Floor cleaning device with improved maneuverability, in particular a brush vacuum floor cleaning device

Abstract

This invention relates to a floor cleaning device (10), particularly a scrubbing-type suction floor cleaning device (10), comprising: - a floor unit (12) associated with a forward direction (V) parallel to the floor surface to be cleaned; - tools (18, 20) associated with the floor unit (12) and in contact with the floor surface in an operational state, wherein the tools (18, 20) are movable relative to the floor surface by means of an actuator; - a guide member (14) for guiding the floor cleaning device (10); and - a connector assembly (16) for hingedly connecting the floor unit (12) and the guide member (14); wherein the floor cleaning device ( 10) For generating a propulsive action relative to the floor surface in the propulsion direction (V); wherein the joint assembly (16) is configured to have a first pivot joint having a first pivot range having a defined or virtual first pivot axis (A), and the first pivot joint allows the guide member (14) to pivot relative to the floor unit (12) about the first pivot range, in particular about the first pivot axis (A); wherein the first pivot axis (A) is located in a first pivot axis plane (E), which is perpendicular to the floor surface and contains a direction vector defining the propulsion direction (V). In this floor cleaning device, it is specified that in a motorized operating state, the guide member (14) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (A) relative to the floor unit (12), wherein the guide member (14) is fixed or temporarily supported relative to the floor unit (12) or relative to the floor in the plane (E) of the first pivot axis, wherein due to the pivotal movement of the guide member (14) about the first pivot axis (A), the propulsive action under the support of the guide member (14) in the plane (E) of the pivot axis results in a rotational torque on the floor unit (12) on the floor surface that improves the motorization of the floor cleaning device (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a floor cleaning device, particularly a brush-type vacuum floor cleaning device, such as a wet floor cleaning device. The floor cleaning device includes: - Floor unit, which is associated with an advance direction (V) parallel to the floor surface to be cleaned; - A tool associated with a floor unit and in contact with the floor surface in an operational state, wherein the tool is movable relative to the floor surface by means of an actuator; -Guiding components for guiding the floor cleaning device; and - Connector assembly, which connects the floor unit and guide member to each other in a hinged manner; The floor cleaning device is preferably used to generate a propulsive action relative to the floor surface in a propulsive direction (V); wherein the connector assembly is configured to have a first pivot joint having a first pivot range having a defined or virtual first pivot axis, and the first pivot joint allows the guide member to pivot relative to the floor unit about the first pivot range, particularly about the first pivot axis; wherein the first pivot axis is located in a first pivot axis plane, which is perpendicular to the floor surface and contains a direction vector defining the propulsive direction. Background Technology

[0002] Cleaning devices with different complex structures are known from the prior art.

[0003] Document DE 10 2009 028 944 A1 is cited as the closest prior art to this invention. It describes a floor cleaning device having the features of the preamble according to claim 1. Although the basic design of this device has proven its value in practice due to its good operability, further development is necessary.

[0004] German utility model specification DE 20 2013 012 528 U9 describes a floor cleaning device. Compared to DE10 2009 028 944 A1, the floor cleaning device features an improved cleaning and propulsion function due to the advantageous arrangement of two cleaning tools with suction strips.

[0005] Furthermore, for example, document EP 2 832 277 B1 shows a further development based on the subject matter of DE 10 2009 028 944A1, and provides improved propulsion performance and a suction actuator integrated into the guide member.

[0006] Document DE 10 2016 208 895 A1 describes a floor cleaning device having a space-saving arrangement of drive components in a floor unit.

[0007] The granted European patent EP 3 031 378 B1 describes a floor cleaning device that provides a method for switching the device between an operating location and a space-saving transport or storage location as needed.

[0008] As further prior art, reference documents US 2013 / 0133146 A1, US 2012 / 0246848A1 and US2,818,312, all of which have a cantilever fork arrangement that can pivot about an axis extending laterally to the propulsion direction.

[0009] Despite selective further development and improved integration of components, all these devices have proven difficult to operate, at least under certain conditions. A significant drawback is that the mounting of energy supply elements, clean water tanks, waste water tanks, and various operating, control, and drive components on the guide member makes the guide member itself larger and heavier in some situations. This makes the floor unit more compact but also more difficult to operate, especially during extended periods. Even though further development of the floor unit has improved maneuverability to some extent compared to existing technologies, depending on the operating conditions, existing technologies still require the operator to bear some weight of the guide member during operation. In the long run, this can lead to operator fatigue. Furthermore, the maneuverability of the floor cleaning device is also negatively impacted. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a floor cleaning device of the aforementioned type that makes extensive use of the advantages known in the prior art while taking into account the need for improved mobility.

[0011] This objective is achieved by a floor cleaning device of the aforementioned type. In this floor cleaning device, in a motorized operating state, a guide member is pivotable relative to the floor unit about a first pivot axis, wherein the guide member can be fixed or temporarily supported relative to the floor unit or the floor in the plane of the first pivot axis. Due to the pivoting motion of the guide member about the first pivot axis, the propulsive action and / or the operator's manipulating action, under the support of the guide member in the plane of the pivot axis, result in a rotational torque on the floor unit on the floor surface. This rotational torque improves the maneuverability of the floor cleaning device and preferably acts about a rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the floor surface. This manipulating action can be, for example, a slight, non-central counterforce applied by the operator to the guide member to counteract the propulsive action, which, together with the propulsive action on the floor unit, generates a rotational torque on the floor unit on the floor surface.

[0012] When referring to the first pivot range, it is mentioned that it has a defined or virtual first pivot axis. In the context of this document, this means that the pivot range can be configured as a joint type with a permanent pivot axis, or designed in such a way that the pivot axis changes over time during pivoting motion, for example, when pivoting about a spring element that is elastic over a large range (e.g., an elastomer, helical, or leaf spring), or when pivoting by means of an arcuate guide. However, it is important, however, that pivoting about the first pivot range is guided, and that the fixed pivot axis and / or the virtual pivot axis (i.e., the pivot axis currently valid in their respective pivoting phases but changing in the pivot angle about the pivot range) lie in the plane of the first pivot axis.

[0013] The floor cleaning device according to the invention is characterized in that, in the motorized operation state, the guide member is fixed, temporarily supported, or permanently supported relative to the floor unit in a manner explained in detail below, i.e., fully or at least partially supported, such that the weight of the guide member acts on the floor unit and ultimately on the floor to be cleaned through the support. Therefore, when the guide member of the operating device according to the invention is tilted backward (i.e., toward the operator) and thus supported in the motorized operation state, or when the operating device has been positioned backward with its handle portion due to the machine's structure, the operator no longer needs to bear the weight of the guide member in the same manner as in the prior art. An improvement has been achieved if the proportion of the weight normally borne by the operator can be reduced through support. Supporting only a portion of the weight is already an advantage. Depending on where the proportion of the weight borne by the support engages with the floor unit, in the motorized operation state, the complete or at least partial introduction of the weight of the guide member into the floor unit through support provides an additional advantage in terms of the motorized performance of the floor cleaning device according to the invention, depending on the location where the portion of the weight borne by the support acts on the floor unit. The inclination of the guide member relative to the direction of propulsion is, for example, related to the longitudinal guide member axis, which is substantially orthogonal to the first pivot axis in the longitudinal direction of the guide member and extends through the line of action of the guide member determined by the operator through the engagement point on the guide member, so as to operate the floor cleaning device, for example, using a handle.

[0014] In any case, when the guide member pivots relative to the floor unit about the first pivot axis of the joint assembly in the floor unit and / or when the operator makes maneuvering movements on the guide member, the weight of the guide member is at least partially supported on the floor unit, resulting in a non-central, i.e., laterally displaced weight distribution. This itself generates a rotational torque in the floor unit, preferably about a rotation axis perpendicular to the floor surface. This rotational torque has a positive effect on the maneuverability of the floor cleaning device according to the invention, and is enhanced by the fact that a propulsive force is generated in the floor unit, preferably by at least one rotating tool or by means of other components, which also supports steering movements due to the non-central weight distribution. Due to the pivoting guide member, the force acting along the guide member is transmitted to the floor unit in the form of vertical and horizontal force components. While the vertical force component can be wholly or partially introduced into the floor unit through the joint assembly and supports, the horizontal force component functions as a lateral force in the floor unit. This makes the propulsive force more pronounced in certain areas of the floor unit, especially in areas related to the operator's counter-maneuvering movements, as explained in detail below, thus having a positive effect on maneuverability. Therefore, the present invention improves the mobility of the entire floor cleaning device by introducing the gravity of the guide member into the floor unit through a pivoting guide member with a lateral component, together with the maneuvering motion that transmits propulsion. However, the advantages of the present invention also come into play, albeit to a lesser extent, when at least one rotating tool does not generate propulsion.

