Cleaning machine

Abstract

A sweeper (1) comprises: a vehicle (2) defining a longitudinal axis (2a) parallel to a direction of travel of the vehicle (2) on the ground; a cleaning system (3) connected to the frame (20), the cleaning system (3) being adapted to move garbage present on the ground; a garbage collection system (4) integrated with the frame (20) and provided near the cleaning system (3); a garbage containing chamber (5) associated with the collection system (4) and adapted to contain garbage, the cleaning system (3) further comprising at least one electronically controlled pneumatic actuator (32) adapted to move each cleaning element (30) in order to adjust a reference position (3a) relative to the frame (20) and constituting at least part of each arm (31) in order to be able to adjust the amount of extension of the arm (31).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sweeper which can be used for maintaining roads and driving areas, in particular for cleaning roads. Background Art

[0002] Currently, known road sweepers are vehicles adapted to remove garbage (or waste) and debris present on road surfaces, which, in addition to negatively impacting the aesthetics of city streets, may also pose a potential hazard to road safety.

[0003] A road sweeper is typically a vehicle equipped with a cab driven by an operator, and employs a waste sweeping system and a waste collection system connected to the vehicle itself.

[0004] The sweeping system is a device consisting of a brush connected to the vehicle by a robotic arm, a control system utilizing actuators, a system to suck up the collected trash along the vehicle's path, and an internal collection chamber that encloses the collected trash.

[0005] In particular, known cleaning systems utilize hydraulic actuators to move arms of cleaning elements associated with the cleaning system.

[0006] The prior art described has some important drawbacks.

[0007] In particular, hydraulic actuators are unable to achieve adequate motion associated with certain types of motion of the cleaning elements that would increase the efficiency of the cleaning system, such as floating motion.

[0008] In hydraulic actuators, anti-collision and safety systems for operators are not very effective.

[0009] Another disadvantage of hydraulic actuators is that, if they break, they can release pollutants into the environment.

[0010] In addition, the existing technology has the disadvantage of being complex to maintain. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In this case, the technical task of the present invention is to design a sweeping machine that can substantially overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages at least in part.

[0012] Within the technical task mentioned above, an important purpose of the present invention is to obtain a sweeping machine in which the sweeping system can move in a floating motion.

[0013] The present invention provides a sweeping machine, comprising: a vehicle defining a longitudinal axis parallel to a direction of travel of the vehicle on a ground surface, and comprising at least: a supporting frame, a motion device loosely constrained to the frame and configured to drive the vehicle relative to the ground surface, a sweeping system connected to the frame, the sweeping system being adapted to remove debris present on the ground surface and comprising: at least one sweeping element adapted to remove the debris from the ground surface, the sweeping element determining a reference position relative to the frame, at least one connecting arm for each of the at least one sweeping element, the at least one connecting arm being adapted to connect the at least one sweeping element to the vehicle, a system for collecting the debris being integral with the frame and disposed adjacent to the sweeping system, a chamber for receiving the debris being connected to the collection system and adapted to receive the debris, the sweeping system further comprising at least one electronically controlled pneumatic actuator adapted to move the at least one sweeping element to adjust the reference position relative to the frame and constituting at least a portion of the at least one arm so as to be able to adjust the extension of the arm.

[0014] Another important object of the present invention is to realize a sweeping machine in which the sweeping system does not cause harm to the environment in the event of damage.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to realize a sweeping machine in which the sweeping system has an anti-collision system that improves the safety conditions for the operator.

[0016] Another important object of the present invention is to reduce the complexity, installation and maintenance costs of the cleaning system.

[0017] Finally, another advantage of the invention is that it improves the stability of the load and its distribution in the device, without changing the horizontal position of the device.

[0018] The sweeping machine according to the present invention can achieve the above technical tasks and specific objectives. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Hereinafter, the features and advantages of the present invention are explained by describing in detail preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 A sweeping machine according to the present invention is shown;

[0021] Figure 2 A view showing a sweeping system of a sweeping machine according to the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 A first detailed view of a sweeping system of a sweeping machine according to the present invention is shown;

[0023] Figure 4 A second detailed view showing a sweeping system of a sweeping machine according to the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5 A third detailed view showing a sweeping system of a sweeping machine according to the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6 shows part of a sweeping machine according to the invention;

[0026] Figure 7 shows part of a garbage suction system of a sweeping machine according to the present invention; and

[0027] Figure 8 A top view of the frame of a sweeping machine according to the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] In this document, when measurements, values, shapes, and geometrical references (such as perpendicularity and parallelism) are associated with "about" or other similar terms (such as "approximately" or "substantially"), this means that measurement errors or inaccuracies caused by production and / or manufacturing errors are not included, and in particular, slight deviations from the associated values, measurements, shapes, or geometrical references are not included. For example, if these terms are associated with a numerical value, the deviation is preferably no more than 10% of the numerical value itself.

