Surface treatment system

Abstract

The invention relates to a surface treatment system for treating, in particular for cleaning, a surface, in particular a floor surface, having a surface treatment appliance having a base part which is designed to act on the surface to be treated and having a guide part, in particular longitudinally extending, which is detachably connected to the base part and is designed to move the base part manually over the surface to be treated, and a robot device which can be detachably connected to the base part of the surface treatment appliance and is designed to move the base part autonomously over the surface to be treated, wherein the surface treatment system can be converted between an autonomous use configuration and a manual use configuration, wherein in the autonomous use configuration the guide part is detached from the base part and the robot device is detachably connected to the base part in order to enable autonomous movement of the base part over the surface to be treated, and wherein in the manual use configuration the robot device is detached from the surface treatment appliance in order to enable manual movement of the base part over the surface to be treated by means of the guide part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a surface treatment system for treating surfaces, particularly for cleaning floor surfaces. Background Technology

[0002] A surface treatment apparatus is known from DE 10 2013 215 198 A1. This known surface treatment apparatus is configured for processing a ground surface and has a bottom component and a longitudinally extending guide component. The bottom component is configured to act on the surface to be treated. The longitudinally extending guide component is connected to the bottom component and is configured to allow manual movement of the bottom component on the ground surface to be treated. This known surface treatment apparatus allows only manual use. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The objective of this invention is to provide a surface treatment system that offers advantages over the prior art.

[0004] This task is solved by providing a surface treatment system having the features of claim 1. Advantageous improvements are described in the dependent claims. The wording of the claims becomes part of the specification by reference.

[0005] The surface treatment system according to the invention comprises a surface processing tool and a robotic device. The surface processing tool has a bottom component and a guide component. The bottom component is configured to act on the surface to be treated. The guide component is releasably connected to the bottom component and is configured to manually move the bottom component on the surface to be treated. The robotic device is releasably connected to the bottom component of the surface processing tool. The robotic device is configured to autonomously move the bottom component on the surface to be treated. The surface treatment system according to the invention can switch between an autonomous use configuration and a manual use configuration. In the autonomous use configuration, the guide component is separated from the bottom component and the robotic device is releasably connected to the bottom component. In the manual use configuration, the robotic device is separated from the bottom component, and the guide component is releasably connected to / remains connected to the bottom component. The autonomous use configuration enables autonomous movement of the bottom component (and the robotic device connected thereto) on the surface to be treated, particularly for autonomous surface treatment. Instead, the manual use configuration uses the guide component to manually move the bottom component on the surface to be treated. Therefore, the surface treatment system according to the invention can be used to suit specific processing conditions. For example, smaller and / or surfaces unsuitable for autonomous processing can be processed in the manual use configuration of the surface treatment system. Larger and / or surfaces unsuitable for manual processing can be processed in the autonomous use configuration of the surface treatment system. Depending on the size of the guide component and the robotic device, the surface treatment system has a more compact size in the autonomous use configuration than in the manual use configuration, or vice versa. As long as the robotic device has a more compact size than the guide component, it can also process locations on the surface that are inaccessible or difficult to reach in the manual use configuration when the guide component is attached. As long as the guide component has a more compact size than the robotic device, it can also process locations on the surface that are inaccessible or difficult to reach in the autonomous use configuration when the robotic device is attached. By making it possible to use the same surface treatment system for both autonomous and manual processing, it is possible to eliminate the need to provide two separate surface processing tools, i.e., one manual / hand-guided surface processing tool and one autonomous surface processing tool. This saves on equipment costs. In addition, time and / or manpower can be saved. The solution according to the invention is also sustainable and allows for overall cost reduction.

[0006] The surface treatment system according to the invention is provided for treating surfaces. Preferably, the surface treatment system is used for cleaning floor surfaces, and more preferably for cleaning floor surfaces in buildings.

[0007] The bottom component is positioned to act on the surface to be treated. Preferably, the bottom component rests against the surface to be treated during use, i.e., not only in the manual use configuration but also in the autonomous use configuration. In particular, the bottom component is placed on the floor surface to be treated / cleaned. The bottom component may also be referred to as a treatment head.

[0008] A guide component is used for manually moving the bottom component. For this purpose, the guide component and the bottom component can be releasably connected (in an autonomous use configuration) or releasably connected (in a manual use configuration). In one design, the guide component and the bottom component are rigidly connected. In another design, the guide component and the bottom component are connected in a manner that allows movement relative to the bottom component, preferably in a manner that allows rotational and / or pivotal movement. The guide component and the bottom component are releasably and therefore interchangeably connected relative to the robotic device. The releasable connection between the guide component and the bottom component can be designed in any manner suitable for this purpose. The guide component may also be referred to as a hand-guided component. The guide component preferably extends longitudinally. More preferably, the guide component extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end. Preferably, the first end is provided for connection to the bottom component, especially an indirect or direct connection. Preferably, the second end is provided for operation by an operator.

[0009] A robotic device is configured to autonomously move its bottom component on the surface to be treated. In one design, the robotic device is configured to drive the autonomous movement. In another design, the robotic device is alternatively or additionally configured to steer the autonomous movement. In yet another design, the robotic device is alternatively or additionally configured to control the autonomous movement, particularly autonomous movement driven and / or steered by means of the bottom component. In yet another design, the robotic device is alternatively or additionally configured to control and / or switch at least one function of the surface treatment system and / or the bottom component, particularly the processing function. Autonomous means, in particular, self-propelled, automatic, and / or movement requiring no operator control, particularly in speed and / or direction. Autonomous surface processors, in the form of vacuuming robots or floor-mopping robots, are known to those skilled in the art. The specific device of the robotic device for autonomously moving the bottom component is preferably based on technology known therein and is therefore not the focus of this invention. In an autonomous use configuration, the robotic device is releasably connected to the bottom component. The releasable connection between the robotic device and the bottom component preferably includes at least one mechanical action connection. Alternative to or attached to mechanical action connections, these connections may include at least one electrical, fluid-guided, signaling, and / or data-based action connection between the robotic device and the bottom component and / or between the robotic device and the guiding component. In one design, the robotic device is configured to autonomously construct and / or detach from the bottom component. In other words, this design allows for docking and / or disengagement of the robotic device from the bottom component without operator intervention.

[0010] In the design of this invention, the bottom component has a tooling device with at least one driven tool for acting on the surface to be treated. In one design, the bottom component has a drive device for generating a propulsive force that assists or causes manual and / or autonomous movement of the bottom component. The drive device preferably has a drive motor, for example, in the form of an electric motor. Preferably, the drive device has at least one drive element, such as a drive wheel, drive roller, or the like. In a preferred design, at least one driven tool is configured to generate the propulsive force in the driven state. The at least one tool can be designed as a single piece or multiple pieces. Preferably, the tooling device and / or at least one tool can be removed from the bottom component. In different designs, the tooling device is designed differently, for example, as a grinding, polishing, or scrubbing device. The at least one driven tool can be, in particular, a grinding, polishing, or scrubbing tool. In the driven state, the tool moves relative to the bottom component, wherein translational, rotational, vibratory, oscillating, and / or eccentric driven movements can be provided. In one design, at least one tool is a roller having an outer peripheral surface for acting on the surface to be treated. In another design, the tool is disc-shaped, particularly a disc tool, having an end face for acting on the surface to be treated. In different designs, the end face and / or the disc tool have different profiles, particularly circular, preferably circular, elliptical, angular, polygonal, preferably rectangular, star-shaped, or other profiles. In one design, at least one tool, particularly its end face, is driven to move relative to a bottom component, such that a segment of the surface to be treated swept by the tool, particularly its end face, moving relative to the bottom component has a circular, preferably circular, elliptical, angular, polygonal, preferably rectangular, star-shaped, or other profile. The propulsive force is generated by the driven movement of at least one tool. Surface treatment tools with a tool device having at least one driven tool for generating propulsive force are known to those skilled in the art, for example, from the prior art mentioned at the beginning. In one design, the propulsive force assists the manual movement of the bottom component in a manual use configuration. Alternatively or additionally, the propulsive force assists the autonomous movement of the bottom component in an autonomous use configuration. Depending on the strength of the propulsion force, the corresponding movement can not only be assisted but also induced in its place. Thus, in autonomous operation configurations, a separate drive unit can be eliminated from the robotic device. This allows for a particularly simple structure in the surface treatment system. In manual operation configurations, the sufficiently strong propulsion force simplifies manual movement to the point that only manual steering is required, without the need for manual actuation.

[0011] In another design of the invention, the tooling device has two counter-driven disc tools, particularly disc-shaped tools. Each disc tool is rotated about a rotation axis relative to a bottom component. In one design, the rotation axes of the disc tools are orthogonal to the surface to be processed and / or parallel to each other. In another design, the rotation axes are slightly inclined from a parallel orientation. This inclination is, for example, 0.5° to 5°. Thus, the propulsive force can be generated in a particularly simple and reliable manner.

[0012] In another design of the invention, in an autonomous use configuration, the robotic device is connected to the tooling device and configured to control the propulsion force of at least one driven tool, thereby controlling the autonomous movement of the bottom component by means of controlling the propulsion force. This allows for a particularly simple structure of the surface treatment system. In one design, the robotic device is configured to control the magnitude of the propulsion force (propulsion force and / or propulsion speed). In another design, the robotic device is alternatively or additionally configured to control the direction of the propulsion force (propulsion direction). In the first case described above, a separate drive device for driving the autonomous movement can be omitted. In the second case described above, a separate steering device for steering the autonomous movement can be alternatively or additionally omitted. The connection between the robotic device and the tooling device for control purposes includes a mechanical action connection in one design. In another design, the connection alternatively or additionally includes an action connection using signal technology and / or data technology.

[0013] In another design of the invention, the surface processor has a support device by which a guide member and a bottom member are connected to each other in a manner movable relative to each other, wherein the direction of manual movement of the bottom member can be controlled by the relative movement between the bottom member and the guide member. In one design, the bottom member and the guide member are connected to each other by means of a support device in a manner movable relative to each other by pivoting and / or rotation. In this case, the relative movement is pivoting and / or rotation. Preferably, the support device is configured such that, by means of action on the guide member, the bottom member can rotate parallel to the surface to be treated about its vertical axis to control the direction of manual movement. This action can particularly be rotational movement of the guide member about its longitudinal axis and / or pivoting movement of the guide member. In one design, the support device allows pivotable movement of the guide member in at least one pivot plane. In one design, the guide member is pivotable relative to the bottom member in a pivot plane by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, and more preferably at least 180°. In another design, the support device allows the guide member pivotable movement in at least two particularly orthogonal pivot planes. In one design, the guide member is pivotable relative to the bottom member in a first pivot plane of the two pivot planes by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, and more preferably at least 180°. In one design, the guide member is pivotable relative to the bottom member within a second pivot plane of the two pivot planes by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, and more preferably at least 180°. Preferably, the guide member is pivotable simultaneously within at least the first and second pivot planes, particularly in combinations of pivot movements within any of the aforementioned angular ranges. In one design, the guide member is pivotable within at least one pivot plane relative to the hypothetical or actual vertical orientation of the guide member in at least one direction, such as backward, forward, and / or lateral, by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, and more preferably up to 90°. In another design, the support device allows for pivotable movement of the guide member relative to the bottom member in all directions. Preferably, the guide member is circumferentially pivotable in all directions by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, and more preferably up to 90°, relative to the hypothetical or actual occupiable vertical orientation of the guide member.The direction of manual movement of the bottom component is preferably controlled by pivoting and / or rotating movements of the guide component. As long as no translational movement of the bottom component is performed, the orientation of the bottom component can be controlled by the pivoting and / or rotating movements in any way.

[0014] In another design of the invention, the support device has a universal joint between the guide member and the bottom member. This allows the bottom member to rotate about its vertical axis and in a plane of rotation parallel to the surface to be treated, thereby controlling the direction of manual movement of the bottom member. In one design, the bottom member can rotate about its vertical axis by at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 45°, more preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 120°, more preferably at least 150°, more preferably at least 180°, more preferably at least 210°, more preferably at least 240°, more preferably at least 270°, more preferably at least 300°, more preferably at least 330°, and more preferably at least 360°. With a simple structure of the support device, the universal joint between the guide member and the bottom member allows for particularly easy maneuverability of the bottom member. The universal joint allows the bottom member to rotate parallel to the surface to be treated by rotating the guide member about its longitudinal axis. In manual operation, the rotation of the guide component about the longitudinal axis is performed by the operator. To construct the universal joint, the support device can, in principle, be designed in various different ways. In one design, the support device is a universal joint with two orthogonal joint axes. These joint axes can be formed by structural elements or are axes in a geometric sense. In another design, the universal joint is a solid joint, a spring joint, or the like.

[0015] In another design of the invention, the robot device has a drive device configured to drive autonomous motion. By equipping the robot device with a drive device, a separate drive device associated with the surface treatment tool can be omitted. The surface treatment tool can be constructed accordingly simply. Preferably, the drive device has a drive motor and at least one drive element. The drive motor is preferably an electric motor. The at least one drive element is preferably a drive wheel. Alternatively or additionally, a drive roller may be present as a drive element. In one design, the drive device of the robot device is constituted by a tool device having at least one driven tool, wherein the at least one driven tool is configured to act on the surface to be treated and is also configured to generate a propulsive force that causes autonomous motion in the driven state. The tool device of the robot device may also be referred to as an additional tool device, and thus at least one additional tool may also be discussed. The disclosure regarding the design of the tool device for the bottom component applies accordingly to the design of the drive device as a tool device (additional tool device) and at least one driven tool (additional tool).

[0016] In another design of the invention, the robotic device has a steering device configured to steer autonomous motion. By equipping the robotic device with a steering device, a separate steering device at the surface processing tool can be eliminated. This allows for a simpler structure for the surface processing tool. As long as the robotic device also has one / the aforementioned drive device, the steering device is preferably integrated into the drive device, for example, in the form of a drive wheel or a drive roller that can be steered in its orientation. Alternatively or additionally, at least two drive elements, such as drive wheels or drive rollers, capable of being driven in different directions of rotation and / or at different speeds, may be present for steering motion. As long as the autonomous motion is driven by the surface processing tool, for example by one / the aforementioned tool device with a propulsion function, control of the propulsion direction for steering purposes can be eliminated. This allows for a simplified structure for the tool device at the bottom. Instead, the (directional) steering of the autonomous motion is performed by means of a steering device for this purpose in the robotic device. This steering device may, for example, have a steerable wheel or a steerable roller.

[0017] In another design of the invention, a battery device is provided, and this battery device is configured to supply electrical operating energy to the robotic device and / or surface treatment apparatus. The battery device eliminates the need for a wired current supply to the surface treatment system. Eliminating the corresponding cables improves maneuverability and simplifies the use of the surface treatment system. In one design, the robotic device has a battery device. In another design, the surface treatment apparatus has a battery device. In yet another design, the battery device is partially associated with the robotic device and partially associated with the surface treatment apparatus.

[0018] In another design of the invention, the battery device has a first battery disposed at the surface processing appliance. The first battery supplies power to the surface processing appliance. In one design, in an autonomous use configuration, the first battery is mounted at the bottom component and also supplies power to the robotic device.

[0019] In another design of the invention, the battery device has a second battery disposed at the robotic device. The second battery is used to supply energy to the robotic device. In one design, in an autonomous use configuration, the second battery is optionally or additionally used to supply energy to the bottom component. As long as the surface processor has one / the first battery, the second battery can serve as an auxiliary or backup battery for the first battery, or vice versa. The first battery can be configured to charge the second battery, and / or vice versa.

[0020] In another design of the invention, the first battery and the second battery can be interchangeably mounted on the robot device and the surface treatment appliance. In other words, the first battery can be used in place of the second battery, and vice versa. Preferably, the first battery and the second battery have the same size, the same electrical terminals, and / or the same technical specifications. In one design, the surface treatment appliance and the robot device have the same receiving portion and / or the same terminals for receiving and / or connecting the first battery and the second battery.

[0021] In another design of the invention, a liquid absorption device is provided, and this device is configured to absorb liquid from the surface to be treated. In one design, the surface processor has a liquid absorption device. In another design, the robotic device has a liquid absorption device. In yet another design, the liquid absorption device is partially disposed at the surface processor and partially disposed at the robotic device. The liquid absorption device allows the absorption of liquid from the surface to be treated, particularly in the form of dirty water, foam, and / or mixtures of liquid and solid components.

[0022] In another design of the invention, the liquid absorption device has at least one liquid absorption section, at least one liquid suction source, and / or at least one liquid collection container, wherein at least one liquid absorption section is configured to suction the liquid to be absorbed, at least one liquid suction source is configured to generate a negative pressure for suctioning the liquid to be absorbed, and at least one liquid collection container is configured to collect the liquid to be absorbed. At least one liquid absorption section, at least one liquid suction source, and at least one liquid collection container can be respectively arranged at a surface treatment appliance or at a robotic device. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that the liquid absorption device has multiple liquid absorption sections, multiple liquid suction sources, and / or multiple liquid collection containers, wherein a corresponding one of the aforementioned components can be arranged at a surface treatment appliance, and another component of the same type can be arranged at a robotic device. In a preferred design, the liquid collection container is preferably detachably mounted at a guide component of the surface treatment appliance, and another liquid collection container is mounted at a robotic device. More preferably, the liquid absorption section is mounted at a bottom component. Here, it is preferred that the liquid absorption section is arranged behind the bottom component along the direction of movement. In one design, the liquid suction source is mounted on the guide member, preferably at the lower end of the guide member facing the bottom member. In another design, the liquid suction source is mounted on the bottom member. In yet another design, another liquid suction source is mounted on the robotic device. It is preferable that a component of the liquid absorption device arranged on the guide member and usable in the manual use configuration is unusable in the autonomous use configuration (due to the then detached guide member), and functionally replaceable by a component of the same type of liquid absorption device mounted on the robotic device, and vice versa.

