shoe cleaning device

Abstract

Treatment component (11) for treating, in particular cleaning and / or maintaining, a shoe (2) located in an interior (4) of a container (1), wherein the treatment component (11) comprises: - a holding and positioning device (13) for holding and / or positioning at least one treatment tool (14) for treating the shoe (2) inside (4) the container (1); - a handle section (15) for grasping and / or holding the treatment component (11) outside a container shell (3) which encloses the interior (4) of the container (1); - a feedthrough device (12) which enables the treatment component (11) to be fed through a feedthrough opening (5) of the container shell (3) in such a way that the treatment component tightly seals the feedthrough opening (5); and - a tool holding device for holding a treatment tool (14); and / or - a tool positioning device (16) comprising a plurality of tool holding devices for holding a treatment tool (14), wherein the tool positioning device (16) enables the positioning of the plurality of tool holding devices, wherein the tool positioning device (16) is movable relative to the feed device (12) in order to selectively bring each of the tool holding devices into a primary treatment position (18) for treating the shoe (2) within the interior (4) of the container (1); wherein the treatment component (11) further comprises: - a supply line for supplying a treatment agent to a tool holding device, in particular to a tool holding device in the primary treatment position (18); - a treatment agent positioning device (23) comprising a plurality of treatment agent containers (22) and / or treatment agent container holders, wherein the treatment agent positioning device (23) enables the positioning of the plurality of treatment agent containers (22) and / or treatment agent container holders, and wherein one of the treatment agent containers (22) and / or treatment agent container holders of the treatment agent positioning device (23) occupies a primary feed position (24).

Description

[0001] The subject matter of the present application relates to a device for treating, in particular cleaning and / or caring for, shoes.

[0002] Nowadays, a wide variety of materials are used for shoes, especially leather, rubber, fabric, and various synthetic materials. These different materials have different properties that influence their suitability for specific applications. Furthermore, the different materials also have different requirements regarding the cleaning and care of the shoes.

[0003] For thorough and proper cleaning and care of shoes, they should first be freed from coarse dirt and dust. Using a brush is useful for removing dried dirt, such as mud. This step is best done outdoors, for example on a patio or balcony, as it usually creates a considerable cloud of dust. After removing the coarse dirt, the next step is usually to clean the shoe with a damp cloth to remove dust particles and finer dirt. If necessary, a cleaning agent, such as soap, can also be used. Depending on the shoe material, as well as the degree and type of soiling, more or less moisture or cleaning agent is needed to clean the shoe completely and thoroughly. This cleaning step is best done outdoors or over the bathtub or shower.a container to collect loosened dirt and / or liquid / cleaning agent.

[0004] The described steps generate a considerable amount of dirt, which is why they are preferably carried out outdoors. However, it is virtually impossible to perform such a thorough shoe cleaning indoors without creating significant dirt in the work environment and on the person performing the task.

[0005] DE 19 19 946 A describes a cleaning process for an object comprising forming a jet of cleaning fluid, generating energy waves in the sound frequency range, transferring the energy waves to the jet, selecting a vibration frequency, and directing the jet towards the object to remove impurities.

[0006] CN 1 02 166 115 A describes a shoe washing device comprising an inner brush for insertion into the interior of a shoe, an outer brush for cleaning the outside of the shoe and a mechanically driven sole brush for cleaning the sole of the shoe.

[0007] After cleaning the shoes, the next step is usually to care for the material. This includes, for example, applying and buffing shoe polish, conditioning leather shoes, and / or waterproofing fabric shoes.

[0008] Each of these different work steps often requires a special treatment product in the form of a brush, cloth, sponge or spray, which necessitates the use of a variety of tools.

[0009] When treating shoes, especially when cleaning and / or caring for them, it is advantageous to avoid touching the areas being treated, particularly the outer surface of the shoe. Holding the shoe by hand is often impractical and frequently requires repositioning your grip to treat all sides.

[0010] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device to enable user-friendly, thorough treatment, in particular cleaning and / or maintenance, of shoes without soiling the work environment and the person performing the task.

[0011] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0012] A first example relates to a container for treating, in particular cleaning and / or caring for, shoes, comprising an at least partially essentially transparent container shell which encloses a container interior, wherein the container shell has at least two feed-through openings, each of which allows a holding and treatment component for holding and / or treating a shoe located in the interior of the container to be passed through from the outside in such a way that the holding and treatment component essentially seals the respective feed-through opening.

