Cleaning equipment and methods for cleaning items to be cleaned

Abstract

A cleaning apparatus (110) for cleaning an item (112) to be cleaned is provided, a cleaning basket (114) for use in the cleaning apparatus (110), a method for cleaning the item (112) to be cleaned, and the use of the cleaning apparatus (110). The cleaning apparatus (110) includes at least one cleaning chamber (116) for receiving at least one cleaning basket (114) and the item (112) to be cleaned therein in a fixed position. The cleaning apparatus (110) also includes at least one application device (118) for applying at least one cleaning fluid (120) to the item (112) to be cleaned. The cleaning device (110) also includes a plurality of movable cleaning elements (154), wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket (114), wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are configured to remain in the cleaning chamber (116) during the application of cleaning fluid (120) to the item to be cleaned (112), wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are configured to be moved by means of the cleaning fluid (120), and wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the item to be cleaned (112) during the application of cleaning fluid (120) to the item to be cleaned (112).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning items to be cleaned. Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of the proposed cleaning apparatus for cleaning personal protective equipment. The cleaning apparatus and method are particularly applicable to the field of cleaning personal protective equipment, especially respiratory protective masks and / or respirators. However, in principle, the invention can also be applied to other fields, such as dishwashing technology, particularly in the field of commercial dishwashing technology. Therefore, the invention is particularly applicable to large kitchens where heavily soiled items to be cleaned, such as containers or larger cooking utensils, need to be cleaned. However, other applications are also conceivable in principle. Background Technology

[0002] Various cleaning devices (also known as cleaning apparatuses) capable of cleaning and / or disinfecting items to be cleaned are known from the prior art. Exemplary references may be made to cleaning devices described, for example, in DE 10 2004 056 052 A1 or DE 10 2007025263A1.

[0003] Without limiting other feasible design options, the invention is described below with reference to items to be cleaned (including items for personal protective equipment). However, alternatively or additionally, items for delivering, cooking, or storing food, or other types of items to be cleaned, may also be used.

[0004] For example, rescue forces, armed forces, or security forces all use personal protective equipment (PPE). A crucial component of PPE is generally the respirator and its components, such as a respirator face mask and / or a breathing regulator. Therefore, various respirators are known from the prior art for different purposes. For example, rescue forces such as firefighters use respirators with filters to remove harmful components from the inhaled breathing air. Instead of or attached to filters, in many cases, so-called breathing regulators are used, which allow the user to inhale or exhale breathing gases (e.g., compressed air). Breathing regulators are also commonly referred to as breathing control devices, which generally allow the user to breathe from a compressed gas cylinder or other compressed gas interface and thus remain in such a manner, for example, underwater or in other non-breathable or toxic environments. For this purpose, a breathing regulator adapts the compressed gas (e.g., compressed air) from the compressed gas interface to the pressure predominant in the user's working environment.

[0005] Generally, respirators or their components must be cleaned, disinfected, dried, inspected, and, where necessary, repaired and resealed after each use. Cleaning should remove contaminants acquired from use or storage, ensuring the respirator is macroscopically clean and hygienically clean for further processing. These requirements generally also apply to other components of the respirator, such as accessories or fittings for the breathing mask, such as support frames, compressed air cylinders, filters, or regulators. Because respirators or their components are generally safety-related devices, several requirements must be considered when cleaning them. In addition to thorough cleaning and disinfection, for example, in many cases, it is necessary to maintain the corresponding breathing mask fittings for technical reasons. Furthermore, there is a general requirement that certain air delivery areas of certain respirator components (e.g., the air delivery area of ​​the regulator) should not come into contact with cleaning fluids, such as water and / or cleaning solutions.

[0006] In many cases, respirators (such as breathing masks and their accessories) are either cleaned manually or washed in modified washing machines using protective bags and / or adapters. For example, a washing machine with an alkaline washing container with rollers is commonly known from EP 0 935 687 B1. The drum's outer shell has an arched structure oriented inwards, with the outer edge contour of the arch oriented outwards positioned at the corners of its openings. Such a washing machine, in principle, allows for the particularly gentle cleaning of equipment and objects used by rescue forces.

[0007] A holding system for a respiratory protective face shield in a washing machine is known from EP 1 088 928 A1. The holding system has a support frame arranged in a rotating manner within the drum of the washing machine, to which the respiratory protective face shield can be connected.

[0008] Equipment for handling protective clothing is known from DE 200 03 743U1 and DE 298 22 172U1, respectively. Hangers comprising flexible air escaping nozzles are used here. These hangers are each secured to a pivoting device. Cleaning of respirators is typically impossible or only difficult to achieve with the aid of the illustrated equipment.

[0009] A device for cleaning a respiratory protective mask is known from DE 10 2005 033 618 B3. This device includes a closable housing and at least one receiving element for at least one respiratory protective mask arranged in a carrier. Furthermore, a nozzle assembly and a brush assembly are provided, wherein the respiratory protective mask is brushed by movement of the mask. However, individual assignment and cleaning of the mask's accessories cannot be achieved using the disclosed device. Furthermore, cleaning of air delivery elements, such as regulators, cannot be achieved using the disclosed device. A device for cleaning, disinfecting, and drying a respiratory protective mask is also known from DE 200 03 744U1, which has a carrier with an assigned nozzle system and a separate processing space. This device is also, in principle, unsuitable for cleaning air delivery elements and accessories.

[0010] A cleaning device for a compressed air breathing apparatus is known from DE 10 2007 009 936 A1. This cleaning device has an receiving space defined by a protective grille and a rotating nozzle carrier. The nozzle carrier is located outside the protective grille. However, a disadvantage of the illustrated device is that cleaning fluid may intrude into the air delivery area.

[0011] Cleaning of sensitive structural components of a respirator (such as the respirator regulator) is generally done manually. If necessary, ultrasonic cleaning devices can be used to assist manual cleaning. A method and apparatus for cleaning a respirator are known from DE 10 2007 012 768 B4. In this method, the object to be cleaned is placed on a holder of a rotating element and repeatedly immersed in a liquid pool containing cleaning liquid, disinfectant liquid, and rinsing liquid. Here, compressed gas is first applied to the respirator to seal the valve-hose interface, and then the respirator is immersed in the liquid pool. However, a disadvantage of such an immersion method is the need for a complex holder with corresponding actuators to ensure that the cleaning fluid is removed from each cavity by corresponding movement after cleaning.

[0012] DE 100 20 835A1 describes an apparatus for processing a respiratory protective mask. It includes a receiver for assembling the respiratory protective mask, wherein the mask is connected to the receiver via a respirator interface. Furthermore, it describes a collection device within a chamber of the apparatus for collecting a processing agent and a pump for supplying the processing agent.

[0013] US 3,881,503 A discloses an apparatus for washing and purifying anesthesia equipment items. It includes a nozzle system that allows water jets to be sprayed onto the items to be cleaned under high pressure.

[0014] A device for cleaning a respiratory protective mask is known in DE 11 74 169 B. In this device, a pipe support is provided in the housing, in which the mask to be cleaned is opened onto a retainer. The respiratory protective mask is moved through a pool of cleaning liquid in a tank by means of a rotating support.

[0015] WO 2011 / 144518 A2 describes a cleaning apparatus for cleaning a respirator. The cleaning apparatus includes at least one cleaning chamber for receiving at least one respirator, and at least one fluid device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the respirator. The cleaning apparatus also has at least one pressure application device with at least one pressure port. The pressure port is connectable to at least one air delivery element of the respirator. The pressure application device is configured to apply compressed gas to the air delivery element.

[0016] US 2012 / 0284938 A1 describes a dishwashing washer that uses the abrasive force of a brush to clean dishes. The dishes are held from above by a support consisting of parallel links, allowing an upwardly oscillating brush to pass through the support and clean the outer surfaces of the dishes. The dishes are held from below by the axis of a downwardly rotating brush, causing the brush to rotate and clean the inner surfaces of the dishes. Furthermore, the dishwashing washer comprises a rotating support that holds the dishes at the start and during the washing cycle. The rotating support consists of links supporting the dishes, a water tank for directing washing water into the washing chamber, and movable covers for controlling the flow of washing fluid in the corresponding chambers.

[0017] DE 10 2017 202 055 A1 describes a cleaning apparatus for cleaning items to be cleaned, the cleaning apparatus comprising at least one cleaning chamber and at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. Furthermore, the cleaning apparatus includes at least one controller configured to operate the cleaning apparatus to perform at least two operating modes. The controller is also configured to detect at least one usage parameter. The usage parameter characterizes the current usage status of the cleaning apparatus. Furthermore, the controller is configured to assign at least one weight to the at least one usage parameter. The controller also includes at least one counting device configured to accumulate the weighted usage time of the cleaning apparatus by the weights and thereby generate at least one usage information regarding the usage status of the cleaning apparatus.

[0018] Despite the advantages already achieved or to be achieved using the aforementioned devices and methods, numerous technical challenges remain. One particular challenge lies in the presence of combustion residues (especially soot) adhering to the outer surfaces of personal protective equipment (PPE) in many cases. In many situations, it is only difficult to remove these residues from the surface using known methods, especially since cleaning of multiple components of PPE (e.g., compressed air respirators) is only possible at relatively low temperatures. Surface effects are particularly important here, such as causing soot to adhere especially to various plastic surfaces due to electrostatic charging. Correspondingly, complete removal of combustion residues is virtually impossible in practice (especially at low temperatures).

[0019] Purpose of the invention

[0020] Therefore, it may be desirable to provide a cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning items that at least largely avoids the drawbacks of known, mentioned types of apparatus and methods. This cleaning apparatus and method should in particular be able to be used to clean items containing combustion residues, such as personal protective equipment or, for example, pots and pans. Summary of the Invention

[0021] This objective is achieved through the features of the independent patent claims, by means of cleaning apparatus and methods for cleaning articles to be cleaned, and by means of the use of the proposed cleaning apparatus for cleaning personal protective equipment. Advantageous improvements, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, as are well known to those skilled in the art, are presented in the dependent claims.