[0023] In another design of the invention, the robotic device has at least one component of a liquid absorption device. This component may be another liquid absorption section, another liquid suction source, and / or another liquid collection container. In one design, the component disposed at the robotic device is one of a plurality of similar components of the liquid absorption device. Preferably, the component disposed at the robotic device is connected to at least one component of at least one additional liquid absorption device disposed at the bottom component via electrical, fluid-guided, signaling, data, and / or other functional connections. Preferably, the connection includes existing connection elements of surface treatment instruments, such as electrical plug connections, fluid-guided hose connections, or the like. In one design, the bottom component has a liquid collection container, and the robotic device has an additional liquid collection container. In one design, in an autonomous use configuration, the absorbed liquid is transported from the liquid collection container of the bottom component to another liquid collection container of the robotic device, for example, via a liquid suction source or other delivery device. This transport may be continuous or may occur when a preset liquid level is exceeded in the liquid collection container of the bottom component.

[0024] In another design of the invention, a liquid dispensing device is provided, and this device is configured to dispense liquid onto the surface to be treated. The liquid dispensing device particularly allows for the dispensing of clean water and / or cleaning liquids onto the surface to be treated. In one design, the surface processor has a liquid dispensing device. In another design, the robotic device has a liquid dispensing device. In yet another design, the liquid dispensing device is partially disposed at the surface processor and partially disposed at the robotic device.

[0025] In another design of the invention, the liquid output device has at least one liquid outlet, at least one liquid pressure source, and / or at least one liquid storage container, wherein the at least one liquid outlet is configured to output liquid directly onto a surface, wherein the at least one liquid pressure source is configured to generate overpressure for conveying the liquid to be output, and wherein the at least one liquid storage container is configured to store the liquid to be output. The at least one liquid outlet, at least one liquid pressure source, and / or at least one liquid storage container can be respectively arranged at a surface processing tool or at a robotic device. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that the liquid output device has multiple liquid outlets, multiple liquid pressure sources, and / or multiple liquid storage containers. In this case, a corresponding one of the components can be arranged at a surface processing tool, and another component of the same type can be arranged at a robotic device. In a preferred design, the liquid outlet is arranged at a bottom component. Wherever the bottom component has a tooling device with at least one driven tool, the liquid outlet is preferably arranged in immediate proximity to the driven tool, for example, in front of the tool. Wherever the driven tool is a rotary tool, the liquid outlet alternatively or additionally preferably passes centrally through the axis of rotation of the rotary tool. Here, the liquid to be output can be guided radially outward from the central axis of rotation, especially under centrifugal force, for example through the channel of the rotating tool provided for this purpose. In one design, in addition to the central output, a liquid output in front of the tool can also be connected, for example for removing heavily contaminated liquids, or vice versa. In a preferred design, a liquid storage container is mounted at the guide member and another liquid storage container is mounted at the robot device. Where a liquid pressure source is present, it is preferably arranged at the guide member, wherein another liquid pressure source may be arranged at the robot device. In one design, the liquid pressure source is arranged at the robot device. In one design, there is no liquid pressure source, and the liquid to be output is transported from the liquid storage container to the liquid outlet solely by gravity. In this case, a switching valve, particularly mechanically and / or electrically operable, is preferably present for controlling the liquid output. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible to have a design in which a switching valve is present in addition to the liquid pressure source. In one design, instead of a liquid pressure source, at least one switching valve is present for controlling the liquid output. Preferably, a component of a liquid dispensing device that is located at the guide component and is usable in the manual use configuration is not usable in the autonomous use configuration (due to the then-separated guide component) and can be functionally replaced by a component of the same type of liquid dispensing device located at the robotic device, and vice versa.

[0026] In another design of the invention, the robotic device has at least one component of a liquid output device. This component may be another liquid outlet, another liquid pressure source, and / or another liquid storage container. In one design, the component located at the robotic device is one of a plurality of similar components of the liquid output device. Preferably, the component located at the robotic device is connected to at least one component of an additional liquid output device located at the bottom component via electrical, fluid-guided, signaling, data, and / or other functional connections. Preferably, the connection includes existing connection elements of surface treatment instruments, such as electrical plug connections, fluid-guided hose connections, or the like. In one design, the bottom component has a liquid storage container, and the robotic device has an additional liquid storage container. In one design, in an autonomous use configuration, the liquid to be output is conveyed from the additional liquid storage container of the robotic device to the liquid storage container of the bottom component, for example, via a liquid pressure source or other conveying device. This conveying can be continuous or performed at a preset liquid level below the liquid level in the liquid storage container of the bottom component.

[0027] In another design of the invention, the liquid output device is fluidly connected or connectable to the liquid absorption device via at least one fluid path, thereby allowing liquid absorbed from the surface by the liquid absorption device to be re-output onto the surface via the liquid output device. Through the fluidly guided connection or connectability between the liquid output device and the liquid absorption device, the liquid absorbed from the surface can be re-output onto the surface. In other words, in this design of the invention, the liquid used to treat the surface is circulated. Liquid recovery and / or liquid recirculation may also be discussed. It is evident here that absorption does not necessarily occur completely, allowing the output liquid to be partially retained on the surface. This design of the invention is based on the understanding that wet cleaning of surfaces does not necessarily require the use of unused liquids, particularly clean water. Even contaminated liquids or those previously used for wet cleaning can be reused, repeated, and / or recycled without substantially affecting the cleaning results, or even with improved cleaning results. This reduces resource consumption. It is generally applicable that the possible liquid collection container of the liquid absorption device has a limited capacity. Correspondingly, possible liquid storage containers are suitable for the liquid output device. In designs without liquid recirculation, the surface treatment system suffers from time-limited usage due to limited capacity or multiple limited capacities. If the liquid collection container is full, the cleaning process must be interrupted to empty it. If the liquid storage container is empty, the cleaning process must be interrupted to refill it. These interruptions require user intervention in both manual and autonomous use configurations. This is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and inefficient. Designs with liquid recirculation overcome all of these limitations. Liquid recirculation also allows for a larger volume of liquid to be output to the surface per unit time, resulting in improved treatment, especially for wet cleaning. In other words, with liquid recirculation, the savings in liquid output can be forgone, as the available liquid volume can be output to the surface multiple times and / or cyclically. This differs from designs without liquid recirculation, which naturally allow for a single, one-time output, the amount of which is necessarily limited by the capacity of the liquid storage container. Depending on whether the liquid absorption device and liquid output device are arranged at the surface treatment apparatus and / or the robotic device, the associated fluid path is either arranged only at the surface treatment apparatus, only at the robotic device, and / or partially at both the surface treatment apparatus and the robotic device. In one design, liquid recirculation is configured in an autonomous use configuration. In another design, liquid recirculation is alternatively or additionally configured in a manual use configuration. The different possibilities regarding the arrangement of the corresponding components of the liquid absorption device and liquid output device at the surface treatment apparatus and / or the robotic device apply, depending on the meaning, to the aforementioned designs. Correspondingly, different designs for liquid recirculation are derived. In one design of the invention, liquid transport along the fluid path is carried out using a liquid suction source of the liquid absorption device. Alternatively or additionally, transport is carried out using a liquid pressure source of the liquid output device.Further alternative or additional locations may have separate conveying facilities for this purpose.

[0028] In another design of the invention, the surface treatment system has at least one filter device with at least one filter unit configured to filter liquid. Through the filter device, and in particular at least one filter unit, contaminants can be filtered from the liquid flowing along the fluid path. This avoids excessive accumulation of contaminants in the fluid path and / or the liquid. Filtration reduces the contamination level of the absorbed liquid, for example, by separating insoluble and / or dissolved contaminant particles, absorbed small parts, lint, hair, or the like from the liquid. This provides particular advantages when combined with liquid recirculation (liquid circulation) according to the aforementioned design. Filtration by the filter device allows the available liquid volume to be used for longer cleaning durations and / or larger cleaning areas without affecting the cleaning results. Furthermore, a larger amount of liquid can be output to the surface per unit time without loss in terms of cleaning duration and / or cleaning area, which also results in improved cleaning results. The at least one filter unit can, in principle, have any design suitable for this purpose. Obviously, the at least one filter device can have multiple filter units of the same type and / or different types, arranged at one or more locations along the fluid path. In one design, at least one filter unit is a consumable that needs to be replaced after reaching its intended use period, such as after reaching its maximum usage duration. In another design, at least one filter unit is configured for use throughout the entire service life of the surface treatment appliance and / or robotic device, and is therefore not such a consumable. Preferably, at least one filter unit is washable, cleanable, and / or biodegradable. In one design, the surface treatment appliance has a filter device. In another design, the robotic device has a filter device. In yet another design, both the surface treatment appliance and the robotic device have filter devices. Furthermore, it is apparent that components of the same filter device can be distributed across the surface treatment system. In other words, in one design, the filter device is partially located at the surface treatment appliance and partially located at the robotic device. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that multiple filter devices are present. In one design, at least one filter device can be selectively switched on and off. In other words, the filter device, particularly at least one filter unit, can be arranged in switchable branches and / or bypasses of the fluid path. For on / off switching, suitable fluid control elements, such as valves or the like, can be present. In one design, on / off switching, i.e., control of the filtration function, is performed based on the degree of contamination and / or other detection parameters. It is advantageous to initially operate without filtration and then switch to filtration with filtration as the degree of contamination increases. In this way, for example, the maximum service life of the filter unit can be extended.

[0029] In one design, at least one filter unit has at least one rigid filter medium. In this design, the filter medium is therefore shape-stable. In other words, the filter medium has relatively high rigidity and / or inherent strength. Rigid filter media can be made of, for example, metal, plastic, paper, and / or ceramic. Rigid filter media can be configured in different filter structures, such as sieve filters, pore filters, and / or filter cartridges.

[0030] In one design, at least one filter unit has at least one shape-compliant filter medium. The shape-compliant filter medium may be made of, for example, metal, plastic, paper, and / or ceramic. The shape-compliant filter medium may be configured in different filter structures, such as paper filters, fabric filters, and / or non-woven filters.

[0031] In one design, at least one filter unit has at least one loose filter medium. A loose filter medium is a loose material composite formed from particulate, granular, or otherwise loosely existing materials, particularly as a sand filter, gravel filter, or the like. Materials suitable for loose filter media can be, for example, metals, plastics, and / or ceramics. In one design, the loose filter medium constitutes a bulk bed filter.

[0032] Clearly, at least one filter unit can have multiple filter media of the same type and / or different types. Furthermore, it is also clear that multiple different filter units can exist, each with different filter media.

[0033] In one design, at least one filter unit has a sieve filter, a pore filter, and / or a filter cartridge. The aforementioned filter structure preferably has a rigid filter medium and / or is formed from a rigid filter medium.

[0034] In one design, at least one filter unit has a paper filter, a fabric filter, and / or a non-woven filter. The aforementioned filter structures preferably have a compliant filter medium and / or are formed from a compliant filter medium.

[0035] In one design, at least one filter unit has a bulk bed filter formed of granular material. The bulk bed filter serves as a loose filter medium. In one design, the bulk bed filter is a sand filter, a gravel filter, or the like.

[0036] In one design, at least one filter unit has a wire mesh filter formed of wire mesh, particularly wherein the wire mesh is a fine-weave mesh or a fine-mesh mesh. Preferably, the wire mesh filter is made of metal, particularly stainless steel. The wire mesh is a planar structure having identical openings arranged in a preferred regular pattern, which is manufactured, for example, by the cross-linking of warp and weft yarns. In one design, the wire mesh is a fine-weave mesh, for example, in a plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, or the like. In a preferred design, the wire mesh is a fine-weave mesh. In a fine-weave mesh, either the warp or weft yarns are so close to each other that there are no open meshes. In one design, the fine-weave mesh is a plain weave mesh. In a particularly preferred design, the fine-weave mesh is an armored mesh. By constructing it as an armored mesh, improved stability and / or tear resistance of the wire mesh filter can be achieved.

[0037] In one design, at least one filter unit is made of metal, plastic, paper, and / or ceramic. Obviously, combinations of the aforementioned materials are also possible.

[0038] In one design, the opening width of at least one filter unit is between 1 µm and 50 µm, preferably between 5 µm and 30 µm, and particularly preferably between 10 µm and 20 µm. The opening width can also be referred to as pore size and / or mesh width. The opening width is a characteristic of the filter unit, particularly the filter media used, and / or multiple filter media used. It has been shown that the aforementioned numerical range provides particular advantage for use in surface treatment systems with the aforementioned liquid circulation. An opening width between 10 µm and 20 µm has proven particularly advantageous. In principle, a distinction can be made between opening widths used for coarse filtration, microfiltration, ultrafiltration, and nanofiltration.

[0039] In one design, the filter device has at least one carrier structure, at which at least one filter unit is held. The at least one carrier structure serves as a carrier, holder, and / or support for the at least one filter unit. In one design, these filter units are collectively held at one / the carrier structure, provided the filter device has multiple different and / or similar filter units. In another design, the filter device has multiple carrier structures, each holding one of multiple filter units. The carrier structure is particularly advantageous when using compliant and / or loose filter media. In one design, the carrier structure is positioned for mounting and / or securing to the fluid path of the surface treatment system at this location. Preferably, the carrier structure is positioned within a liquid tank through which the fluid path extends in segments, for example, in a liquid storage container and / or a liquid collection container. In one design, at least one filter unit is fixedly connected to the carrier structure. In another design, at least one filter unit is releasably connected to the carrier structure. In the latter case, the filter unit can be detached from the carrier structure, for example, for replacement, cleaning, or similar purposes. The carrier structure can, in principle, have any design suitable for this purpose. Preferably, the carrier structure is shape-stable. In one design, the carrier structure, together with the fixedly connected filter unit, constitutes a consumable item, which is discarded and replaced after reaching a predetermined usage range, such as maximum usage duration.

[0040] In another design of the invention, at least one filter device includes a filter cleaning device configured to clean at least one filter unit, particularly before, during, and / or after operation of the surface treatment system. The filter cleaning device allows for cleaning of at least one filter unit before, during, and / or after operation of the surface treatment system. The filter cleaning device protects at least one filter unit from filtered contaminants, thus preventing clogging of the filter unit. The filter cleaning device can, in principle, have any design suitable for this purpose. For example, cleaning can be performed by scraping the surface of at least one filter unit. Alternatively or additionally, at least one filter unit and / or at least one scraping element can be vibrated. Further alternatively or additionally, at least one filter unit can be backwashed. In one design, the filter cleaning device is configured for manual operation by a user of the surface treatment system. It can be configured such that the user operates the filter cleaning device as needed. This operation can be performed before, during, and / or after operation of the surface treatment system. In another design of the invention, the filter cleaning device is configured to automatically and / or autonomously clean at least one filter unit, particularly according to the degree of contamination of the liquid. The degree of contamination can be detected, for example, by an identification device, particularly by means of a sensor. In one design, the filter device is controllable, particularly switchable, depending on the detected level of contamination, such as by means of a robotic device or processor device.

[0041] In one design, the filter cleaning equipment includes a scraping device configured to scrape the surface of at least one filter unit. The scraping device can remove dirt from the surface.

[0042] In one design, the scraping device has at least one scraping element and a motion mechanism, wherein the scraping element and at least one filter unit are movable relative to each other, and wherein the motion mechanism is configured to move the scraping element and / or the filter unit. In one design, at least one scraping element is rotatable relative to at least one filter unit, particularly its surface. Alternatively or additionally, at least one scraping element can translate. Dirt can be scraped from the filter unit by the movable scraping element. In one design, at least one filter unit is rotatable relative to at least one scraping element. Alternatively or additionally, at least one filter unit can translate. Dirt can be scraped from the filter unit by the relative movement between the scraping element and the filter unit. The motion mechanism is used to move at least one scraping element and / or at least one filter unit, and in principle can have any design suitable for this purpose.

[0043] In one design, the motion mechanism is configured to be manually driven by the user. This eliminates the need for a separate drive to move the scraping elements. In another design, the motion mechanism is a rotary mechanism for transmitting rotational motion and / or torque applied by the user to at least one scraping element. In yet another design, the motion mechanism is a translational mechanism for transmitting translational tensile and / or compressive motion generated by the user to at least one scraping element.

[0044] In one design, at least one scraping element serves as a positioning aid for the insertion and / or replacement of at least one filter unit. In another design, at least one scraping element constitutes a segment of one / the possible carrier structure.

[0045] In one design, the motion mechanism is driven by a drive motor and / or flowing fluid. This eliminates the need for manual actuation of the motion mechanism. Continuous cleaning of at least one filter unit can be achieved easily through motor-driven and / or fluid-driven motion, particularly in the operation of surface treatment systems.

[0046] In one design, the filter cleaning device has a vibration device configured to vibrate at least one filter unit. Alternatively or additionally, the vibration device is configured to vibrate the liquid to be filtered, particularly in the area of ​​at least one filter unit. The vibration generated by the vibration device shakes or dislodles contaminants accumulated in and / or within the filter unit. In one design of the invention, the vibration device acts directly on at least one filter unit. In another design, the vibration device acts indirectly on at least one filter unit, for example, via a transmission element and / or the liquid to be filtered. In one design, the vibration device is configured to generate vibration. Alternatively or additionally, the vibration device may be configured to generate sound waves, particularly ultrasonic waves. In one design, the vibration device is configured to generate motion. In one design of the invention, the vibration device acts on the filter unit via a carrier structure. To achieve sufficient vibrational motion of the filter unit and / or avoid undesirable vibration transmission to adjacent components, the filter unit is preferably elastically supported at a designated section of the fluid path of the surface treatment system, for example, by an elastic retaining element. Provided the filter equipment has a carrier structure for holding at least one filter unit, the carrier structure is preferably elastically supported accordingly.