[0013] Such a container allows for user-friendly, thorough treatment, especially cleaning and / or care, of a shoe within enclosed spaces without contaminating the work environment.

[0014] The container shell includes at least one substantially transparent or see-through area to allow for the proper cleaning and / or maintenance of a shoe located inside the container. Preferably, the container shell has a substantially transparent area that comprises more than half of its surface area. This substantially transparent area is designed to be substantially translucent or see-through, allowing the interior of the container and any objects within it to be seen. Preferably, the entire container shell is made of a substantially transparent material, such as transparent plastics like polyethylene, PVC, and / or fabric-reinforced plastics.

[0015] The container shell includes at least two openings for inserting a holding and treatment component. This holding and treatment component allows a shoe to be held and / or treated inside the container.

[0016] The container shell preferably comprises a flexible, elastic, and / or adaptable material. The container shell is designed to completely enclose a shoe. Preferably, the surface of the container shell has a smooth, continuous shape, for example, a substantially convex or cylindrical shape. The openings of the container shell are preferably designed such that the smooth / continuous shape of at least one section of the container shell is interrupted, for example, by a concave profile within a convex section of the container shell.

[0017] Holding and / or treating from the outside essentially describes acting on or influencing the shoe, which is located inside the container, using the holding and treatment component. The part of the holding and treatment component that the user touches or holds is located outside the container's interior or in contact with the atmosphere surrounding the container.

[0018] Treatment describes a variety of processes, for example, to improve the optical, structural, and / or olfactory condition of a shoe. This includes, for example: cleaning, conditioning, scrubbing, polishing, brushing, steaming, polishing, waterproofing, waxing, greasing, and / or foaming.

[0019] Holding, for example, describes the process of keeping the shoe within the container, preferably so that the shoe is held essentially without contact with the container shell. Furthermore, holding the shoe describes, for example, gripping the shoe to create resistance against a means used to treat the shoe, such as a brush. Holding also describes, for example, moving the shoe, particularly relative to a holding and treatment component, such as rotating and / or tilting the shoe to allow treatment from all sides.

[0020] Preferably, the container is essentially tightly sealable or closed during the treatment of the shoe, so that, for example, dirt and / or dust or liquids removed from the shoe remain essentially in the container.

[0021] Preferably, the holding and treatment component comprises: a shoe holding device for holding the shoe inside the container; a treatment agent holding device for holding a treatment agent inside the container; and / or a treatment agent for treating the shoe inside the container.

[0022] The holding and handling component can, for example, include a shoe-holding device for holding the shoe inside the container. Preferably, the shoe-holding device has a section that is inserted into the interior of a shoe, a section that is held or gripped by the user outside the container, and a section that substantially seals the opening of the container shell.

[0023] Furthermore, the holding and treatment component can, for example, include a treatment agent holding device for holding a treatment agent inside the container. Preferably, the treatment agent holding device has a section that can hold an agent suitable for treating the shoe inside the container, or a section to which such a treatment agent can be attached. More preferably, the treatment agent holding device has a section that is held or grasped by the user outside the container, and a section that substantially seals the opening of the container shell.

[0024] Such a treatment device can, for example, include a spring-loaded retaining clip that holds suitable treatment items for the shoe, such as brushes, sponges, and / or cloths. Furthermore, such a treatment device can, for example, include a closure mechanism that allows treatment items to be attached and removed by means of elastic deformation. The various treatment items can be attached to a holder on the container shell and / or placed loosely inside the container to allow for changing the treatment items within the container.

[0025] Furthermore, the holding and treatment component can, for example, include a treatment agent for treating the shoe inside the container.

[0026] Treatment agents within the meaning of this invention are, in particular, agents suitable for improving the optical, structural, and / or olfactory condition of a shoe. This includes, for example, brushes, sponges, cloths, pads, suction devices, hair dryers, steam cleaners, and similar agents. Further treatment agents within the meaning of this invention include, for example: aerosols, sprays, foams, liquids, especially low-viscosity liquids, gels, lipids, waxes, dispersions, emulsions, and / or suspensions, as well as devices for generating and / or applying these to the shoe.

[0027] Further preferably, the holding and treatment component comprises a glove, in particular a rubber or plastic glove, which is attached to the feedthrough opening in such a way that the holding and treatment component essentially seals the feedthrough opening tightly; and allows at least part of a hand to be inserted into the interior of the container.