[0015] According to embodiments of the floor cleaning device of the present invention, in the motorized operation state, the first pivot axis and the direction vector defining the propulsion direction form an acute angle ranging from 5° to 85°, preferably from 15° to 45°. This means that the first pivot axis is oriented such that, in the cleaning operation state and / or motorized operation state of the floor cleaning device, the guide member tilts backward toward the operator. Thus, the weight of the guide member can generate a tilting moment transverse to the first pivot axis in the floor unit through the fixing and / or support of the pivot joint, and the tilting moment can be at least partially counteracted by a reaction moment. This is especially true if the handle portion is located in the vertical projection onto the floor surface behind the floor unit.

[0016] According to embodiments of the invention, the first pivot joint is permanently fixed to the floor unit about a first pivot axis, or can be locked in a predetermined position that determines the orientation of the first longitudinal axis and the direction vector of the propulsion direction under a defined maneuvering operation state. In other words, the first pivot joint can be permanently locked in a certain orientation or locked in a predetermined position about the first pivot axis. The transfer of the gravity support of the guide member to the floor unit can then be achieved by permanently or temporarily locking it. Furthermore, this results in the aforementioned advantageous maneuverability.

[0017] As an alternative to permanent or predetermined locking, embodiments of the present invention specify that the connector assembly is configured to have a second pivot joint having a second pivot range having a defined or virtual second pivot axis, and the second pivot joint allows the guide member to pivot about the floor unit relative to the second pivot range. The second pivot axis is substantially parallel to the floor surface and transverse to the first pivot axis. Floor cleaning devices with two pivot joints, wherein the pivot axes of the pivot joints extend laterally, and especially orthogonally, to each other, are known in the prior art. For example, document DE 10 2009 028 944A1 shows such a connector assembly with dual pivot joints. While such connector assemblies improve maneuverability compared to previous prior art, their disadvantage is that, as mentioned above, a considerable proportion of the weight of the guide member must be borne by the operator in the maneuvering operation state. The present invention specifies that, by means of support, the connector assembly can enter this state, overcoming this disadvantage, permanently or temporarily as needed. The support of the connector assembly can be implemented directly on or within the connector assembly. Alternatively, the joint assembly can be supported by attaching a support device to the guide member, in which case the support device is supported on the floor unit or directly on the floor. According to another alternative, the joint assembly can be supported by attaching a support device to the floor unit, in which case the support device supports the guide member.

[0018] In this context, advantageous embodiments of the invention provide a connector assembly functionally associated with a support device that, in a motorized operating state, at least temporarily and / or at least partially in a motorized operating state, supports the connector assembly relative to the floor unit via a first pivot joint. For example, such a support device may be manually attached, electrically connected, or electromagnetically connected, or may be permanently available; optionally, such a support device may also have a linear, progressive, or decreasing support characteristic curve. As described above, support for the connector assembly may be provided directly on the connector assembly or indirectly by attaching the support device to a guide member or the floor unit.

[0019] In this context, a simple mechanical embodiment provides that the support device is at least temporarily lockable in at least one locked position, preferably in at least two locked positions, and particularly preferably in at least three locked positions. Alternatively, the support device can be provided to be infinitely lockable.

[0020] In embodiments of the invention, the support device can be constructed to be rigid. This can be achieved, for example, by a support column, support corner piece, support receiving fork, or locking bracket.

[0021] As an alternative to a purely rigid support device, according to the invention, the support device may include a spring element that provides linear, stepped, decreasing (gradually decreasing), or increasing (gradually increasing) support based on the angle between the first pivot axis and the direction vector defining the propulsion direction. A combination of increasing and decreasing directions of the support force acting during support can also be provided, for example, in such a way that the spring element is arranged such that the support device first provides increasing support within a certain angular range, and then provides decreasing support, or vice versa.

[0022] To avoid unwanted vibration effects, especially when using resilient support devices, or to prevent sudden reaching of the supported state, embodiments of the present invention can provide a damping element associated with the support device. For example, this measure helps to achieve a smooth damped transition between an unsupported state and a partially or fully supported state.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the invention, the guide member is not only supported in the plane of the first pivot axis, but also additionally provided with a separate support device associated with the first pivot axis for at least partially supporting the guide member when it pivots about the first pivot axis from the plane of the first pivot axis relative to the floor unit at a predetermined or predeterminable pivot angle. In other words, the guide member can also be supported when pivoting laterally from at least a certain pivot angle. As described above, the support can be, for example, rigid, elastic, and / or damped. Referring to the above explanation regarding the support relative to the first pivot axis, it is similarly applied here to the support relative to movement about the second pivot axis.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured to guide the guide member when pivoting relative to the floor unit about a first pivot axis, preferably along an arcuate path. For this purpose, the support device includes a guide rail in which a guide slider is guided, the guide member being placed on the guide slider, or the guide member being coupled to the guide slider via form-locking or force-locking. For example, the coupling can be supported by a magnet assembly near the component. In this case, the support device may also be configured to elastically support the guide member when pivoting about the first pivot axis, preferably gradually elastically supporting the guide member as the pivot angle increases. Therefore, a restoring torque or restoring force can be provided that increases with the deflection of the guide member from its neutral position at the basic center. This reduces or assists the operator in maneuvering movements in which the operator moves the guide member back to the neutral position after it has pivoted out.

[0025] Furthermore, according to the invention, the joint assembly may also include a connecting element that connects the first pivot joint to the second pivot joint, wherein the connecting element is pivotable relative to the floor unit about a second pivot axis, and the guide member is pivotable relative to the connecting element about a first pivot axis. This facilitates the realization of a dual universal joint assembly.

[0026] Advantageously, in this configuration, the connecting element can be supported relative to the base unit. Therefore, the support device for support in the first pivot axis plane is coupled to the connecting element to maintain good mobility of the guide member about the first pivot axis—even with effective support.

[0027] In this case, a corresponding support device is provided in particular, which is associated with the connecting element and includes a support element that contacts the floor unit in a motorized operating state to provide support.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the corresponding support device can be configured to be integrally formed with the joint assembly. In this case, as described above, the joint assembly can be configured as a double universal joint, and the support device, or at least one support device associated with the two pivot axes, can be configured to be integrally formed with the double universal joint. Alternatively, the support device can be configured as a separate component, such as a support module, which can be attached to or removed from the floor cleaning device as needed. For this purpose, a coupling interface can be provided, providing a secure but detachable connection between the support module and the floor cleaning device.

[0029] Furthermore, according to the present invention, as described above, the corresponding support device can be configured to be activated or deactivated by the operator as needed. This can be achieved through mechanical displacement, for example by folding the support bracket forward and backward, or by electromagnetic switching or activating the corresponding support device, etc.

[0030] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the support device can be pivoted by an operator between an operating position and a parking position, wherein the support device is preferably lockable in at least one of the operating and parking positions. This allows the support device to be switched or removed as needed, wherein ideally the support device remains in both positions. This can be achieved, for example, by spring preloading or by a latch or locking device.

[0031] According to embodiments of the invention, an attachment element, particularly a magnet, is associated with a support device. The attachment element is configured to stabilize the support device during support to prevent pivoting that occurs opposite to and / or laterally to the support direction until a force threshold is exceeded. In other words, the support device can be held in a supportive operating position to prevent undesirable cessation of the support action.

[0032] Further embodiments of the invention also specify that the support device preferably provides a substantially form-locking and / or force-locking connection between the support device and the guide member and / or floor unit via an attachment element. This facilitates a secure coupling between the support device and the guide member or floor unit during support, preventing accidental release. For example, at least partial form-locking can be provided by providing a simple groove or cavity in which the support device engages, for example, by providing a simple groove or cavity in which the support device engages.

[0033] Regarding the orientation of the pivot axis, it can be specified that the second pivot axis is oriented substantially perpendicular to the first pivot axis. In this respect, it is further possible that the guide member includes a longitudinal axis, which is preferably perpendicular to the first pivot axis and, if necessary, perpendicular to the second pivot axis.