[0047] In one design, a vibration device is configured to vibrate the scraping device, particularly at least one scraping element. This allows for advantages beyond a simple combination of the advantages of the vibration device and the scraping device. Furthermore, it is possible to vibrate the scraping device and / or scraping element in conjunction with a filter device and / or filter unit. In another design, the vibration device is configured to load different components with different vibrations. These different components are, for example, at least one scraping element, at least one filter unit, and / or a carrier structure. Preferably, the different vibrations differ in their respective frequencies and amplitudes.

[0048] In one design, a vibration device is configured to generate a sweep frequency and / or a chirp. In this design, the frequency of the generated vibration is variable, and preferably periodically, continuously rising and / or falling across a defined frequency range with a constant amplitude. This allows for further improved dirt dissolution.

[0049] In one design, the frequency range of the generated vibration extends from 20 Hz to 5 kHz, preferably to 10 kHz, more preferably to 20 kHz, more preferably to 40 kHz, more preferably to 100 kHz, more preferably to 250 kHz, and more preferably to 500 kHz.

[0050] In one design, a vibration device is configured to generate vibration in a pulsed manner. This pulsed generation equates to impact-based vibration, thereby enabling further improvements in waste dissolution.

[0051] In one design, the vibration device is configured to generate at least one signal tone, prompt tone, and / or warning tone. In another design, the vibration device is configured to generate the signal tone, prompt tone, and / or warning tone as a series of tones, particularly as a melody and / or a call sign. The signal tone, prompt tone, and / or warning tone are audible to a user. The signal tone has a signal function. The prompt tone has a prompt function. The warning tone has a warning function. The vibration device is preferably configured to generate at least one signal tone, prompt tone, and / or warning tone according to at least one control parameter, for example, by means of a control device that operates the vibration device, preferably a central control device for the surface treatment appliance and / or surface treatment system. The at least one control parameter may in particular be the degree of contamination of the liquid, the liquid level, the achieved operating duration of the filter device, particularly the filter unit, the on / off state of the surface treatment appliance and / or surface treatment system, or similar. In one design, different signal tones, prompt tones, and / or warning tones are generated according to different control parameters.

[0052] In one design, the vibration device includes a vibration motor operatively connected to at least one filter unit. The vibration motor generates vibration. The vibration of the motor causes at least one filter unit to vibrate, dissolving accumulated and / or embedded contaminants. The vibration dislodges the contaminants. Wherever the filter device has a carrier structure, and at least one filter unit is held in place of the carrier structure, the vibration motor preferably acts on and / or is fixed to the carrier structure.

[0053] In one design, the vibrating device has an ultrasonic transducer configured to generate ultrasonic waves. In another design, the ultrasonic waves are directly transmitted to at least one filter unit. In yet another design, the transmission is indirect, for example, via a carrier structure and / or the liquid to be filtered. The ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer prevent the buildup of contaminants and dissolve contaminants already accumulated at and / or in at least one filter unit.

[0054] In one design, the filter cleaning device includes a backwashing unit configured to backwash at least one filter unit. Backwashing removes contaminants accumulated in and / or within the filter unit. This backwashing occurs against the conventional flow path and / or direction of the liquid through the filter unit. Backwashing can be performed before, during, and / or after operation of the surface treatment system. In one design, the backwashing unit has a separate conveying device by which liquid is conveyed for backwashing purposes. In one design, the conveying device has one / a liquid suction source of a liquid absorption device. Alternatively or additionally, the conveying device has one / a liquid pressure source of a liquid output device. In another design, the backwashing unit has an adjusting element by which the flow direction of liquid in the area of ​​at least one filter unit can be influenced, particularly reversed. In one design, the backwashing unit is configured for operation by a user of the surface treatment system. In another design, the backwashing unit is configured to perform backwashing automatically and / or autonomously.

[0055] In one design, the backwashing device is combined with the scraping device and / or the vibration device. The resulting advantages exceed the sum of the advantages of the individual devices.

[0056] In one design, the filter device has at least one additive configured to be discharged into a liquid flowing along a fluid path. The at least one additive may also be referred to as an additive substance, additive, and / or additive material. The at least one additive is configured to perform a function that, in the broadest sense, supports the functionality of an improved surface cleaning and / or surface treatment system. The at least one additive can be present in solid, liquid, and / or gaseous form. In other words, in one design, the additive is a solid, such as in the form of tablets, pads, and / or powders. In another design, the at least one additive is a liquid, gel, or the like. Obviously, the filter device can also have multiple additives of the same type and / or different types. Preferably, the at least one additive is associated with at least one filter unit, for example, by arranging the at least one additive at and / or within at least one filter unit. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one additive can be solublely incorporated into at least one filter unit.

[0057] In one design, at least one additive has cleaning, disinfecting, descaling, coloring, deodorizing, and / or clarifying functions. In other words, in this design, at least one additive is a cleaner, disinfectant, descaling agent, coloring agent, deodorizing agent, and / or clarifying agent. The cleaner allows for improved surface cleaning. The disinfectant is used to disinfect the surface and / or the liquid guiding components and filter equipment of the surface and / or surface treatment system, as well as the liquid itself. The descaling agent is used to remove scale from the liquid and prevent scale buildup at filter equipment and surface treatment systems. The coloring agent is used to provide a marking color to cleaned surface sections and the liquid itself. The deodorizing agent resists the formation of undesirable odors, especially when the surface treatment system is not used for extended periods. The clarifying agent supports the flocculation of water-soluble contaminants and can support the function of the filter equipment.

[0058] In one design, at least one additive is solublely incorporated into an additive body associated with at least one filter unit. Preferably, the additive body is a capsule, tablet, pad, or the like. In one design, the additive body is arranged in a section of the filter unit provided for this purpose. For example, the filter unit may have a receiving recess in which the additive body is received or may be received. Further exemplarily, the filter unit may consist of multiple filters or filter media of the same or different types, for example, in the form of different layers or positions, and the additive body may be configured as a layer or position or received in a layer or position. In this example, the additive body may be the first or uppermost layer or position of the filter unit, or the last or lowermost layer or position of the filter unit, or arranged between them, depending on the purpose and taking into account the respective functions of the additives. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible to arrange multiple additive bodies in the filter unit, for example, in the first layer / position and the last layer / position or intermediate layer / position. The additive is solublely, especially liquid-soluble and particularly water-soluble, incorporated into the additive body. The additive can be dissolved from its bulk and discharged into the liquid through a fluid flowing along the fluid path to exert its corresponding effect there. The additive bulk is designed to dissolve under the action of the flowing liquid, preferably completely.

[0059] In one design, at least one additive is solublely incorporated into at least one filter unit. During operation of the filter device, the additive dissolves from the filter unit and is discharged into the liquid under the action of the liquid flowing through it. The additive is soluble, particularly water-soluble, in the filter unit. In one design, the additive is configured as a coating, layer, and / or layer site. Alternatively or additionally, at least one filter unit may be equipped with the additive by impregnation, soaking, or other means. In this design of the invention, at least one filter unit has a particularly advantageous multiple function. On one hand, the filter unit is used to filter liquids for surface cleaning. On the other hand, the filter unit is simultaneously used to discharge the additive into the liquid.

[0060] In another design of the invention, the surface treatment system has at least one additive device carrying at least one additive configured to be output into at least one fluid path of the surface treatment system, wherein the at least one additive has cleaning, disinfecting, descaling, coloring, deodorizing, and / or clarifying effects. The at least one additive may also be referred to as an additive substance, additive, and / or additive material. The at least one additive is configured to perform a function that, in the broadest sense, supports improved surface treatment, particularly surface cleaning, and / or improved functionality of the surface treatment system. The at least one additive may be present in solid, liquid, and / or gaseous form. In other words, in one design, the additive is a solid, for example, in tablet, pad, and / or powder form. In another design, the at least one additive is a liquid, gel, or the like. Obviously, the additive device may also have multiple additives of the same type and / or different types. Preferably, the at least one additive has cleaning, disinfecting, descaling, coloring, deodorizing, and / or clarifying effects. In other words, preferably, the at least one additive is a cleaning agent, disinfectant, descaling agent, coloring agent, deodorizing agent, and / or clarifying agent. Cleaning agents allow for improved surface cleaning. Disinfectants are used to disinfect the surface and / or the liquid-conducting components of the surface treatment system, as well as the liquid itself. Descaling agents are used to remove scale from the liquid and prevent scale buildup on the surface treatment system and the surface to be cleaned. Coloring agents are used to mark and color the cleaned surface sections and the liquid itself. Deodorizing agents resist the formation of undesirable odors, especially when the surface treatment system is not used for extended periods. Clarifying agents support the flocculation of water-soluble contaminants and can support the function of possible filtration devices in the surface treatment system. In one design, the surface treatment appliance has an additive device. In another design, the robotic device has an additive device. In yet another design, both the surface treatment appliance and the robotic device have an additive device. Furthermore, a distributed arrangement is conceivable and possible in this regard, wherein the additive device is partially located at the surface treatment appliance and partially located at the robotic device. The combined use of additive devices and liquid recirculation has proven particularly advantageous because the additives can be used in a particularly efficient, resource-saving, and ecologically beneficial manner. This is based on the understanding that additives, especially cleaning agents, are not immediately and completely consumed for treatment when treating, and especially cleaning, surfaces. Therefore, if a liquid contains additives and is used for surface treatment, in many applications, the additive's potential is not exhausted between liquid application, surface treatment, and subsequent liquid absorption. Through liquid recirculation, the remaining potential of the additive can also be repeatedly utilized and used through reapplication, treatment, and absorption. Thus, the use of additives, especially widely used cleaning agents and detergents, can be significantly reduced.

[0061] In another design of the invention, the additive device has at least one additive container storing at least one additive. Depending on the characteristics of the at least one additive, the at least one additive container has matching characteristics, for example, depending on whether the at least one additive is liquid, solid, and / or gaseous. In one design, the additive container is fluid-sealed. In another design, the additive container is open in the broadest sense and primarily allows storage of one / the additive in solid form. Wherever the additive device has multiple different additives, in one design, these additives are each contained in an additive container, such that the additive device has multiple additive containers in the embodiment. In another design, the additive device has an additive container configured to contain multiple, preferably different, additives. In various designs, at least one additive container is mounted and / or can be mounted at different components and / or parts of the surface treatment system. In one design, at least one additive container is mounted at the liquid tank of the surface treatment system, particularly at the liquid tank of the surface treatment appliance, for example, at one / the liquid storage container and / or one / the liquid collection container. In another design, the additive container is mounted at the guide component of the surface treatment appliance. Alternatively or additionally, at least one additive container may be mounted on the bottom component of the surface treatment appliance. In another design, at least one additive container is mounted on the robotic device. In one design, both the surface treatment appliance and the robotic device have at least one additive container.

[0062] In another design of the invention, the additive device has at least one output device configured to dispense at least one additive, particularly quantitatively, into a fluid path, especially onto at least one additive container. In one design, the output device is configured for manual dispensing of the additive, for example by means of a control element manually operated by a user of the surface treatment system. In another design, the output device is configured for automatic and / or autonomous dispensing of at least one additive, for example by means of a drive motor, motion mechanism, or the like. Preferably, the output device is configured for quantitative dispensing of at least one additive. In this design, both the dispensing and metering devices can be discussed in this regard. In a preferred design, the output device is configured for automatic dispensing and metering of at least one additive, for example, based on the degree of contamination of the liquid. In one design, the bottom component has the output device, and a robotic device, particularly a processor device, is configured in an autonomous use configuration to control the output device. The degree of contamination can be detected, for example, by a sensor on the output device. Alternatively or additionally, the degree of contamination can be detected by means of an identification device of the surface treatment system. Wherever the additive device has an additive container, the output device is preferably configured to dispense at least one additive from the additive container.

[0063] In another design of the invention, a particle absorption device is provided, and this device is configured to absorb particles from the surface to be treated. The particles may be, for example, dry, wet, or moist particles, as well as mixtures of particles and liquid. The particle absorption device particularly allows for the absorption of contaminant particles from a surface to be cleaned. In one design, the particle absorption device is a suction device configured to suction particles. In another design, the particle absorption device is a sweeping device configured to sweep up particles. Obviously, a combination of suction and sweeping devices is also conceivable and possible. In one design, the surface treatment appliance has a particle absorption device. In another design, a robotic device has a particle absorption device. In yet another design, the particle absorption device is partially disposed at the surface treatment appliance and partially disposed at the robotic device.

[0064] In another design of the invention, the particle absorption device has at least one particle absorption section, at least one particle suction source, and / or at least one particle collection container, wherein the at least one particle absorption section is configured to suction and / or sweep up particles to be absorbed, wherein the at least one particle suction source is configured to generate negative pressure for suctioning the particles to be absorbed, and wherein the at least one particle collection container is configured to collect the particles to be absorbed. The at least one particle absorption section, the at least one particle suction source, and / or the at least one particle collection container can be arranged at a surface treatment device or at a robotic device, respectively. In one design, the particle absorption device has multiple particle absorption sections, multiple particle suction sources, and / or multiple particle collection containers. In this case, a corresponding one of the components can be arranged at a surface treatment device, and another component of the same type can be arranged at a robotic device. In a preferred design, the particle absorption section is arranged at a bottom component. More preferably, the particle absorption section is arranged in front of the bottom component along the direction of movement. Preferably, the particle collection container is mounted at the bottom component. This is particularly advantageous when the particle absorption section is alternatively or additionally configured to sweep up particles to be absorbed. In this case, it is ensured that the particles to be swept up can be directly absorbed in the area of ​​the bottom component. Where a particle suction source is present, it is preferably installed at the guide component, preferably at the lower end of the guide component facing the bottom component. Where the surface treatment system has a liquid absorption section with a liquid suction source, the latter is preferably also used as a particle suction source, or vice versa. This allows for a simplified structure. It is preferable that a component of the particle absorption device arranged at the guide component and usable in the manual use configuration is unusable in the autonomous use configuration (due to the then-separated guide component), and whose function can be replaced in terms of its part by a component of the same type of particle absorption device installed at the robotic device, and vice versa.

[0065] In another design of the invention, the robotic device has at least one component of a particle absorption device. This component may be another particle absorption unit, a particle suction source, and / or another particle collection container.

[0066] In another design of the invention, the surface treatment system includes sensor devices and / or navigation devices and / or processor devices. The sensor devices are configured to detect the surface to be treated and / or the surrounding environment and generate sensor data representing the surface to be treated and / or the surrounding environment. The sensor devices may alternatively or additionally be configured to detect (other) detection parameters and generate (other) sensor data representing said detection parameters. Detection parameters may be, for example, flow rate, pressure or pressure rise, power consumption, or other physical parameters that can be determined by measurement techniques at the liquid used, the surface treatment apparatus, and / or the robotic device. The navigation devices are configured to detect the position of the robotic device and generate navigation data representing that position. The processor devices are configured to control autonomous movement, particularly based on the sensor data and navigation data. Detection of the surface to be treated and / or the surrounding environment particularly allows for obstacle identification. Position detection is used for positioning the robotic device on and / or relative to the surface to be treated. Autonomous movement can be controlled by means of the processor devices based on the sensor data and navigation data. In one design, the robotic device includes sensor devices and / or navigation devices and / or processor devices. In one design, the surface treatment device includes sensor devices and / or navigation devices and / or processor devices. It is also conceivable and possible that these devices are distributed across the robotic device and the surface treatment device. In one design, the processor device is configured to record and / or document operating parameters of the autonomous use configuration. For example, it may record and / or document the surface being treated, the functions used, the resources used, or the like. Such recording and / or documentation is advantageous for future planning of surface treatment, identifying treatment patterns, contamination patterns, malfunctions, wear, and / or similar phenomena. In one design, the processor device is configured to provide data to an evaluation unit, which may be, for example, a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This data provision allows for autonomous monitoring, observation, and / or control. Data provision is preferably wireless, via radio, WiFi, or mobile data networks. In one design, the surface treatment system has an antenna unit, preferably arranged at the robotic device, configured for the above purposes for data transmission.

[0067] In another design of the invention, the sensor device includes at least one camera system, radar system, lidar system, and / or ultrasonic system. These systems enable comprehensive and reliable detection of surfaces and / or the surrounding environment in both the near and far fields.

[0068] In another design of the invention, a processor device is configured to control at least one processing function, particularly based on sensor data and / or navigation data, wherein the processing functions are in particular tooling functions, liquid absorption functions, liquid output functions, liquid circulation functions, filtration functions, additive functions, additional tooling functions, and / or particle absorption functions. By configuring the processor device to control at least one processing function, the surface can be treated autonomously. For example, the processing function can be autonomously activated, deactivated, and / or controlled in terms of its intensity by means of the processor device, particularly based on sensor data and / or navigation data. As long as the surface treatment system has a tooling device, its function (tooling function) can be autonomously controlled. As long as the surface treatment system has a liquid absorption device, its function (liquid absorption function) can be autonomously controlled. As long as the surface treatment system has a liquid output device, its function (liquid output function) can be autonomously controlled. As long as the surface treatment system has a fluid-guided connection or connectability between the liquid absorption device and the liquid output device, its function (liquid circulation function, also known as: recovery function) can be autonomously controlled. As long as the surface treatment system has a filter device, its function (filtration function) can be autonomously controlled. As long as the surface treatment system has an additive device, its function (additive function) can be autonomously controlled. As long as the robotic device has additional tooling equipment, its function (additional tooling function) can be autonomously controlled. As long as the surface treatment system has particle absorption equipment, its function (particle absorption function) can be autonomously controlled. In one design, sensor equipment or additional sensor equipment is configured to identify the degree of contamination of the surface to be treated and / or the liquid used. In one design, sensor equipment is alternatively or additionally configured to detect the flow rate of the liquid, the pressure and / or pressure rise within the fluid path, and / or the power consumption of the conveying equipment (e.g., a liquid suction source and / or a liquid pressure source) used to convey the liquid along the fluid path. In one design, processor equipment is configured to control at least one processing function and / or autonomous movement based on the identified degree of contamination. In one design, processor equipment is configured to control at least one processing function based on the detected flow rate, pressure, pressure rise, and / or power consumption. For example, suction can be performed first, followed by wiping, or wiping can be performed first, followed by suction. In one design, a sensor device is arranged at the surface treatment appliance and configured to detect the surface to be treated and / or its surrounding environment during manual movement, i.e., in a manual use configuration. Preferably, in this design, the processor device is configured to control autonomous movement and / or at least one processing function based on the surface and / or surrounding environment detected during manual movement. In this way, autonomous movement can be taught (“teach-in”). In one design, the sensor device can be releasably connected to or is connected to the surface treatment appliance. Thus, surface treatment appliances already available on the market can be easily installed.