[0022] In the following text, the terms “have,” “possess,” “include,” or “contain,” or any grammatical variations thereof, are used in a non-exclusive manner. Correspondingly, these terms can refer to either the absence of any other feature besides the one described by the term, or the presence of one or more other features. For example, the statements “A has B,” “A possesses B,” “A includes B,” or “A contains B” can refer to either the absence of any element other than B in A (i.e., A consists only of B), or the presence of one or more other elements besides B in A, such as the presence of element C, elements C and D, or even other elements.

[0023] It should also be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," and their grammatical variations, are typically used only once when they are used in connection with one or more elements or features and are intended to indicate that the element or feature may be provided once or multiple times, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. When the feature or element is subsequently mentioned again, the corresponding terms "at least one" or "one or more" are generally no longer used, but this does not limit the possibility that the feature or element may be provided once or multiple times.

[0024] Furthermore, the terms “preferred,” “especially,” “for example,” or similar terms are used in conjunction with optional features in the following text, but do not thereby limit alternative implementations. Therefore, features introduced by these terms are optional features and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, especially the scope of the independent claim. Thus, as is well known to those skilled in the art, the invention can also be practiced using other design schemes. Similarly, features introduced by “in embodiments of the invention” or “in examples of the invention” are understood as optional features, but are not intended to limit alternative design schemes or the scope of the independent claim. Moreover, these introductory expressions are intended to leave unrestricted all possibilities of combining the features thus introduced with other features (whether optional or non-optional).

[0025] In the first aspect, a cleaning device for cleaning items to be cleaned is proposed. As mentioned above, the items to be cleaned can be, in particular, at least one item of personal protective equipment, especially at least one item including at least one respirator. However, as mentioned above, other types of items to be cleaned are alternatively or additionally conceivable, such as one or more items used for delivering, cooking, or storing food. In particular, it can generally involve items to be cleaned that are covered with combustion residue (especially soot).

[0026] As used herein, the term "cleaning equipment" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. It can (without limitation) specifically refer to equipment configured to separate or at least partially remove adhering, macroscopic or microscopic contaminants from items to be cleaned. Additionally, a disinfection effect may optionally be achieved. As will be described in detail below, cleaning equipment can be designed in particular as a washing machine, for example, a washing machine designed for personal protective equipment and / or a dishwashing machine, such as a container washing machine. Here, the washing machine can be designed in particular as a single-chamber washing machine, especially a commercial single-chamber washing machine with a multi-loop washing system, a front-door washing machine, or also a top-mounted washing machine, especially a push-pull washing machine. Water-changing dishwashing machines, especially so-called single-loop systems, can also be used. Other types of cleaning equipment can be used instead of or added to dishwashing machines.

[0027] The cleaning equipment includes at least one cleaning chamber for permanently receiving at least one cleaning basket and the items to be cleaned contained therein. As used herein, the term "cleaning chamber" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may (without limitation) specifically refer to a completely or partially enclosed chamber, i.e., a cleaning process can be performed completely or partially within the chamber. The cleaning chamber may, in particular, have at least one housing that completely or partially surrounds the cleaning chamber. A single cleaning chamber may be provided, or in principle, multiple cleaning chambers may be provided (e.g., sequentially). The cleaning chamber may, for example, have at least one opening for loading the items to be cleaned into the cleaning chamber. This may, for example, be an opening with flaps arranged on the front and / or top surface of the cleaning chamber. Alternatively, a top cover for closing the cleaning chamber is also feasible (e.g., in the case of so-called top-cover dishwashing machines or push-type washers). Other design options are also feasible in principle.

[0028] The cleaning chamber is configured to receive the at least one cleaning basket. For this purpose, the cleaning chamber may, for example, have at least one basket receiving element (e.g., at least one guide rail into which the cleaning basket can be pushed), and / or at least one holding device, or a conveying device by means of which the basket can be conveyed into the cleaning chamber, conveyed out of the cleaning chamber, or conveyed through the cleaning chamber.

[0029] As described above, the cleaning equipment is designed such that the cleaning basket is received in a fixed position during cleaning, particularly during the application of at least one cleaning fluid, which will be described in detail later. This specifically means that the cleaning basket is held in or fixed to the at least one basket receiver during cleaning and is not moved during cleaning, for example, by pivoting, rotating, lifting, immersing, or similar means. Therefore, the cleaning basket can, for example, remain fixed in position during the application of at least one cleaning fluid. Thus, the cleaning chamber can, for example, be designed as a separate chamber in which the at least one cleaning basket (e.g., received in a basket receiver) is received, particularly by correspondingly designing the basket receiver to keep the cleaning basket stationary and fixed in position during cleaning, especially during the application of the cleaning fluid, i.e., preventing the cleaning basket from moving by translation and / or rotation. In particular, for example, the bottom of the cleaning basket can be kept in a horizontal position during cleaning. However, this does not preclude the manual or automatic removal of the cleaning basket from the cleaning chamber or corresponding cleaning area after application, where subsequent cleaning and / or other types of processing can then be performed, for example.

[0030] The cleaning equipment also includes at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned. As used herein, the term "application device" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may (without limitation) specifically refer to any device, in principle, by means of which a cleaning fluid, in particular at least one cleaning liquid, can be applied to the items to be cleaned inside the cleaning chamber.

[0031] Here, "application" can generally be understood as bringing the item to be cleaned into any contact with the cleaning fluid. This can be done in particular by direct application, such as by spraying, dripping, jetting, or a combination of the aforementioned and / or other direct application methods, wherein the pre-cleaning fluid directly impacts the item to be cleaned (e.g., a respirator and / or breathing mask), preferably with a pulse greater than zero. Application can be performed in a simple operation, in which the cleaning fluid is applied to the item to be cleaned only once. However, alternatively or additionally, cleaning can also be performed in a cyclic operation, in which the cleaning fluid is applied to the item to be cleaned multiple times. Such cyclic operations and circulation loops are known, for example, from conventional washing machines or scrubbing machines. Cyclic operation can be performed, for example, by means of at least one circulation pump, by means of which the cleaning fluid that has been applied to the item to be cleaned is collected and reused for application. A combination of simple operation and cyclic operation is also possible, in which at least one washing fluid is applied in a cyclic operation in at least one washing step, followed by at least one rewashing step (also referred to as a rinsing step), in which at least one rewashing fluid is applied in a simple operation.

[0032] The application device may include, in particular, at least one nozzle system, such as at least one nozzle arm, for example, at least one rotatably supported nozzle arm. For example, in a cleaning chamber, at least one nozzle arm, such as a rotatably supported nozzle arm, may be arranged below the item to be cleaned, and at least one nozzle arm, such as a rotatably supported nozzle arm, may be arranged above the item to be cleaned. Here, for example, separate nozzle arms for washing fluid and re-washing fluid can be provided above and below the item to be cleaned, respectively. Furthermore, the application device may include at least one pump and at least one guiding system for supplying cleaning fluid to the nozzle system. Here, for example, a nozzle system and a guiding system (for applying cleaning fluid from at least one tank, such as at least one washing tank) and at least one pump (e.g., at least one washing pump) can be provided. Furthermore, at least one nozzle system and at least one guiding system (for applying cleaning fluid from at least one optional re-washing tank, which is preferably designed to be independent of the washing tank and in which re-washing liquid can be prepared independently of the washing tank) and at least one re-washing pump can be provided. By incorporating at least one rewash tank designed independently of the washing tank, the cleaning equipment can be positioned for commercial purposes in a way that saves preheating time during the washing step by separately preparing the rewash fluid. For example, the rewash tank can be designed as a water heater and / or can have a direct-flow heater.

[0033] As used herein, the term "cleaning fluid" is a broad term and should be given the common and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can (without limitation) specifically refer to fluids, and especially liquids, that can exert a cleaning effect upon contact with an object to be cleaned. In particular, cleaning fluids can include aqueous liquids, such as water and / or water with one or more additives, such as one or more concentrated detergents and / or rinsing agents and / or disinfectants. Cleaning equipment can be configured to use a single cleaning fluid or a combination of multiple cleaning fluids. If multiple cleaning fluids are provided, different cleaning fluids can be applied to the object to be cleaned simultaneously or sequentially. Thus, for example, the object to be cleaned can be held statically in a cleaning chamber and different cleaning fluids can be applied to it sequentially. Alternatively, different types of cleaning fluids can be applied to the item to be cleaned sequentially at different locations (e.g., in different chambers), for example, by first holding the item in a fixed position in a first cleaning chamber, where at least one first cleaning fluid is applied, and then subsequently introducing the item into at least one second cleaning chamber and holding it in a fixed position there, where at least one second cleaning fluid is applied. Without limiting other feasible designs, reference will be made below to an automated procedure in which the item to be cleaned is held statically in a single cleaning chamber during the cleaning process.

[0034] Cleaning equipment can, for example, be configured to perform at least one cleaning procedure by means of an application device (e.g., performed in a manner controlled by at least one controller of the cleaning equipment), in which items to be cleaned, such as at least one cleaning basket containing the items to be cleaned, are statically received in a cleaning chamber and cleaning fluid is applied sequentially in one or more cleaning steps of the cleaning procedure in different ways, for example, at least one washing fluid is applied first in at least one washing step and at least one rinsing fluid is applied in at least one rinsing step. Furthermore, at least one drying step can be provided, which can be performed, for example, in the cleaning chamber with the items to be cleaned statically received, after the application of cleaning fluid. Correspondingly, the cleaning equipment can be particularly designed as a programmable device.