[0034] When the joint assembly is attached to the floor unit in such a way that the weight of the guide member is introduced into the floor unit through the joint assembly at the geometric position of the floor unit, which, from the perspective of the direction of propulsion, is located in front of the area center or center of mass of the floor unit, a favorable mass distribution and support effect are obtained.

[0035] A further embodiment of the invention specifies that, in order to change the mass distribution and thus adjust the mobility of the floor cleaning device according to the invention as needed, the floor unit includes a fastening device by means of which the joint assembly can be variably fastened to the floor unit at different fastening positions along the direction of propulsion. This capability can be achieved, for example, by a fastening device including a guide rail and a latching device, which can be fastened to predetermined fastening positions.

[0036] However, the mass distribution can already be influenced by the operator pivoting the guide member about the second pivot axis. For example, in the supported state, by pulling the guide member backward against the supporting force, the entire floor cleaning device can be more or less "tilted" backward. This measure mitigates the propulsive force generated by the front area of ​​the floor cleaning device, such as the cleaning tools or drive wheels, by transmitting the supporting force, thus promoting maneuverability. The aforementioned "tilt" can be within a range of several minutes or several degrees (°).

[0037] According to the present invention, the mass ratio between the floor unit and the guide member may be specified to be between 1:5 and 1:1 or within the range of 1:1 and 5:1.

[0038] As explained at the outset, the floor cleaning device according to the invention optionally provides a propulsive action at least at the floor unit. In this case, it can be specified that at least one tool is configured to contact the floor surface in the operating state and generate propulsion at least proportionally. However, the effect according to the invention has already been achieved at least to a limited extent by the fact that tools rotating in opposite directions, even without propulsion, greatly reduce friction between the floor cleaning device and the floor. If the floor cleaning device is subsequently manually pushed forward, and the guiding member pivots as described above about the first pivot axis, the aforementioned advantageous rotational torque of the floor unit can be generated solely by the forward movement of the floor cleaning device and the associated inertia generated by that forward movement.

[0039] In particular, in this case, according to the invention, the tool of the floor unit may include at least one rotary-driven brush having a rotation axis that is substantially parallel to the floor surface in the operating state.

[0040] Embodiments of the present invention specify that a first brush includes a first rotation axis that is slightly inclined relative to a vertical floor surface in the operating state, and a second brush includes a second rotation axis that is also slightly inclined relative to a vertical floor surface in the operating state, wherein the first brush and the second brush are configured to rotate in opposite directions. The rotation direction can be freely chosen.

[0041] Regarding the tilt of the rotation axes relative to the vertical direction, specific embodiments of the floor cleaning device according to the invention may specify that the first and second rotation axes are tilted relative to the vertical direction by 0.8° to 5°, preferably by about 1.5°. The operator can adjust the tilt using a suitable mechanism.

[0042] In addition to or alternatively to generating propulsion through tools, the floor cleaning device according to the invention may also specify that the floor unit includes at least one drive body, for example in the form of a wheel, bucket or roller-shaped cylinder, which contacts the floor surface in the operating state and is used to generate propulsion at least temporarily and / or at least proportionally.

[0043] To better understand the advantages of the floor cleaning device according to the invention in mobile applications, the following has been added: Compared with the prior art, the floor cleaning device according to the present invention has significantly improved mobility. This is because it is explained from the outset that the supporting and propulsive functions of the guide member are combined with any maneuvering motion of the operator, especially when the operator applies slight off-center counterforce to the guide member. -If the guiding member pivots about the first pivot range, especially the first pivot axis, the floor cleaning device detaches. It moves away from the equilibrium state of the forces. - In this process, the weight borne by the operator in proportion is significantly lower than that of a conventional device without support. It allows the guide member to pivot about an axis corresponding to the first pivot axis. Therefore, in the floor cleaning device according to the invention, during this pivoting of the guide member, the force required by the operator to hold the guide member is significantly reduced. The operator can easily hold and maneuver the guide member. - The operator applies a slight counterforce to the deflected guide member to counteract the propulsive force, ensuring the corresponding rotational torque in the floor unit, which is supported by the propulsive action. This effect is particularly noticeable even when counteracting the propulsive action, if the operator pulls the guide member back slightly. - The more the guiding member pivots about the first pivot range in one or the other, the more due to the countermeasure The stronger the pull, the stronger the effect. - During maneuvering, even a small pivoting motion can be used to leverage support and gain an advantage. -When, in addition to the aforementioned countermeasures or pullback, the user overcomes the support and moves slightly toward the floor surface... Pressing down on the guide member further facilitates maneuverability. This, on the one hand, changes the force distribution within the floor unit, and on the other hand, increases the rotational torque within the floor unit by utilizing the propulsive action.

[0044] During manipulation, all of these measures require relatively little intervention from the user and only require minimal force.

[0045] Preferably, the floor cleaning device according to the invention further includes a suction unit for removing particles and / or liquids, or typically dirty water, from the floor surface. In this case, the suction unit may include at least one suction turbine arranged on or separate from the floor unit or guide member, and for generating negative pressure. The suction effect can be aided or enhanced by linear or circular suction strips arranged on the rear side of the floor cleaning device facing the user. The suction strips may have one or more sealing lips. The suction strips and / or sealing lips can provide friction relative to the floor surface, which is advantageous in absorbing lateral forces introduced into the floor unit through the guide member. The absorption of lateral forces can also be implemented by guide wheels or drive wheels.

[0046] However, according to the present invention, dirty water can also be collected in another way, such as by collecting dirty water through a cloth, a capillary absorption mechanism or a rotating roller and transporting it to a collection tank.

[0047] The floor cleaning device according to the invention may further include at least one storage tank for storing the sucked-in particles and / or cleaning liquid, wherein the storage tank is particularly detachably arranged on the guide member or floor unit.

[0048] Furthermore, the floor cleaning device according to the invention may include a cleaning agent tank, which is configured to preferably supply cleaning agent to at least one tool via a supply device, wherein the cleaning agent tank is arranged on a floor unit or a guide member.

[0049] Furthermore, the floor cleaning device according to the invention may include a water tank, which is preferably configured to supply water to at least one tool via a supply device, wherein the water tank is arranged on the floor unit or on a guide member.

[0050] Storage tanks, detergent tanks, and clean water tanks can be constructed in groups or molded as a single unit.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the floor cleaning device of the present invention, the floor cleaning device can enter a parking state, wherein in the parking state, the floor unit can be moved relative to the guide member to a space-saving parking position and can be locked in this position.

[0052] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured to completely lock the guide member relative to the floor unit, such that pivoting about a first pivot axis and, if necessary, about a second pivot axis, is at least locked within a predetermined angular range. According to this variation of the invention, the guide member can be fixed relative to the floor unit in such a way that the two components cannot move or pivot relative to each other. In another embodiment of the invention, this complete locking or fixing of the guide member and the floor unit relative to each other can be enabled and deactivated as needed. This can be achieved, for example, by allowing the support device, as described in detail above, to pivot about a pivot axis to an active and a passive position, wherein in the active position, the support device provides complete locking of the guide member relative to the floor unit. In this case, the support device can support the guide member on the floor member, independently of the joint assembly. However, the support can also be integrated into the joint assembly or arranged in a nearby location adjacent to the joint assembly. Such support is particularly suitable for the construction of double universal joints or any other double joints in the joint assembly. Preferably, when the guide member is slightly tilted relative to the vertical axis, for example, 15° to 45°, the guide member is completely locked relative to the floor unit. Therefore, the guide member can be completely locked at a specific angular position, preventing it from deflecting or pivoting further relative to the vertical axis, but it can still move when pivoted back in the direction of the vertical axis.

[0053] The present invention also relates to a support device of the type described above. The support device includes a base that can be attached to a shaft or a floor unit. Attachment can be in a fixed, predetermined position or in a variable position. The support device also includes at least one support column that permanently introduces the weight of the shaft into the floor unit, or the support column introduces the weight of the shaft into the floor unit by displacement to a support position. For example, the support column can fold back and forth between a support position and a parking position. A locking mechanism or magnet can be provided for securing the device. As described above, the support device helps to support the weight of a guide member on the floor unit in a motorized operating state, while the guide member remains motorized, i.e., pivoting about a first pivot axis. Furthermore, the support device may include a locking bracket that can be used to prevent pivoting of the guide member about the first pivot axis. The locking bracket can be configured to prevent any pivoting of the guide member about the first pivot axis, or only prevent pivoting from a predetermined pivot angle.