[0069] In another design of the invention, in a manual use configuration, the guide component is releasably connected to the bottom component by means of a connecting device. The connecting device can have any design suitable for this purpose.

[0070] In another design of the invention, in an autonomous configuration, the robotic device is connected to the bottom component via a connecting device. In this design, the connecting device also allows for connection between the robotic device and the bottom component. This results in a further simplified structure.

[0071] In another design of the invention, the robotic device has an additional tooling device with at least one driven additional tool positioned to act on the surface to be treated. The additional tooling device allows for tooling action on the surface to be treated in an autonomous use configuration. The action of the additional tooling device can be alternative to or supplemented to the action of possible tooling devices for surface treatment tools. The at least one additional tool can be designed as a single piece or multiple pieces. Preferably, the additional tooling device and / or at least one additional tool can be removed from the robotic device. In different designs, the additional tooling device is designed differently, for example as a grinding, polishing, cleaning, or scrubbing device. The at least one driven additional tool can be, in particular, a grinding, polishing, cleaning, or scrubbing tool. In the driven state, the additional tool moves relative to the robotic device, wherein the driven motion can be, in particular, translational, rotational, vibratory, oscillating, and / or eccentric. In one design, the at least one additional tool is a roller having an outer peripheral surface for acting on the surface to be treated. In another design, the attachment tool is planar and / or disc-shaped, especially a disc tool, having an end face for acting on the surface to be treated. In different designs, the end face and / or disc tool have different profiles, particularly circular, preferably perfectly circular, elliptical, angular, polygonal, preferably rectangular, star-shaped, or other profiles. In one design, at least one attachment tool, especially its end face, is driven to move relative to the robot device, such that the segment of the surface to be treated swept by the attachment tool, especially its end face, moving relative to the robot device has a circular, preferably perfectly circular, elliptical, angular, polygonal, preferably rectangular, star-shaped, or other profile. In one design, the attachment tool device is configured to generate propulsion (propulsion in the propulsion direction) by means of at least one driven attachment tool. In one design, the propulsion assists movement in an autonomous use configuration. Depending on the strength of the propulsion force, the movement can not only be assisted but also initiated. Thus, separate drive devices at the robot device and / or bottom components can be omitted in an autonomous use configuration. This allows for a particularly simple structure for the surface treatment system. In one design, at least one additional tool is arranged in front of the bottom component, particularly the tooling device, relative to the direction of movement of the surface treatment system. In another design, at least one additional tool is arranged behind the bottom component, particularly the tooling device. Furthermore, it is advantageous to arrange at least one, and especially, for example, two disc-shaped tools in front of or behind the bottom component in the direction of movement of the surface treatment system, and simultaneously offset outwards to one or both sides. With this arrangement, the working width of the surface treatment system can be increased relative to the working width of the bottom component, which may be advantageous in autonomous use configurations.As long as the tooling device has multiple tooling attachments, these attachments can be arranged either in front of or behind the bottom component and its possible tooling device. Depending on the arrangement of at least one attachment relative to the bottom component, surface pretreatment and / or post-treatment can be achieved using the tooling device. In one design, at least one tool and at least one attachment are provided with the same movement, such as translation, rotation, vibration, oscillation, and / or eccentricity, respectively. In another design, different types of movement are provided, such that at least one attachment moves in a first manner, and at least one tool moves in a different second manner. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible to arrange the attachments in such an outward offset or alongside the bottom component and its possible tooling device. Finally, further combinations of these multiple attachments are also conceivable, such as a roller arranged in front of the bottom component and extending in its width, combined with two disc brushes arranged beside or behind the bottom component but offset outward.

[0072] In another design of the invention, at least one additional tool is driven by an actuator of a surface treatment tool, particularly the bottom component, and / or by an actuator of the robotic device. As long as at least one additional tool is driven by an actuator of the surface treatment tool, a separate actuator at the robotic device can be omitted. This allows for a simplified and therefore cost-effective structure of the robotic device. For the transmission of force and / or motion from the actuator of the surface treatment tool to at least one additional tool of the robotic device, a releasable mechanical connection is preferably present. This connection may include, for example, teeth, a drive element, or the like. Such a mechanical connection can be omitted as long as at least one additional tool is driven by an actuator of the robotic device. This also results in structural advantages.

[0073] In another design of the invention, the additional tooling and / or surface treatment system has a working width in an autonomous use configuration that is greater than the working width of the surface treatment apparatus, particularly greater than the working width of the tooling device of the surface treatment apparatus. By increasing the working width, larger surfaces can also be effectively processed in the autonomous use configuration. The working width extends across, preferably orthogonally to, the direction of movement of the surface treatment system on the surface to be treated. In one design, at least one additional tool is arranged transversely to the direction of movement next to the tooling device of the surface treatment apparatus. In other words, at least one additional tool is arranged on the side, and therefore on the left or right side of the tooling device. To ensure as seamless a processing as possible, at least one additional tool is preferably arranged to overlap with the working width of the tooling device. In another design, at least two additional tools are present and arranged on opposite sides of the tooling device. Overlap is also preferred in this case. In one design, there is no overlap.

[0074] In another design of the invention, the robotic device is configured to be releasably connected to and / or receive surface processing tools of different sizes with bottom components of varying specifications. In this design, the robotic device is particularly versatile, i.e., it can be combined with bottom components of different sizes. The bottom components preferably differ in their size and / or processing capabilities, preferably in the working width of the corresponding tool and / or in the width of the corresponding bottom component.

[0075] In another design of the invention, the robotic device has a mateable receiving device configured to receive bottom parts of varying widths. In one design, the receiving device includes a sliding mechanism, a folding mechanism, or other mechanism for mates bottom parts of different widths. In another design, the receiving device has different matching components that can be selectively installed by the user at a designated location on the robotic device according to the width of the bottom part to be received. In yet another design, the receiving device is mateable to receive bottom parts that differ in their handling functions and / or design. Attached Figure Description

[0076] Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention as shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0077] Figure 1 An embodiment of a surface treatment system according to the invention is shown in a schematic side view, comprising a surface treatment tool and a robotic device, wherein the surface treatment system occupies a manually operated configuration; Figure 2 The basis for indicating autonomous use configuration is shown. Figure 1 Surface treatment system; Figure 3 A schematic bottom view showing the bottom component of the surface treatment fixture facing the tooling device; Figure 4 A schematic front view of the tooling equipment showing the bottom component; Figure 5 A schematic, simplified block diagram of the surface treatment system is shown to illustrate additional features; Figure 6 Another block diagram of the robotic device is shown to illustrate additional features; Figures 7 to 10 Other block diagrams of the surface treatment system are shown to illustrate additional features; Figure 11 A schematic side view of the surface treatment apparatus is shown, with additional details to illustrate the structure and working principle of the liquid absorption device and the liquid output device; Figures 12 to 16Different perspective views of the surface treatment system in a manual operation configuration are shown to illustrate the mobility of the surface processor on the surface to be treated; and Figure 17 A schematic perspective view is shown to illustrate additional features of the surface treatment system in an autonomous use configuration; Figure 18 A side view of the surface treatment system in an autonomous use configuration is shown; Figure 19 An embodiment of the surface treatment system according to the present invention is shown in a schematic bottom view; Figure 20 A schematic bottom view is shown according to Figure 19 Robotic devices for surface treatment systems; Figure 21 A schematic bottom view is shown according to Figure 19 A variation of the surface treatment system; Figure 22 A schematic block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a surface treatment system according to the present invention, featuring liquid reflux (liquid circulation); Figure 23 A schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a surface treatment system according to the present invention with a filter device is shown, the filter device having at least one filter unit, a carrier structure, a filter cleaning device, and an additive; Figure 24 A schematic block diagram is used to illustrate the following: Figure 23 An exemplary embodiment of a filter unit in a filter device; Figure 25 Another schematic block diagram is shown to illustrate the following: Figure 23 Features of filter cleaning equipment; Figure 26 Another schematic block diagram is shown to illustrate the following: Figure 23 The characteristics of additives in filter equipment; Figure 27 Another schematic block diagram is shown, involving according to Figure 23 Additives and filter units for filter equipment; Figure 28 A schematic block diagram illustrates a design in which additives are solublely incorporated into a filter unit; Figure 29 A schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a surface treatment system according to the present invention with an additive device is shown, the additive device having at least one additive container and an output device; Figure 30A liquid container for a surface treatment system according to the invention is shown in a schematic perspective view, wherein the liquid container has a filter device with a filter cleaning device in the form of a scraping device; Figure 31 A schematic longitudinal sectional view is shown according to Figure 30 Liquid containers; Figure 32 , 33 Each is shown in a perspective longitudinal sectional view as a variant of the filter unit with a carrier structure; Figure 34 A schematic longitudinal sectional view shows another liquid container for a surface treatment system according to the invention, wherein the liquid container has a filter device with a filter cleaning device in the form of a vibrating device; Figure 35 An embodiment of an additive apparatus for a surface treatment system according to the invention is shown in a schematic perspective view; Figure 36 Shown in perspective longitudinal section view according to Figure 35 Additive equipment; Figure 37 The connecting device for the specific design of the surface treatment system according to the invention is shown in a cut-out perspective detail view. Detailed Implementation

[0078] according to Figure 1 A surface treatment system 1 for treating surface F is provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment system 1 is a surface cleaning system for cleaning surface F. The surface to be cleaned is ground surface B, so a ground cleaning system can also be discussed.

[0079] The surface treatment system 1 includes a surface treatment appliance 2 and a robotic device 5. The surface treatment appliance 2 and the robotic device 5 are currently shown in a schematically simplified manner. This is especially true of the robotic device 5. Its shape and size, as well as its proportions relative to the surface treatment appliance 2, should be understood as purely illustrative.

[0080] The surface treatment appliance 2 has a bottom component 3 and a guide component 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment appliance 2 may also be referred to as a floor cleaning appliance.

[0081] The bottom component 3 is positioned to act on the surface F to be treated, currently the ground surface B. The guide component 4 extends longitudinally and... Figure 1The configuration shown is releasably connected to the bottom component 3. A guide component 4 is provided for manually moving the bottom component 3 on the surface F to be treated. Currently, the longitudinally extending guide component 4 has a handle 41 at its end opposite to the bottom component 3. At its end opposite to the handle 41, the guide component 4 is releasably connected to the bottom component 3. A pivotable connection, which will be described in more detail, is currently provided. However, a rigid connection between the guide component 4 and the bottom component 3 is also conceivable in principle.

[0082] Robot device 5 in Figure 1 The configuration shown can be releasably connected to the bottom part 3 of the surface processor 2 and is configured to allow the bottom part 3 to move autonomously on the surface F to be processed.

[0083] Surface treatment system 1 in Figure 1 The image shows the manual operation configuration. In this manual operation configuration, the robot device 5 is separated from the surface processing device 2. The manual operation configuration allows for the manual movement of the bottom component 3 using the guide member 4. To perform manual movement, the operator acts on the guide member 4, currently the handle 41, to move the bottom component 3 onto the surface F in a desired or necessary manner, for example by pulling, pushing, or other actions on the guide member 4.

[0084] exist Figure 2 In the diagram, the surface treatment system 1 is shown in an autonomous operation configuration. In the autonomous operation configuration, the guide component 4 is separated from the bottom component 3 and the robot device 5 is detachably connected to the bottom component 3.

[0085] The connection between the robot device 5 and the bottom component 3 is in Figure 2 The diagram is schematically represented by arrows and labeled with reference numeral C. The autonomous use configuration allows the bottom component 3 to move autonomously on the surface F to be processed via a robotic device 5. For this purpose, the robotic device 5 acts on the bottom component via connection C.

[0086] Connection C includes at least a mechanical connection. In other words, connection C establishes at least an indirect mechanical connection between the robot device 5 and the bottom component 3.

[0087] Obviously, for the mechanical function of the connection, alternatively or additionally, connection C can have at least one electrical, fluid-guided, signal technology, and / or data technology connection. This depends on the specific design of the surface processor 2 and / or the robotic device 5.

[0088] Surface treatment system 1 can be configured manually ( Figure 1 ) and autonomous use configuration ( Figure 2Switching between manual and autonomous use configurations. To switch from manual to autonomous use configuration, the connection between the guide component 4 and the bottom component 3 is released, i.e., the guide component 4 is separated from the bottom component 3, and the robot device 5 is connected to the bottom component 3 via connection C. To switch from autonomous to manual use configuration, the connection C between the robot device 5 and the bottom component 3 is released, i.e., the robot device 5 is separated from the bottom component 3, and the guide component 4 is connected to the bottom component 3, thereby allowing the surface treatment device 2 to be used manually independently of the robot device 5.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, in the manual use configuration, the guide component 4 is releasably connected to the bottom component 3 via a connecting device 7. The connecting device 7 can have any design suitable for this purpose. For example, the connecting device 7 can have a threaded connection, a plug-in connection, a snap-fit ​​connection, a bolted connection, or the like, and can be loosened and reconnected without tools or with suitable tools. Here, at least one mechanical connection is established via the connecting device 7. The connecting device 7 can additionally be configured to establish possible electrical, fluid-guided, signaling, and / or data technology connections between the bottom component 3 and the guide component 4 (in the manual use configuration) or between the bottom component 3 and the robotic device 5 (in the autonomous use configuration). In the illustrated embodiment, in the autonomous use configuration, the robotic device 5 is releasably connected to the bottom component 3 via the connecting device 7. Figure 2 In the diagram, the arrow symbolizing connection C does not directly act on the connecting device 7 for illustrative purposes only. Here, the connecting device 7 is provided to establish at least one mechanical connection between the bottom component 3 and the guide component 4 (in the manual use configuration) or between the bottom component 3 and the robot device 5 (in the autonomous use configuration). The connecting device 7 may additionally be provided to establish possible electrical, fluid-guided, signal technology, and / or data technology connections between the bottom component 3 and the guide component 4 (in the manual use configuration) or between the bottom component 3 and the robot device 5 (in the autonomous use configuration). Figure 37 The diagram illustrates a specific design of the connection device 7.

[0090] In one embodiment not shown in the accompanying drawings, in an autonomous use configuration, the robot device 5 and the bottom component 3 are releasably connected to each other via alternative or additional connection devices.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment device 2 has a tooling device 30, which is currently arranged at the bottom component 3. The tooling device 30 has at least one driven tool 31. The tool 31 is configured to act on the surface F to be treated. Currently, at least one tool 31 is used for cleaning, in particular scrubbing the floor surface B.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the tool device 30 also includes a drive motor 32 for driving at least one tool 31. The drive motor 32 is currently arranged in the housing (not shown in the figures) of the bottom component 3.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the tool device 30 has two driven tools 31. Currently, the tools 31 are designed as disc tools 33. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the disc tools 33 are driven in opposite directions around the rotation axis R. Figure 3 In the diagram, the left disc tool 33 rotates counterclockwise, and the right disc tool 33 rotates clockwise. Currently, the disc tool 33 is equipped with bristles (not shown in the diagram). Therefore, the disc tool 33 can also be referred to as a disc brush. Obviously, it is also possible for the disc tool to have no bristles and instead have, for example, a different design with pads.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the tool device 30 is configured to generate a propulsive force V when at least one tool 31 is in a driven state (see especially...). Figure 3 ).

[0095] In one embodiment not shown in the accompanying drawings, the propulsion force is not generated by means of a tool or device, but by means of a drive device provided for this purpose and arranged at the bottom component, which has, for example, a drive wheel, a drive roller or the like.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the propulsive force V is achieved by a slight tilt of the rotation axis R of the disc tool 33 (see [reference]). Figure 4 The rotation axes R are inclined at an angle α from a vertical line relative to the ground surface B towards each other. Correspondingly, the disc tool 33 is also inclined at the same angle α relative to the ground surface B. This inclination, in the driven state of the disc tool 33, causes uneven distribution of sliding friction with the ground surface B in the circumferential direction of the disc tool 33. This uneven distribution generates the propulsive force V.

[0097] The propulsive force can be influenced, and manifested to varying degrees, particularly by the tilt of the rotation axis R, the characteristics of the disc tool 33, the rotational speed of the disc tool 33, and the frictional conditions between the disc tool 33 and the ground surface B. In one design, the propulsive force is so significant that it induces manual and / or autonomous movement. In this case, no further manual or other force consumption is required to drive the manual and / or autonomous movement. In another design, the propulsive force V is so significant that it only assists the corresponding movement. In this case, in the manual operation configuration, the operator needs to apply a small force to drive the movement. The same applies in the autonomous operation configuration.

[0098] In one embodiment not shown in the accompanying drawings, the rotation axes of the disc tool are parallel to each other and orthogonal to the ground surface B. This orthogonal orientation results in a uniformly distributed sliding friction with the ground surface B in the circumferential direction of the disc tool 33. This leads to a state without propulsion.