[0028] A preferred embodiment of the holding and handling components comprises a device suitable for enclosing at least part of the user's hand, particularly preferably in the form of a glove. The glove is attached to the feedthrough opening in such a way that it substantially seals the opening. The glove has both a surface that is in contact with the ambient atmosphere and a surface that faces the interior of the container.

[0029] For the purposes of this invention, a glove is understood to be a device for enclosing at least part of a hand, preferably for enclosing the entire hand. Preferably, this glove has a compartment for one or more fingers.

[0030] The glove allows at least part of the hand to be inserted into the interior of the container enclosed by the container shell, thus enabling the shoe to be held and / or treated inside the container.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the glove includes a treatment agent located on the surface of the glove facing the interior of the container. In particular, the treatment agent can be a brush and / or a tube / cartridge containing the treatment agent.

[0032] The glove is preferably made of a flexible material, such as polyethylene, PVC, and / or fabric-reinforced plastics. The glove is preferably attached to the opening of the container shell by a section that covers the user's wrist or forearm. Attachment is preferably achieved by permanent bonding and / or welding, which allows for a particularly tight seal. Alternatively and / or in combination, a detachable connection can be provided, for example, to allow for glove replacement.

[0033] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the glove is integrated into the container shell or formed integrally with the container shell.

[0034] A holding and treatment component in the form of a glove enables advantageous and, in particular, flexible holding and / or treatment of the shoe within the container.

[0035] Preferably, the container shell comprises at least part of a substantially flexible and transparent material, in particular plastic. More preferably, the container shell has a reinforced edge area around the feed-through openings to prevent damage to the container shell due to high forces, especially when the holding and treatment component is moved.

[0036] Preferably, the container shell has the feed-through openings on a top side and a lateral side.

[0037] When using a shoe-holding device that is inserted into the interior of the shoe and whose holding section is located above the sole, i.e., essentially in a plane parallel to and spaced apart from a sole surface, it is advantageous if the through-holes are located on different side faces of the container. An arrangement on two essentially perpendicular side faces of the container is particularly preferred. It is especially preferred that the through-hole which is essentially sealed by the shoe-holding device is located on a side face, such that the shoe-holding device has an orientation in which the holding section of the shoe-holding device and the held shoe are essentially in line, with the holding section located above the shoe.

[0038] Preferably, the container shell includes a closable opening for inserting a shoe into the interior of the container.

[0039] The closable opening includes, for example, a zipper, a zip closure, and / or a snap closure. Preferably, the closable opening has a diameter substantially between 5 cm and 40 cm, more preferably between 10 cm and 30 cm. More preferably, the closable opening includes at least one of the feed-through openings. Even more preferably, the container shell has the closable opening on a top surface to allow the shoe to be inserted substantially from above.

[0040] Preferably, the container comprises a clamping and stabilizing device for clamping and / or stabilizing the container shell, so that the container has or maintains a voluminous interior.

[0041] Such a clamping and stabilizing device can, for example, comprise a stable structure, such as rods, brackets, and / or grids, on one or more side faces of the container. Preferably, such a structure is provided on a side face of the container so that the structure and the corresponding side face extend parallel to the ground, and the interior of the container extends below the structure towards the ground. The structure can be located either inside or outside the container.

[0042] Alternatively and / or in combination, the container shell can comprise one or more inflatable chambers, in particular elongated chambers, on one or more side surfaces of the container to support the container shell and to achieve a voluminous interior. A voluminous interior within the meaning of this invention describes an interior which, due to its shape and dimensions, is suitable for completely enclosing a shoe substantially without contact with the shell surrounding the interior.

[0043] The container preferably has a collection and separation device for collecting and / or separating substances, in particular dirt and / or dust. The collection and separation device is preferably arranged during shoe treatment such that dirt and / or treatment agents detached from the shoe can be collected or separated by the collection and separation device. The collection and separation device is particularly preferably arranged on a side surface of the container that does not have a through-hole. The collection and separation device is particularly preferably located in a region of the container opposite the closable opening. The collection and separation device is further preferably designed such that, when the shoe is inserted and / or removed through the closable opening, the substances collected or separated by the collection and separation device are released.The separated substances from the container, especially preferably from the collection and separation device, cannot escape.