[0054] Finally, it should be noted that the provided support device can also be a modified kit, i.e., a separate component, which can be attached to the corresponding floor cleaning device to achieve the above advantages if needed, and can be removed from above. Attached Figure Description

[0055] In the following description, embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0056] Figure 1 A spatial schematic diagram of a floor cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown, the floor cleaning device having an activated bracket-like support device;

[0057] Figure 2 A spatial schematic diagram of a floor cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown from another angle;

[0058] Figure 3 A detailed spatial diagram of the floor unit and a portion of the connector assembly of the floor cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0059] Figure 4 This shows another perspective Figure 3 A detailed spatial diagram of the floor unit and a portion of the connector assembly of the floor cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 5 A detailed spatial diagram of the support device for the floor cleaning apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0061] Figure 6 This shows another perspective Figure 5 A detailed spatial diagram of the support device is shown.

[0062] Figure 7 A detailed spatial diagram of a floor unit and a portion of a guide member of a floor cleaning device including a support device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0063] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 The floor unit and a portion of the guide members are shown in a detailed spatial diagram, but the support device shown is in a state that prevents the guide members from pivoting laterally about the first pivot axis;

[0064] Figure 9 A detailed schematic diagram of the floor unit is shown, illustrating the tool's tilt angle;

[0065] Figure 10 A schematic diagram illustrating the distribution of forces transmitted from the guide member to the floor unit by the joint assembly and support device is shown.

[0066] Figures 11a to 11c A detailed spatial diagram illustrating the overall operation of the floor cleaning device according to the present invention is shown;

[0067] Figure 12a and Figure 12b A spatial schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the floor cleaning device according to the invention is shown, wherein pressure is applied to the operating device only at the handle on one side;

[0068] Figure 13a and Figure 13b A spatial schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the floor cleaning device according to the present invention is shown, wherein the operator moves the floor cleaning device along a wall while maintaining a sufficient distance from the wall;

[0069] Figures 14a to 14c A detailed spatial diagram illustrating the placement of the floor cleaning device according to the present invention is shown;

[0070] Figure 15 A spatial schematic diagram of a floor cleaning device with a spring-like support device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0071] Figure 16 A spatial schematic diagram of a floor cleaning device with a foldable support device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the foldable support device is supported on the floor if necessary;

[0072] Figure 17 and Figure 18 A partial spatial schematic diagram of a floor cleaning device with a support device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown, the support device enabling a guide member to be guided to pivot laterally.

[0073] Figure 19a and19b It shows Figure 17 and Figure 18 A separate schematic diagram of the base of the support device shown;

[0074] Figure 20 and Figure 21 Partial spatial schematic diagrams of different operating positions and parking positions relative to the support device in the third embodiment are shown respectively; and

[0075] Figures 22a to 22c A spatial schematic diagram of an independent support module of a floor cleaning device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0076] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 A spatial schematic diagram of a floor cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, shown from different perspectives, is generally indicated by 10. The floor cleaning device includes a floor unit 12 and a guide member 14, which are hinged to each other via a joint assembly 16.

[0077] The floor unit is associated with two rotatably driven brush-like tools 18 and 20. For this purpose, tool 18 is associated with a drive mechanism 22, and tool 20 is associated with a drive mechanism 24. The floor unit 12 includes a plate-like housing 26 on which the two drive mechanisms 22 and 24 are attached, with a free space defined between the two drive mechanisms. Tools 18 and 20 are supported on the underside of the housing 26. Figure 1 As shown, a suction strip 28 is attached to the rear side of the housing 26, and a sealing lip device 30 is defined on the lower side of the suction strip 28. The sealing lip device 30 is preferably made of a rubber-like material. The sealing lip device may include a single sealing lip or multiple sealing lips. A total of three support rollers 32 are defined on the rear side of the suction strip 28, one of which is hidden in the figure. In front of the suction strip, the floor unit 12 also includes two upwardly inclined transport rollers 34 supported in the support protrusions 36. These transport rollers 34 are used to facilitate the transport of the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention in its storage location, as will be referred to below. Figures 14a to 14c Let's discuss this in detail.

[0078] The guide member 14 has a longitudinal axis 40, and the operating device 42 is attached to the upper end of the longitudinal axis 40. The operating device 42 includes two handles 44 and 46 with associated operating levers and a central control panel 48. The central control panel 48 is equipped with a display and / or indicator panel for displaying the current operating status and operating parameters, such as the current charging status, the current speed of tools 18 and 20, the level of various liquids (e.g., clean water, wastewater, cleaning fluid), remaining operating time, and similar information. The central control panel 48 also includes adjustment instruments for turning on and controlling various operating parameters of the floor cleaning device 10 (e.g., the speed of tools 18 and 20).

[0079] A clean water tank 50 with an injection nozzle 52 and a waste water tank 54 with an discharge nozzle 56 are also specified on shaft 40. The clean water tank 50 may also hold a mixture of water and cleaning fluid. Alternatively, a separate tank for the cleaning fluid may be specified, which is not shown in the drawings. Below the tanks 50 and 54, in a separate receiving area 58, components for supplying clean water and cleaning fluid to the floor unit 12, and a suction unit, in particular having a suction turbine, are specified for drawing in water containing cleaning fluid, which has been applied to the floor and absorbed dirt.

[0080] The following description of the inclination of guide member 14 relative to floor unit 12 is based on the inclination of its longitudinal axis F, which extends perpendicularly to the first pivot axis A and passes through the line of action W defined by the central axes of the two handles 44, 46. The longitudinal axis of the guide member, together with the first pivot axis A, spans the inclined plane of guide member 14 relative to the floor surface.

[0081] The following reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The connector assembly 16 that connects the floor unit 12 to the guide member 14 is described in more detail. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector assembly includes a first support member 60 attached to the floor unit, a connector member 62 coupled to the first support member 60, and a second support member 64 attached to the underside of the shaft 40 of the guide member 14.

[0082] The connector assembly 16 is configured such that the second support member 64 is pivotable relative to the connector member 62 about a first pivot axis A. According to... Figures 1 to 4In the position (which roughly corresponds to the operating position of the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention for motorizing to clean the floor, hereinafter also referred to as the motorized operating state), the first pivot axis A extends diagonally forward. The first pivot axis A lies in a plane, i.e., the first pivot axis plane, together with the advance direction V parallel to the ground, which is substantially on the line of symmetry between the two tools 18 and 20 perpendicular to the ground surface. Furthermore, the connector assembly 16 includes a second pivot axis B orthogonal to the first pivot axis A. Thus, the connector assembly 16 and its connector member 62 connect the floor unit 12 to the guide member 14 like a double universal joint assembly.

[0083] Specifically, in the lower region coupled to the first support member 60 attached to the floor unit 12, the joint member 62 includes a fork-shaped element comprising two struts 68, 70, which are connected to each other at the rear by a reinforcing member 72. A support bolt 74 extends through the two struts 68, 70 and supports the joint member 62 on the first support portion 60, allowing it to pivot about a pivot axis B. At its upper end, the joint member 62 includes a support eye 76 constructed with a tapered, progressively tapered cross-section, defining a first pivot axis A. Through this support eye 76 and the associated support bolt, the joint member 62 is connected at the lower end of the shaft 40 of the guide member 14 to the second support member 64, so that it can pivot about the first pivot axis A.

[0084] The first support member 60 is movable along the guide rail 80 on the floor unit 12 and can be locked in any position along the guide rail 80. This is accomplished by means of a clamping mechanism that can be released for displacement and brought into a clamping position for fixation. Alternatively, a predetermined locking position can be specified, in which the first support member can be fixed, for example, by inserting a predetermined locking or latching opening. This adjustability facilitates changing and fixing the mechanical engagement point of the guide member on the floor unit as needed, which affects the mobility of the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention. This will be discussed in detail below.

[0085] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a free space is provided between the two rear drive units 22 and 24. On one hand, this provides sufficient space for the guide member 14 to lock in place along the track 80 as needed without colliding with the drive units 22 and 24. On the other hand, the support device 90 is disposed within this free space. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The adjustable locking bracket 92 of the support device can be seen in the image. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The support device 90 is shown in detail below, and is referred to in particular in the following text. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The detailed illustrations illustrate the function of the support device.