[0099] Clearly, tool device 30 can replace the two disc tools 33 shown with only one disc tool or with more than two disc tools. Furthermore, at least one driven tool 31 can alternatively be designed, for example, as a roller brush with a horizontal axis of rotation. Moreover, real-time methods with non-rotationally driven tools are also conceivable and possible, such as oscillating tools, eccentric tools, or the like.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, in the autonomous use configuration, the robot device 5 is connected to the tool device 30 and is configured to control the propulsion force V of at least one driven tool 31. Autonomous movement is (indirectly) controlled by controlling the propulsion force V. The robot device 5 is configured to control the propulsion force V based on its magnitude and / or direction. Currently, both the magnitude, i.e., the strength or speed of the propulsion force V, and the propulsion direction can be controlled. For this purpose, the robot device 5 can, for example, manipulate the drive motor 32 to increase or decrease the rotational speed of the two disc tools 33. Furthermore, reversing the rotational direction is also conceivable and possible. To control the direction of the propulsion force V, the rotational speed and / or rotational direction of the disc tools 33 can be controlled independently of each other. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that the robot device 5 is configured to adjust the tilt of the rotation axis R. Through this tilt adjustment, the propulsion speed and / or propulsion direction can be controlled.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the robot device 5 has a drive device 51 (see...). Figure 5 The drive device is configured to drive autonomous motion. Currently, drive device 51 is provided in addition to tool device 30, which also serves as a drive. Drive device 51 can be omitted if tool device 30 is configured to generate sufficiently strong propulsion that not only assists but also induces autonomous motion. Drive device 51 is in Figure 5 The design is shown in a general manner and can have any design suitable for this purpose. For example, drive device 51 may have a drive motor and at least one drive element driven by the drive motor, which may be designed as a drive wheel, drive roller, or drive chain, for example. With the help of the drive element, the force and torque required for autonomous motion can be transmitted from the robot device to the ground surface B.

[0102] Currently, the robot device 5 also has a steering device 52, which in... Figure 5The diagram is shown in a general manner. Steering device 52 is used to steer autonomous motion. In other words, steering device 52 is configured to control the direction of autonomous motion, while drive device 51 is used to control the speed of autonomous motion. Steering device 52 can have any design suitable for this purpose. For example, steering device 52 can have a servo drive and a steering element. The steering element can be, for example, a steering wheel, a steering roller, or the like. The steering element can be manipulated for directional control by means of a servo drive.

[0103] Since the direction control of autonomous movement is achieved through tool device 30, the steering device 52 can be omitted. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that the speed of autonomous movement is achieved by manipulating tool device 30, and the direction control of autonomous movement is achieved through steering device 52. Alternatively, a design is provided in which the drive device 51 of robot device 5 controls the speed of autonomous movement, and the direction is achieved through the control of tool device 30, for example, by adjusting the rotation axis R controlled by robot device 5.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment system 1, and particularly the robotic device 5, also includes a sensor device 53, a navigation device 54, and a processor device 55. The device... Figure 5 It is shown in a general manner.

[0105] Sensor device 53 is configured to detect the surface F to be treated and / or its surrounding environment E, and to generate sensor data representing the surface F to be treated and / or the surrounding environment E of the surface treatment system 1. Navigation device 54 is configured to detect the position of the robot device 5 on the surface B to be treated, and to generate navigation data representing that position. Processor device 55 is currently configured to control autonomous movement based on the sensor data from sensor device 53 and the navigation data from navigation device 54. Sensor device 53, navigation device 54, and processor device 55 may have any design suitable for this purpose. Here, devices for autonomous control of robot devices used for automated surface treatment are known to those skilled in the art, for example in the field of vacuuming robots or floor cleaning robots. Robot device 5 preferably utilizes these known technologies. Therefore, further details and / or further designs of sensor device 53, navigation device 54, and / or processor device 55 in this regard need not be discussed further at present. The further structure of sensor device 53 is illustrated below only by way of example.

[0106] Here, sensor device 53 includes a camera system 531, a radar system 532, a lidar system 533, and an ultrasonic system 534. The systems of sensor device 53 are... Figure 6The image is shown in a general manner and is set up in a way known to those skilled in the art for detecting the surface F to be treated and / or the surrounding environment E. Detection can be performed in the near field and / or far field.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment system 1 also includes a battery device 100 (see [link]). Figure 7 The battery device 100 is configured to supply electrical operating power to the robot device 5 and / or the surface treatment tool 2. The battery device 100 allows for wireless current supply to the surface treatment system 1. Currently, the battery device 100 is used to power the tool device 30, drive device 51, steering device 52, sensor device 53, navigation device 54, and processor device 55. Wherever the surface treatment system 1 has other electrically operating components, these components are also preferably powered by the battery device 100.

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, the battery device 100 has a first battery 101 and a second battery 102. The first battery 101 is currently disposed at the surface treatment unit 2. In particular, the first battery 101 is currently mounted at the bottom component 3 (see [reference]). Figure 1 , 2 The second battery 102 is currently installed at the robot device 5.

[0109] In the manual operation configuration, the first battery 101 supplies power to the surface treatment device 2 (without the subsequently detached robotic device 5). In the manual operation configuration, the robotic device 5 can be powered for standby operation via the second battery 102. In the autonomous operation configuration, the robotic device 5 is currently powered via the second battery 102. The power supply to the bottom component 3 is (still) provided by the first battery 101. Clearly, in the autonomous operation configuration, distributed or complementary power supply is also conceivable and possible. Here, the power supply to the bottom component 3 can be at least partially provided by the second battery 102. The power supply to the robotic device 5 can be at least partially provided by the first battery 101.

[0110] In the illustrated embodiment, the first battery 101 and the second battery 102 are both rechargeable. Furthermore, a detachable mounting is provided.

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment system 1 further includes a liquid absorption device 200 (see [link]). Figure 8 Liquid absorption device 200 is configured to absorb liquid from surface F to be treated. Currently, liquid absorption device 200 is specifically used to absorb dirty water from ground surface B.

[0112] Currently, the liquid absorption device 200 includes a liquid absorption section 201, a liquid suction source 202, and a liquid collection container 203. These components are... Figure 8 The components are shown in a general manner and can, in principle, be arranged at either the surface treatment appliance 2 or the robotic device 5. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible to implement a system with multiple liquid absorption sections, multiple liquid suction sources, and / or multiple liquid collection containers. In this case, one component can be arranged at the surface treatment appliance, and another component of the same type can be arranged at the robotic device.

[0113] A liquid absorption unit 201 is provided for drawing in the liquid to be absorbed. A liquid suction source 202 is provided for generating a negative pressure to draw in the liquid to be absorbed. A liquid collection container 203 is provided for collecting the liquid to be absorbed / already absorbed.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the liquid absorption section 201 or a plurality of liquid absorption sections of the liquid absorption device 200 is mounted at the bottom component 3. Currently, the liquid absorption section 201 is arranged rearward of the tool device 30 relative to the propulsion direction V. The liquid absorption section 201 can have any design suitable for this purpose. Suitable designs are known to those skilled in the art. Currently, the liquid absorption section 201 is configured as a suction strip having two spaced-apart sealing lips (not shown in the figures).

[0115] At least one of the multiple liquid suction sources of the liquid suction source 202 or liquid absorption device 200 is currently mounted at the guide member 4. Specifically, the liquid suction source 202 is arranged at the end of the guide member 4 opposite to the handle 41. This end faces the bottom member 3 and may also be referred to as the lower end. The liquid suction source 202 can have any design suitable for this purpose, wherein such design is known to those skilled in the art from the prior art. Currently, the liquid suction source 202 is a suction turbine.

[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the liquid collection containers 203 or a plurality of liquid collection containers of the liquid absorption device 200 is mounted at the guide member 4. Specifically, the liquid collection container 203 extends longitudinally and is mounted thereon parallel to the longitudinally extending guide member 4. Here, the liquid collection container 203 is longitudinally mounted between the handle 41 and the liquid suction source 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid collection container 203 may also be referred to as a dirty water tank.

[0117] Obviously, the liquid absorption unit 201, the liquid suction source 202, and the liquid collection container 203 are fluidly connected to each other so as to absorb liquid from the surface F. Figure 11An illustrative illustration shows one possibility of the connection of the components in a manual use configuration, i.e., when the guide component 4 is releasably connected to the bottom component 3. Here, the liquid collection container 203 is fluidly connected to the liquid suction source 202 via a longitudinally extending channel (not shown in the figures) in the guide component 4. This fluidly connected connection allows for negative pressure loading of the liquid collection container 203 by means of the liquid suction source 202. The liquid collection container 203 and the liquid absorption section 201 are currently fluidly connected to each other via a liquid absorption conduit 204. The liquid absorption conduit 204 can be configured as a pipeline or a hose. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid absorption conduit 204 can be formed by other cross-sections of the surface treatment device 2.

[0118] In the exemplary embodiment shown, in the manual use configuration, the liquid absorption unit 201, the liquid suction source 202, and the liquid collection container 203 are therefore arranged at the surface treatment appliance 2 in any way. In another embodiment, at least one of these components, or other components of the liquid absorption device 200, are arranged at the robotic device 5. For example, it is conceivable and possible that, as an alternative to the liquid collection container 203, an additional liquid collection container is arranged at the robotic device 5 and is configured to collect liquid in the autonomous use configuration. The corresponding content applies accordingly to possible additional liquid suction sources and / or additional liquid absorption units of the liquid absorption device arranged at the robotic device 5.

[0119] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment system 1 further includes a liquid output device 300 (see [link]). Figure 9 The liquid dispensing device is configured to dispense liquid onto the surface F to be treated. Specifically, the liquid dispensing device 300 is currently configured to dispense cleaning liquid onto the floor surface B to be cleaned. The cleaning liquid may be, for example, water or a mixture of water and detergent.

[0120] In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid dispensing device 300 has a liquid outlet 301 and a liquid storage container 303. The liquid outlet 301 is configured to directly dispense liquid onto the surface F. The liquid storage container 303 is configured to store the liquid to be dispensed. Figure 9 The diagram also shows a liquid pressure source 302, which is configured to generate overpressure for conveying the liquid to be output. The liquid pressure source 302 is particularly optional. Alternatively, in conveying the liquid to be output via the liquid pressure source 302, gravity-driven conveying from the liquid storage container 303 along the direction of the liquid outlet 301 can be arranged. The components 301, 302, and 303 of the liquid output device 300 are... Figure 9 The designs are shown in a general manner and may each have any design suitable for this purpose. Suitable designs are known to those skilled in the art.

[0121] The components of the liquid output device 300 can, in principle, be arranged at the surface treatment device 2 or the robotic device 5. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that the liquid output device has multiple liquid outlets, multiple liquid pressure sources, and / or multiple liquid storage containers. In this case, one component can be arranged at the surface treatment device 2, and another component of the same type can be arranged at the robotic device 5.

[0122] In the exemplary embodiment shown, at least one of the plurality of liquid outlets of the liquid outlet device 300 is arranged at the surface treatment appliance 2. Specifically, the liquid outlet 301 is arranged at the bottom component 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid outlet 301 is arranged in front of the liquid absorption section 201 relative to the propulsion force V. The liquid outlet 301 is positioned in the region of the driven tool 31 of the tooling device 30. Liquid is thus applied directly to the surface F in the region of the moving tool 31. In an embodiment not shown in the figures, the liquid outlet 301 is coaxial with respect to the rotation axis R.

[0123] At least one of the multiple liquid storage containers of the liquid storage container 303 or liquid dispensing device 300 is currently also arranged at the surface treatment appliance 2. Specifically, the liquid storage container 303 is mounted at the longitudinally extending guide member 4. Currently, the liquid storage container 303 extends longitudinally parallel to the guide member 4. Relative to its longitudinal axis and / or the longitudinal axis L of the guide member 4, the liquid storage container 303 is mounted at the guide member 4 between the handle 41 and the liquid suction source 202. Here, the liquid storage container 303 is arranged on the side of the guide member 4 opposite to the liquid collection container 203. This side is currently the back side of the hand guide member 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid storage container 303 may also be referred to as a clean water tank.

[0124] exist Figure 11 In the exemplary embodiment shown, there is no liquid pressure source in the manual use configuration. Instead, liquid is delivered by gravity from the liquid storage container 303 along the direction of the liquid outlet 301. Clearly, the liquid outlet 301 and the liquid storage container 303 are fluidly connected to each other. A liquid output line 304 is provided, connecting the liquid storage container 303 and the liquid outlet 301 to each other. Specifically, the liquid outlet 301 is formed by the opening of the liquid output line 304 opposite to the liquid storage container 303. The liquid output line 304 can be designed as a hose line, conduit line, and / or formed by other cross-sections of the surface treatment device 2. To control the output of liquid from the liquid storage container, a switching valve (not shown in detail) is provided in the illustrated embodiment.

[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, liquid outlet 301 and liquid storage container 303 are arranged at least at the surface treatment appliance 2 in the manual use configuration. In another embodiment, at least one component or another component of the liquid output device 300 is arranged at the robotic device 5. For example, the robotic device 5 may have an additional liquid storage container that serves as a substitute for liquid storage container 303 in the autonomous use configuration, to also achieve liquid output to the surface to be treated in the autonomous use configuration. Correspondingly, this applies to possible (additional) liquid pressure sources and / or additional liquid outlets arranged at the robotic device 5 for the liquid output device.

[0126] Liquid absorption and liquid output devices can be connected to each other via fluid paths. This allows the liquid used to be circulated. This aspect will be specifically referred to below. Figure 22 To elaborate further. Clearly, the liquid recirculation (liquid circulation) may optionally be present in the currently disclosed surface treatment systems, surface treatment appliances, and / or robotic devices.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment system 1 also includes a particle absorption device 400 (see [link]). Figure 10 The particle absorption device is configured to absorb particles from the surface F to be treated. Specifically, the particle absorption device 400 is used to absorb solid contaminants from the ground surface B. Absorption can be carried out by suction, sweeping, or a combination of suction and sweeping. The solid contaminants can be, for example, dust, waste, or garbage in a dry, wet, or damp state.

[0128] Currently, the particle absorption device 400 includes a particle absorption unit 401, a particle suction source 402, and a particle collection container 403, which are respectively located in... Figure 10 The particle absorption section 401 is shown in a general manner. The particle absorption section 401 is currently used to aspirate the particles to be absorbed. The particle suction source 402 is used to generate a negative pressure for aspirating the particles to be absorbed. The particle collection container 403 is provided for collecting the particles to be absorbed. The particle absorption section 401, the particle suction source 402, and the particle collection container 403 can each have any design suitable for this purpose. For example, the particle absorption section can have a suction inlet, particularly a suction inlet in the form of a suction beam 4011 (see [reference]). Figure 19 ) and / or a sweeping box 4012 with sweeping rollers (see Figure 21 The particle suction source can be designed as a suction turbine. The particle collection container 403 can be designed similarly to the liquid collection container 203.

[0129] The components of the particle absorption device 400 can be arranged at the surface treatment appliance 2 or the robotic device 5. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that the particle absorption device 400 has a plurality of particle absorption sections 401, a plurality of particle suction sources 402, and / or a plurality of particle collection containers 403. In this case, one of the components can be arranged at the surface treatment appliance 2, and another component of the same type can be arranged at the robotic device 5.

[0130] Clearly, the liquid absorption device 200, the liquid output device 300, and the particle absorption device 400 are optional. The same applies to the tool device 30 and the battery device 100, as well as to the filter device 600, the additive device 700, the auxiliary tool device 800, and the already mentioned liquid recirculation (liquid circulation), which will be described in more detail later.

[0131] Therefore, not all of the mentioned devices 30, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 800 and liquid circulation are present in different embodiments. Furthermore, different embodiments have different combinations of devices 30, 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 800 and liquid circulation.

[0132] In one implementation, such as especially Figure 1 As shown, the surface treatment system 1 includes a tool device 30, a battery device 100, a liquid absorption device 200, and a liquid output device 300. In this case, the surface treatment system 1 is configured for wet scrubbing and suction of the ground surface B, and thus a scrubbing-suction system for wet cleaning of ground surfaces, especially rigid floor coverings in buildings, can also be discussed.

[0133] In the illustrated embodiment, the robotic device 5 is configured to control at least one processing function of the surface treatment system 1. This processing function may be the tooling function of the tooling device 30, the liquid absorption function of the liquid absorption device 200, the liquid output function of the liquid output device 300, and / or the particle absorption function of the particle absorption device 400. In other words, the devices 30, 200, 300, and / or 400 can be autonomously controlled by the robotic device 5. This also applies to devices 600, 700, and 800, as well as liquid circulation. In this autonomous operation configuration, not only is autonomous movement performed, but the autonomous treatment of the surface to be treated, especially the autonomous cleaning of the ground surface B, is also achieved.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, control of at least one processing function is performed based on sensor data from sensor device 53 and / or navigation data from navigation device 54, and by means of processor device 55. For this purpose, processor device 55 is technically connected to tool device 30, liquid absorption device 200, liquid output device 300, and / or particle absorption device 400. Furthermore, corresponding connections exist with filter device 600, its possible filter cleaning device, additive device 700, and / or additional tool device 800. Autonomous control of the processing function may include activation and deactivation. Furthermore, autonomous control of the intensity of the corresponding processing function is also conceivable and possible. Regarding the liquid circulation between the liquid absorption device and the liquid output device, autonomous release and blocking can be configured, for example, by manipulating fluid control elements, valves, or the like present for this purpose. Regarding filter device 600, autonomous on / off switching can be configured, particularly to connect to the liquid circulation while maintaining liquid circulation and / or bypass filter device 600 (bypass) (then no filtration function).

[0135] Clearly, autonomous control of the processing is not provided in every implementation. For example, it is conceivable that the corresponding processing functions are manually initiated by an operator by operating the respective devices 30, 200, 300 and / or 400, and then autonomously moved (only) by means of the robotic device 5. This also applies to the other devices 600, 700 and 800 and liquid circulation.