[0029] In addition, when terms such as “first,” “second,” “upper,” “lower,” “primary,” and “secondary” are used, they do not necessarily determine the order, priority, or relative position, but are only used to more clearly distinguish different components from each other.

[0030] Unless otherwise indicated, it will be apparent from the following discussion that "processing," "computer science," "determining," "computing," or similar terms refer to the action and / or process of a computer or similar electronic computing device that processes and / or transforms data represented as physical data, such as electronic quantities in computer system registers and / or other data similarly represented as physical quantities in computer systems, registers, or other devices for storing, transmitting, or displaying information.

[0031] Unless otherwise stated, the measurements and data reported in this document should be considered to be those made in accordance with the ICAO International Standard for Atmospheres (ISO 2533:1975).

[0032] With reference to the drawings, a sweeping machine of the present disclosure is generally indicated by reference numeral 1 .

[0033] The sweeping machine 1 comprises a vehicle 2 defining a longitudinal axis 2a parallel to a direction of travel of the vehicle 2 .

[0034] The vehicle 2 is a motor vehicle suitable for use on public roads and, alternatively, for use in external private environments such as home or work environments.

[0035] The vehicle 2 preferably includes a cockpit 23 adapted to accommodate a driving position of an operator.

[0036] In addition to the known instructions for driving the vehicle 2 , the driving position preferably also includes instructions for adjusting equipment suitable for cleaning the floor.

[0037] In particular, the sweeper 1 is generally a road vehicle adapted to remove garbage deposited on urban ground.

[0038] The vehicle 2 comprises at least a supporting frame 20. The frame 20 is of a known type suitable for bearing a load and supporting the structure of the sweeping machine 1.

[0039] In addition to the frame 20 , the vehicle 2 also comprises at least a movement device 21 .

[0040] The motion device 21 is configured to drive the vehicle 2 to move relative to the ground.

[0041] In particular, in the sweeping machine 1 , the moving device 21 includes at least two axles 210 .

[0042] Suspension group

[0043] As is known, the axles 210 are mechanical components suitable for moving the vehicle 2. In fact, each axle is connected to the frame 20 and comprises two wheels 211.

[0044] The vehicle 2 preferably also includes a plurality of suspensions 22 .

[0045] The multiple suspensions 22 may partially or entirely comprise self-leveling pneumatic suspensions. The self-leveling pneumatic suspensions preferably include air springs 220. The air springs 220 function as air bearings that allow the extension of the suspensions 22 to be adjusted. This allows the position of the frame 20 to be adjusted relative to a reference position. Each of the air springs 220 may be fluidically connected to a compressor 221. The compressor 221 may be a screw positive displacement compressor. This allows the air pressure within the air springs 220 to be adjusted by the intake and exhaust of air. This adjustment may be achieved via a valve. In this regard, the air springs 220 preferably include an electric valve 222. The electric valve 222 may adjust the amount of air entering and exiting each of the air springs 220. Furthermore, the electric valve 222 may also draw in and exhaust air via an electric drive. Thus, the electric valve 222 may fluidically connect each of the air springs 220 to the compressor 221.

[0046] Each of the suspensions 22 can be functionally connected to a corresponding wheel 211, in which case each suspension 22 is preferably arranged between the frame 20 and the axle 210. More specifically, the function of the suspensions 22 is to reduce the transmission of vibrations caused by the movement of the vehicle 2 to the frame 20 via the axle 210. In this regard, the suspensions 22 can include hydraulic shock absorbers 224.

[0047] The suspension 22 can further be configured to maintain the same distance between the frame 20 and the ground. In this regard, the distance value between the frame 20 and the ground can be determined so that when the position sensor detects a distance value different from a predetermined value, the suspension 22 changes the distance to bring the distance to the predetermined value.

[0048] The plurality of suspensions 22 preferably include an angular position sensor 24. The angular position sensor 24 is a sensor configured to measure the tilt of the frame 20 relative to the ground. For example, the angular sensor 24 may measure the angle between the plane of the axle 210 and the ground. The plurality of suspensions 22 are preferably further configured to change the tilt in response to the measured tilt until the measured value reaches a predetermined value. For example, to maintain the plane of the axle 210 parallel to the ground, the predetermined tilt value may be 0°.