[0086] The support device 90 includes a base 94, which is supported on the plate-like housing 26 of the floor unit 12. The base 94 can also be displaced along the track 80 as needed. The base 94 has two lateral support claws 96, 98 extending upward from the base 94. In one aspect, the aforementioned locking bracket 92 is pivotally received, wherein the two free ends of the locking bracket 92 facing each other serve as support bolt portions. The locking bracket 92 extends from the support claws 96, 98 in a multi-angled or curved shape to an angled U-shaped portion 100, wherein the angled U-shaped portion 100 connects to a bracket portion 104 extending from there through the two support portions 102. It should be understood that different locking brackets 92 can be constructed.

[0087] The receiving fork 106 can also pivot within the support claws 96, 98, and is attached to the inside of the two support claws 96, 98. The receiving fork 106 is U-shaped and has two longitudinal legs 108 that extend diagonally upward away from the base 94, with the rounded free end 110 of the receiving fork slightly offset inward. Laterally projecting contact tongues 112 are also provided on the two legs 108. The lateral legs 114 are constructed to be relatively robust to provide supportive contact with the base 94.

[0088] A retaining magnet 116 is specified in the base 94 between the two support claws 96 and 98.

[0089] also, Figure 5 and the previously described Figure 3 and Figure 4 A fixing member 120 is shown, which is used for fixing to the connecting element 62 and has a support opening 122 that can be aligned with the support eye 76. The fixing member 120 is adapted to the geometry of the upper part of the connecting element 62, has a plate-like shape with stabilizing reinforcing ribs 124, and is as follows: Figure 5 As shown, a receiving opening 126 is defined in its lower region, and the circular free end 110 of the leg 108 can pass through the receiving opening 126 and be received into the receiving opening 126 in a supported manner.

[0090] Both the locking bracket 92 and the guide fork 106 can pivot relative to the base about a third pivot axis C. The third pivot axis C is substantially parallel to the second pivot axis B.

[0091] The function of the support device 90 will be discussed below. Figure 7The support device 90 is shown with the locking bracket 92 folded back, such that the locking bracket 92 rests passively on the housing 26 of the floor unit 12 in the space between the two drive units 22, 24. In this position of the support device 90, the entire weight of the guide member 14 is supported on the floor unit 12 solely by the action of the support device 90 and the receiving fork 106, and by connection via the connector assembly 16. Therefore, the operator no longer needs to bear all or part of the weight of the guide member. In this state, the floor cleaning device 10 remains completely stable on its own, requiring no support from the user, as long as the guide member 14 does not tilt to the side. When the guide member 14 tilts to the side, the operator needs to partially support the weight of the guide member.

[0092] An optional additional feature is that the base 94 can also be moved along the track 80 and fixed at different distances and relative positions relative to the connector assembly 16. This allows the receiving fork 106 to enter different pivot positions relative to the support claws 96, 98, thereby supporting the guide member 14 at different angular positions relative to the floor unit 12. This also allows the first pivot axis A to have different orientations depending on its inclination relative to the floor surface.

[0093] However, equally important is that in Figure 7 In the position shown, the support device continues to allow the guide member to pivot unimpeded about the first pivot axis A. Although in Figure 7 In the illustrated state, with the guide portion 14 in a neutral position (i.e., pivoting neither left nor right about pivot axis A), the entire weight of the guide member 14 is transferred to the floor unit 12 via the support device 90 and the connector assembly 16. This eliminates the need for the user to hold the guide member 14, or even partially hold it in the illustrated embodiment. The user can manipulate the floor cleaning device 10 with minimal force by actively pivoting left or right to move the guide member around pivot axis A, although the user must bear some weight of the guide member 14 depending on the degree of pivoting. Reference will be made below. Figures 11a to 11c The combination of pivoting and support significantly improves maneuverability.

[0094] The support device 90 also has an additional locking floor cleaning device 10 to prevent it from pivoting about the pivot axis A. Figure 8 The function of the location shown.

[0095] Figure 8The support device 90 is shown in a position where the locking bracket 92 is folded upwards so that the U-shaped portion 100 is received in a housing recess 130 in the lower housing portion 58 of the guide member 14. In this position, the U-shaped portion 100 of the locking bracket 92 is received in a basic shape-locking manner in the receiving recess 130 of the guide member 14, preventing the guide member 14 from pivoting about the pivot axis A. Thus, the pivotable locking bracket 92 in its position forms a selectable locking function. This locking function allows the floor cleaning device 10 to be temporarily and securely parked without the user having to hold or stabilize any components.

[0096] It is also worth noting that settings can be configured. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The support device 90 shown can also be provided and used as a separate component for modification purposes. Therefore, such a component can be modified for known cleaning devices, all of which suffer from the problem that the operator must bear and support at least some of the weight of the guide member during operation, which can be tiring in the long run. This modified support device can be configured separately with the receiving fork 106, or configured with a suitable corresponding structure for receiving the weight of the guide member 14, or it can be additionally specified with a pivotable locking bracket 92.

[0097] Figure 9 As shown, when floor unit 12 is viewed from the front, tool 20 can rotate about a rotation axis R, which is tilted inward at an angle γ relative to the vertical line S. Similarly, however, when mirrored about the central axis M, tool 18 ( Figure 9 (Not shown in the image) Inclined inward. When the two tools 18 and 20 are driven in opposite directions about their respective axes of rotation R, propulsion is achieved in the direction of propulsion V.

[0098] exist Figure 10 In the diagram, the arrows indicate that once the support device 90 is engaged, the weight of the guide member 14 is introduced into the floor unit 12 not only through the joint assembly 16 but also through the support device 90 and, in particular, through the receiving fork 106. Due to the more even weight distribution of the guide member 14, the rear roller 32 experiences more force and provides greater support. This alleviates the pressure on the brush-like tools 18, 20 to some extent, extending their service life. If this brush-relieving effect is not required, embodiments of the invention can specify that the joint assembly is positioned further forward on the floor unit in the direction of propulsion. The support device can then be positioned further back in the opposite direction of propulsion. This helps to achieve a more even or more central distribution of the weight of the guide unit on the floor member. Furthermore, the advantages regarding operability and ease of use mentioned above and explained in detail below are achieved.

[0099] Figures 11a to 11c Various maneuvering states in which the aforementioned support device 90 functions in a specific manner are shown.

[0100] Figure 11a This is a side view of the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention, showing how the guide member 14 pivots rearward relative to the floor unit 12 toward the operator (not shown) by means of the connector assembly 16, such that the first pivot axis A extends at an angle α of approximately 30° relative to the floor to be cleaned. In this state, the support device 90 fully supports the weight F of the guide member 14. GF This eliminates the need for the operator to bear the force F. GF The operator can pivot the guide member 14 to the left and right with minimal force to engage the handles 44 and 46 of the operating device 42, thereby actuating the floor cleaning device 10. Depending on the degree of pivoting, the operator must proportionally bear the weight of the guide member 14.

[0101] For maneuverability, the operator can especially... Figure 11b and Figure 11c As shown, the guide member 14 of the floor cleaning device 10 pivots to the left about the first pivot axis A, as indicated by arrow P1. This also causes the center of gravity of the guide member 14 to shift slightly to the left. Therefore, the force balance shifts, and a torque is generated in the floor unit 12 about its vertical axis, which is substantially perpendicular to the floor and is also called the yaw torque. The following contributes to this effect: due to the action of the counter-rotating tools 18, 20 and the support rollers 32, the floor unit 12 can be manipulated relatively easily on the ground, and due to the propulsive action of the counter-rotating tools 18, 20, the floor unit 12 is propelled forward in the propulsive direction V. Therefore, due to the combination of the deflection and propulsive action of the guide member 14 according to arrow P1 and the resulting yaw torque, the floor cleaning device turns to the left very smoothly in the direction indicated by arrow P2.

[0102] The operator's counteracting of the propulsive force of the floor unit 12 by, for example, lightly gripping the handles 44, 46 of the operating device 42 also contributes to this effect, thereby increasing steering action and yaw moment in the process. For example, the operator can grip the handle at the indicated angle. Figure 11b The left handle 44 shown, or even pulled slightly backward against the propulsive force, while the right handle 46 is pushed slightly forward, applies torque to the floor unit 12 via the dual universal joint assembly 16. This produces a turning motion that can be used to gain an advantage during maneuvering. As a further supporting effect, the propulsive force is not uniformly applied to the floor member, but is stronger on the right side of the floor unit 12 due to the horizontal force component introduced into the guide member 14 within the floor unit 12. This additional force pushes the floor unit 12 more forcefully to the left.