[0035] As used herein, the term "tank" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may (without limitation) specifically refer to a container that is fully or partially closed, configured to receive at least one cleaning fluid, particularly at least one liquid. As mentioned above, the at least one tank may, for example, have at least one washing tank. The at least one washing tank may, for example, be arranged at the bottom of the cleaning chamber or may also be in fluid connection with the bottom of the cleaning chamber, thereby allowing the cleaning fluid to flow from the cleaning chamber into the washing tank. The washing tank may, for example, be separated from the cleaning chamber by at least one sieve. In addition to the at least one washing tank, the at least one tank may also include one or more other tanks. Thus, the at least one tank may, for example, have at least one re-cleaning tank, which may, for example, be designed to be independent of the washing tank. In the at least one re-cleaning tank, for example, at least one re-cleaning fluid (also referred to as a flushing fluid) may be prepared, for example, and its temperature adjusted, while the washing step still takes place in the cleaning chamber. The re-cleaning tank may, for example, include at least one water heater.

[0036] The cleaning equipment also includes multiple movable cleaning elements. These movable cleaning elements are arranged to move relative to the cleaning basket and are configured to remain within the cleaning chamber during the application of cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned. Furthermore, the movable cleaning elements are configured to move by means of the cleaning fluid, particularly by the flow of the cleaning fluid, and wherein the movable cleaning elements are configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the items to be cleaned during the application of cleaning fluid.

[0037] As used herein, the term "cleaning element" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can (without limitation) specifically refer to, in principle, any device configured to act mechanically on an object to be cleaned to achieve a mechanical cleaning effect. This device can be made entirely or partially of one or more solid materials (i.e., one or more solid-phase materials), preferably flexible or deformable. The term "cleaning element," as used herein, can be understood accordingly. It should also be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can (without limitation) specifically refer to a cleaning element in the sense defined above, i.e., a cleaning element designed to be at least partially movable. Here, mobility can be designed to allow the cleaning element to move freely within the cleaning chamber. This can be, for example, in the following manner: the movable cleaning element, or at least a portion thereof, comprises multiple solids, such as spheres or other spatial bodies, which can move freely within the cleaning chamber, yet do not leave the cleaning chamber. Alternatively or additionally, however, the movable cleaning element can also be designed to have only at least partial mobility. This partial mobility can be achieved, for example, by having the movable cleaning element secured in at least one part, for example, to at least one wall of the cleaning chamber and / or to a cleaning basket, and designed in at least another part to be movable, such that at least the movable part can mechanically act on the items to be cleaned in the cleaning basket. This can be achieved, for example, by designing the cleaning element as a strip, bar, or line, which is secured, for example, at one end or in part, for example, to at least one wall of the cleaning chamber (especially in the area at the top of the cleaning chamber) and / or to a cleaning basket, and which has at least one freely movable part or freely movable section, for example, a freely movable end that can mechanically act on the items to be cleaned. Therefore, the length of the movable cleaning elements can be set such that these movable cleaning elements extend from the fastened portion at least to the cleaning basket, particularly to the bottom of the cleaning basket or near the bottom above it, thereby allowing these movable cleaning elements to mechanically act on the items to be cleaned through their movable portions. Thus, mobility can specifically refer to the mobility of at least one free portion of the cleaning element, for example, related to at least one free end that can move freely relative to the cleaning basket.

[0038] As described above, the movable cleaning element is configured to remain within the cleaning chamber during the application of cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned. This can be achieved, in particular, by securing the movable cleaning element at least partially to the cleaning chamber and / or to the cleaning basket. Alternatively, however, the movable cleaning element can also (as described above) move freely within the cleaning chamber. In this case, for example, at least one sieve and / or at least one grid can be used to ensure that these cleaning elements do not leave the cleaning chamber. Alternatively, the size of the cleaning element can be determined such that these cleaning elements cannot leave the cleaning chamber, for example, by designing the cleaning element to be larger than the outflow cross-section. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the cleaning element can be received in at least one retaining element inside the cleaning chamber, such as at least one basket, such that the cleaning basket itself can also be designed as a closed basket in which the cleaning element is received and in which these cleaning elements can move freely.

[0039] As described above, the movable cleaning elements are configured for movement by means of a cleaning fluid, particularly by the flow of the cleaning fluid. Therefore, the movable cleaning elements can be arranged, in particular, in the area of ​​drips or jets of the cleaning fluid overflowing from the application device, particularly one or more nozzles of the application device, and the mass and / or density of these movable cleaning elements, as well as their mobility, can be designed such that the drips or jets of the application device cause the movable cleaning elements to move completely or partially. Thus, the application device can be configured, for example, in such a way that the pump power and / or the orientation of the nozzle elements of the application device are configured to correspondingly apply pulses caused by the drips and / or jets of the cleaning fluid to the movable cleaning elements. If the movable cleaning elements are designed, for example, entirely or partially, as strips or lines (which, for example, extend vertically due to their gravity in a stationary state), then the application device can be configured, for example, such that the drips and / or jets of the cleaning fluid impact the movable cleaning elements in a direction of movement transverse to the vertical direction, wherein these movable cleaning elements acquire pulses with at least one pulse component in the horizontal direction and thereby move.

[0040] As described above, the movable cleaning element is configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the item to be cleaned during the application of a cleaning fluid. This can be achieved, in particular, by having at least one portion of the movable cleaning element, which is pulsed by the cleaning fluid during application, act on the item to be cleaned in the cleaning basket. This movable portion can, in particular (as described above), be a movable end of the movable cleaning element, for example, a free end. However, alternatively or additionally, the movable cleaning element can, as described above, move as a whole and act on the item to be cleaned as a whole. Typically, mechanical action, such as scrubbing, can be used to remove, in particular, combustion residues such as soot, from at least one surface of the item to be cleaned. Other types of dirt (e.g., grease and / or adhering starch) can also be removed from this at least one surface by mechanical action.

[0041] As described above, the movable cleaning element can be made at least partially of at least one flexible material. A flexible material can be understood here as a deformable material, particularly one that can reversibly deform under its own weight. This flexible material can possess elastic properties or also plastic properties. Combinations of multiple materials are also possible.

[0042] The movable cleaning element may be made at least partially of a flexible material. Textile materials may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of: woven fabrics; knitted fabrics; crocheted fabrics; woven mesh; sewn fabrics; nonwoven fabrics; felt. Natural materials or plastics may be used here. Textile materials may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of: natural fibers; cotton; textile plastic materials, especially textile plastic materials selected from the group consisting of: polyester; polyamide, especially... However, in principle, other materials that can be processed into textiles can also be used.

[0043] Instead of or in addition to using at least one textile material, the movable cleaning element may be made at least partially of at least one plastic material. This textile-plastic material may in particular be at least one elastomer material. However, alternatively or additionally, other plastic materials, especially thermoplastic materials, may also be used. The at least one plastic material may, for example, be used as a strip material. However, alternatively or additionally, the at least one plastic material may also be used, for example, in the form of threads, which can then be processed into textile-plastic materials, which in turn may be used, for example, as belts. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one plastic material may also include, for example, at least one foam material, for example, a foam material designed as a belt. The at least one plastic material may in particular be selected from the group consisting of: ethylene-propylene-diene rubber; polyurethane.

[0044] As described above, the movable cleaning element, or at least a portion thereof, can in particular have at least partially an elongated flexible configuration. Here, the flexible configuration can particularly be a strip and / or a line configuration. Other elongated designs are also conceivable.

[0045] The movable cleaning element, or at least a portion thereof, may in particular have at least one shape selected from the group consisting of: spherical; linear; and strip-shaped. For example, a spherical shape may be chosen when it pertains to a cleaning element that can move freely within a cleaning chamber. Thus, for example, spheres made of textile materials and / or lightweight materials (e.g., lightweight plastics) may be used, or hollow spheres covered with a textile surface may also be used. The movable cleaning element may typically have at least one textile surface that can apply a scrubbing action to a soiled surface.

[0046] Furthermore, as described above, instead of or attached to cleaning elements that are completely free to move within or partially within the cleaning chamber, movable cleaning elements may also be provided, which are secured within the cleaning chamber and / or to the cleaning basket. These movable cleaning elements may, in particular, be at least partially secured within the cleaning chamber. Therefore, the movable cleaning elements may, for example, be directly or indirectly connected, at least partially, to the top of the cleaning chamber and / or other parts of the cleaning chamber wall, and / or may be connected to the part of the cleaning chamber wall, such as the top of the cleaning chamber. Thus, the belt and / or line may, for example, hang directly downwards from the top of the cleaning chamber or from the part (e.g., a panel) connected to the top or other parts of the cleaning chamber. In this case, the belt and / or line may, for example, extend vertically through the cleaning chamber.

[0047] As described above, the movable cleaning element may each have at least one freely movable portion (especially a free end), which is configured to act mechanically on the item to be cleaned. The freely movable portion may rest on the item to be cleaned, particularly due to its own weight.

[0048] Furthermore, the cleaning equipment may have at least one release device configured to mechanically separate the freely movable portion of a movable cleaning element from the item to be cleaned. As used herein, the term "release device" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may (without limitation) specifically refer to any device, especially a mechanical device, configured to mechanically act on a movable cleaning element or at least a portion thereof in a manner that separates it from the item to be cleaned. This can be particularly advantageous during the loading or unloading of the cleaning equipment, thereby preventing the movable cleaning element, for example, from interfering with the introduction of the cleaning basket into the cleaning chamber and / or the extraction of the cleaning basket from the cleaning chamber. Alternatively or additionally, however, the release device may also achieve separation during one or more procedural steps of the cleaning process, such as during a rewash step and / or during a drying step. In this way, for example, cleaning fluid adhering to the movable cleaning element from a previous procedural step can be prevented from interfering with the currently proceeding procedural step (e.g., drying).

[0049] The release device may in particular have at least one slider. This slider may be configured to push the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element away from the item to be cleaned. However, other release devices, such as at least one pivot arm or similar mechanical device, may be used instead of or attached to at least one slider.