[0049] As mentioned above, the distance between the frame 20 and the ground or the inclination of the frame 20 relative to the ground can be changed by adjusting the air pressure in the air spring.

[0050] The suspension 22 may include an electronic control unit 223. The electronic control unit 223 may be operatively connected to at least the electric valve 22 to adjust the driving force of the electric valve 22 according to the required air pressure within each air spring 220. The electronic control unit 223 may also be functionally connected to the angle sensor 24. In this way, the inclination can be continuously changed until a predetermined inclination value is reached.

[0051] Specifically, the air pressure value of each air spring 220 can be different. In this way, the inclination of the frame 20 relative to the ground can be changed according to the operating conditions of the vehicle 1 and the irregularities of the ground.

[0052] The electronic control unit 223 can adjust the inclination of the axle plane relative to the ground in response to the angle values measured on the individual air springs 220. Therefore, the electronic control unit 223 can individually change the air pressure value of each air spring 220 to change the inclination of the axle plane until it reaches a predetermined value. Therefore, the electronic control unit 223 can drive the compressor 221 and electric valve 222 of the air spring 220 to change the air pressure.

[0053] In automatic mode, this differentiated change can also be automatically performed by setting a predetermined value. The electronic control unit 223 can also process parameters such as the weight of the vehicle 2 or the volume of the fuel tank or water tank to adjust the distance between the frame 20 and the ground based on the parameter changes measured by the sensor, thereby changing the distance between the frame 20 and the ground until the distance value is consistent with the predetermined value.

[0054] The air pressure adjustment of the air spring 220 can be performed on a single spring or on springs connected to the same axle 210 .

[0055] The activation of the compressor 221 and the electric valve 222 can generally be manually controlled by an operator through a control device.

[0056] Therefore, the pneumatic suspension 22 has the advantage of allowing the weights on the front and rear axles 210 to be stabilized differently depending on the loading or unloading process.

[0057] Cleaning Team

[0058] The cleaning machine 1 includes a cleaning system 3. The cleaning system 3 is preferably operatively connected to the frame 20. The cleaning system 3 is adapted to remove debris present on the ground; therefore, the cleaning system 3 includes at least a cleaning element 30 adapted to remove debris from the ground and determine a reference position 3a relative to the frame 20. The reference position 3a generally refers to the position of a fixed point detected on the cleaning element 30 relative to a fixed reference system detected on the frame 20. For example, the center of rotation or center of gravity of the cleaning element 30 can be considered a fixed point, and the hook area of the cleaning system 3 relative to the frame 20 can be considered a fixed reference system detected on the frame 20.

[0059] The cleaning element 30 is typically a movable brush connected to a motion system. If the configuration includes a rotating brush mounted on one or more rollers, the movable brush can rotate relative to an axis perpendicular to the ground or relative to an axis parallel to the ground. In both cases, for example, both axes can pass through the center of rotation mentioned above. As an alternative to a rotating brush, the cleaning element 30 can include a brush having fixed bristles that are arranged perpendicular to the ground and engage with an upper plane parallel to the ground.

[0060] In particular, in a configuration where the brush rotates about an axis perpendicular to the ground, the rotational motion causes debris to be transported into the interior of the vehicle 2, thereby carrying the debris to the area below the vehicle 2. Generally speaking, the cleaning element 30 can be moved so as to combine the cleaning action caused by the rotational motion with at least a translational motion. The movement of the cleaning element 30 can then optimize the cleaning process and increase cleaning efficiency depending on the road conditions and the type of debris encountered.

[0061] The movement of the cleaning element 30 is achieved by a suitable mechanical system.

[0062] In this regard, the cleaning system 3 includes at least one arm 31. The arm 31 serves as a connection for at least one cleaning element 30. The arm 31 is adapted to connect the cleaning element 30 to the vehicle 2 (particularly, the frame 20). As described above, the cleaning system 3 may be comprised of a plurality of cleaning elements 30. In this case, a single arm 31 may connect all of the cleaning elements 30, which are integrally connected, to the frame 20, or the cleaning system 3 may include a plurality of arms 31, each of which connects a corresponding cleaning element 30 to the frame 20.