[0103] However, the floor cleaning device can also move completely straight forward when the guide member 14 is in this inclined position, for example, along a wall or under a protrusion (such as when the floor unit moves under a piece of furniture). When tilted laterally, the guide member 14 allows the operator to travel at a safe distance from the wall or protrusion. When moving forward in a straight line in this manner, the operator should not resist the inclined guide member 14 to avoid applying torque to the floor unit 12. For example, in this way, the brush surfaces of tools 18, 20 can be maximized, and optimal cleaning results can be achieved even near walls or under surfaces with many building elements. However, it is important that the operator does not apply counterforce or pull the guide member 14 towards themselves when moving forward in a straight line as described.

[0104] However, in all these maneuvering situations, the support device according to the invention offers the advantage that it receives the full weight F of the guide member 14. GF Or at least a small portion up to most of the gravity F GF This is then transferred to the floor unit 12. Therefore, in any maneuvering situation, the operator has slightly or even considerably reduced the load. Thus, the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention is easier to operate and control, even during prolonged cleaning processes. The operator can further influence the propulsion by using a support device to tilt the floor cleaning device 10 slightly backward, or by holding the floor cleaning device 10 in the opposite direction of propulsion.

[0105] Figure 11c A similar control movement is shown by deflecting the guide member 14 to the right according to arrow P3, so that a corresponding turning action is performed to the right according to arrow P4.

[0106] This type of control can be achieved by selecting different tilt angles β; that is, a large tilt angle β results in a relatively strong turning motion with a small curve radius, while a small tilt angle β results in a less intense turning motion with a large curve radius. The intensity of the counterforce applied by the operator and the magnitude of the propulsion caused by the rotating tools 18 and 20 can also affect this motion.

[0107] Another possibility affecting maneuverability is adjusting the position of the connector assembly 16 on the floor unit 12, as described above. Thus, the connector assembly 16 can move forward and backward along the track 80 on the floor unit 12, which alters the kinematics and maneuverability of the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention. As a rule of thumb, if the center of gravity (gravity F) of the guiding member 50... GFIf the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention is arranged to align with or maintain only a small horizontal distance from the center of gravity of the floor unit 12 (i.e., the horizontal projection onto the floor surface when viewed from above), then the floor cleaning device 10 can be steered more neutrally. Conversely, as the distance increases, the floor cleaning device 10 becomes more sensitive to deflection. However, by moving the joint assembly 16 further back along the track 80 on the floor unit 12, the cleaning tools 18, 20 can be less stressed and no longer press so hard on the ground. This also applies to the aforementioned guide member tilting against the support device. This affects the cleaning intensity, for example, in the case of sensitive surfaces. Additionally, this reduces wear on the tools 18, 20. Then, gravity F GF More pressure is applied to the support roller 32.

[0108] For completeness, it should be noted that the locking bracket 92 can completely lock the system. Figure 11b and Figure 11c The deflection motion shown helps the floor cleaning device 10 to maintain a straight line motion. Furthermore, the locking bracket 92 can be configured to allow only small deflections with small angles β1 and β2.

[0109] Figure 12a and Figure 12b The diagram illustrates a maneuverable operating state in which the operator applies a pressure F from above to the handle 46 of the operating device 42 from only one side. D And release the other handle 44 or at most guide the grip on the other handle 44, rather than loading it by applying corresponding pressure. This measure will cause a slight tilt of the guide member 14 about the first pivot axis A and / or induce the operator to apply a slight counterforce. Accordingly, the unbalanced pressure conditions transmitted by the support device 90 and the joint assembly 16 act in the floor unit 12, thereby generating a lateral force in the floor unit 12. Figure 12a As shown, according to arrow P R (In the bottom view, arrow P) R Logically pointing to the left, there is a rightward turning motion relative to the direction of propulsion. It is not necessary for the handle 46 itself or the operating device 42 as a whole to rotate about axis F. In this exemplary operation, a simple controlled movement can be initiated simply by applying pressure to the handle 46 and by the operator applying a slight counterforce, requiring minimal effort from the operator. This controlled movement is transmitted by the support device 90 and interacts with the propulsion.

[0110] Figure 13a and Figure 13bThe diagram illustrates a maneuver in which the operator controls the floor cleaning device 10 along the wall W (possibly under a protrusion), where, viewed from the rear, the guide member 14 is pivoted laterally to the left relative to the floor unit 12 at an angle β of approximately 70°. The floor unit 12 is also configured to be slightly tilted to optimally utilize the brush surfaces of the tools 18, 20. The floor unit 12 is controlled along the wall W, and the sliding surface 188 is gently sloping on the surface, as shown by arrow P. W As shown, it is parallel to the wall. This can be achieved by the operator slightly rotating device 42 (see arrow P). B ) and apply slight pressure from above to handle 44 (see force F) D This is achieved through a mechanism that facilitates a favorable force distribution within the floor unit 12 to the counter-rotating tools 18, 20, transmitted via the support device 90. Therefore, the floor cleaning device 10 can easily move along and parallel to the wall W without requiring much effort from the operator.

[0111] These illustrations also show that the floor cleaning device 10 can be rotated freely, such as 90° or 180°, when the operator approaches the wall, without any effort, almost as if playing, without causing the guide member 14 to come into contact with the wall.

[0112] Figures 14a to 14c The floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention is shown to be able to be brought into a space-saving storage or transport location that facilitates transport. As can be seen from the figures, the floor unit 12 can be pivoted relative to the guide member 14 via the connector assembly 16 and locked in such a position that the support protrusion 36 protrudes obliquely forward and the transport rollers 34 are positioned substantially in a row perpendicular to the axis 40 of the guide member 14. Therefore, the floor cleaning device 10 on the transport rollers 34 can be easily moved by gripping the handles 44, 46 without the tools 18, 20 contacting the ground. For example, the floor cleaning device can also be easily parked in this manner. If needed, the floor unit 12 can be returned to the operating position shown above.

[0113] Figure 15 A second embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, as schematically shown, the support device 190 is configured only as a compression spring 192. This has the effect that when the guide member 14 pivots about the second pivot axis B, at least a portion of the gravity F of the guide member 14 is... GF The spring absorbs the rotational movement of the guide member 14. The greater the pivoting motion of the guide member 14, the stronger the supporting effect of the spring 192. The spring can also enter a compacted state to fully support the guide member 14. Alternatively or additionally, when the first pivot axis A pivots by a certain angle α, a stop can be specified to achieve full support (e.g., see...). Figure 11a ).

[0114] The design of the support device 190 in the form of a compression spring 192 or an assembly including such a compression spring 192 is particularly simple and inexpensive.

[0115] Alternative embodiments (not shown in detail in the accompanying drawings) include a support device in the form of a single rod that cannot pivot about a pivot axis extending transversely to the direction of propulsion V, but can be folded laterally about the pivot axis, wherein the pivot axis extends substantially along the direction of propulsion or at an acute angle to the direction of propulsion. The support device can be configured to provide a support surface for a guide member, on which the guide member can pivot about a first pivot axis A, but cannot pivot about a second pivot axis B when the guide member is in contact with the support surface. In this case, the floor cleaning device can also be designed to have only one pivot axis, namely the second pivot axis, so that the guide member can be simply placed temporarily on the support device for support.

[0116] In this case, a cavity may be defined on the guide member, in which the support, particularly the foldable rod, engages when the guide member is placed on the support. This cavity may accommodate the foldable rod in a adaptable manner, or may also allow for relative pivoting movement of the guide member about a first pivot axis relative to the floor unit.

[0117] As an alternative to a support device with a supporting surface, the support device allows the guide member to pivot about a first pivot axis A when the guide member slides on the supporting surface. In another embodiment of the invention, the support device may be provided with a form-locking and / or force-locking engagement or meshing with the guide member, thereby temporarily preventing any pivoting movement of the guide member relative to the floor unit. In this embodiment, when the support device is engaged with the guide member, the guide member cannot pivot about the first or second pivot axis. For example, a groove or cavity may be provided on the guide member or floor unit, with the support device engaging in a form-locking or at least partially form-locking manner with the groove or cavity, thereby providing support while restricting the relative movement of the two components relative to each other.

[0118] Another alternative embodiment (not shown in detail in the figures) includes, for example, a joint assembly between a floor unit and a guide member, which is configured as a spring element (e.g., a flexible rubber body or a unit comprising a metal spring element). Any pivoting direction can be provided by spring action.

