reliably separated from the gas phase, and the separated liquid phase is then introduced into the container 90 and stored therein 90. The gas phase, which is dehumidified by the described embodiment of the guide vanes 153, flows after leaving guide vanes 153 through clearance 200.

Also in this case, it is conceivable to have an embodiment in which the nozzle body 150 is constructed similarly to FIG. 12, a cylindrical section whose diameter is smaller than the largest diameter of the hemisphere 150 is connected thereto. This cylindrical section is provided transversely to the axial direction with radial passageways through which a gas phase separated from the liquid phase passes. A sponge or similar mass may be disposed within the nozzle body 150 within its head region.

The features of the invention described in the foregoing description and claims, and illustrated in the drawings, may be relevant to the practice of the invention both individually and in any combination. All the features described are important to the invention. The scope of the invention is also determined by the content of the respective priority application, the full content of which is hereby claimed.

Claims (52)

PATENT CLAIMS A vacuum cleaner attachment (1) for wet cleaning surfaces (2), in particular vertical surfaces (2), comprising a liquid applicator (3) which is positionally adjustable relative to a separate housing (15) of the exhaust duct (20), extending into the slot-shaped suction mouth (21), the casing (15) overlapping the liquid applicator (3) disposed within the arc on at least one slider (25) passing through the suction channel housing (15) 20) and on the upper side of the housing (15) is provided with a handle (26) for adjusting the position of the applicator (3) to the liquid. A vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing that extends into a slot-shaped suction mouth, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is transverse to its longitudinal direction. divided into individual suction sections (60) which, in the direction of suction, exit into a common suction chamber (53). Vacuum attachment according to claim 2 or in particular according to this claim, characterized in that several suction branches (63, 64) are connected to the suction chamber (53), which are further associated in the suction direction into a common section (67) of the suction channel (20). ). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) defining the inner wall (52) immediately and continuously passes into the sealing flap (31). Vacuum nozzle according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the suction mouth (21) is tapered into the suction nozzle (50) with respect to the adjacent section (51) of the suction channel (20). width to 5 mm, preferably up to 2 mm, wherein the length of the suction nozzle (50) in the suction direction approximately corresponds to its width. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that a guide (37, 38) is arranged inside the arc, in which there is a linearly displaceable coating device (3) on the slide (25). liquid. • Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the displacement of the applicator (3) on the liquid from the inactive position, when it is pulled behind the suction mouth (21), spring (11), the liquid applicator (3) is movable against the spring force (11) in this intermediate position independently of the slider (25) and can be moved from this intermediate position by means of the slider (25) to the position in front of a suction mouth (21) and where it is supported by the slider (25) against the housing (15) of the suction channel (20). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the slider (25) passes through the housing (15) of the suction channel (20) centrally and that the slider (25) and possibly the guide (38) are located between the suction branches (63, 64). 9. A vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator and a suction channel housing which extends into a suction mouth, through which the suction device sucks a liquid-air mixture from the surface, characterized in that between the suction mouth (21) and a suction apparatus (70) for separating the liquid-air mixture by centrifugal forces in deflecting the flow direction into the liquid phase and the gaseous phase. A vacuum cleaner attachment (1) for wet cleaning surfaces (2), in particular vertical surfaces (2), comprising a liquid applicator (3) and a housing (15) of a suction channel (20) that extends into the suction mouth (21) ), by means of which the suction device sucks a liquid-air mixture from the surface (2), wherein a phase separation device (70) is arranged between the suction mouth (21) and the suction apparatus, in which the liquid-air mixture is divided into a liquid phase and a gas phase and downstream of which a valve (100) is provided against the splashing water which, in the case of insufficient phase separation, closes the cross section of the suction channel (20). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that in the phase separation device (70) the separated water is collected in a reservoir (76) inside the exhaust duct (20). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (90) is operatively separable to the vacuum attachment (91). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (76) annularly forms and / or surrounds the suction channel (20) and / or forms the outer wall of the suction attachment (1). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (90) is designed to be plugged into the vacuum cleaner attachment (91). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (90) is designed as a disposable cartridge. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the container (111) is filled with a liquid-absorbing absorbent (112). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to those claims, characterized in that the container (76) is connected in the suction direction downstream of the liquid-inlet (79) into the container (76) by a suction channel (84, 85). ) with a suction channel (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the flow is deflected by the thrust faces (54, 55). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the centrifugal forces are induced by swirling the liquid-air mixture. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that in the swirling section (71) of the suction channel (20) the movement of the liquid-air mixture acquires a rotating component. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to those claims, characterized in that the lazing device (70) is designed as a cyclone separator. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the turbulence is achievable by guide vanes (153) located on the outside of the nozzle body (150). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the guide blade (153) is formed by a continuous helix. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the guide blade (153) is aligned in the radial direction with the inner wall of the suction channel (20). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the helix is a double screw. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is provided with radial passages (155) for the gas phase. Vacuum adapter according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the gas phase extends radially from the outside of the nozzle body (150). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the radial passages (155) are located downstream of the guide vanes (153) in the flow direction. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is at least partially filled with liquid-absorbing material (156) in the region upstream of the radial passages (155). ). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is located upstream of the container (90) in the flow direction. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the nozzle body (150) is pressed by a spring (158) against the front side (157) of the cartridge (90). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the liquid-air mixture with a rotating movement component in the suction channel (20) impinges on a funnel-shaped constriction (73) which almost fills the cross section of the suction channel. (20) and through which the gas phase is conducted while the liquid phase is separated over the rim (75) of the funnel-shaped constriction (73). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that a valve slider (101) is arranged transverse to the flow direction inside the suction channel (20), which in the flow direction opposes the force of the compression spring ( 102) closes the cross section of the suction channel (20) when water is present. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the slider (101) is guided annularly in the tubular section (103) and the gas phase passes through radially outwardly directed passages (104) of the slider (101). lOL). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to those claims, characterized in that the container (111) is filled with an absorbent (112) increasing its volume with increasing humidity and closing the valve (110) against the splashing. water. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that, in the annular design of the cartridge (111), an increase in volume in the axial direction acts on the slider (119) of the valve (110) against splashing water. when the absorbent capacity of the absorbent (112) is exhausted, the slider (119) of the valve (110) against the splashing water is closed. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the slider (101) has the shape of a plate. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the slider (101) is conical. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the spring (102) is designed as a compression spring. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the spring (102) is designed as a tension spring. A vacuum cleaner for cleaning wet surfaces, in particular vertical surfaces, comprising a liquid applicator according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, with a cleaning fabric which is stretched through a liquid applicator behind it. wetted, characterized in that the cleaning fabric (7, 160) is provided at the edges with frame sidewalls (16) for an exact fit to the liquid applicator (3). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the frame sidewalls (16) are designed as reinforced beadings (163). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the frame sidewalls (16) are attached to the cleaning cloth (7, 160). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the frame sidewalls (16) are formed from a cleaning fabric (160). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the liquid applicator (3) is provided with groove recesses (17, 164, 165) for receiving the frame sidewalls (16). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recesses (164, 165) are undercut. Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recesses (164, 165) are provided with resiliently flexible fingers for positioning the frame sidewalls (16) with precision. Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recess (164, 165) is provided with perpendicular sections (169, 170) perpendicular to its longitudinal axis (x-x). ), wherein the frame side wall (16) alternately abuts against one and the other side of the groove recess (164, 165). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that six to ten offset sections (169, 170) are formed along the length of the groove recess (164, 165). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the groove recess (164, 165) is provided with a finger access opening (179). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the finger access opening (179) extends through the side wall (180) of the vacuum cleaner attachment (1). Vacuum attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the finger access opening (179) fully replaces a small part of the length of the groove recess (164,165) so that in the access opening (179) the finger is a fully exposed portion of the length of the frame sidewall (16). Vacuum cleaner attachment according to one or more of the preceding claims, or in particular according to these claims, characterized in that the cleaning fabric (160) is designed to be twice mirror-symmetrical.