[0063] Advantageously, the cleaning system 3 further includes at least one pneumatic actuator 32. The pneumatic actuator 32 can be a single-rod cylinder or a through-rod cylinder of known type, preferably using air as the working fluid. The pneumatic actuator 32 is preferably adapted to move each cleaning element 30 to adjust the reference position 3a of the cleaning element 30 relative to the frame 20. In particular, the pneumatic actuator 32 is at least part of the arm 31. This allows adjustment of the extension amount or direction of the arm 31.

[0064] The advantages of this solution are that it is easy to maintain and install, and can improve safety when the vehicle 2 is damaged. In addition, the presence of the pneumatic actuator 32 makes the vehicle 2 contain fewer oil-containing parts, which is beneficial to the environment.

[0065] The pneumatic actuator 32 primarily effects the movement of the at least one cleaning element 30 .

[0066] The arm 31 preferably has a proximal portion 311. The proximal portion 311 is the portion of the arm 31 that is connected to the vehicle 2. In particular, the proximal portion 311 can be hingedly connected to the hook portion 34. The proximal portion 311 can be part of the cleaning system 3 and operatively connected to the frame 20. In particular, the proximal portion 311 can be movable relative to the frame 20.

[0067] In some embodiments, the proximal portion 311 can be hinged to enable relative rotation of the proximal portion 311 relative to the frame 20 around an axis parallel to the ground.

[0068] The arm 31 preferably includes a distal portion 310. The distal portion 310 is hinged to the proximal portion 311. The distal portion 310 is hinged to at least one cleaning element 30. In this way, the cleaning element 30 can be moved by the hinge constraining the proximal portion 311 and the distal portion 310 to change the inclination of the cleaning element 30 relative to the ground.

[0069] Advantageously, the arm 31 preferably includes a plurality of pneumatic actuators 32. The plurality of pneumatic actuators 32 preferably includes at least one first pneumatic actuator 320. The first pneumatic actuator 320 is constrained to the distal portion 310. In particular, the first actuator 320 is configured to change the inclination of the at least one cleaning element 30 relative to a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis 2a.

[0070] In some embodiments of the sweeping machine 1, the arm 31 may include two first actuators 320 perpendicular to each other. In these embodiments, the proximal portion 311 and the distal portion 310 may be articulated relative to two perpendicular axes to be able to change the inclination of the sweeping element 30 relative to the axis.

[0071] Specifically, the first actuator 320 may include an air cylinder. In particular, the first actuator 320 may include a single-rod air cylinder. A single-rod air cylinder is a type of pneumatic cylinder that consists of a rod that can slide within an airtight chamber. The rod is connected to an inner wall that defines and separates two spaces within the chamber. The rod and the inner wall are integrally formed, and changes in the amount of air contained in the two internal spaces separated by the inner wall, and the resulting changes in air pressure, cause the rod to move. The movement of the rod in a certain direction or opposite directions can be controlled by introducing air into one internal space and exhausting air from the other internal space. The introduction and exhaust of air can be controlled in one direction or opposite directions, thereby causing the rod to move in one direction or the other. The introduction of air can be controlled mechanically or electrically.

[0072] The first actuator 320 preferably defines a first end 320a and a second end 320b opposite the first end 320a. The first end 320a can be hingedly connected to the proximal portion 311. The second end 320b can be hingedly connected to the distal portion 310. In this manner, extension or contraction of the cylinder achieves rotational movement of the cleaning element 30 about the corresponding axis.

[0073] The combination of the two first actuators 320 perpendicular to each other can realize the rotation of the cleaning element 30 around two rotation axes perpendicular to each other. For example, the two rotational movements can respectively determine the pitch and roll of the cleaning element 30 relative to the longitudinal axis 2a.

[0074] Generally, a combination of two or more first actuators 320 causes the cleaning element 30 to rotate about different mutually transverse axes.

[0075] In particular, in some embodiments of the sweeping machine 1, a first actuator in the form of a single-rod cylinder can be arranged relative to the sweeping element 30 so as to be perpendicular to one another, with one of the single-rod cylinders being arranged along the connecting portion 301 between the sweeping element and the distal portion 310. The connecting portion 301 is the fixed portion of the sweeping element 30 relative to the movable portion. This arrangement of the single-rod cylinders allows the movement of the sweeping element 30 to be accomplished by the rotating arm, which advantageously reduces stress on the rod in the event of a collision.

[0076] Advantageously, in the sweeping machine 1 , the at least one pneumatic actuator 32 preferably comprises a second actuator 321 extending transversely to the ground surface.

[0077] The second actuator 321 is preferably configured to change the reference position 3a relative to the frame 20 transversely to the ground surface in order to adjust the distance of the at least one cleaning element 30 relative to the ground surface.