[0119] Embodiments of the present invention may also specify, similar to Figure 15In the illustrated embodiment, the support device is constructed to be rigid, for example, in the form of a rod. A pull cord or a spring-loaded pull cord can also be used as the support device, for example, in such a way that the pull cord is positioned in front of the connector assembly in the advancing direction, thus preventing further pivoting of the guide member relative to a certain angular position of the floor unit about a second pivot axis B, while allowing the guide member to pivot about a first pivot axis. Alternatively, a tension spring can be specified, which is lockable to the floor unit in front of the connector assembly in the advancing direction.

[0120] According to another embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 16 As shown, a support device 196 can be specified on the guide member 14, which supports the guide member 14 at an angle relative to the floor from the first pivot axis A or directly on the floor within an angular range. For example, this could involve a bipedal fork 198, the upper end of which is pivotally supported on the guide member 14 by a pin 200. A roller 202 can be arranged at the lower end of the fork 198, which rolls on the floor during operation of the floor cleaning device 10, thereby providing support.

[0121] As indicated by arrow 204, the support device 196 can... Figure 16 The support device 196 pivots between the operating position indicated by a solid line and the parking position indicated by a dashed line. The support device 196 can be locked in the operating position, the parking position, and, if necessary, in an intermediate position, and can be spring-loaded and / or damped locked if necessary. In the operating position of the support guide member 14, the operator does not need to bear the weight of the guide member 14 via the handles 44, 46, but can hold the handles 44, 46 simply to operate the cleaning device 10 with slight movement, thereby reducing the operator's load. The slight counterforce applied at one of the handles 44, 46 produces the aforementioned effect of generating torque in the floor unit 12.

[0122] Figures 17 to 2 Figure 2 illustrates another embodiment of the invention, wherein a separate support module 208 comprising a pivotable support device 210 is provided on the floor unit 12. The components of the floor unit 12 and guide member 14 described above are not described again and are not indicated by reference numerals. Specifically, the differences between this embodiment and the foregoing embodiments will be discussed.

[0123] The pivotable support 210 is defined on the base 212 of the support module 208. The support module 208 can be modularly attached to the floor unit 12 of an existing floor cleaning device 10 via a predetermined coupling interface. For example, the support module 208 can be purchased as an add-on to retrofit an existing floor cleaning device 10 and permanently or as needed attached to it.

[0124] It can be seen that the substrate 212 is constructed to have a shell 214. For example... Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the rear of the base has two extensions 216, 218, on which rollers 220, 222 are rotatably supported so as to pivot about a vertical axis in various situations. The rollers 220, 222 are used to support the floor cleaning device 10 behind the suction slats. They automatically align during the movement of the floor cleaning device 10.

[0125] exist Figure 22a , Figure 20 b and Figure 22c In this configuration, the support module 208 is separate from and detached from the floor cleaning device 10. The floor cleaning device can be detachably connected to the base 212 via a specially designed interface.

[0126] The support device 210 includes two rods 224, 226 pivotally attached to a base 212 of the support module 208. Rods 224, 226 are pivotally supported on the base 212 by pivot bolts 228, 230. Furthermore, at least one of the rods 224, 226 is spring-biased to two predetermined positions by a tension spring 232, which will be described in further detail below. At the ends of the rods 224, 226 away from the supports on the base 212 via the pivot bolts 228, 230, a support member 234 is attached to the two rods 224, 226. The support member 234 can also pivot relative to the rods 224, 226 via the pivot bolts 230 and can be latched by a latch hook 238. Figure 17 The location shown.

[0127] Figure 17 and Figure 18 The comparison shows that the support device 210 itself can be positioned at the support location ( Figure 17 ) and parking location ( Figure 18 Pivoting between ) . For example Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, by appropriately selecting the pivot point 240 of the tension spring 232 on the housing 214 of the base 212 relative to the pivot axis of the two rods 224, 226 defined by the pivot bolts 228, 230, the pivotable support device 210 can be in the supported position ( Figure 17 Offset, also in the parking position ( Figure 18 Bias. When the support device 210 pivots from one position to another, the tension spring 232 is initially tightened to a temporary maximum tension, and then relaxes again during further pivoting in the direction of the corresponding desired target position. The same applies to pivoting in the opposite direction. This ensures that the support device 210 maintains a reliable spring bias in the desired position.

[0128] Speaking of Figure 19a and Figure 19b The support member 234, shown in detail, has an arc-shaped base 250, which includes a generally closed surface 252, such as... Figure 19a As shown, an arc-shaped guide hole 254 is provided on the upper side of this surface. On the lower side (see...) Figure 19b The substrate 250 is provided with a groove 256. In the guide hole 254, the guide 258 is guided, which can move within the guide hole 254 along an arcuate trajectory predetermined by the guide hole, and slide on the surface 252 of the substrate 250 in the process.

[0129] exist Figure 19b As can be seen, the guide frame 258 is fixed to the trapezoidal mating body 260 via a threaded connector 262 within the groove 256, wherein the mating body 260 moves together with the guide frame 258 within the groove 256. Spring elements, in this example compression springs 264 and 266, are disposed on both sides of the trapezoidal mating body 260, which bias the guide frame 258 and the mating body 260 together to the center position within the guide hole 254 or the groove 256. The guide frame 258 can move along an arcuate trajectory within the hole 256 against the action of the spring device including the two compression springs 264 and 266. The guide frame 258 has a metal plate 268 on its upper side, which may be magnetic and is used for temporary coupling with the guide member 14.

[0130] Figure 17 This illustrates how the guide member 14 rests against the guide frame 258. For this purpose, a recess 270 is provided in the center of the guide member 14 (see...). Figure 17 and 18 The guide member 14 is provided with a form-locking mechanism, the groove 270 receiving the guide frame 258 in a substantially form-locking manner. If necessary, a support force can be provided via a magnetic device using a metal plate 268 to lock the connection. Thus, the guide member 14 is detachably and temporarily coupled to the guide frame 258. This allows the guide member 14 to pivot left and right about a first pivot axis A, guided by the guide frame 258 on the support member 234, where the pivoting occurs against the resistance of a spring device comprising two springs 264, 266. The spring device assists the guide member 14 in returning to a central neutral position. The support device 210 functions similarly to that described above in other embodiments according to the invention. It relieves the operator of the full weight of the guide member 14 via the two handles 44, 46 and also facilitates the maneuverability described in detail above.

[0131] Regarding the parking position of the support device 210, it can be seen that in this parking position, the support member 234 can again be located in two different positions, namely, as follows: Figure 18The surface 252 of the support member 234 shown points downwards, and as... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The location shown. (As indicated) Figure 18 The position shown has the advantage that when the support member 234 is pivoted upward to the operating position for supporting the guide member 14, the support member 234 is already in the correct orientation.

[0132] from Figure 18 Starting from the position shown, the support member 234 can also pivot to Figure 20 The parking position shown has the support member 234 folded upward relative to the rods 244 and 226 in a space-saving manner. Then, viewed from the cleaning device 10, surface 252 faces rearward. In this position, the support member 234 can be arranged to save space. (Refer to the above text.) Figures 14a to 14c As described in detail, according to Figure 20 The position shown is particularly suitable for moving the cleaning device 10 according to... Figure 21 The parking location is shown.

[0133] Figures 22a to 22c Various views of the individual, reconfigurable support module 208 are shown again. Figure 22a In the middle, it is shown that the support device 210 is in the position according to Figure 17 The operating position shown is for support. Figure 22b In the middle, it is shown that the support device 210 is in the position according to Figure 18 The folding position shown, and in Figure 22c From Figure 22c Starting from the position shown, the support device 210 is shown in its resting position, wherein the support member 234 also pivots relative to the rods 224, 226.

[0134] This embodiment can provide a support module 208, which can be modified or attached to the cleaning device 10 as needed.

[0135] It should be noted that the support device or joint assembly according to the invention can be configured to additionally have a damping element to suppress vibration or avoid overly abrupt stops. Such a damper can be, for example, a pneumatic or hydraulic damper, or simply constructed in the form of a damping rubber body. An advantage of the invention is that, by means of the support device designed according to various embodiments, in a variety of maneuvering situations, the weight of the guide member 14 can be completely or at least partially transferred to and borne by the floor unit 12, thereby allowing the operator to better maneuver the floor cleaning device 10 according to the invention. The above explanation has been referenced in the description of the specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0136] By employing simple tilting movements and balanced or varying pressure distribution at the operating device 42, particularly at the handles 44 and 46, and utilizing the propulsive action of the counter-rotating tools 18 and 20, which are slightly tilted relative to the floor surface, the floor cleaning device 10 can be easily maneuvered under different maneuvering conditions. As long as the support device is not engaged, tilting movements of the guide member 14 to the left, right, backward (towards the operator), and forward (away from the operator) are easily accomplished. Once the support devices, which have different designs, are engaged, beneficial maneuvering can be performed due to appropriate power transmission (see explanation above), thus requiring minimal effort from the operator.