[0136] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface processor 2 has a support device 6 (see...). Figure 1 The guide component 4 is connected to the bottom component 3 by means of a support device 6 in a manner that allows for pivoting and / or rotating relative to the bottom component 3. The support device 6 allows control over the direction of movement of the bottom component 3 on the surface F to be treated. This control is performed in the manual operation configuration by manually pivoting and / or rotating the guide component 4.

[0137] In the illustrated embodiment, the support device 6 forms a universal joint 61 between the guide member 4 and the bottom member 3. Through the universal joint 61, the bottom member 3 can rotate about its vertical axis H on the surface to be treated F by rotating the guide member 4 about its longitudinal axis L. Here, the universal joint 61 allows the bottom member 3 to rotate parallel to the surface to be treated F. In other words, the rotation takes place in a plane of rotation (not shown) parallel to the surface to be treated F, currently the ground surface B. This rotatability of the bottom member 3 exists even when the guide member 4 is tilted relative to the vertical line, as this is evident in… Figure 1 As shown in the example.

[0138] exist Figures 12 to 16The figure exemplarily illustrates the maneuverability of the bottom component 3 via the guide component 4, wherein the figure relates to a manual use configuration. Specifically: Figure 12 This illustrates the case where the bottom component 3 moves linearly along the direction of the thrust V onto the ground surface B. Here, the guide component 4 is tilted backward relative to the direction of the thrust V, causing... Figures 12 to 16 The operator shown can easily grip handle 41 and walk behind surface treatment tool 2. The direction of movement of the bottom component 3 will not change without rotating the guide member 4. As long as the pushing force V is strong enough, the operator does not need to apply force to move the bottom component 3 (in any case in the pushing direction V). Additional manual force is required along the longitudinal direction of the guide member 4, provided the pushing force V is only used to assist manual movement. To change the direction of movement, the operator can rotate the guide member 4 about its longitudinal axis L. Currently, this is achieved by the operator applying torque to handle 41.

[0139] This situation is in Figure 13 The example is shown in the diagram. There, the guide member 4 rotates counterclockwise about the line of sight in the direction in which the guide member 4 points on the bottom member 3. This rotation of the guide member 4 causes the bottom member 3 to rotate counterclockwise about the vertical axis H on the ground surface B.

[0140] from Figure 13 Starting from the situation shown, the operator can further rotate the guide component 4 counterclockwise to make the bottom component 3 continue to rotate, thereby changing the direction of movement. For example... Figure 14 As shown, in this way, the bottom component 3 can be drawn from... Figure 12 The orientation start is rotated 180° as shown, so that the direction of movement that was initially away from the operator's direction is now facing the operator.

[0141] according to Figures 12 to 14 The operability of the bottom component 3, as illustrated, also exists when the guide component 4 is tilted laterally from the vertical line (see [link]). Figure 15 ).

[0142] The maneuverability of the aforementioned bottom component 3 allows for particularly simple and efficient cleaning of the floor surface B, even along walls, as exemplarily demonstrated here. Figure 16 As shown in the diagram. By the corresponding tilt of the guide component 4 and due to the propulsion force V, the surface processor 2 can be easily and ergonomically guided along the wall W.

[0143] As already described, in the illustrated embodiment, the surface treatment device 2 has a liquid absorption section 201 in the form of a suction strip. To ensure the most efficient absorption of liquid, it is desirable that the liquid absorption section 201 is always positioned behind the driven tool 31 relative to the direction of movement during the movement of the bottom component 3. In other words, it is desirable that the liquid absorption section 200 always follows the tool device 30, which cannot be guaranteed, for example, when the bottom component 3 is only dragged backward or moved laterally. The interaction between the universal joint 61 and the propulsion force V allows for easy tracking of the liquid absorption section 201.

[0144] The universal joint 61 can have any design suitable for this purpose. In the illustrated embodiment, the universal joint 61 includes a first joint axis G1 and a second joint axis G2. The first joint axis G1 and the second joint axis G2 are orthogonal. Currently, the first joint axis G1 is pivotable about the second joint axis G2 together with the guide member 4. The second joint axis G2 enables the pivotable movement of the guide member 4 in the vertical mid-longitudinal plane of the surface processor 2. The first joint axis G1 enables pivotable movement in a pivot plane orthogonally oriented thereto, wherein the pivot plane is variable in its orientation relative to the vertical line depending on the position of the guide member 4 about the second joint axis G2. The second joint axis G2 is horizontally oriented. When the guide member 4 is precisely vertically oriented, the first joint axis G1 is currently also horizontally oriented. The design of the universal joint 61 with the first joint axis G1 and the second joint axis G2 shown here should be understood as purely exemplary.

[0145] The universal joint 61 currently enables the bottom component 3 to rotate parallel to the ground surface B by at least 45°, preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 180°, and even more preferably 270°.

[0146] Figure 17 and Figure 18 The surface treatment system 1 in an autonomous use configuration is shown, in which additional features of the specific design of the robotic device 5 are particularly visible.

[0147] Currently, the robot device 5 has a housing 56, and other components of the robot device 5 are arranged in and / or located within this housing 56. Here, Figure 17 and Figure 18 The shape of the housing 56 shown should be understood as exemplary.

[0148] Currently, the housing 56 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 56 has an upper side 561, a lower side 562, a front side 563, a rear side 564, and two opposing outer sides 565. The upper side 561 and the lower side 562 are perpendicularly opposite each other along the vertical axis (without reference numerals) of the robot device 5. The front side 563 and the rear side 564 are longitudinally and / or horizontally opposite each other along the longitudinal axis (without reference numerals) of the robot device 5. The two outer sides 565 are laterally and / or horizontally opposite each other along the transverse axis (without reference numerals) of the robot device 5.

[0149] In the illustrated embodiment, housing 56 has a receiving recess A provided for receiving bottom component 3. Receiving recess A currently extends from front side 563 in a direction along rear side 564 and from lower side 562 in a direction along upper side 561.

[0150] In the illustrated embodiment, the robot device 5 is releasably connected to the bottom component 3 via a connecting device 7. Details of the connecting device 7 are as follows: Figure 17 and Figure 18 It is not visible in the middle and is not important to the present invention. Refer to the content regarding the connecting device 7.

[0151] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As further shown, the drive unit 51 of the robot device 5 currently has two drive wheels, of which only one drive wheel 511 is currently visible in the figures. The drive wheel is currently arranged offset rearward from the center relative to the longitudinal axis of the robot device 5. In the autonomous use configuration shown, the weight of the robot device 5 is supported on the ground surface B on the one hand by the drive wheels and on the other hand by the bottom components 3, in particular the two disc tools 33.

[0152] The drive device 51, together with its drive wheels, currently serves as a steering device 52. In other words, steering is currently achieved through the individual control of the two drive wheels. To drive the drive wheels, the drive device 51 currently has a drive motor 512. In the illustrated embodiment, this drive motor is arranged within a housing 56.

[0153] To achieve the simplest possible structure, in the illustrated embodiment, the drive wheels are not adjustable approximately around the steering axis for steering. Instead, steering is achieved by individually manipulating the two drive wheels at different speeds and / or directions of rotation.

[0154] The power supply for the drive motor 512 is provided by a second battery 102. In the illustrated embodiment, this second battery 102 is removably mounted in and / or within the housing 56, and... Figure 17 and Figure 18Details are not available in the text. For example, the second battery 102 can be obtained from... Figure 17 and Figure 18 The outer side of the housing 56, which is not visible in the center, is pushed into the housing 56 along the transverse axis. For this purpose, the housing 56 may have a receiving groove or the like. However, it is also conceivable and possible that the second battery 102 is fixedly integrated into the housing 56, so that partial disassembly of the housing 56 may be required for removal.

[0155] In order to absorb liquid from the ground surface B even in the autonomous use configuration shown, the robot device 5 currently has an additional liquid collection container 203' of the liquid absorption device 200.

[0156] The liquid collection container 203' is currently inserted into a complementary design receiving recess (not shown) of the housing 56. The receiving recess extends from the upper side 561 along the lower side 562 and from the rear side 564 along the front side 563, and from (relative to) Figure 17 The receiving recess extends from the front outer side 565 along the invisible rear outer side of the housing 56. The receiving recess has a basic cuboid shape. The liquid collection container 203' is designed to complement and supplement the basic cuboid shape of the housing 56. The liquid collection container 203' also has an openable container closure 2031. This container closure can be designed as a rotating closure or a flip-top closure.

[0157] In the autonomous use configuration, the liquid collection container 203' of the robot device 5 is connected to the liquid absorption section 201 of the bottom component 3 via a liquid absorption pipe 204. For this purpose, the liquid absorption pipe 204 is fluid-guidedly connected to the connection pipe (not shown in the figure) of the robot device 5 at its end 2041 opposite to the liquid absorption section 201.

[0158] As already described, the liquid absorption device 200 has a liquid suction source 202 (see...). Figure 1 , 11 The liquid suction source 202 is currently mounted at the guide component 4 and generates the negative pressure required to suction the liquid to be absorbed in the manual use configuration. For the generation of negative pressure in the autonomous use configuration, the robotic device 5 currently has an additional liquid suction source 202'. In the illustrated embodiment, this liquid suction source is integrated into the housing 56, and therefore... Figure 17 and Figure 18 Details are not available in the text.

[0159] In order to discharge liquid onto the ground surface even in an autonomous configuration, the robot device 5 currently has an additional liquid storage container 303'. The design and arrangement of the liquid storage container 303' are subject to the same principles applied to the liquid collection container 203'.

[0160] The liquid storage container 303' is fluid-guidedly connected to the liquid outlet 301 of the liquid output device 300 currently arranged at the bottom component 3, in a manner not shown in detail. (See Liquid Outlet 301) Figure 11 )exist Figure 17 and Figure 18 Details are not available in the text. The liquid storage container 303' also has an openable container closure 3031.

[0161] To achieve liquid recirculation from the absorbed liquid to the liquid output device, the surface treatment system 1 features optional liquid recirculation (liquid circulation). For this purpose, at least one of the two liquid containers 203', 303' is either fluid-guidedly connected or potentially connected to both the liquid outlet 301 and the liquid absorption section 201. Through this fluid-guided connection, the liquid used can be circulated (see also...). Figure 22 ).

[0162] In order to be able to filter the liquid that can be (re)exported, the surface treatment system 1 currently has a filter device 600, which is associated with one of the two liquid containers 203', 303'.

[0163] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter device 600 is arranged within the tank volume of the liquid collection container 203', such as... Figure 31 and Figure 34 The general-purpose liquid container 900 is shown in principle and by way of example. Alternatively, the filter device 600 may be arranged upstream and / or downstream of the second liquid collection container 203' in a fluid path extending through the robotic device 5 and connectable to the surface treatment appliance 2.

[0164] Regarding the layout and possible specific design of the filter unit 600, especially referring to and explicitly referencing the relevant provisions... Figure 23 and Figure 31 The publicly disclosed content. In other words: Figure 23 and Figure 31 The filter device shown, together with its respective optional filter cleaning devices (e.g., scraper 630 and / or vibrator 650 and / or backwasher 670), can be arranged in a similar manner within the tank volume of the liquid collection container 203'.

[0165] By circulating the liquid, a significantly extended cleaning duration can be achieved without user intervention to empty and / or refill the liquid containers of the surface treatment system. Combined with a filtration system, a further significantly extended cleaning duration can be achieved without such user intervention.

[0166] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor device 53 is disposed on the front side 563 of the housing 56. This arrangement of the sensor device 53 should be understood as exemplary.

[0167] Currently, the robot device 5 also has an antenna unit 541. In the illustrated embodiment, the antenna unit 541 is arranged at the upper side 561. The antenna unit 541 is specifically used for transmitting (sending and / or receiving) navigation data of the navigation device 54. Obviously, additional data can also be transmitted according to the antenna unit 541, especially the aforementioned data for controlling, observing, and / or controlling autonomous use.

[0168] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As further shown, the processor device 55 is also currently arranged in the housing 56.

[0169] exist Figure 19 and Figure 20 The figure shows one embodiment of the surface treatment system 1a according to the present invention, which has a surface processor 2 and a robotic device 5a.

[0170] The essential differences between surface treatment system 1a and surface treatment system 1 according to the foregoing figures will be mainly explained below. Furthermore, regarding the surface treatment system 1 according to… Figure 19 and 20 Surface treatment system 1a, applicable to Figures 1 to 18 The publicly available content.

[0171] The robot device 5b is releasably connected to the bottom component 3 in a manner to be further described, and is configured to enable the bottom component 3 to move autonomously on the surface to be cleaned.

[0172] In the illustrated embodiment, the robot device 5a includes a base device, an attachment tool device 800, a particle absorption unit 401, and a liquid absorption unit 201a. Furthermore, similar to [the embodiment described]... Figure 17 and Figure 18 The design allows for the presence of multiple liquid containers.

[0173] Alternatively, or attached to, the liquid absorption unit 201a may also be mounted on the bottom component 3 in a self-contained configuration. Here, the liquid absorption unit 201 can be lifted from the surface F and thus remain inactive, or it can be placed on the surface F for the purpose of liquid absorption.

[0174] Figure 19 and 20 The structure of the robot device 5a shown should be understood as exemplary. In the embodiment not shown in the drawings, not all of the aforementioned components 800, 401, 201a are present. The base device is also optional.

[0175] The base device currently serves as a carrier for other components of the robot device 5a, particularly the aforementioned components 800, 401, and 201a. Furthermore, the base device is used to actually receive the bottom component 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the base device has a front portion 571a and a rear portion 572a for this purpose, with a receiving recess 573a constructed between them for receiving the bottom component 3.

[0176] Additionally, according to the invention, it is possible to design the robotic device in a one-piece configuration for receiving the bottom component, i.e., receiving the bottom component with only the front or only the rear. In other words, the reception can be forward-opening (without a front) or rear-opening (without a rear). Furthermore, a side-opening configuration is also conceivable and possible. In one design, the robotic device is a humanoid robot.

[0177] In the illustrated embodiment, the front portion 571a and the rear portion 572a are pivotable relative to each other to open and close the receiving recess 573a for the purpose of receiving the surface processor 2. Figure 19 and 20 In the first state, the front portion 571a and the rear portion 572a pivot together and are fixed to each other in a manner not shown in detail. In this state, the receiving recess 573a is closed. In the state shown in the figure, the front portion 571a and the rear portion 572a pivot open when the receiving recess 573a is released. In this state, the bottom component 3 can be removed from the receiving recess 573a and thus from the robotic device 5a.

[0178] In the removed state, the bottom component 3 can be connected to the guide component 4 and, in the form of a surface treatment device 2, is moved by the user's hand in a conventional manner on the surface to be cleaned. When coupled to the robot device 5a and received in the receiving recess 573a, the movement of the bottom component 3 is autonomously performed by the robot device 5a. However, this does not preclude the surface treatment system from being designed to be user-guided or operated even in an autonomous use configuration. This is, for example, to pre-program the processing sequence, processing path, or similar ("teaching") to the robot device.

[0179] In the illustrated embodiment, the base device also has a drive device with a drive wheel 511a.

[0180] The base equipment also includes sensor devices. These sensor devices are used to detect the environment of the surface treatment system 1a. This detection can, in principle, be performed using any technology suitable for this purpose, such as by camera, ultrasound, lidar, laser, or similar means. Reference is made to and expressly cited in connection with the disclosure herein.

[0181] Optional liquid containers can be detachably mounted at the base device. For example, the robot device 5a may have a first liquid container, a second liquid container, and a third liquid container. Furthermore, preferred application has been made according to... Figure 17 and Figure 18 The liquid container of the surface cleaning system 1 is disclosed. In particular, the surface treatment system 1a may also have liquid circulation and filtration equipment.

[0182] In the illustrated embodiment, the additional tooling device 800 includes two additional tools 810, each designed as a disc brush 811 and detachably fixed to the base device. The additional tooling device 800, as well as the particle absorption section 401 and the post-liquid absorption section 201a, should be understood as purely optional and therefore not present in all designs.

[0183] The particle absorption unit 401 is a component of the particle absorption device of the surface treatment system 1a, which is not shown in detail elsewhere. Currently, all components of the particle absorption device are arranged at the robot device 5a. The particle absorption unit 401 is currently designed as a suction beam 4011.

[0184] The liquid absorption section 201a is currently designed as a suction strip with a sealing lip.

[0185] exist Figure 21 A variation is shown in which the particle absorption unit is designed as a cleaning box 4012. The cleaning box 4012 may have a rotating cleaning roller and a box or similar object arranged behind the cleaning roller, in which the swept particles are collected. Alternatively, the swept particles may be extracted from the box by means of a particle suction source and collected in the particle collection container of the particle absorption device.

[0186] Figure 19 The diagram shows two additional tools 810 arranged in front of tool 31 relative to the forward-pointing direction of movement. In this forward-pointing direction of movement, the additional tools 810 thus allow for surface pretreatment.

[0187] The auxiliary tool 810 is currently arranged laterally and / or offset from the tool 31 in the forward direction. In the illustrated embodiment, an outward offset is provided. Thus, the surface treatment system 1a has a larger working width than the surface treatment appliance 2.

[0188] The particle absorption section 401 is arranged between the auxiliary tool 810 and the tool 31 relative to the forward direction.

[0189] The liquid absorption section 201b is arranged behind the tool 31 in the forward direction.

[0190] exist Figure 19 and 20In the embodiment shown, the robot device 5a is configured to connect with bottom components of different sizes. In particular, the robot device 5a is configured to connect with bottom components of different widths.

[0191] For this purpose, the robot device 5a currently has a receiving device (not shown in detail) associated with a receiving recess 573a. The receiving device and / or receiving recess 573a can be fitted to the bottom components of different widths. For this purpose, the receiving device and / or receiving recess 573a may have a sliding mechanism, a folding mechanism, or other mechanisms. Alternatively or additionally, different matching components may be provided, which are arranged in and / or at the receiving recess 573b to dimensionally match the receiving recess 573a.