[0078] The advantage of the second actuator 321 is that the cleaning action can be adjusted to the irregularities of the ground, because the second actuator 321 can lift the cleaning element 30 and keep the cleaning element 30 at a certain distance from the ground (determined by the operator).

[0079] In particular, the proximal portion 311 preferably includes a second actuator 321 .

[0080] In some embodiments of the sweeping machine 1 , the proximal portion 311 may be hinged to the hook portion 34 to enable a rotational movement, thereby enabling the arm 31 to change the distance of the sweeping element 30 relative to the ground.

[0081] In this regard, the second actuator 321 may comprise, for example, a pneumatic cylinder. The pneumatic cylinder may be a single-rod pneumatic cylinder and may also comprise a rod locking element, enabling the proximal portion 311 to retain the position achieved after the second actuator 321 has moved.

[0082] In this regard, the second actuator 321 may include a third end 321a hingedly connected to the hook portion 34, and a fourth end 321b opposite the third end 321a, which is received in the groove 311a. When the cylinder lengthens or shortens, the fourth end 321b can slide within the groove 311a. In this manner, the fourth end 321b received in the groove 311a moves the proximal portion 311, causing the proximal portion 311 to rotate relative to the hinge that holds the proximal portion 311 to the hook portion 34. The rotational movement of the proximal portion 311 allows the cleaning element 30 to change its distance from the ground.

[0083] In some embodiments of the sweeping machine 1, a stabilizing element may be present, which is constrained by a spring hinged at both ends to the hook portion 34 and the proximal portion 311. The advantage of the stabilizing element is that once the movement controlled by the second actuator 321 is completed, the proximal portion 311 can remain in the position reached.

[0084] Advantageously, the cleaning system 3 preferably further includes a guide 33 .

[0085] The guide 33 is of a known type and may comprise, for example, a bar having a shaped profile to facilitate the sliding of the hooking portion 34. Specifically, the guide 33 is integral with the frame 20 and extends along a guide track 33a.

[0086] The guide track 33 a determines a direction in which the hooking portion 34 can slide.

[0087] At least one arm 31 is preferably loosely constrained to the hook portion 34 so as to be able to move along the guide track 33a. In some embodiments of the sweeping machine 1, the hook portion 34 may be constrained to both arms 31, and when the hook portion 34 moves relative to the frame 20 along the guide track 33a, the sliding of the hook portion 34 relative to the guide 33 involves the entire sliding of the two arms 31.

[0088] In particular, the movement is preferably achieved by a pneumatic actuator 32. The pneumatic actuator 32 may include a through-rod cylinder 322.

[0089] The through-rod cylinder 322 is preferably operatively connected to the guide 33. Therefore, the through-rod cylinder 322 can slide along the guide track 33a.

[0090] In some embodiments of the sweeping machine 1 , the guide 33 may correspond to the rod of the through-rod cylinder 322 . The main body of the through-rod cylinder 322 may be integrated with the hook portion 34 .

[0091] In addition, the rod can also be constrained to the frame 20. Then, due to the constraint of the through-rod cylinder 322, the arm 31 can be dragged along the guide track 33a to move relative to the frame 20.

[0092] The through-rod cylinder 322 may be connected to a plurality of arms 31 via a hook portion 34, and each arm 31 is connected to the cleaning element 30. In this case, the arms 31 may be moved simultaneously by the same through-rod cylinder 322.

[0093] The sweeping machine 1 comprises a waste collection system 4 .

[0094] The waste collection system 4 is integrated with the frame 20. The waste collection system 4 is preferably arranged near the cleaning system 3.

[0095] As is well known, the collection system 4 can remove the garbage swept out by the cleaning system 4 from the ground.

[0096] In the sweeper 1, the collection system 4 is preferably a suction collection system. The collection system 4 preferably includes at least a pneumatic actuator 32, which is composed of a third pneumatic actuator 323. The third pneumatic actuator 323 can be a single-rod cylinder.

[0097] The third actuator 323 preferably extends along a translation axis 40a. The translation axis 40a is in particular transverse to the ground, for example perpendicular to the ground.

[0098] The collection system 4 preferably comprises a suction nozzle 40 .

[0099] The suction nozzle 40 is a tubular element with its opening facing the ground, and is suitable for sucking garbage on the ground; the suction nozzle 40 is usually located downstream of the cleaning system 3 so that the garbage swept out by the cleaning system 3 can be transported to the inlet of the suction nozzle 40.