[0044] Preferably, the collection and separation device is a separate unit that can be inserted into or removed from the container. The collection and separation device can also be at least partially integrated into the container. For example, the collection and separation device can be substantially separated from the section of the container interior where the shoe is located by means of a net, sieve, and / or filter, which is preferably replaceable. Furthermore, the collection and separation device can have a downwardly conical and / or funnel-shaped volume for collecting substances.

[0045] Preferably, the collection and separation device may have areas coated with an adhesive, either alternatively or in combination with other components, to collect dirt and dust. Alternatively or in combination with other components, the collection and separation device may include materials such as cat litter and / or activated carbon, which enable the absorption or adsorption of substances, particularly liquids and / or gases. Furthermore, the collection and separation device may have a separate, closable opening for removing collected substances.

[0046] Preferably, the interior of the container enclosed by the container shell has a substantially cuboid or cylindrical shape, wherein the dimensions of the container are such that a shoe can be held in the interior of the container essentially without contact with the container shell.

[0047] More preferably, the container comprises at least two modular sections. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a first module comprises at least the collection and separation device, and a second module comprises at least the container shell. With such a modular container, the container shell can, for example, be selected to match the height of the shoe to be treated and connected to the collection and separation device. Furthermore, different container shells and / or collection and separation devices can be selected or used, for example, for specific shoe colors, levels of soiling, and / or cleaning steps.

[0048] Preferably, the container is suitable for being stored on a roll together with a plurality of similar or identical containers.

[0049] Another example concerns a container dispenser for providing multiple containers for treating, in particular cleaning and / or caring for, shoes. Preferably, the container dispenser comprises a reel containing multiple loose and / or separable identical containers.

[0050] A first aspect of the invention relates to a treatment component for treating, in particular cleaning and / or caring for, a shoe, particularly in an interior of the container described in the process, wherein the treatment component comprises: a holding and positioning device for holding and / or positioning at least one treatment tool for treating the shoe, preferably in the interior of the container; a gripping section for grasping and / or holding the treatment component, preferably for grasping and / or holding the treatment component outside the container shell; and a feed-through device which, when used with one of the containers described in the process, enables the treatment component to be fed through a feed-through opening of the container shell in such a way that the treatment component substantially seals the feed-through opening.

[0051] Such a treatment component enables user-friendly, thorough treatment, especially cleaning and / or maintenance, of a shoe with a variety of different treatment steps without contaminating the work environment.

[0052] The treatment component has a handle section for holding it, which is preferably designed essentially like a pistol grip. When the treatment component is used with the container described in the process, this handle is located outside the container's interior.

[0053] Furthermore, the treatment component has a holding and positioning device which, when the treatment component is used with the container described in the process, is located inside the container. The treatment component also has a feed-through device which is designed to seal a feed-through opening in the container shell in a substantially tight manner.

[0054] The holding and positioning device is designed to hold and / or position treatment tools for treating a shoe, wherein treatment tools within the meaning of this invention are, for example, brushes, sponges, cloths and / or pads. Further treatment tools are devices suitable for generating and / or applying, for example, aerosols, sprays, foams, liquids, in particular low-viscosity liquids, gels, lipids, waxes, dispersions, emulsions and / or suspensions.

[0055] The treatment component more preferably comprises: a tool holding device for holding a treatment tool; and / or a tool positioning device comprising a plurality of tool holding devices for holding a treatment tool, wherein the tool positioning device enables the positioning of the plurality of tool holding devices, wherein the tool positioning device is movable relative to the feed device in order to selectively bring each of the tool holding devices into a primary treatment position for treating the shoe, preferably within the container interior.

[0056] Preferably, the treatment component comprises a tool holding device for holding a treatment tool. The treatment tool can be held, in particular, by a chuck, a head, a holder, and / or a flange. More preferably, the tool holding device is designed to ensure a substantially uniform pressure on the shoe, for example, by means of a spring element.

[0057] The treatment component preferably comprises: a fixing and releasing device for fixing and / or releasing a treatment tool to or from a tool holding device; and / or an actuator for moving and / or fixing the tool positioning device relative to the delivery device of the treatment component by a user.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the treatment component includes a fixing and releasing device for attaching and detaching treatment tools from the tool holder. Such a fixing and releasing device can, for example, be a button, a lever, and / or a dial which, when actuated, allows a treatment tool to be attached to or removed from the tool holder.