[0050] As described above, a single release device can be provided. However, multiple release devices or multiple components of such release devices are also feasible. Therefore, the release device can in particular have at least two sub-devices configured to move freely movable portions of movable cleaning elements away from the item to be cleaned in at least two different directions. These at least two components may, for example, include two or more sliders that can move in different directions. Thus, bundles of movable cleaning elements (e.g., belts or cables) can be pushed in a single direction by the release device, or they can be divided into bundles that can be pushed in different directions. These bundles can be divided, for example, in a manner similar to opening a curtain composed of multiple parts, in which case the curtain may be composed of belts and / or cables.

[0051] The release device can be configured to automatically mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element from the item to be cleaned when the cleaning chamber is open. When the cleaning chamber is closed, the release device can be configured to terminate the separation and, in particular, to allow for renewed contact between the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element and the item to be cleaned.

[0052] As described above, the movable cleaning element can be directly or indirectly fastened to at least one part of the cleaning equipment, particularly to at least one part of the cleaning chamber. The movable cleaning element can be at least partially fastened to at least one movable element of the cleaning equipment. The cleaning equipment can be configured to move the movable cleaning element by means of a movable element, in addition to movement by a cleaning fluid. Therefore, the movable element may, for example, have at least one oscillating plate at the top of the cleaning chamber, such as a vibrating plate or a plate moved by at least one eccentric wheel or other oscillating actuator. In this way, the freely movable portion (especially the free end) of the movable cleaning element can, for example, move back and forth on the item to be cleaned to provide additional abrasion.

[0053] Furthermore, in the cleaning device of the present invention configured specifically for personal protective equipment, the aforementioned protection of the air delivery element can be implemented during the application of the cleaning fluid to ensure that the cleaning fluid cannot penetrate the interior of the air delivery element. Therefore, the cleaning device can particularly have at least one pressure application device with at least one pressure port, wherein the pressure port can be connected to at least one air delivery element of the item to be cleaned, particularly a respirator. The pressure application device can be configured to apply compressed gas to the air delivery element during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned.

[0054] As used herein, the term "pressure application device" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can (without limitation) specifically refer to a device configured to provide fluids, especially gases, at pressures higher than normal, for example, at least 1.5 bar, preferably at least 2 bar. Similarly, as used herein, the term "pressure interface" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term can (without limitation) specifically refer to any interface of the pressure application device, by which fluids, especially gases, can be supplied to the pressure application device. This pressure interface can be located inside and / or accessible from inside the cleanroom. Multiple pressure interfaces are also contemplated.

[0055] The pressure interface can be connected to at least one air guide element of an item to be cleaned in a cleanroom (especially personal protective equipment and especially respirators), preferably to multiple air guide elements of multiple items to be cleaned. As used herein, the term "air guide element" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can (without limitation) specifically refer to an element that is supplied with at least one gas when using the item to be cleaned, especially when using personal protective equipment (e.g., respirators) supplied with breathing gas by a human or animal user, or capable of otherwise coming into contact with breathing gas. In particular, this may refer to breathing regulators and / or breathing hoses with at least one valve. Air guide elements can be, in particular, elements having at least one hose, and / or at least one other type of gas guiding device with an internal space, and / or at least one valve, which generally should not be supplied with cleaning fluid. The air delivery element can, for example, relate to areas of the respirator where a pressure higher than normal is applied during operation, such as the air delivery area of ​​the respirator at a pressure higher than normal (e.g., higher than 1.5 bar, especially higher than 2 bar). It can particularly relate to the breathing gas delivery area of ​​a breathing regulator, which can be a single-stage or multi-stage regulator in principle. Here, the air delivery element can be, for example, a component of a first-stage and / or second-stage and / or possibly other-stage breathing regulator, or it can be the entire breathing regulator. The air delivery element can, for example, be the area between the hose interface and the valve of the breathing regulator, or the air delivery element may include such an area.

[0056] The connection between the pressure port and the air guide element can generally be understood as a fluid connection (especially a gas connection), so that fluid under a certain pressure from the applying device can be transferred to the air guide element, especially its internal space, preferably without fluid loss and / or pressure loss. Furthermore, the connection between the pressure port and the air guide element may optionally include at least one mechanical connection, especially a form-fit and / or force-fit connection, so that the air guide element can be securely connected to the pressure port. Here, for example, it may be a threaded connection and / or a clamping connection and / or a tensioning connection, for which the pressure port and / or the air guide element may each have at least one mechanical connecting element. In particular, this may involve plug-in connectors in the form of quick-connect fittings and / or threaded portions, such as connectors for breathing interfaces of respirators. Quick-connect couplings are generally understood here as airtight and / or liquid-tight plug-in connections between two flow-guiding structural elements, which can be mechanically secured by mechanical fasteners (especially without the use of threaded locking elements) that need to be formed and released in a simple and quick manner, for example by at least one tension hook and / or snap-on locking element and / or threaded locking element (e.g., a lock nut). Connections can be established, in particular, without the use of tools. Pressure interfaces can, in particular, include multiple adapters designed, either fixedly or interchangeably, for connection to different types of air-guiding elements. With the aid of these adapters, multiple different air-guiding elements (e.g., different types and / or different models of air-guiding elements from different products or manufacturers) can be connected directly or indirectly to the pressure interface. For example, adapter assemblies with multiple different couplings (e.g., quick-connect coupling couplings) and / or threads can be provided to connect different air-guiding elements. Here, for example, different quick-connect systems and / or standard threads may be involved. However, alternatively or additionally, the at least one pressure port may also be designed as a pressure port for a specific type of connecting element or a pressure port for a specific type of air guiding element. Particularly advantageously, the pressure port and / or connection system are configured such that, on the one hand, gas cannot escape when no connecting mating element is present, and on the other hand, other media (e.g., cleaning fluids) cannot enter the air guiding element under such conditions.

[0057] As described above, the pressure application device can be configured to apply compressed gas to the air guide element. Here, compressed gas can generally be understood as any gas having a pressure higher than normal pressure, i.e., a pressure higher than 1 bar. More specifically, pressures higher than 1.5 bar, more particularly higher than 2 bar, and particularly preferably higher than 3 bar are involved. The pressure application device can be configured to apply pressure with compressed gas in such a way that all cleaning fluid is kept away from the internal space of the compressed gas being applied to the air guide element. The compressed gas can be, for example, compressed air or other gaseous media with overpressure, such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, etc. Inert gases can be used as the compressed gas in particular. The cleaning equipment can be designed such that pressure is applied by the pressure application device during at least one cleaning process, for example, during at least one step of a single-step or multi-step cleaning procedure. The application of compressed gas can be performed simultaneously with the application of cleaning fluid to the air guide element. Correspondingly, the pressure port can be arranged inside the cleaning chamber, thereby allowing the simultaneous application of compressed gas and cleaning fluid.

[0058] The pressure application device may in particular have at least one element selected from the group consisting of:

[0059] - At least one external pressure interface for connection to an external compressed gas source outside the cleaning equipment, particularly to a compressed gas pipeline and / or compressed gas cylinder on site;

[0060] - Compressed gas sources integrated into cleaning equipment, especially integrated compressed gas cylinders and / or integrated compressors.

[0061] As described above, the pressure interface may in particular include at least one form-fitting and / or force-fitting connecting element. This connecting element may be configured to establish a mechanical connection with a gas-conducting element in addition to an airtight connection. This at least one connecting element may in particular have at least one quick-connect and / or at least one threaded portion. Typically, the pressure interface may be wholly or partially integrated into the cleaning basket. Typically, the cleaning basket may in particular have at least one compressed gas connection that is detachable from the cleaning equipment. The pressure application device may in particular have at least one valve, especially at least one valve that can be operated by the controller of the cleaning equipment.

[0062] As described above, the cleaning chamber is configured to receive at least one cleaning basket, in which items to be cleaned are held. The cleaning basket can be reversibly introduced into the cleaning chamber. The cleaning basket itself can be an integral part of the cleaning equipment or can be considered separately from the cleaning equipment. Thus, the cleaning equipment can, for example, be designed as a kit together with one or more cleaning baskets. However, the at least one cleaning basket can in particular be designed as an integral part of the cleaning equipment, wherein the at least one cleaning basket can be reversibly introduced into the cleaning chamber, for example, independently of the rest of the cleaning equipment.

[0063] As used herein, the term "cleaning basket" (also referred to as "washing basket") is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can (without limitation) specifically refer to a load-bearing receiving device, i.e., a receiving device in which items to be cleaned can be received, which can be introduced into cleaning equipment, such as a washing machine, and subsequently removed from the cleaning equipment in a cleaned state. Alternatively, the cleaning basket can also be fixedly mounted in the cleaning equipment, for example. Thus, the cleaning basket can be, for example, secured to a guide rail system of the cleaning equipment and pushed into the cleaning chamber of the cleaning equipment by this guide rail system and pulled out of the cleaning chamber again after cleaning. Furthermore, the cleaning basket can also be used to temporarily store items to be cleaned during this period. The cleaning basket can in particular have multiple openings allowing liquid to drip downwards. Therefore, the cleaning basket typically, for example, can have at least one basket frame. The cleaning basket can in particular have a generally square configuration, wherein the bottom of the basket can, for example, have a square or generally rectangular plane and a support surface for placing the cleaning basket on a flat working surface. Optionally, one or more basket walls may extend upward from the bottom of the basket, for example having raised edges and also optionally having other elements (such as handles).

[0064] During the application of cleaning fluid, the item to be cleaned, or at least a portion thereof, can be secured in the cleaning basket. Correspondingly, the cleaning basket may have at least one securing element for securing the item to be cleaned within it. This at least one securing element may, for example, include at least one pressure port (as described above), by which at least one air guide element of the item to be cleaned can be secured to the cleaning basket. However, other types of securing elements are also feasible in principle. Thus, the at least one securing element may, for example, include at least one element capable of securing the item to be cleaned to the cleaning basket by force and / or form engagement, such as at least one clamp, at least one threaded portion, at least one securing strap, at least one hook, or other securing element. Furthermore, at least one closed parts basket may be provided on or within the cleaning basket for collecting small parts to be cleaned, wherein one or more additional parts of the item to be cleaned may be received in the cleaning basket, and particularly secured outside the parts basket.