[0100] Nozzle set

[0101] The suction nozzle 40 is preferably connected to the frame 20 ; in particular, it is connected to the frame 20 via a lifting rod 41 .

[0102] The lifting rod 41 is preferably a rigid bar of known type, which is constrained to the frame 20 by a hinge defining a third axis of rotation 41a parallel to the ground.

[0103] The suction nozzle 40 is connected to the lifting rod 41 through a hook structure 42.

[0104] The hooking structure 42 is preferably configured to be constrained to the body of the nozzle 40 .

[0105] The lifting rod 41 is further constrained at its free end 41b to a hook structure 42. In addition, the lifting rod 41 is also connected to a moving element 41c arranged between the hinge and the hook structure 42.

[0106] The moving element 41 c is a structure hooked to the lifting rod 41 .

[0107] In particular, the moving element 41 c is integrated with the lifting rod 41 and is constrained to the moving device 43 .

[0108] The motion device 43 is a mechanical element capable of realizing the lifting and lowering motion of the lever.

[0109] The hooking structure 42 preferably comprises a sliding housing 420 for the suction nozzle 40 .

[0110] The sliding housing 420 is adapted to accommodate the suction nozzle 40 and enable the suction nozzle 40 to slide in the sliding housing 420 , preferably along a translation axis 40 a .

[0111] The hooking structure 42 preferably further includes at least one supporting wheel 421 .

[0112] The support wheel 421 is preferably provided at a portion of the hooking structure 42 closest to the ground and is configured to be in contact with the ground.

[0113] In a possible configuration, the hooking structure may include a first supporting wheel 421 hooked on a lower portion of the hooking structure 42 and a second supporting wheel 421 hooked on a protruding portion of the supporting structure 42 and aligned with the lifting rod 41 .

[0114] The third actuator 323 is constrained to the hooking structure 42 at a fifth end 323 a and is constrained to the suction nozzle 40 at a sixth end 323 b opposite to the fifth end 323 a .

[0115] In this way, the third actuator 323 connects the suction nozzle 40 to the hooking structure 42 and enables the movement of the suction nozzle 40 within the sliding housing 420 .

[0116] The lifting rod 41 is configured to be moved by the moving device 43 so as to be rotated about the third rotation axis 41 a , thereby achieving the lifting and lowering of the hooking structure 42 and the suction nozzle 40 .

[0117] In the case where the collecting system 4 is not in use, it is very advantageous to lift the suction nozzle 40 .

[0118] The fact that the hooking structure 42 and the suction nozzle 40 are located at the free end 41 b of the lifting rod 41 facilitates the lifting and lowering of the hooking structure 42 and the suction nozzle 40 .

[0119] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the translation movement of the suction nozzle 40 along the translation axis 40 a can adjust the distance between the suction nozzle and the ground, thereby optimizing the suction action under different operating conditions.

[0120] The cleaning machine 1 comprises a garbage receiving chamber 5 connected to the collection system 4, and the garbage receiving chamber 5 is used to receive the collected garbage.

[0121] The chamber 5 is of a known type and is restrained to the frame of the vehicle 2. The chamber 5 is connected to the collection system 4; this connection can be achieved by a pipe connected to a suction nozzle 40. The waste is preferably conveyed into the chamber 5 and unloaded by opening the door.

[0122] Advantageously, in the sweeping machine 1, each pneumatic actuator 32 is preferably controlled by an electronic control system 7. The electronic control system 7 is preferably activatable by an operator.

[0123] The electronic control system 7 emits electronic signals which allow the activation of the individual pneumatic actuators 32 to be controlled, preferably independently.

[0124] The electronic control system 7 preferably includes an interface that enables an operator to control the individual pneumatic actuators 32 .

[0125] For example, the electronic control system 7 can be configured to maintain a constant distance between the cleaning elements 30 and the ground. In this regard, the electronic control system 7 can be operatively connected to the electronic control unit 223. Thus, the distance between each cleaning element 30 and the ground, as well as the position and inclination of each cleaning element 30, can be coordinated and adjusted based on the adjustment method of the pneumatic actuator 32.

[0126] Advantageously, in the sweeping machine 1, at least one sweeping element 30 is preferably constrained to the frame 2 by a resetting device 6. The resetting device 6 is configured to change the reference position 3a when the value of the distance between the sweeping element 30 and the frame 20 exceeds a predetermined value so that the distance has a value at most equal to the predetermined value.