[0059] In a further preferred embodiment, the treatment component comprises an actuator, for example a button, a lever, and / or a dial, which, when actuated, permits or causes movement of the tool positioning device. The tool positioning device is preferably designed such that actuation of the actuator causes a rotational movement of the tool positioning device, thus changing the tool holder located in the primary treatment position. The movement of the tool positioning device can be, for example, mechanical, electrical, and / or pneumatic. The actuator is also suitable for fixing the tool positioning device to prevent unintentional movement.

[0060] The treatment component preferably further comprises a supply line for supplying a treatment agent to a tool holding device, in particular to a tool holding device in the primary treatment position.

[0061] In a further preferred embodiment, the treatment component allows a treatment agent to be supplied to the treatment tool, which is attached to the tool holder in the primary treatment position. This enables advantageous, simultaneous treatment of the shoe with a treatment tool and a treatment agent, for example, with a brush and cleaning agent and / or a cloth and shoe polish. Treatment agents that can be supplied to the treatment tool include, in particular: foams, liquids, especially low-viscosity liquids, gels, lipids, waxes, dispersions, emulsions, and / or suspensions.

[0062] Preferably, the treatment component includes a metering device for supplying the treatment agent to the tool holding device. A metering device, for example in the form of a pistol trigger or push button, enables precise and targeted metering of the treatment agent supplied to the tool holding device or the corresponding treatment tool.

[0063] The treatment component preferably comprises: a treatment agent container for storing and providing a treatment agent; and / or a treatment agent container holder for holding a treatment agent container. For supplying the treatment agents, these must be available in a reservoir connected to the supply line of the treatment component. Preferably, the treatment component has one or more treatment agent containers which are filled or can be filled with treatment agents. Alternatively and / or in combination, the treatment component has at least one holder with a connection for holding and connecting a treatment agent container. This embodiment allows switching between different treatment agent containers for different treatments or work steps.In particular, this preferred embodiment of the treatment component is designed to connect interchangeable capsules to the treatment component and to supply the treatment agents provided by the capsules to the treatment tools. In this way, a capsule with a suitable treatment agent can be used for different work steps or shoe properties.

[0064] When using the treatment component with the container described in the process, the treatment agent container and / or the treatment agent container holder is preferably located outside the container to allow for easy filling or replacement of the containers.

[0065] The treatment component more preferably comprises: a treatment agent positioning device comprising a plurality of treatment agent containers and / or treatment agent container holders, wherein the treatment agent positioning device enables the positioning of the plurality of treatment agent containers and / or treatment agent container holders, and wherein one of the treatment agent containers and / or treatment agent container holders of the treatment agent positioning device assumes a primary feed position. In particular, this preferred embodiment of the invention is configured to connect a plurality of interchangeable capsules, especially a set of capsules with different treatment agents for different treatment steps, to the treatment component.

[0066] Preferably, the treatment component further comprises an actuating element for moving and / or fixing the treatment device positioning device relative to the delivery device of the treatment component by a user.

[0067] The treatment media positioning device allows the selective use of multiple treatment media. In each case, one of the treatment media containers or container holders assumes a primary feed position. By actuating an element, such as a button, lever, and / or dial, the treatment media positioning device is moved relative to the feed mechanism of the treatment component, thus changing the treatment media container or container holder currently in the primary feed position. The movement of the treatment media positioning device can be, for example, mechanical, electrical, and / or pneumatic. Furthermore, a combined movement of the treatment media positioning device and the tool positioning device is possible.

[0068] Preferably, the drive unit comprises a drive unit for powering a working movement of the tool holding device, in particular the tool holding device in the primary treatment position, and / or the tool positioning device, wherein the working movement comprises a rotational movement, a circular movement and / or an oscillating movement. The drive unit can be driven electrically, mechanically and / or pneumatically.

[0069] The treatment component more preferably comprises: an electric drive unit for driving a working movement of the tool holding device, in particular the tool holding device in the primary treatment position, and / or the tool positioning device, wherein the working movement comprises a rotational movement, a circular movement and / or an oscillating movement; and an electrical energy source for driving the electric drive unit. The treatment component particularly preferably comprises a battery for driving an electric drive unit.