Claims

1. A floor cleaning device (10), comprising: - Floor unit (12), which is associated with a direction of advance (V) parallel to the floor surface to be cleaned; - Tools (18, 20) associated with the floor unit (12) and in contact with the floor surface in the operating state, wherein the tools (18, 20) are movable relative to the floor surface by means of a drive; -Guide member (14) for guiding the floor cleaning device (10). as well as - Connector assembly (16) connects the floor unit (12) and the guide member (14) to each other in a hinged manner; The floor cleaning device (10) is used to generate a propulsive action relative to the floor surface in the propulsive direction (V); The connector assembly (16) is configured to have a first pivot joint having a first pivot range having a defined or virtual first pivot axis (A), and the first pivot joint allows the guide member (14) to pivot about the first pivot range relative to the floor unit (12). Wherein, the first pivot axis (A) is located in the first pivot axis plane (E), the first pivot axis plane is perpendicular to the floor surface and contains a direction vector defining the propulsion direction (V); Its features are: In a motorized operating state, the guide member (14) is pivotable about the first pivot axis (A) relative to the floor unit (12), wherein the guide member (14) is fixed or temporarily supported relative to the floor unit (12) or relative to the floor in the plane (E) of the first pivot axis, wherein due to the pivotal movement of the guide member (14) about the first pivot axis (A), the propulsive action, under the support of the guide member (14) in the plane (E) of the pivot axis, results in a rotational torque on the floor unit (12) on the floor surface that improves the mobility of the floor cleaning device (10), and The cleaning device also includes a support device. The joint assembly is functionally associated with the support device, which, in the motorized operating state, at least temporarily and / or at least partially supports the guide member or the joint assembly relative to the floor unit or relative to the floor via the first pivot joint. The support device includes a spring element arranged such that the support device provides progressive support within a first angular range and decreasing support within a second angular range.

2. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The floor cleaning device (10) includes a brush-type suction floor cleaning device (10).

3. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The connector assembly (16) is configured to have a first pivot joint having a first pivot range having a defined or virtual first pivot axis (A), and the first pivot joint allows the guide member (14) to pivot about the first pivot axis (A) relative to the floor unit (12).

4. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the maneuvering operation state, the first pivot axis (A) and the direction vector defining the propulsion direction (V) form an acute angle ranging from 5° to 85°.

5. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the maneuvering operation state, the first pivot axis (A) and the direction vector defining the propulsion direction (V) form an acute angle ranging from 15° to 45°.

6. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first pivot joint can be permanently fixed to the floor unit (12) about the first pivot axis, or can be locked in a predetermined position that determines the orientation of the first pivot axis (A) and the direction vector that defines the propulsion direction (V) in the motor operation state.

7. The floor cleaning device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The connector assembly (16) is configured to have a second pivot joint having a second pivot range having a defined or virtual second pivot axis (B), and the second pivot joint allows the guide member (14) to pivot about the second pivot range relative to the floor unit (12), wherein the second pivot axis (B) is substantially parallel to the floor surface and transverse to the first pivot axis (A).

8. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (90) can be locked at least temporarily in at least one locked position.

9. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (90) can be locked at least temporarily in at least two locking positions.

10. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (90) can be locked at least temporarily in at least three locking positions.

11. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (90) is steplessly lockable.

12. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (90) is constructed to be rigid.

13. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spring element (192) provides support based on the angle between the first pivot axis (A) and the direction vector defining the propulsion direction (V).

14. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spring element (192) provides progressive support based on the angle between the first pivot axis (A) and the direction vector defining the propulsion direction (V).

15. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The damping element is associated with the support device (90).

16. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A support device (210) associated with the first pivot range having a first pivot axis (A) is used to at least partially support the guide member (14) as the guide member pivots relative to the floor unit (12) about the first pivot axis (A) from a predetermined or predeterminable pivot angle.

17. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (210) is configured to support or guide the guide member when the guide member pivots relative to the floor unit (12) about the first pivot axis (A).

18. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The support device (210) is configured to guide the guide member along an arc-shaped path.

19. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (210) is configured to elastically support the guide member (14) as the guide member pivots about the first pivot axis (A).

20. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (210) is configured to gradually and elastically support the guide member (14) as the pivot angle in both pivot directions increases when the guide member pivots about the first pivot axis (A).

21. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The connector assembly (16) has a connecting element (62) for connecting the first pivot joint to the second pivot joint, wherein the connecting element (62) is pivotable relative to the floor unit (12) about the second pivot axis (B), and the guide member (14) is pivotable relative to the connecting element (62) about the first pivot range having a first pivot axis (A).

22. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The connecting element (62) can be elastically supported relative to the floor unit (12).

23. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The support device (90) is associated with the connecting element (62) and includes a support element (106) that contacts the floor unit (12) in a motorized operating state to provide support.

24. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (90) is configured to be integrally formed with the connector assembly (16) or configured as a separate component, which can be modularly attached to and detached from the floor cleaning device (10).

25. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The joint assembly (16) is configured as a double universal joint, and at least one of the support device (90) or multiple support devices (90) is integrally formed with the double universal joint.

26. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device (90) can be activated or deactivated by the operator as needed.

27. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 26, characterized in that, The support device can be pivoted by the operator between the operating position and the parking position.

28. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 27, characterized in that, The support device can be locked in at least one of the operating position and the parking position.

29. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The attachment element (116) is associated with the support device (90) and is configured to stabilize the support device (90) to prevent pivoting that reaches the limit force opposite to the support direction during support.

30. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 29, characterized in that, The attachment element (116) includes a magnet.

31. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 29, characterized in that, The support device provides a substantially form-locking and / or force-locking connection between the support device and the guide member (14) and / or the floor unit (12).

32. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 29, characterized in that, The support device provides a substantially form-locking and / or force-locking connection between the support device and the guide member (14) and / or the floor unit (12) via the attachment element.

33. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second pivot axis (B) is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the first pivot axis (A).

34. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The guide member (14) includes a longitudinal axis.

35. The floor cleaning device (10) according to claim 34, characterized in that, The longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the first pivot axis (A) and perpendicular to the second pivot axis (B).

36. The floor cleaning device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The connector assembly (16) can be attached to the floor unit (12) in such a way that the gravity of the guide member (14) is introduced into the floor unit (12) at a geometric position in the floor unit (12) via the connector assembly (16), which, viewed from the direction of propulsion (V), is located in front of the area center or centroid of the floor unit.

37. The floor cleaning device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The floor unit (12) includes a fastening device by means of which the joint assembly (16) can be variably fastened to the floor unit (12) at different fastening positions along the propulsion direction (V).

38. The floor cleaning device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The mass ratio of the floor unit (12) and the guide member (14) is between 1:5 and 1:1 or between 1:1 and 5:

1.

39. The floor cleaning device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The floor cleaning device (10) also includes a parking state, wherein in the parking state, the floor unit (12) can be moved relative to the guide member (14) to a space-saving parking position and can be locked in this position.

40. The floor cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support device is configured to completely lock the guide member relative to the floor unit, such that pivoting about the first pivot axis is at least stopped within a predetermined angle range.

41. The floor cleaning device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The support device is configured to completely lock the guide member relative to the floor unit, such that pivoting about the first pivot axis and about the second pivot axis is at least stopped within a predetermined angle range.

42. A support device (90) for a floor cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 41, wherein, in a motorized operating state, the support device supports the guide member or the joint assembly at least temporarily and / or at least partially relative to the floor unit or relative to the floor via the first pivot joint. The support device includes a spring element arranged such that the support device provides progressive support within a first angular range and decreasing support within a second angular range.

43. The support device (90) according to claim 42, comprising a base (94) and at least one support column, wherein the support device can be attached to the shaft (40) or the floor unit (12) by means of the base, the support column permanently or by displacement to the floor unit (12) carrying the weight of the shaft (40) into the floor unit (12).

44. The support device (90) according to claim 42 or 43, characterized in that, The support device (90) includes a locking bracket (92) that is pivotable, wherein the locking bracket (92) is configured to prevent any pivoting of the guide member about the first pivot axis (A), or to prevent pivoting only from a predetermined pivot angle.

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