[0127] In some embodiments of the cleaning machine 1, the reset device 6 includes at least one spring. In these embodiments, reset is achieved by an elastic restoring force applied to the cleaning element 30. In fact, during reset, the force applied to the spring exceeds the force applied to the cleaning element 30 by the at least one pneumatic actuator 32. Specifically, the reset device 6 can be a spring hinged to the cleaning element 30 at one end and hinged to the frame 20 at the opposite end. The reset device 6 is advantageous in that it can return the cleaning element 30 to its original position if it is impacted while the cleaning machine 1 is in motion. For example, the cleaning element 30 can be moved to position 3a closest to the frame 20 to reduce the risk of damage.

[0128] The sweeping machine 1 may include a protective box or shield for housing the electric valve 222. Additional protective shields may also be provided for the moving elements of the sweeping element 30 and engine components.

[0129] The cleaning machine 1 described above operates structurally as follows.

[0130] The sweeper 1 transports waste from the road surface to the entrance of the collection system 4 via the sweeping system 3. Specifically, the sweeping element 30 transports the waste and delivers it to the suction nozzle 40. Once delivered to the collection system 4, the waste is stored in the chamber 5. The sweeper 1 also has the function of moving the sweeping element 30 at a certain angle relative to the longitudinal axis 2a or an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis 2a. The movements performed by the sweeping element 30 include adjusting the distance from the ground relative to a reference position 3a, rolling and pitching movements, and translation.

[0131] In the configuration with guide 33 , the cleaning element 30 can be translated relative to a guide track 33 a , the inclination of which can differ from the longitudinal axis 2 a and which is controlled by a corresponding through-rod cylinder 322 .

[0132] The pneumatic actuator 32 may be controlled by the control system 7 .

[0133] Furthermore, the suspension 22 can also adjust the distance between the frame 20 and the ground. Specifically, based on the inclination of the frame 20 relative to the ground as measured by the angle sensor 24, the compressor 221 adjusts the air pressure within a single air spring, adjusting the inclination of the frame 20 to a predetermined value. This allows even the cleaning element 30 to maintain a predetermined distance from the ground.

[0134] The sweeping machine 1 of the present invention has important advantages.

[0135] In fact, the advantage of the sweeping machine 1 is that it can move the sweeping element 30 in a floating motion by combining different rotational and translational movements. These movements increase the efficiency of the sweeping system 3 and make it more adaptable to different environments and different road conditions.

[0136] Another advantage is to use pneumatic actuators 32, i.e. cylinders, to achieve the required motion. In fact, when these devices break down and become damaged, the risk of harming the environment is reduced because these devices do not use oil when operating, but compressed air.

[0137] Furthermore, the use of such a device ensures that the cleaning machine 1 is easier to install and maintain.

[0138] Another advantage of the sweeper according to the present invention is the use of the pneumatic suspension 22, which reduces the occurrence of collisions by improving the working conditions and safety of the operator.

[0139] In fact, the pneumatic suspension 22, together with the electronic control system 7, constitutes a horizontal position control system. This control system has the advantage of maintaining the proper position of all sensitive components of the sweeper 1. For example, by maintaining the position of the cab, it improves the ergonomics of the driver. The horizontal position of the chamber 5 is stabilized, ensuring the uniform distribution of the sucked-in material by preventing accumulation caused by deviations from the horizontal position. Furthermore, the horizontal position ensures that the liquid level in the tank is maintained by avoiding tilting of the liquid level plane, which could cause the sensor to read the liquid level incorrectly.

[0140] The present invention can be modified in various ways within the scope of the inventive concept defined in the claims.

[0141] Within this scope, all details may be replaced by equivalent elements and the materials, shapes and dimensions may be chosen at will.

Claims

1. A sweeper (1), comprising: A vehicle (2) defining a longitudinal axis (2a) parallel to a direction of travel of the vehicle (2) on the ground, and comprising at least: Support frame (20), a motion device (21) which is loosely constrained to the frame (20), and the motion device (21) is configured to drive the vehicle (2) relative to the ground, A cleaning system (3) connected to the frame (20), the cleaning system (3) being suitable for removing garbage present on the ground and comprising: at least one cleaning element (30) adapted to remove the debris from the floor, and wherein the cleaning element (30) determines a reference position (3a) relative to the frame (20), at least one connecting arm (31) for each of the at least one cleaning element (30), the at least one connecting arm (31) being adapted to connect the at least one cleaning element (30) to the vehicle (2), a system (4) for collecting said garbage, which is integrated with said frame (20) and is arranged near said sweeping system (3), a chamber (5) for receiving the waste, which is connected to the collection system (4) and is suitable for receiving the waste, and Characterized in that the cleaning system (3) further comprises at least one electronically controlled pneumatic actuator (32), which is suitable for moving the at least one cleaning element (30) to adjust the reference position (3a) relative to the frame (20) and constitutes at least a part of the at least one arm (31) so as to be able to adjust the extension of the arm (31).