[0065] As described above, the cleaning basket can be a component of the cleaning equipment, or it can be considered separately, or it can be a component of a kit or set of equipment including the cleaning equipment and at least one cleaning basket. The at least one movable cleaning element can be (as described above) fully or partially fastened to the cleaning equipment, for example, fastened inside the cavity of the cleaning equipment. However, alternatively or additionally, the at least one movable cleaning element can also be fully or partially fastened to the at least one cleaning basket.

[0066] Correspondingly, in another aspect, a cleaning basket is proposed for use in the cleaning apparatus of the present invention, which is, for example, a cleaning apparatus according to one or more of the above-described designs and / or according to one or more embodiments described in more detail below.

[0067] The cleaning basket has at least one basket frame for receiving items to be cleaned. As used herein, the term "basket frame" is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may (without limitation) specifically refer to the mechanical base structure of the cleaning basket, i.e., the base structure may particularly have a basket bottom and additionally one or more basket walls extending particularly from the basket bottom. The basket frame may be made wholly or partially of at least one material selected from the group consisting of plastics and metals. The basket frame may, for example, be wholly or partially designed as a wire frame, such as a wire mesh. Alternatively or additionally, the basket frame may also be wholly or partially designed as a plastic frame (e.g., a plastic frame with multiple openings), such as a plastic mesh. Generally, the basket frame may, for example, have one or more openings to allow cleaning fluid to flow out from the interior of the basket frame. The basket frame may, for example, have a square base structure, such as having a rectangular support surface.

[0068] Furthermore, the proposed cleaning basket has multiple movable cleaning elements. The movable cleaning elements are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket and configured to move by means of a cleaning fluid, especially by the flow of the cleaning fluid, and to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the item to be cleaned during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned.

[0069] The at least one cleaning basket can be designed to be an openable cleaning basket, for example, an upward-opening cleaning basket. In this way, the items to be cleaned can be freely placed into the cleaning basket from above, or, for example, secured there.

[0070] The basket rack may (as described above) have at least one basket bottom, particularly an open or closed basket bottom. Furthermore, the basket rack may have at least one cleaning element carrier disposed above the basket bottom, wherein the item to be cleaned can be received between the basket bottom and the cleaning element carrier. Each movable cleaning element may be secured to the cleaning element carrier by means of one end and also has at least one freely movable portion, particularly a free end, wherein when the cleaning basket is introduced into the cleaning chamber, the freely movable portion may extend towards the item to be cleaned due to its gravity. The term "cleaning element carrier" as used herein is a broad term and should be given the common and frequently used meaning understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may (without limitation) specifically refer to, in principle, any sub-device of the basket rack configured to hold a movable cleaning element. The cleaning element carrier may, in particular, include at least one arm, which may be rigid or foldable; and the at least one arm extends at least partially above the bottom of the basket, such that the item to be cleaned can be received between the arm and the bottom of the basket; and movable cleaning elements extend from the at least one arm toward the item to be cleaned. The movable cleaning elements may, for example, hang down from the arm toward the item to be cleaned in the form of a strap or line. Here, cleaning fluid can move these movable cleaning elements. For loading and / or unloading the cleaning basket, the arm may, for example, be foldable. The cleaning element carrier may typically include, for example, a foldable or retractable cleaning element carrier or at least one foldable or retractable cleaning element carrier.

[0071] As described above, the cleaning device can be configured to apply pressure to at least one air-conducting element of the item to be cleaned during the application of a cleaning fluid. Correspondingly, the cleaning basket can be designed to have at least one pressure port. The pressure port can be connected to at least one air-conducting element of the item to be cleaned, particularly a respirator. Compressed gas can be applied to the at least one air-conducting element of the item to be cleaned during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid. For further feasible designs, particularly those concerning the pressure port and / or compressed gas, refer to the above description of the cleaning device.

[0072] In another aspect, a method for cleaning an item to be cleaned is proposed. This method includes the steps listed below. These steps can be performed, in particular, in the order mentioned. Furthermore, individual or multiple steps of this method can be performed simultaneously, concurrently in time, or repeatedly. The method may include additional steps not mentioned.

[0073] The method includes the following steps:

[0074] i. To provide at least one cleaning device according to the invention, particularly a cleaning device according to one or more of the above-described designs and / or according to one or more of the embodiments described in more detail below;

[0075] ii. Place the items to be cleaned in at least one cleaning basket;

[0076] iii. Introducing the cleaning basket into at least one cleaning chamber of the cleaning equipment; and

[0077] iv. Apply at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning room.

[0078] Here, during application, in step iv., the movable cleaning element is mechanically applied to the item to be cleaned. The movable cleaning element is moved using a cleaning fluid. During application, the movable cleaning element remains within the cleaning chamber.

[0079] For feasible design schemes and definitions of the method, please refer to the above description of cleaning equipment and cleaning baskets.

[0080] This method can be performed in particular by applying the substance in step iv. by spraying, dripping, spraying, or a combination of the aforementioned and / or other direct application methods. This can be achieved, for example, by designing and / or manipulating the application device accordingly.

[0081] As described above, step i may in particular include securing the items to be cleaned in the cleaning basket. This can be done, for example, by using one or more securing elements.

[0082] Furthermore, as mentioned above, this method can be used in particular for cleaning personal protective equipment. Correspondingly, the items to be cleaned may include personal protective equipment, especially respirators, which include, for example, a respiratory protective mask and / or one or more air-conducting elements (e.g., a compressed air respirator).

[0083] In another aspect, corresponding uses for cleaning equipment are also proposed, such as uses of cleaning equipment according to one or more of the above-described designs and / or according to one or more embodiments described in more detail below. The proposed uses of the cleaning equipment relate to its use for cleaning personal protective equipment, particularly respirators.

[0084] The proposed cleaning equipment, baskets, methods, and applications offer numerous advantages over conventional equipment and methods of similar types. In particular, they largely avoid the disadvantages of conventional equipment and methods described above. Therefore, they particularly (at least partially) address the technical challenges of removing combustion residues, which typically require only difficult methods using common cleaning fluids (e.g., water), washing pressure, and corresponding chemical additives. Furthermore, they prevent temperature increases, for example, from exceeding 45°C, through mechanical action. The additional mechanical action also significantly reduces electrostatic adhesion effects by utilizing movable cleaning elements for mechanical abrasion. Thus, the cleaning process can generally be improved through the direct mechanical force applied during cleaning, resulting in better removal of contaminants.

[0085] The technical implementation of cleaning equipment and cleaning baskets can be carried out in a simple manner. Therefore, in addition to the washing system already used as a movable cleaning element, spherical, linear, or strip-shaped solid components can be introduced into the cleaning chamber and / or cleaning basket to mechanically handle the items to be cleaned, especially to mechanically scrub away dirt.

[0086] Therefore, movable cleaning elements in the form of spheres can be used, for example. These spheres can be introduced into the cleaning chamber, for example. The spheres can be lightweight and, for example, only have a size that allows them to be held above the lower nozzle system in the cleaning chamber and / or cleaning basket. For example, the pressure and / or jet of the cleaning equipment can move the spheres within the cleaning chamber, for example, by swinging them around, where mechanical action on the items to be cleaned can be achieved, and in particular, the abrasion of dirt can be achieved from the items to be cleaned. The spheres can, for example, have a textile cover, such as a cotton cover. The textile cover can be particularly abrasive and has little or no abrasion. Furthermore, the textile cover can hold dirt. Instead of a textile cover, the spheres can also be made entirely of textile materials.

[0087] Instead of or attached to a sphere, a movable cleaning element can, in particular, (as described above) have threads. Thus, a movable cleaning element, for example, multiple individual flexible threads hanging downwards, can be placed in the upper area of ​​the cleaning chamber. These threads can be positioned on and / or hanging beside the item to be cleaned. Through the pulsed delivery of cleaning fluid, for example by applying washing pressure and / or jets from the device, these threads can abrade the surface of the item to be cleaned, and in addition to the fluid cleaning action, these threads can also remove dirt. Materials for the threads include, for example, natural fibers and / or cotton, and / or plastic materials such as polyester or polyamide, for example... And / or ethylene-propylene-diene rubber. However, other materials may also be used in principle.

[0088] Instead of or attached to the use of spheres and / or lines, movable cleaning elements may further include, in particular (as described above), belts. Thus, movable cleaning elements, such as multiple individual belts hanging downwards, can be placed in the upper region of the cleaning chamber. These belts can be positioned on and / or hanging beside the items to be cleaned. Through the pulsed transmission of cleaning fluid, for example by applying washing pressure and / or jetting from the device, these belts can abrade the surface of the items to be cleaned, and in addition to the fluid cleaning action, they can also remove dirt. As for the material of the belts, textile and / or plastic materials are generally considered. For example, belts made of at least one flexible plastic material can be used, which can be in the form of textiles and / or strips. This at least one plastic material can be selected, in particular, from the group consisting of: polyester; polyamide, for example... Ethylene-propylene-diene rubber; polyurethane. Alternatively or additionally, abrasive felt, especially abrasive felt without abrasive components, may also be used.

[0089] As described above, the cleaning equipment may have at least one release device that simplifies loading and / or unloading the cleaning chamber and prevents, for example, interference with movable cleaning elements during the loading and / or unloading process. Alternatively or additionally, undesirable effects may be avoided by using movable cleaning elements during specific procedural steps (especially drying). The at least one release device may, in particular, have at least one slider, which may be arranged, for example, at the top of the cleaning chamber. This at least one slider may, for example, press the movable cleaning element outward against the side wall of the cleaning chamber upon corresponding actuation (e.g., when the cleaning chamber is opened), and thus, for example, make it easier to access the cleaning chamber and / or the items to be cleaned for loading and / or unloading.