[0070] In a further preferred embodiment, the treatment component is designed to be connected to external devices, such as a vacuum cleaner, a hairdryer, and / or a steam cleaner. Particularly preferably, the treatment component is designed to generate an airflow from outside into the container to prevent the container shell from collapsing. Preferably, this airflow is a temperature-controlled airflow. More preferably, the treatment component includes a hairdryer for treating the shoe, for example, for drying dirt and / or for warming the shoe before, during, or after treatment with a treatment agent, such as wax.

[0071] In a further preferred embodiment, the treatment component is configured to temperature-control a treatment agent, a treatment agent container, a supply line for supplying a treatment agent to a tool holding device, a tool holding device, and / or a treatment tool. Such temperature control enables, for example, the achievement of optimal treatment properties of treatment agents, such as flow and application properties.

[0072] In another embodiment, the treatment component has a pressure control which controls the mechanical pressure of the treatment tool on the shoe and, if necessary, regulates the working movement accordingly, in particular reducing and / or stopping it, in order to prevent damage to the shoe, the treatment tool and / or the treatment agent.

[0073] Preferably, the treatment component comprises one or more sensors, in particular temperature sensors and / or distance sensors, to prevent or warn against, for example, overheating of the shoe material that could lead to damage. In particular, the temperature of a heated airflow can be regulated accordingly. The treatment component also preferably comprises a sensor for detecting the cleaning effect, for example, an optical sensor that can detect the shine of the shoe material, allowing a comparison before and after cleaning. Further sensors can, for example, detect the moisture content of dirt and / or the shoe material to suggest to the user the need for treatment with a hairdryer or heated air.

[0074] Alternatively and / or in combination, the sensors can, for example, detect the degree of soiling and suggest and / or select appropriate cleaning steps, treatment tools, and / or treatment products based on the shoe material. The recommendations can be displayed, for example, on a screen of the treatment component or on a smartphone connected to the treatment component, for example, via Bluetooth.

[0075] To enable the treatment component to select a specific treatment agent and / or tool, the treatment agent containers and / or tools can, for example, have codes that can be detected and assigned by the treatment component. This allows the treatment component to select the desired treatment agent or tool. Furthermore, the application of a treatment agent unsuitable for the shoe material can be prevented, or the system can alert the user to such an application.

[0076] The supply of treatment agents to the treatment tools or the application of the treatment agents to the shoe can be carried out in various ways: For example, a liquid, such as shoe polish, can be drawn from the treatment agent containers into a chamber of the treatment component by means of negative pressure, from which the treatment agent is then supplied to the treatment tools by means of positive pressure, for example, via a slider actuated by a pre-tensioned spring. The application of waterproofing agents to the shoe can be carried out, for example, using a micropump, preferably a piezoelectric micropump, and a misting device, so that a substantially uniform spray mist is produced. Alternatively and / or additionally, the supply or application can also be carried out in other ways and using other devices.

[0077] A further aspect of the invention relates to a shoe-holding device for holding a shoe, preferably for holding a shoe within the container described above, wherein the shoe-holding device comprises: a shoe-holding section, which, when used with the container, is located inside the container, with a substantially elongated base body for at least partial insertion into the interior of a shoe, the base body comprising a plurality of interconnected and mutually movable links; a holding section, in particular a handle, for holding the shoe-holding device, which is located outside the container; and a feed-through section, when used with the container described above, for passing the shoe-holding section through a feed-through opening of the container shell such that the feed-through section substantially seals the feed-through opening.

[0078] Such a shoe holding device enables ergonomic and user-friendly, thorough treatment, in particular cleaning and / or care, of a shoe without contaminating the work environment.

[0079] Preferably, the basic body can assume a substantially extended and at least one curved state due to the plurality of mutually movable elements.

[0080] Preferably, the various sections of the shoe holding device are reversibly separable from one another or connectable to one another.

[0081] Preferably, the shoe-holding device comprises a base body control device for allowing and / or blocking movement of the links relative to each other, in order to permit or prevent changes to the essentially extended and / or curved state of the base body. At the start of its insertion into the interior of a shoe, the base body is in an extended state. During insertion, the base body, due to the mutually movable links, essentially conforms to the internal structure of the shoe and assumes a curved state. During insertion, the base body control device allows movement of the links relative to each other. Once the base body has reached the toe of the shoe, further movement of the links relative to each other is prevented by operating the base body control device. The base body remains fixed in the curved state.

[0082] Preferably, the base body comprises a plurality of clamping elements for fixing a shoe. A releasable connection between the inside of the shoe and the shoe holding device is established by a plurality of clamping elements attached to the base body.