2. The sweeper (1) according to claim 1, wherein the arm (31) defines a proximal portion (311) connected to the vehicle (2) and a distal portion (310) hinged to the proximal portion (311) and at least integrally constrained to the sweeping element (30), and the arm (31) includes a plurality of pneumatic actuators (32), the plurality of pneumatic actuators (32) including at least one first pneumatic actuator (320), the first pneumatic actuator (320) being constrained to the distal portion (310) for changing the inclination of the at least one sweeping element (30) relative to a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis (2a).

3. A sweeper (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one pneumatic actuator (32) includes a second actuator (321), which extends transversely to the ground and is configured to change the reference position (3a) relative to the frame (20) transversely to the ground so as to adjust the distance of the at least one sweeping element (30) relative to the ground.

4. The sweeping machine (1) according to claim 3, wherein the proximal portion (311) comprises the second actuator (321).

5. A sweeping machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sweeping system (3) includes a guide member (33) that is integrated with the frame (20) and extends along a guide track (33a), and the pneumatic actuator (32) includes a through-rod cylinder (322) operatively connected to the guide member (33), and the through-rod cylinder (322) is capable of sliding along the guide track (33a) and is constrained to the at least one arm (31) so as to drag the at least one arm (31) relative to the frame (20) when moving.

6. The sweeper (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the collection system (4) is of suction type and comprises at least the pneumatic actuator (32) and the suction nozzle (40), the pneumatic actuator (32) being composed of a third pneumatic actuator (323) parallel to the translation axis (40a) transverse to the ground, the suction nozzle (40) being connected to the frame (20) via a lifting rod (41) and a hooking structure (42); the lifting rod (41) being constrained to the frame (20) via a hinge, the hinge defining a first rotation axis (41a) parallel to the ground, and the lifting rod (41) being further constrained at its free end (41b) to the hooking structure (42) and a moving element (41c) arranged between the hinge and the hooking structure (42), the moving element (41c) being integrated with the lifting rod (41) and constrained to the moving device (43); the hooking structure (42) includes a sliding shell (420) for the suction nozzle (40) and at least one support wheel (421), and the support wheel (421) is arranged at the part of the hooking structure (42) closest to the ground and is configured to contact the ground; the third actuator (323) is constrained to the hooking structure (42) at the fifth end (323a) and is constrained to the suction nozzle (40) at the sixth end (323b) opposite to the fifth end (323a); the lifting rod (41) is configured to be actuated by the moving device (43) so as to rotate around the first rotation axis (41a) to achieve the lifting and lowering of the hooking structure (42) and the suction nozzle (40); the third actuator (323) is configured to move the suction nozzle (40) along the translation axis (40a) so as to achieve the translational movement of the suction nozzle (40).

7. A sweeper (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the motion device (21) includes at least two axles (210), each axle (210) is connected to the frame (20) and includes two wheels (211), and the vehicle (2) further includes a plurality of self-leveling pneumatic suspensions (22) for each wheel (211), each of the plurality of self-leveling pneumatic suspensions (22) being arranged between the frame (20) and the axle (210) and being configured to reduce the vibration caused by the movement of the vehicle (2) from being transmitted to the frame (20) through the axle (210).

8. The sweeper (1) according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of self-leveling pneumatic suspensions (22) include an angular position sensor (24), the angular position sensor (24) being configured to measure the inclination of the frame (20) relative to the ground, and the plurality of self-leveling pneumatic suspensions (22) being further configured to change the inclination in response to the measured value of the inclination so that the measured value changes to a predetermined value.

9. The sweeping machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the value of the distance between the reference position (3a) and the frame (20) exceeds a predetermined value, at least the cleaning element (30) is constrained to the frame (2) by a reset device (6), and the reset device (6) is configured to change the reference position (3a) so that the distance has a value at most equal to the predetermined value.

10. The sweeping machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the vehicle (2) comprises a cab (23) adapted to accommodate a driving position of an operator.

11. The sweeping machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one pneumatic actuator (32) is controlled by an electronic control system (7) which can be activated by an operator.

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