[0192] Figure 22 The principle of liquid recirculation (liquid circulation) is illustrated. This principle can be applied to the surface treatment apparatus 2, robotic devices 5, 5a, and / or surface treatment systems 1, 1a shown in another figure, with a fluid path P providing a fluid-guided connection between the liquid absorption device 200 and the liquid output device 300. Here, the devices 200, 300 can be arranged entirely or partially at the surface treatment apparatus 2 and / or the robotic devices 5, 5a.

[0193] Specifically, the fluid path P connects at least one liquid output device 301 to at least one liquid absorption unit 201, thereby allowing liquid absorbed from the surface F by means of the liquid absorption unit 201 to be guided back to the liquid output device 301 via the fluid path P and to be re-output onto the surface F. The numerous advantages already described are achieved through this liquid circulation.

[0194] Liquid can be transported from liquid absorption unit 201 to liquid output device 301 by various means, such as by means of liquid suction source 202, liquid pressure source 302 and / or separate delivery device.

[0195] In one design, the fluid path P extends through at least one liquid container, such as a liquid collection container 203, a liquid storage container, and / or other liquid containers of the associated surface treatment system 1, 1a. However, it is also conceivable and possible to have a design that is sufficient without a liquid container. In this design, the fluid path P also functions as a liquid reservoir for circulating guidance of the liquid.

[0196] exist Figure 23 In the embodiment shown, the surface treatment system 1,1a includes a filter device 600. The filter device 600 is associated with possible liquid reflux (as referenced herein). Figure 22 The combination of the described methods offers particular advantages.

[0197] The filter device 600 has at least one filter unit 610, an optional carrier structure 620, an optional filter cleaning device 630, and an optional additive ZM. Therefore, the carrier structure 620, the filter cleaning device 630, and the additive ZM are not present in all designs.

[0198] At least one filter unit 610 is provided for arrangement in the fluid path P of the associated surface treatment system 1, 1a, and for filtering the liquid flowing along the fluid path P. In other words, at least one filter unit 610 is fluid-guidedly arranged between the liquid absorption section 201 and the liquid output device 303 to filter the circulating liquid.

[0199] exist Figure 23 In the design shown, the filter device 600 has only a single filter unit 610. In other designs, multiple filter units of the same or different types are used. For simplicity, only filter unit 610 will be referred to below. The description of filter unit 610 also applies to any other possible filter units.

[0200] The filter unit 610 is used to reduce the contamination level of liquids used in processing, especially wet cleaning, and is configured to filter out dirt particles, small parts, lint, hair or similar substances from the liquid.

[0201] In one design, the filter unit 610 is a consumable item that is discarded and replaced after reaching a preset usage range, such as the maximum usage duration. Alternatively, the filter unit 610 may be configured for use throughout the entire service life of the relevant surface treatment system 1, 1a.

[0202] The filter device 600 may be entirely located at the surface treatment apparatus 2 or entirely located at the robot device 5, 5a, depending on the specific design of the relevant surface treatment system 1, 1a. Alternatively, it may be partially and / or component-wise located at the surface treatment apparatus 2 and the robot device 5, 5a. Furthermore, it is conceivable and possible that the surface treatment apparatus 2 and the robot device 5, 5a each have one or more separate filter devices 600.

[0203] according to Figure 33 At least one filter unit 610 has a rigid filter medium 611, a flexible filter medium 612, and / or a loose filter medium 613. The filter media 611, 612, and 613 may exist individually or in combination and may be configured into different filter structures.

[0204] exist Figure 24In the diagram, different filter structures 6101 to 6108 are illustrated schematically as simplified functional blocks. The filter structures are currently a sieve filter 6101, a pore filter 6102, a filter element 6103, a paper filter 6104, a fabric filter 6105, a non-woven fabric filter 6106, a bulk layer filter 6107, and a wire mesh filter 6108.

[0205] Currently, filter unit 610 has at least one of the aforementioned filter structures 6101 to 6108. Combined filter structures are also conceivable and possible. In one design, filter device 600 has multiple filter units, each existing in a different filter structure. In one design, alternatively or additionally, multiple filter structures of the same type exist.

[0206] At least one filter unit 610 may be made of metal, plastic, paper, and / or ceramic. Obviously, combinations of the above materials are also conceivable and possible.

[0207] In the illustrated embodiment, the opening width of at least one filter unit 610, particularly filter media 611, 612, 613 and / or filter structures 6101 to 6108, is between 1 µm and 50 µm. A value range between 5 µm and 30 µm has proven advantageous. Particular advantages are achieved with opening widths between 10 µm and 20 µm.

[0208] exist Figure 23 The carrier structure 620, shown as a schematic functional block, serves as a carrier, holder, and / or support for the filter unit 610. The filter unit 610 is held at the carrier structure 620. The optional carrier structure 620 is particularly advantageous when the filter unit 610 has a compliant filter medium 612 and / or a loose filter medium 613. The carrier structure 620 can also be used to fix and / or mount the filter unit 610 at a location provided for this purpose in the fluid path P of the surface treatment system 1,1a. The filter unit 610 can be releasably or inreleasably connected to the carrier structure 620.

[0209] As long as the carrier structure and the filter unit are inextricably connected, they can together constitute a consumable item to be replaced.

[0210] exist Figure 23 The optional filter cleaning device 630, shown as an illustrative functional block, is used to clean at least one filter unit 610.

[0211] The filter cleaning device 630 allows for the cleaning of at least one filter unit 610 before, during, and / or after the operation of the surface treatment systems 1, 1a, 1b. Cleaning the filter unit 610 prevents it from becoming clogged with dirt, thus preventing clogging. The filter cleaning device is designed to prevent the accumulation of dirt.

[0212] The filter cleaning device 630 can, in principle, be configured to clean the filter unit 610 manually and / or automatically and / or autonomously. Cleaning itself can be performed in various ways, such as by scraping the filter unit 610, by vibrating the filter unit 610, and / or by backwashing the filter unit 610.

[0213] exist Figure 25 In the exemplary design of the filter cleaning device 630, the filter cleaning device has a scraping device 650, a vibration device 670, and / or a backwashing device 690. The scraping device 650, the vibration device 670, and the backwashing device 690 may exist individually or in combination.

[0214] A scraping device 650 is provided for scraping the surface of at least one filter unit 610. The specific design of the scraping device 650 will be referred to below. Figure 31 To elaborate further.

[0215] exist Figure 25 The vibration device 670, schematically shown as a functional block, is configured to vibrate at least one filter unit 610. The vibration generated by the vibration device 670 shakes off dirt accumulated in or within the filter unit 610. For this purpose, the vibration device 670 may act indirectly or directly on the filter unit 610 and / or optionally on the carrier structure 620.

[0216] The vibration can be generated as a shock, a sound wave, or especially ultrasound. Specific design details of the vibration device will be provided below. Figure 34 To elaborate further.

[0217] In one design, a vibration device is optionally or additionally provided for moving, in particular vibrating, the liquid surrounding or flowing around the scraping device, especially at least one scraping element or filter unit.

[0218] exist Figure 25The backwashing device 690, schematically shown as a functional block, is provided for backwashing the filter unit 610. The backwashing device 690 can, in principle, have any design suitable for this purpose. Backwashing removes contaminants accumulated in and / or within the filter unit 610. Backwashing proceeds against the conventional flow direction of the liquid along the fluid path P and can be performed before, during, and / or after the operation of the surface treatment system 1,1a. For backwashing purposes, the backwashing device 690 can have a separate delivery device. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid suction source 202 and / or liquid pressure source 302 of the relevant surface treatment system 1,1a can be used.

[0219] exist Figure 23 The optional additive ZM, schematically shown as a functional block, is configured to be output into the liquid flowing along the fluid path P and may also be referred to as an additive, supplement, and / or additive material. The additive ZM functions, in the broadest sense, to support the improved functionality of the improved surface cleaning and / or related surface treatment systems 1, 1a and / or filter equipment 600.

[0220] exist Figure 26 The diagram illustrates that additive ZM can, in principle, exist as a solid additive ZMa, a liquid additive ZMb, and / or a gaseous additive ZMc. In other words, additive ZM can exist as a solid, liquid, and / or gas. Combinations of partially solid, partially liquid, and / or partially gaseous additives are also conceivable and possible.

[0221] Additive ZM can have various functions, such as cleaning, disinfecting, descaling, coloring, deodorizing, and / or clarifying. Depending on its function, additive ZM can also be called a cleaning agent, disinfectant, descaling agent, coloring agent, deodorizing agent, and / or clarifying agent.

[0222] Obviously, filter device 600 can have multiple additives of the same type or different types.

[0223] exist Figure 27 In the design shown, additive ZM is solublely incorporated into additive body ZMK. Additive body ZMK is associated with filter unit 610 in the broadest sense. For example, additive body ZMK may be arranged at the location provided for this purpose in filter unit 610, and may be received, fixed, held, or otherwise mounted thereon. Additive ZM incorporated into additive body ZMK dissolves from additive body ZMK and is discharged into the liquid via the liquid flowing along fluid path P. Here, the additive body may partially or completely dissolve over time.

[0224] The additive body ZMK can exist, for example, as capsule ZMK1, tablet ZMK2, and / or pad ZMK3. This is in Figure 35 The diagram is shown in a simplified, schematic way.

[0225] exist Figure 28 In the schematic design shown, additive ZM is solublely incorporated into filter unit 610. During operation of the filter device, additive ZM dissolves from the liquid flowing through filter unit 610 and is released into the liquid.

[0226] In one design, additive ZM is applied as a coating or layer to and / or into filter unit 610. Alternatively or additionally, filter unit 610 may be impregnated, soaked, or otherwise equipped with additive ZM.

[0227] exist Figure 29 In the embodiment shown, the surface treatment system 1,1a includes an additive device 700. Here, Figure 29 The diagram schematically illustrates the specific design of an additive device 700 having an additive container 710 and an output device 720.

[0228] Additive equipment 700 and reference Figure 22 The combination of the described liquid reflux and / or filter device 600 provides particular advantages. Obviously, the additive device 700 can also be advantageously installed on surface treatment systems that do not have such liquid reflux.

[0229] Additive device 700 has at least one additive ZM, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is received in additive container 710. Regarding the properties, function, and other features of additive ZM, refer to the foregoing disclosure and express reference. The content therein concerning additive ZM for filter device 600 also applies accordingly to additive ZM for additive device 700.

[0230] Additive container 710 is used to store additive ZM. Depending on whether additive ZM is in a liquid, solid, and / or gaseous state, additive container 710 has matching characteristics.

[0231] In the illustrated embodiment, the additive device 700 has only one additive ZM. In another design, multiple additives of the same or different types may be present. In this case, each individual additive may be contained in a separate additive container.

[0232] In principle, the additive container 710 can be installed and / or may be installed at different components and / or parts of the relevant surface treatment system 1, 1a. In one design, the additive container 710 is installed or may be installed at the surface treatment appliance 2, particularly at the liquid container of the surface treatment appliance 2. In another design, the additive container 710 is installed and / or may be installed at the robot device 5, 5a, particularly at the liquid container of the robot device 5, 5a.

[0233] exist Figure 29 The output device 720, shown as an illustrative functional block, is configured to output additive ZM from additive container 710 into a liquid to be output onto surface F, particularly into fluid path P. Alternatively or additionally, additive ZM can be output directly onto the surface to be cleaned via output device 720.

[0234] In one design, the output device 720 is configured for manual operation by the user. In another design, the additive ZM is set to be automatically and / or autonomously output via the output device 720.

[0235] In the preferred design, the output device 720 is configured to quantitatively output the additive ZM.

[0236] In a design with multiple additive containers, the additive device preferably has multiple output devices, wherein each of the multiple additive containers is preferably associated with one of the multiple output devices.

[0237] Figure 30 The diagram shows a design of a liquid tank 900 with a specific design for a filter device 600.

[0238] The liquid tank 900, together with the filter device 600, can be used as a component of the surface treatment systems 1, 1a, 1b, especially as liquid containers 203, 303.

[0239] According to the specific design of surface treatment system 1,1a, liquid tank 900 can be arranged at surface treatment device 2 or robot device 5,5a. Here, Figure 30 The cylindrical design of the liquid tank shown should be understood as purely exemplary. The corresponding design applies to... Figure 31 , 34 35 and 36.

[0240] Liquid tank 900 has a tank inlet and a tank outlet 903 (in Figure 30The contents are not shown in Figure 68. The tank volume is 901 and the outer shell is 904. The outer shell 904 is shown in a proximal direction, i.e., in an upward section, in Figure 68. At its lower end, the liquid tank 900 is closable by a lower tank cover 908 and is releasably supported on a lower component generally shown. This component may, for example, be a component of the guide member 4 of the surface treatment device 2 and / or a component of the robotic devices 5, 5a.

[0241] In the operation of the relevant surface treatment system 1,1a, liquid absorbed from the surface flows into the tank volume through the tank inlet, passes through the filter device 600, and further flows through the tank outlet to at least one liquid output device of the surface treatment system 1,1a. In other words, the fluid path P extends segmentally through the liquid container 900.

[0242] The filter device 600 associated with the liquid tank 900 is in accordance with Figure 31 It is shown in detail in the sectional view.

[0243] According to Figure 31 In this embodiment, the filter device 600 is arranged within the housing volume 901 in a manner to be further described. Alternatively, it is conceivable and possible to arrange it outside the housing volume 901, for example, upstream of the housing inlet or downstream of the housing outlet. In principle, Figure 31 The filter device 600 shown can also be arranged outside the liquid tank 900 at a suitable location in the fluid path P of the relevant surface cleaning system 1,1a.

[0244] Currently, the filter device 600 is held by means of the lower cover 908. After the liquid tank 900 is removed from the lower component, the lower cover 908 can be released, and the filter device 600, which is held at and / or held by means of the lower cover, can be removed from the tank volume 901.

[0245] According to Figure 31 In the design, the filter device 600 has a filter unit 610, a carrier structure 620, and a filter cleaning device designed as a scraping device 650.

[0246] Currently, filter unit 610 is a wire mesh filter 6108. The opening width of the wire mesh filter 6108 is currently between 10 µm and 20 µm. The wire mesh filter 6108 has a cylindrical shape. The wire mesh filter 6108 is coaxially oriented with the longitudinal axis of the housing 904.

[0247] Currently, the filter unit 610, particularly the wire mesh filter 6108, is held at the carrier structure 620. The carrier structure 620 is designed in a basin shape and therefore also has a cylindrical shape. The outer side of the carrier structure 620 in the radial direction rests against the inner side of the wire mesh filter 6108 in the radial direction. Thus, the wire mesh filter 6108 is supported radially inward by the carrier structure 620. This support is particularly advantageous when the wire mesh filter 6108 does not have sufficient rigidity and therefore has and / or a compliant filter medium 612.

[0248] The carrier structure 620 has multiple through openings extending continuously in the radial direction (in) Figure 31 (No reference numerals in the accompanying drawings) The liquid to be filtered can pass through these openings from the outside through the inside of the wire mesh filter 6108 to the interior of the filter element 610, and from there through the box outlet 903.

[0249] The scraping device 650 has multiple scraping elements 651 and a motion mechanism 652.

[0250] exist Figure 31 Two of the plurality of scraping elements 651 are shown in the longitudinal sectional view. Each scraping element 651 contacts the outer side of the wire mesh filter 6108 and is movable relative to that outer side. In the illustrated embodiment, the scraping elements 651 are provided with rotational movement via a motion mechanism 652.

[0251] In the design shown, the motion mechanism 652 includes a drive motor 653, a drive shaft 654, a drive pinion 655, a driven gear 656, a driven element 657, and a bearing element 658.

[0252] Currently, the drive motor 653 is mounted on the lower component (not shown in the figures) and is releasably connected to the drive shaft 654 in a torque-transmitting manner. When the liquid tank 900 is removed from the lower component, the connection between the drive shaft 654 and the drive motor 653 is released. For the purpose of the releasable connection between the drive motor 653 and the drive shaft 654, the lower end of the drive shaft 654 engages in a complementary drive element of the drive motor 653. The lower end of the drive shaft 654 extends from the tank volume 901 through the tank cover 908 in a manner not shown in detail. To prevent liquid from escaping from the tank volume 901, the drive shaft 654 is fluid-tightly sealed through the passage of the tank cover 908 by a sealing element not shown in detail.

[0253] The drive shaft 654 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the liquid tank 900 and therefore also parallel to the longitudinal direction of the filter unit 610. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end of the drive shaft 654 protrudes beyond the upper end of the filter unit 610.

[0254] The drive pinion 655 is engaged with the upper end of the drive shaft 654 in an anti-torque manner. The drive pinion 655 meshes with the driven gear 656.

[0255] In the design shown, the driven tooth 656 is an internal tooth and is constructed at the driven element 657.

[0256] The driven element 657 is rotatably supported on the carrier structure 620 relative to the carrier structure 620. For this purpose, a bearing element 658 is provided, and this bearing element is currently constructed as a single piece with the driven element 657. The bearing element 658 is releasably form-fitted in the axial direction and slidably engaged in the bearing housing 622 provided for this purpose in the carrier structure 620. Currently, the driven element 657 is rotatably movable coaxially about the longitudinal axis of the liquid tank 900 and therefore also about the longitudinal axis of the filter unit 610. A plurality of scraping elements 651 are operatively connected to the driven element 657 in a manner that transmits force and motion. This operative connection is currently releasable, allowing the scraping elements 651 to be easily removed and replaced when needed.

[0257] To clean the filter unit 610, more precisely, to scrape the wire mesh filter 6108, the drive motor 653 drives the driven element 657 and the scraping element 651 via the drive shaft 654. The scraping element 651 thus moves along the filter unit 610, thereby scraping away the dirt accumulated on its surface.