[0090] As described above, the movable cleaning elements can be arranged entirely or partially within the cleaning chamber and, for example, can be secured to the cleaning chamber. Alternatively or additionally, however, the movable cleaning elements can also be secured entirely or partially to at least one cleaning basket. Therefore, these movable cleaning elements can also be arranged entirely or partially at the face shield holder and / or receiving part for personal protective equipment, for example. Furthermore, the at least one cleaning basket can also (as described above) have at least one cleaning element carrier, which can be designed to be fixed or foldable, for example. Foldable securing can improve the accessibility of the cleaning basket, such as the face shield holder, and thus can also improve, for example, the assembly of the items to be cleaned in the cleaning basket, such as improving the assembly of at least one respiratory protective face shield in the face shield holder. The cleaning element carrier can be designed so that it can be secured separately in the cleaning chamber and / or can be removed from the cleaning chamber (especially in a simple manner).

[0091] As described above, the movable cleaning element is moved by means of the cleaning fluid itself. However, it is also conceivable that at least one additional mechanism can also be used to move the movable cleaning element. Thus, for example, it is conceivable that at least one movable element, in the form of an additional drive device, particularly at least one vibrating plate or at least one suspension device, can move in different directions, for example, to the right or left and / or forward and backward within the cleaning chamber. The movable cleaning element can also be moved in this way.

[0092] In summary, the following implementation method is proposed without limiting other feasible design options:

[0093] Embodiment 1: A cleaning apparatus for cleaning items to be cleaned, particularly personal protective equipment and especially respirators, the cleaning apparatus comprising: at least one cleaning chamber for receiving at least one cleaning basket and the items to be cleaned therein in a fixed position; at least one application device for applying at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned; and a plurality of movable cleaning elements, wherein the movable cleaning elements are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket, wherein the movable cleaning elements are configured to remain in the cleaning chamber during the application of the cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned, wherein the movable cleaning elements are configured to be moved by means of the cleaning fluid, particularly by the flow of the cleaning fluid, and wherein the movable cleaning elements are configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the items to be cleaned during the application of the cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned.

[0094] Embodiment 2: The cleaning device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the movable cleaning element is at least partially made of a flexible material.

[0095] Implementation Method 3: The cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the movable cleaning element is at least partially made of textile material, especially textile material selected from the group consisting of: woven fabric; knitted fabric; crocheted fabric; woven mesh; sewn fabric; nonwoven fabric; felt.

[0096] Embodiment 4: The cleaning device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the textile material has at least one material selected from the group consisting of: natural fibers, cotton; textile plastic materials, especially textile plastic materials selected from the group consisting of: polyester; polyamide.

[0097] Embodiment 5: The cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the movable cleaning element is at least partially made of at least one plastic material, especially at least one elastomer material, particularly plastic materials selected from the group consisting of: ethylene-propylene-diene rubber; polyurethane.

[0098] Embodiment 6: The cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the movable cleaning element has at least partially an elongated flexible configuration, particularly a configuration with strips and / or lines.

[0099] Embodiment 7: The cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the movable cleaning element has at least one shape selected from the group consisting of: spherical; linear; strip-shaped.

[0100] Embodiment 8: The cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the movable cleaning element is at least partially secured in the cleaning chamber.

[0101] Embodiment 9: According to the cleaning device of the previous embodiment, the movable cleaning element has at least one freely movable portion, especially a free end, which is configured to act mechanically on the item to be cleaned.

[0102] Implementation 10: The cleaning device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the freely movable part is positioned on the item to be cleaned due to gravity.

[0103] Embodiment 11: A cleaning device according to one of the foregoing three embodiments, wherein the cleaning device has at least one release device, wherein the release device is configured to mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element from the item to be cleaned.

[0104] Embodiment 12: The cleaning device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the release device has at least one slider, wherein the slider is configured to push the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element away from the item to be cleaned.

[0105] Embodiment 13: A cleaning device according to one of the foregoing two embodiments, wherein the release device has at least two sub-devices, wherein the sub-devices are configured to move a freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element away from the item to be cleaned in at least two different directions.

[0106] Embodiment 14: A cleaning device according to one of the foregoing three embodiments, wherein the release device is configured to: automatically mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element from the item to be cleaned when the cleaning chamber is opened; and enable contact between the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element and the item to be cleaned to be restored when the cleaning chamber is closed.

[0107] Embodiment 15: A cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the movable cleaning element is at least partially fastened to at least one movable element of the cleaning device, wherein the cleaning device is configured to move the movable cleaning element by means of the movable element in addition to the cleaning fluid.

[0108] Embodiment 16: The cleaning device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the movable element has at least one swing plate at the top of the cleaning chamber.

[0109] Embodiment 17: The cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments further includes at least one pressure application device with at least one pressure interface, wherein the pressure interface is connectable to at least one air delivery element of the item to be cleaned, in particular the respirator, wherein the pressure application device is configured to apply compressed gas to the air delivery element during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned.

[0110] Implementation 18: The cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments further includes at least one cleaning basket.

[0111] Embodiment 19: The cleaning device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the cleaning basket has at least one fixing element for fixing the item to be cleaned in the cleaning basket.

[0112] Embodiment 20: A cleaning basket for use in a cleaning apparatus according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the cleaning basket has at least one basket frame for receiving the item to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning basket also has a plurality of movable cleaning elements, wherein the movable cleaning elements are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket, and wherein the movable cleaning elements are configured to be moved by means of the cleaning fluid, in particular by the flow of the cleaning fluid, and wherein the movable cleaning elements are configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the item to be cleaned during the application of the cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned.

[0113] Embodiment 21: A cleaning basket according to the previous embodiment, wherein the basket frame has at least one basket bottom, particularly an open or closed basket bottom, wherein the basket frame also has at least one cleaning element carrier disposed above the basket bottom, wherein the item to be cleaned can be received between the basket bottom and the cleaning element carrier, wherein each of the movable cleaning elements is fastened to the cleaning element carrier at one end, and wherein the movable cleaning element also has at least one freely movable portion, particularly a free end, wherein when the cleaning basket is introduced into the cleaning chamber, the freely movable portion can extend toward the item to be cleaned due to its gravity.

[0114] Implementation 22: The cleaning basket according to the previous implementation, wherein the cleaning element carrier is a foldable or retractable cleaning element carrier.

[0115] Embodiment 23: The cleaning basket according to one of the foregoing embodiments of the cleaning basket further includes at least one pressure port, wherein the pressure port is capable of being connected to at least one air guide element of the item to be cleaned, in particular a respirator, wherein compressed gas can be applied to the at least one air guide element of the item to be cleaned during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid to the item to be cleaned via the pressure port.

[0116] Implementation Method 24: A method for cleaning items to be cleaned, the method comprising the following steps:

[0117] i. Provide at least one cleaning device according to one of the foregoing embodiments of the relevant cleaning device;

[0118] ii. Place the items to be cleaned into the at least one cleaning basket;

[0119] iii. Introducing the cleaning basket into at least one cleaning chamber of the cleaning equipment; and

[0120] iv. Apply the at least one cleaning fluid to the items to be cleaned in the cleaning room.

[0121] During the application, in step iv. the movable cleaning element is mechanically applied to the item to be cleaned, wherein the movable cleaning element is moved by means of the cleaning fluid, and wherein the movable cleaning element remains in the cleaning chamber during the application.

[0122] Implementation Method 25: The method according to the previous embodiment, wherein in step iv. the application is performed by spraying, dripping, spraying, or a combination of the mentioned and / or other direct application methods.

[0123] Implementation 26: The method according to one of the foregoing embodiments of the relevant method, wherein step i. includes securing the item to be cleaned in a cleaning basket.

[0124] Implementation 27: The method according to one of the foregoing embodiments of the relevant method, wherein the item to be cleaned includes personal protective equipment, especially a respirator.

[0125] Implementation 28: The cleaning equipment according to one of the foregoing embodiments of the cleaning equipment is used for cleaning personal protective equipment, especially respirators. Attached Figure Description

[0126] Other details and features derive from the following description of the embodiments, and in particular in conjunction with the dependent claims. Here, the corresponding features can be implemented individually or in combination with each other. The invention is not limited to these embodiments. These embodiments are schematically illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the various drawings denote the same or functionally identical elements or elements whose functions correspond to each other.

[0127] In the attached diagram:

[0128] Figure 1 An embodiment of a cleaning apparatus for cleaning items to be cleaned and an embodiment of a cleaning basket are shown in a side view;

[0129] Figure 2 An embodiment of a cleaning basket for use in a cleaning device is shown in a front view;

[0130] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The different states of an embodiment of the cleaning equipment are shown in a top view;

[0131] Figure 5 An embodiment of the cleaning equipment is shown in a front view. Figure 4 The state shown in the document; and

[0132] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a method for cleaning items to be cleaned. Detailed Implementation

[0133] exist Figure 1 The image shows an embodiment of a cleaning device 110 for cleaning items 112 to be cleaned and an embodiment of a cleaning basket 114 from one side in a schematic cross-sectional view. The cleaning device 110 for cleaning items 112 to be cleaned, especially personal protective equipment and especially respirators, includes at least one cleaning chamber 116 for receiving at least one cleaning basket 114 in a fixed position, wherein the items 112 to be cleaned are received.

[0134] The cleaning device 110 also includes at least one application device 118 for applying at least one cleaning fluid 120 to the items to be cleaned. In particular, the application device 118 may further include one or more elements, such as a strip or multiple pipes, one or more pumps, and / or one or more tanks. Thus, for example, in the embodiment shown herein, the cleaning device 110 is particularly designed as a commercial single-chamber washer with a multi-loop cleaning system, for example, a front-door washer with a door 122. Therefore, the application device 118 may, for example, have a washing nozzle system 124, such as having one or more nozzle arms 126 received above and / or below the respirator 112 and preferably supported in a rotatable and / or pivotable manner, the one or more nozzle arms having multiple nozzles. Alternatively or additionally, the application device 118 may also include a rewash nozzle system 128, such as having one or more rewash nozzle arms 130, the one or more rewash nozzle arms being preferably supported in a rotatable and / or pivotable manner and they may, for example, be arranged above and / or below the respirator 112. However, other layout methods and / or design schemes are also feasible in principle.