[0258] In the illustrated embodiment, the rotational drive motion of the drive motor 653 is reduced by a reduction gear formed between the drive pinion 655 and the driven gear 656. In other words, the drive pinion 655 and the driven gear 656 form a reduction stage.

[0259] In one design, continuous filtration cleaning is employed. In this continuous filtration cleaning, drive motor 653 drives scraping element 651 throughout the entire duration of surface treatment, specifically during wet cleaning. Drive motor 653 starts when the associated surface treatment system 1,1a is turned on and shuts off together with the surface treatment system 1,1a.

[0260] In another design, controllable filtration cleaning is provided. This control can be achieved by the user of the surface treatment appliance selectively turning the drive motor 653 on and off. Alternatively or additionally, control (in manual and / or autonomous use configurations) can be automated, for example by controlling the drive motor 653 based on the degree of contamination of the liquid and / or other detected parameters. Other detected parameters may include, for example, the flow rate, pressure, pressure rise, and / or power consumption of the conveying equipment of the liquid to be filtered.

[0261] This control may further comprise a particularly stepless rotational speed control for driving the motor. The contamination level can be detected, for example, by means of sensors provided for this purpose and arranged, for example, in the fluid path P and / or the tank volume 901.

[0262] In Figure 32 and Figure 33 an exemplarily designed filter unit 610 is shown. According to Figure 32 and Figure 33 the filter unit 610 has a design and function that are in principle similar to those of the filter unit of the filter device according to Figure 31 . Thus, according to Figure 32 and Figure 33 the filter unit 610 each have a shape-conformable filter medium 612 designed as a wire mesh filter 6108.

[0263] According to Figure 32 the filter unit 610 has a carrier structure 620 which bears radially against the inner side of the wire mesh filter 6108 and is provided with a plurality of through-openings 621. The through-openings 621 extend radially between the inner side and the outer side of the carrier structure 620, and are each currently square in cross section. The carrier structure 620 thus has a grid-like structure. At its upper end, the carrier structure 620 has a bearing seat 622 (see Figure 31 ).

[0264] According to Figure 33 the filter element 610 has a carrier structure 620' of different design. The carrier structure 620' is largely identical to the carrier structure 620 of the filter device 600 shown in Figure 32 . Unlike the carrier structure 620 according to Figure 32 , the carrier structure 620' according to Figure 42 has a plurality of circular through-openings 621'. The circular through-openings 621' are smaller in their opening width than the corresponding opening width of the square through-openings 621. Due to the different design, the carrier structure 620' has a relatively higher inherent stiffness in the radial direction than the carrier structure 620 according to Figure 32 .

[0265] Figure 34 a further embodiment of the filter device 600 is shown. Consistent with the design according to Figure 31 , the filter device 600 is likewise arranged in the tank volume 901 of the liquid tank 900. With regard to possible alternatives for the arrangement of the filter device 600, the disclosures with reference to Figure 40 apply correspondingly.

[0266] The filter device 600 according to Figure 34 differs from the filter device 600 according to Figure 31 essentially in the manner of filter cleaning. In the according to Figure 34 In the design, a vibration device 670 is used instead of a scraping device.

[0267] The vibration device 670 has a vibration motor 671. The vibration motor 671 is received in a motor receiving portion 623 provided for this purpose in the carrier structure 620''. The vibration generated by the vibration motor 671 is directly transmitted to the carrier structure 620'' through the motor receiving portion 623, and from the carrier structure to the filter unit 610.

[0268] To allow sufficient vibrational movement for the carrier structure 620'' and therefore the filter unit 610, the carrier structure 620'' is held inside the lower cover 908 by an elastic retaining element 672. In other words, the carrier structure 620'', together with the filter unit 610, is elastically supported by the retaining element 672.

[0269] Other designs for the filter unit 610 have been addressed according to... Figures 31 to 33 The contents of the filter unit 610 are accordingly applicable. Currently, the filter unit 610 also has a compliant filter medium 612 and / or a wire mesh filter 6108.

[0270] The vibration motor 671 is powered via a connecting cable 673. The connecting cable 673 currently extends radially inward on the carrier structure 620''. At its end opposite to the vibration motor 671, the connecting cable 673 connects to an electrical connector (not shown in the figures). The connection extending through the electrical connector can be disconnected by removing the liquid tank 900 from the lower component. Conversely, once the liquid tank 900 is placed on the lower component, the electrical connection is closed. The electrical connector can be connected to or is already connected to the battery device 100 in a manner not shown in detail.

[0271] In one design not shown in the accompanying drawings, instead of wired power transmission, inductive power transmission to the vibration motor 671 is provided.

[0272] Instead of the vibration motor 671, an ultrasonic transducer 675 can also be used. The ultrasonic transducer 675 generates ultrasonic waves, which can prevent dirt from accumulating at the filter unit 610.

[0273] The ultrasonic transducer 675 can also be arranged outside the carrier structure 620'' and transmit ultrasonic waves to the filter unit 610 only indirectly. Indirect transmission can be, for example, via the liquid to be filtered itself.

[0274] Regarding the possible continuous or controlled operation of the vibration device 670, [the following has been addressed]. Figure 31 The contents of the scraping device 650 are applicable accordingly.

[0275] Figure 35 and Figure 36 The diagram shows a design of a liquid tank 900 of an additive device 700 with a specific design.

[0276] The liquid tank 900, together with the additive equipment 700, can be used as a component of the surface treatment system 1,1a, and in particular as a liquid container 203,303.

[0277] exist Figure 35 and Figure 36 In the design shown, the additive device 700 is releasably fixed to the outer casing 904 of the liquid tank 900 in the form of a top cover 907. The outer casing 904 is... Figure 35 and Figure 36 It is shown in a downward section.

[0278] alternative to Figure 35 and Figure 36 As shown in the design of the upper cover 907, the additive device 700 can also be designed as a component of the guide part 4 of the surface treatment device 2.

[0279] In the illustrated design, the additive device 700 is configured to quantitatively dispense multiple different additives. Here, the additive device 700 includes an additive container 710 and an outlet device 720.

[0280] Currently, the additive container 710 has three container chambers, in which... Figure 36 Two container chambers 711 and 712 are shown, which may also be referred to as first container chamber 711 and second container chamber 712. Each container chamber is configured to receive an additive. In the illustrated embodiment, a corresponding liquid additive is received in the respective container chamber. The container chambers are fluid-tightly separated from each other accordingly.

[0281] Currently, the output device 720 has multiple operating elements 721, 722 and 723, which are respectively associated with one of the container chambers and may be referred to as the first operating element 721, the second operating element 722 and the third operating element 723.

[0282] The actuating elements 721, 722, and 723 respectively form the top cover of the relevant container chamber. The actuating elements 721, 722, and 723 can be manually pressed in along the actuating axis, which is currently oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the liquid tank 900.

[0283] The actuating elements 721, 722, and 723 are elastically reset against the actuating axis by means of spring element 740. The spring element is supported at one end inside the respective actuating element 721, 722, and 723, and at the other end at the bottom of the respective container chamber. Each container chamber has an outlet valve 730 in its bottom region. Pressure is applied to the respective additive by pressing the corresponding actuating element 721, 722, and 723. If the pressure exceeds the opening pressure of the outlet valve 730, the outlet valve opens, thereby discharging the additive from the relevant container chamber into the tank volume 901.

[0284] To allow for the metered dispensing of the additive, the actuating elements 721, 722, 723 and / or the container chamber may be equipped with a stop. This stop only allows for a limited infeed of the respective actuating element, and thus also allows for a limited dispensing of the additive.

[0285] In a design not shown in the accompanying drawings, the additive device 700 has an additive container 710 with one, two, or more than the three container chambers currently shown. The corresponding number of actuating elements also applies.

[0286] Figure 35 and Figure 36 The design shown is particularly advantageous for using three different additives. For example, the first additive can be contained in the first container chamber 711, the second additive in the second container chamber 712, and the third additive in the third container chamber (not shown). The additives may differ in their function or other properties.

[0287] To avoid confusion with the additives, color coding is provided for the control elements 721, 722, and 723 in a particularly advantageous design. In other words, in the design, the control elements 721, 722, and 723 have different colors.

[0288] To fill the additive container 710, the operating elements 721, 722, and 723 can be removed. Alternatively or additionally, the additive can be filled into the additive container 710 via the relevant outlet valve or a filling port provided for this purpose.

[0289] Alternatively, additives may be formulated in pre-made units, such as capsules, tablets, or the like, which can be introduced into the additive container, for example, through a dispensing port, and removed as needed.

[0290] Figure 37 The diagram illustrates a connection device 7 with a first connection unit 71 and a second connection unit 72. The connection units 71 and 72 are complementary.

[0291] Currently, the connecting device 7 is configured to construct a plug-in connection between the first connecting unit 71 and the second connecting unit 72. This plug-in connection can currently be loosened and reconnected without tools. In the illustrated design, the connecting units 71 and 72 can be plugged together and released from each other along the longitudinal axis L.

[0292] The first connecting unit 71 is a component of the bottom part 3. Not only the guide part 4, but also the associated robot device each has a second connecting unit 72. In a manual operation configuration, the first connecting unit 71 is detachably connected to the second connecting unit of the guide part 4. In an autonomous operation configuration, the first connecting unit 71 is connected to the second connecting unit of the robot device.

[0293] Here, at least one mechanical connection is established via the connecting device 7. The connecting device 7 is configured to establish at least one mechanical connection between the bottom component 3 and the guide component 4 (in the manual use configuration) or between the bottom component 3 and the robotic device (in the autonomous use configuration). The connecting device 7 may additionally be configured to establish possible electrical, fluid-guided, signal technology, and / or data technology connections between the bottom component 3 and the guide component 4 (in the manual use configuration) or between the bottom component 3 and the robotic device (in the autonomous use configuration). For this purpose, at least one connector pair may be provided, each having a first connector disposed at a first connecting unit and a complementary second connector disposed at a second connecting unit.

Claims

1. A surface treatment system (1, 1a) for treating, particularly for cleaning, surfaces (F), especially floor surfaces (B), comprising: A surface treatment tool (2) having a bottom part (3) configured to act on a surface (F) to be treated, and having a guide part (4) extending particularly longitudinally, which is releasably connected to the bottom part (3) and configured to allow the bottom part (3) to be manually moved on the surface (F) to be treated. A robotic device (5,5a) is releasably connected to the bottom component (3) of the surface treatment apparatus (2) and is configured to allow the bottom component (3) to move autonomously on the surface (F) to be treated. in, The surface treatment system (1,1a) can switch between autonomous and manual operation configurations. In the autonomous use configuration, the guide component (4) is separated from the bottom component (3), and the robot device (5, 5a) is releasably connected to the bottom component (3) to enable autonomous movement of the bottom component (3) on the surface (F) to be processed. In the manual use configuration, the robot device (5, 5a) is separated from the surface treatment device (2) so that the bottom component (3) can be manually moved on the surface (F) to be treated by means of the guide component (4).

2. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 1, wherein, The bottom component (3) has a tool device (30) with at least one driven tool (31) for acting on the surface to be treated (F), wherein the at least one driven tool (31) is configured to generate a propulsive force (V) in a driven state, which at least assists the manual and / or autonomous movement of the bottom component (3).

3. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 2, wherein, The tool device (30) has two counter-driven disc tools (33), especially disc tools.

4. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, In the autonomous use configuration, the robot device (5, 5a) is connected to the tool device (30) and is configured to control the propulsion force (V) of the at least one driven tool (31) so as to control the autonomous movement of the bottom component (3) by means of controlling the propulsion force (V).

5. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The surface treatment device (2) has a support device (6) by means of which the guide member (4) and the bottom member (3) are connected to each other in a manner that allows them to move relative to each other, wherein the direction of manual movement of the bottom member (3) can be controlled by the relative movement between the bottom member (3) and the guide member (4).

6. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 5, wherein, The support device (6) constructs a universal connection (61) between the guide member (4) and the bottom member (3), thereby enabling the bottom member (3) to rotate about its vertical axis (H) and on the surface (F) in a plane of rotation parallel to the surface to be processed (F) by rotating the guide member (4) about its longitudinal axis (L), so as to control the direction of manual movement of the bottom member (3).

7. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The robotic device (5, 5a) has a drive device (51) configured to drive the autonomous motion.

8. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The robotic device (5, 5a) has a steering device (52) configured to steer the autonomous motion.

9. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises a battery device (100) configured to supply electrical operating energy to the robotic device (5, 5a) and / or the surface treatment device (2).

10. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 9, wherein, The battery device (100) has a first battery (101) disposed at the surface treatment appliance (2).

11. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The battery device (100) has a second battery (102) disposed at the robot device (5, 5a).

12. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 11, wherein, The first battery (101) and the second battery (102) can be interchangeably mounted on the robot device (5, 5a) and the surface treatment device (2).

13. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises a liquid absorption device (200) configured to absorb liquid from the surface (F) to be treated.

14. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 13, wherein, The liquid absorption device (200) has at least one liquid absorption section (201), at least one liquid suction source (202), and / or at least one liquid collection container (203), wherein the at least one liquid absorption section (201) is configured to suction the liquid to be absorbed, wherein the at least one liquid suction source (202) is configured to generate a negative pressure for suctioning the liquid to be absorbed, and wherein the at least one liquid collection container (203) is configured to collect the liquid to be absorbed.

15. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The robotic device (5, 5a) has at least one component (201, 202, 203) of the liquid absorption device (200), and in particular, one of a plurality of similar components (201, 202, 203) of the liquid absorption device (200).

16. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises a liquid output device (300) configured to output liquid onto the surface (F) to be treated.

17. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 16, wherein, The liquid output device (300) has at least one liquid outlet (301), at least one liquid pressure source (302), and / or at least one liquid storage container (303), wherein the at least one liquid outlet (301) is configured to output liquid directly onto the surface (F), wherein the at least one liquid pressure source (302) is configured to generate overpressure for conveying the liquid to be output, and wherein the at least one liquid storage container (303) is configured to store the liquid to be output.

18. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The robotic device (5, 5a) has at least one component (301, 302, 303) of the liquid output device (300), and in particular, one of a plurality of similar components (301, 302, 303) of the liquid output device (300).

19. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of claims 16 to 18 and in conjunction with any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein, The liquid output device (300) is fluid-guidedly connected to or can be connected to the liquid absorption device (200) via at least one fluid path (P), thereby allowing liquid absorbed from the surface (F) by means of the liquid absorption device (200) to be re-output onto the surface (F) by means of the liquid output device (300).

20. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 19 further comprises at least one filter device (600) having at least one filter unit (610) configured to filter the liquid.

21. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 20, wherein, The at least one filter device (600) has a filter cleaning device (630) configured to clean the at least one filter unit (610), particularly before, during and / or after the surface treatment system (1, 1a) is in operation.

22. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises an additive device (700) carrying at least one additive (ZM), the additive being provided for output to at least one fluid path (P) of the surface treatment system (1, 1a), particularly wherein, The at least one additive (ZM) has cleaning, disinfecting, descaling, coloring, deodorizing and / or clarifying effects.

23. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 22, wherein, The additive device (700) has at least one additive container (710) and / or at least one output device (720), in which the at least one additive (ZM) is stored, and the output device is configured to output the at least one additive (ZM) particularly quantitatively from the at least one additive container (710) into the fluid path (P).

24. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises a particle absorption device (400) configured to absorb particles from the surface (F) to be treated.

25. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 24, wherein, The particle absorption device (400) has at least one particle absorption section (401), at least one particle suction source (402), and / or at least one particle collection container (403), wherein the at least one particle absorption section (401) is configured to suction particles to be absorbed, wherein the at least one particle suction source (402) is configured to generate a negative pressure for suctioning the particles to be absorbed, and wherein the at least one particle collection container (403) is configured to collect the particles to be absorbed.

26. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, The robotic device (5, 5a) has at least one component (401, 402, 403) of the particle absorption device (400), and in particular, one of a plurality of similar components (401, 402, 403) of the particle absorption device (400).

27. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The surface treatment system (1,1a) includes a sensor device (53), a navigation device (54), and / or a processor device (55). - Wherein, the sensor device (53) is configured to detect the surface to be treated (F) and / or its surrounding environment (E) and generate sensor data representing the surface to be treated (F) and / or the surrounding environment (E), - Wherein, the navigation device (54) is configured to detect the position of the robot device (5, 5a) and generate navigation data representing the position, and - The processor device (55) is configured to control the autonomous motion based on the sensor data and / or the navigation data.

28. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 27, wherein, The sensor device (53) has at least one camera system (531), radar system (532), lidar system (533) and / or ultrasonic system (534).

29. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 27 or 28, wherein, The processor device (55) is configured to control at least one processing function based on the sensor data and / or the navigation data, wherein the processing function is a tool function, a liquid absorption function, a liquid output function, a liquid circulation function, a filtration function, an additive function, an additional tool function, and / or a particle absorption function.

30. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In the manual use configuration, the guide component (4) is releasably connected to the bottom component (3) by means of the connecting device (7).

31. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 30, wherein, In the autonomous use configuration, the robot device (5, 5a) is connected to the bottom component (3) via the connection device (7).

32. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The robotic device (5, 5a) has an additional tooling device (800) with at least one driven additional tool (810) configured to act on the surface (F) to be treated.

33. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 32, wherein, The at least one additional tool (810) is driven by the actuator of the surface treatment device (2), especially the bottom component (3), and / or by the actuator of the robot device (5, 5a).

34. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 32 or 33, wherein, The additional tool device (800) has a working width that is greater than the working width of the surface treatment tool (2), and especially greater than the working width of one of the surface treatment tools (2) or the tool device (30).

35. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The robotic device (5, 5a) is configured to be releasably connected to and / or receive surface processing tools of different sizes for bottom components of different sizes.

36. The surface treatment system (1, 1a) according to claim 35, wherein, The robotic device (5,5a) has a matching receiving device, which is configured to receive bottom parts of different widths.

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