[0135] Furthermore, the application device 118 may include, for example, a wash guiding system 132 for applying cleaning fluid 120, for example, from the wash tank 134, to the wash nozzle system 124. The wash tank 134 may be located, for example, in the bottom region of the cleaning chamber 116 and / or may be otherwise connected to the cleaning chamber 116 such that the cleaning fluid 120, after being applied to the item 112 to be cleaned, can flow back and / or drip back into the wash tank 134. The application device 118 may also include one or more circulation pumps 136, particularly wash pumps, for applying the cleaning fluid 120 from the wash tank 134 to the wash nozzle system 132. Additionally, one or more heating elements 138 may be provided to heat the cleaning fluid 120 in the wash tank 134 and / or other tanks. The wash tank 134 may then be emptied into the outlet 144, for example, via a drain pipe 140 and optionally via a drain pump 142.

[0136] The application device 118 may also include a re-cleaning guide system 146, by which additional cleaning fluid 120, such as re-cleaning liquid 148, can be applied to the re-cleaning nozzle system 128. Re-cleaning liquid 148 can be provided, for example, from a separate re-cleaning tank 150, and is preferably heated by one or more heating elements 138. The application device 118 may include one or more re-cleaning pumps 152 for applying the re-cleaning nozzle system 128.

[0137] The cleaning device 110 may include at least one controller 153. The controller 153 may be configured, for example, to control a cleaning process, such as a cleaning procedure, in which the items 112 to be cleaned, such as at least one cleaning basket 114 containing the items 112, are statically received in a cleaning chamber 116 and are sequentially and differently applied cleaning fluid 120 in one or more cleaning steps of the cleaning procedure, for example, first applied in at least one washing step and then applied in at least one rinsing step with the at least one rewashing liquid 148. Furthermore, at least one drying step may be provided, which may be performed, for example, in the cleaning chamber 116 after the application of cleaning fluid 120, with the items 112 statically received.

[0138] The cleaning device 110 also includes a plurality of movable cleaning elements 154, wherein the movable cleaning elements 154 are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket 114. The movable cleaning elements 154 are particularly configured to be held in the cleaning chamber 116 during the application of cleaning fluid 120 to the items 112 to be cleaned. Furthermore, the movable cleaning elements 154 are configured to be moved by means of the cleaning fluid 120, particularly by the flow of the cleaning fluid 120, and wherein the movable cleaning elements 154 are configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the items 112 to be cleaned during the application of cleaning fluid 120 to the items 112.

[0139] The mobility of the movable cleaning element 154 can be designed, for example, to allow the cleaning element 154 to move freely within the cleaning chamber 116. This can be, for example, in the following situation: the movable cleaning element 154, or at least a portion thereof, comprises a plurality of solids, such as spheres 156 (as in...). Figure 2 (As exemplarily shown), they can move freely within the cleaning chamber 116, however, they will not leave the cleaning chamber 116. Alternatively or additionally, however, the movable cleaning element 154 can also be designed to have only at least partial mobility. This partial mobility is exemplarily shown in… Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment demonstrates, and can be implemented, for example, by fastening the movable cleaning element 154 at least partially, for example, at its first end 158. The cleaning element 154 can be fastened, for example, particularly at its first end 158, to at least one wall of the cleaning chamber 116 and / or to the cleaning basket 114. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning element 154 can be fastened at its first end 158 to a suspension device 160 mounted in the cleaning chamber 116, for example, to a grille. Figure 1As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the suspension device 160 can be used, particularly when the components, which are rotatably and / or pivotally supported inside the cleaning chamber 116, are arranged above the cleaning basket 114. In the embodiments shown here, this is, for example, the nozzle arm 126 of the application device 118 and the re-cleaning nozzle arm 130.

[0140] In particular, regardless of whether the movable cleaning elements 154 are fastened to the wall of the cleaning chamber 116, the suspension device, and / or the cleaning basket via a first end 158, these movable cleaning elements are preferably designed to be movable in such a way that at least the movable portion can mechanically act on the items 112 to be cleaned in the cleaning basket 114. This can be achieved, for example, by designing the cleaning elements 154 as belts 162, strips, or lines 164 having at least one freely movable portion or segment, such as a freely movable end 166, which can mechanically act on the items 112 to be cleaned. Therefore, the length of the movable cleaning elements 154, especially the belt 162 and / or the line 164, can be set such that it extends at least from the fastened portion (especially from the first end 158) to the cleaning basket 114, especially to the bottom 168 of the cleaning basket 114 or near the bottom, so that these movable cleaning elements 154 can mechanically act on the item 112 to be cleaned with their freely movable portions, such as the freely movable ends 166. The freely movable portions, especially the freely movable ends 166, can, for example, rest on the item to be cleaned due to gravity. The movable cleaning elements 154 can, in particular, be made at least partially of a flexible material, such as a textile material, so that the mechanical cleaning action includes, for example, abrasion with the textile material.

[0141] Furthermore, the cleaning device 110 may, for example, have a release device 170. The release device 170 may, for example, be configured to mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 from the item 112 to be cleaned. The release device 170 may, in particular, have at least one slider 172, which is configured, for example, to push the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 away from the item 112 to be cleaned. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the possible directions of movement of slider 172 are exemplarily shown by arrows. Thus, slider 172 may, for example, at least partially push away the movable cleaning element 154 in a manner that facilitates loading and unloading of the cleaning device 110, particularly facilitating the introduction and / or removal of the cleaning basket 114 from the cleaning device 110.

[0142] The removal of the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 can be performed automatically by the release device 170, for example, by means of a controller 153. In particular, the release device 170 can be configured, for example, to automatically mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 from the item 112 to be cleaned when the cleaning chamber 116 is open; and to enable contact between the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 and the item 112 to be cleaned to be restored when the cleaning chamber 116 is closed.

[0143] Feasible design options for the release device are exemplified in Figures 3 to 5 The embodiment of the cleaning device 110 shown is illustrated. In particular, the release device 170 of the cleaning device 110 may, for example, have at least two sub-devices 174, wherein these sub-devices 174 are preferably configured to move the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 away from the item 112 to be cleaned in at least two different directions. The release device 170 may be configured to automatically mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 from the item 112 to be cleaned when the cleaning chamber 116 is open. Furthermore, the release device 170 may be configured to automatically re-establish contact between the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 and the item 112 to be cleaned when the cleaning chamber 116 is closed.

[0144] exist Figure 3 The figure exemplarily shows a top view of the cleaning device 110 in a closed state. Here, the release device 170 can be in a first position (e.g., together with the at least two sub-devices 174), in which contact can be made (not shown in the figure) between the item 112 to be cleaned and the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154. Figure 4 An exemplary top view of the cleaning device 110 in an open or open state is shown, and Figure 5 Showing the position in a front view Figure 4 The cleaning device 110 is shown in its open state. Here, the release device 170 can, in particular (e.g., together with the at least two sub-devices 174), be in a second position in which the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element 154 is mechanically separated from the item 112 to be cleaned. Figures 3 to 5Exemplary embodiments and arrangements of the movable cleaning elements 154 are shown. On the left, multiple cleaning elements 154 designed as lines 164 are shown, while on the right, multiple cleaning elements 154 designed as bands 162 are shown. Other designs and arrangements are possible. In particular, the cleaning device 110 may contain only one design shape of the cleaning elements 154, especially only spheres 156, only bands 162, or only lines 164. Alternatively, these embodiments of the cleaning elements 154 can be arbitrarily combined. Thus, for example, cleaning elements 154 designed as spheres 156 can be arranged together with cleaning elements 154 designed as bands 162 and / or lines in the cleaning device 110. Furthermore, cleaning elements 154 designed as lines 164 and / or bands 162 can be arranged arbitrarily. In particular, the cleaning elements 154, especially lines 164 and / or bands 162, can be arranged regularly, for example, in a regular pattern in the cleaning device 110. Alternatively or additionally, the arrangement of the cleaning element 154 (especially the wire 164 and / or the tape 162) may be adapted to, for example, the arrangement of the item 112 to be cleaned.

[0145] Furthermore, the movable cleaning element 154 can be at least partially fastened to at least one movable element 176 of the cleaning device 116. Here, the cleaning device 110 can be configured to move the movable cleaning element 154 by means of the movable element 176, in addition to movement by the cleaning fluid 120. The movable element 176 may, for example, have at least one swing plate 178 on the top of the cleaning chamber 116. Therefore, (in Figure 1 The suspension device 160 (exemplarily shown) may have at least one movable element 176. In particular, the suspension device may be designed as, for example, a swing plate 178.

[0146] As exemplarily in Figure 1As shown, the cleaning device 110 may also include at least one pressure application device 180 with at least one pressure port, such as an external pressure port 182. The pressure port 182 may be connected, for example, to at least one air guide element 184 of the item 112 to be cleaned. Here, the pressure application device 180 may be configured to apply compressed gas to the air guide element 184 during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid 120 to the item 112, for example, via a compressed gas conduit 186 and a coupling 188. Here, the compressed gas conduit 186 may, for example, have at least one valve 190. The coupling 188 may be configured to connect the pressure application device 180 of the cleaning device 110 to another pressure port 192. The pressure port 192 may be arranged in the cleaning basket 114. The pressure port 192 may, for example, be part of the cleaning basket 114. Since the cleaning device 110 may include the cleaning basket 114, the pressure port 192 is preferably also part of the cleaning device 110. In addition, the cleaning basket 114 may preferably have at least one fixing element 194 for securing the item 112 to be cleaned in the cleaning basket 114.

[0147] exist Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of a cleaning basket 114 for use in a cleaning apparatus 110 is shown, and the embodiment of the cleaning basket includes at least one basket rack 196 for receiving items 112 to be cleaned. The cleaning basket 114 may also have a plurality of movable cleaning elements 154, wherein the movable cleaning elements 154 are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket 114, and wherein the movable cleaning elements 154 are configured to be moved by means of a cleaning fluid 120, in particular by the flow of the cleaning fluid 120, and wherein the movable cleaning elements 154 are configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the items 112 to be cleaned during the application of the cleaning fluid 120 to the items 112.

[0148] The basket rack 196 may have at least one basket bottom 198, for example, an open or closed basket bottom 198. Furthermore, the basket rack may have at least one cleaning element carrier 200 disposed above the basket bottom 198, wherein the item 112 to be cleaned is preferably received between the basket bottom 198 and the cleaning element carrier 200. In particular, movable cleaning elements 154 may each be fastened to the cleaning element carrier 200 at one end (e.g., a first end 158). Furthermore, the movable cleaning element 154 may have at least one freely movable portion, particularly including at least a freely movable end 166, wherein when the cleaning basket 114 is introduced into the cleaning chamber 116, the freely movable portion may extend towards the item 112 to be cleaned due to its gravity.

[0149] The cleaning element carrier 200 may be, for example, a foldable or retractable cleaning element carrier 200. The cleaning element carrier 200 may be foldable or retractable to facilitate loading and unloading of the cleaning item 112 from the cleaning basket 114, for example, making it easier to secure the cleaning item 112 to the fixing element 194. In particular, the cleaning element carrier 200 may be connected to the bottom 198 of the basket, for example, via at least one connector 202. Therefore, the cleaning element carrier 200 (as in...) Figure 2 As exemplarily shown in the illustrated embodiments, it can be, for example, two-piece and connected to the basket bottom 198 by a hinge 204 and is foldable.

[0150] Furthermore, the cleaning basket 114 may (as described above) include at least one pressure port 192, wherein the pressure port 192 may be connected to at least one air guide element 184 of the item 112 to be cleaned. In particular, compressed gas may be applied to the air guide element 184 of the item 112 to be cleaned during the application of the at least one cleaning fluid 120 to the item 112 to be cleaned via the pressure port 192.

[0151] Figure 6 A flowchart is shown for a method of cleaning the item 112 to be cleaned, wherein the method includes the following steps:

[0152] Step i. (indicated by reference numeral 206 in the attached drawing) Provide at least one cleaning device 110;

[0153] Step ii. (indicated by reference numeral 208 in the attached drawing) Take the item 112 to be cleaned into the at least one cleaning basket 114;

[0154] Step iii. (indicated by reference numeral 210) introduce the cleaning basket 114 into the at least one cleaning chamber 116 of the cleaning device 110; and

[0155] Step iv. (indicated by reference numeral 212) Apply the at least one cleaning fluid 120 to the items 112 to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber 116.

[0156] In particular, during the application, in step iv., the movable cleaning element 154 is mechanically applied to the item 112 to be cleaned, wherein the movable cleaning element 154 is moved by means of the cleaning fluid 120, and wherein the movable cleaning element 154 is held in the cleaning chamber 116 during the application. Here, in step iv., the application can be carried out in particular by spraying, dripping, spraying, or a combination of the aforementioned and / or other direct application methods. Furthermore, step i. may, for example, include securing the item 112 to be cleaned in the cleaning basket 114.

[0157] List of reference numerals

[0158] 110 Cleaning Equipment

[0159] 112 Items to be cleaned

[0160] 114 Cleaning Basket

[0161] 116 Cleaning Room

[0162] 118 Application equipment

[0163] 120 Cleaning Fluid

[0164] 122 doors

[0165] 124 Washing Nozzle System 126 Nozzle Arm

[0166] 128 Re-cleaning Nozzle System 130 Re-clean the nozzle arm 132 Washing Guidance System 134 Washing Tank

[0167] 136 Circulation Pump

[0168] 138 Heating element

[0169] 140 Discharge Pipeline

[0170] 142 Discharge Pump

[0171] 144 Outlet

[0172] 146 Clean the boot system again 148. Re-rinse with liquid.

[0173] 150 rewash tank

[0174] 152 Re-cleaning pump

[0175] 153 Controller

[0176] 154 Cleaning Components

[0177] 156 sphere

[0178] 158 First end

[0179] 160 Suspension System

[0180] 162 belt

[0181] Line 164 166 Freely movable end 168 Bottom

[0182] 170 Release Device

[0183] 172 sliders

[0184] 174 sub-devices

[0185] 176 Movable components

[0186] 178 Swing Board

[0187] 180 Pressure Application Equipment

[0188] 182 Pressure Interface

[0189] 184 Air guiding element

[0190] 186 Compressed Gas Pipeline

[0191] 188 Connector

[0192] 190 valve

[0193] 192 Pressure Interface

[0194] 194 Fixed Components

[0195] 196 basketball hoop

[0196] 198 Basket bottom

[0197] 200 Cleaning Component Carrier

[0198] 202 connector

[0199] 204 Hinges 206 Step i.

[0200] 208 Step ii.

[0201] 210 Step iii.

[0202] 212 Step iv.

Claims

1. A cleaning apparatus (110) for cleaning an item (112) to be cleaned, the cleaning apparatus comprising: at least one cleaning chamber (116) for positionally receiving at least one cleaning basket (114) and the item (112) to be cleaned therein; further comprising at least one application device (118) for applying at least one cleaning fluid (120) to the item (112); and further comprising a plurality of movable cleaning elements (154), wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket (114), wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are configured to be retained in the cleaning chamber (116) during the application of the cleaning fluid (120) to the item (112), wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are configured to be used by means of The cleaning device (110) is moved by the cleaning fluid (120), and the movable cleaning element (154) is configured to apply mechanical cleaning action to the item to be cleaned (112) during the application of the cleaning fluid (120) to the item to be cleaned (112), wherein the movable cleaning element (154) is at least partially secured in the cleaning chamber (116), wherein each movable cleaning element (154) has at least one freely movable portion, the at least one freely movable portion being configured to act mechanically on the item to be cleaned (112), and wherein the cleaning device (110) has at least one release device (170), wherein the release device (170) is configured to mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element (154) from the item to be cleaned (112).

2. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1, wherein the movable cleaning element (154) is at least partially made of a flexible material.

3. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the movable cleaning element (154) is at least partially made of a textile material, wherein the textile material has at least one material selected from the group consisting of: natural fibers; cotton; textile plastic materials.

4. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the movable cleaning element (154) has at least one shape selected from the group consisting of: spherical; linear; strip-shaped.

5. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the release device (170) has at least one slider (172) configured to push a freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element (154) away from the item to be cleaned (112).

6. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the release device (170) has at least two sub-devices (174), wherein the sub-devices (174) are configured to move a freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element (154) away from the item to be cleaned (112) in at least two different directions.

7. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the release device (170) is configured to: automatically mechanically separate the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element (154) from the item to be cleaned (112) when the cleaning chamber (116) is opened; and enable contact between the freely movable portion of the movable cleaning element (154) and the item to be cleaned (112) to be restored when the cleaning chamber (116) is closed.

8. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the movable cleaning element (154) is at least partially fastened to at least one movable element (176) of the cleaning device (110), wherein the cleaning device (110) is configured to move the movable cleaning element (154) by means of the movable element (176) in addition to by means of the cleaning fluid (120).

9. The cleaning equipment (110) according to claim 1, wherein the item to be cleaned (112) is personal protective equipment.

10. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 1, wherein the item to be cleaned (112) is a respirator.

11. A cleaning basket (114) for use in a cleaning apparatus (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cleaning basket (114) has at least one basket frame (196) for receiving the item (112) to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning basket (114) further has a plurality of movable cleaning elements (154), wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning basket (114), and wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are configured to be moved by means of the cleaning fluid (120), and wherein the movable cleaning elements (154) are configured to apply a mechanical cleaning action to the item (112) to be cleaned during the application of the cleaning fluid (120) to the item (112).

12. The cleaning basket (114) according to claim 11, wherein the basket frame (196) has at least one basket bottom (198), wherein the basket frame (196) further has at least one cleaning element carrier (200) disposed above the basket bottom (198), wherein the item to be cleaned (112) can be received between the basket bottom (198) and the cleaning element carrier (200), wherein each of the movable cleaning elements (154) is fastened to the cleaning element carrier (200) at one end, and wherein the movable cleaning element (154) further has at least one freely movable portion, wherein when the cleaning basket (114) is introduced into the cleaning chamber (116), the freely movable portion can extend toward the item to be cleaned (112) due to its gravity.

13. The cleaning basket (114) according to claim 12, wherein the cleaning element carrier (200) is a foldable or retractable cleaning element carrier (200).

14. A method for cleaning an item (112) to be cleaned, the method comprising the following steps: i. Provide at least one cleaning device (110) according to claim 1 or 2; ii. The item to be cleaned (112) is placed in the at least one cleaning basket (114); iii. Introduce the cleaning basket (114) into at least one cleaning chamber (116) of the cleaning equipment (110); as well as iv. Apply the at least one cleaning fluid (120) to the items (112) to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber (116), During the application, in step iv. the movable cleaning element (154) is mechanically applied to the item to be cleaned (112), wherein the movable cleaning element (154) is moved by means of the cleaning fluid (120), and wherein the movable cleaning element (154) is held in the cleaning chamber (116) during the application.

15. The cleaning equipment (110) according to claim 14, wherein the item to be cleaned (112) is personal protective equipment.

16. The cleaning device (110) according to claim 14, wherein the item to be cleaned (112) is a respirator.

17. The cleaning equipment (110) according to claim 1 or 2 is used for cleaning personal protective equipment.

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