[0083] Preferably, the clamping elements are essentially ring-shaped and comprise a variable diameter in a plane that is essentially orthogonal to a longitudinal direction of the base body when extended. The clamping elements are preferably ring-shaped and have a variable diameter. The essentially ring-shaped clamping elements are attached to the base body of the shoe holding device such that their diameter, when the base body is extended, is essentially at a 90° angle to the longitudinal direction of the base body. If the base body is located at least partially inside a shoe, the essentially ring-shaped clamping elements rest at spaced positions along the longitudinal direction of the shoe's sole between the heel and toe areas.

[0084] The shoe holding device preferably includes a drive unit for changing the diameter of one or more clamping elements. The diameter of the clamping elements is preferably changed by a drive unit, which is preferably electrically and / or mechanically driven.

[0085] The shoe-holding device preferably comprises: at least one electric drive unit for changing the diameter of one or more clamping elements; and at least one electrical energy source for driving the at least one electric drive unit. Particularly preferably, the shoe-holding device includes a battery for driving an electric drive unit for changing the diameter of one or more of the clamping elements.

[0086] Preferably, the shoe holding device comprises a clamping element operating device for changing and / or locking the diameter of at least one clamping element. The clamping element operating device also enables activation of the drive unit to change the diameter of one or more clamping elements in order to establish a connection between the shoe and the shoe holding device.

[0087] The shoe holding device preferably includes a sensor for detecting contact between the base body and the inner wall of the shoe in the toe area. Based on the sensor's readings, at least one electric drive unit can be activated to increase the diameter of one or more clamping elements. The sensor is preferably mounted on the longitudinally foremost segment of the base body and is designed to detect contact between the base body and the toe of the shoe. If contact is detected, for example, by exceeding a certain threshold, the diameter of one or more clamping elements is automatically increased to ensure a connection between the shoe and the shoe holding device.

[0088] Preferably, the shoe-holding device includes a telescopic mechanism for changing the distance between the base body and the holding section. Such a telescopic mechanism allows the shoe-holding device to be adapted to different shoes with varying shaft heights. When using the shoe-holding device for a high-shafted boot, the telescopic mechanism is extended to allow the base body of the shoe-holding device to be inserted up to the toe of the boot. The telescopic mechanism can include a drive unit powered by an operating device.

[0089] Preferably, the holding section also includes a mounting section for attaching the shoe holding device to a floor stand and / or wall bracket.

[0090] Preferably, the shoe-holding device comprises a tensioning and stabilizing device for tensioning and / or stabilizing the container shell, so that the container has or maintains a voluminous interior. Such a tensioning and stabilizing device is preferably a stable structure, e.g., rods, brackets, and / or grids, and is provided in the area of ​​the insertion section of the shoe-holding device, such that, when the shoe-holding device is used with the container described above, the structure extends along a side surface of the container and tensions it. The structure can be located either inside or outside the container.

[0091] Another example concerns a system for treating, in particular cleaning and / or caring for, a shoe, comprising: a container for treating, in particular cleaning and / or caring for, shoes, a treatment component for treating, in particular cleaning and / or caring for, a shoe, and a shoe holding device for holding a shoe.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a container. In a further preferred embodiment, the system comprises a treatment component according to one aspect of this invention. In another preferred embodiment, the system comprises a shoe-holding device according to one aspect of this invention.

[0093] Another example relates to a treatment agent container, preferably for connection to the treatment component described in the process, wherein the treatment agent container contains a treatment agent for treating, in particular cleaning and / or conditioning, a shoe. The treatment agent container is suitable for being held by or connected to a treatment agent container holder of the treatment component, so that the treatment agent can be supplied to a treatment tool of the treatment component and a shoe can be treated with the treatment agent contained in the treatment agent container.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the treatment agent container has a connection for easy attachment and / or detachment from the treatment component. Preferably, the treatment agent container is a capsule that provides a treatment agent. Particularly preferably, this capsule is substantially airtight, and the capsules can be opened by connecting them to a treatment agent container holder of a treatment component according to the invention, allowing the treatment agent to be used to treat a shoe.

[0095] Another example relates to a set of treatment agent containers, preferably for connection to the treatment component described in the process, wherein the set of treatment agent containers comprises a plurality of treatment agent containers, each of the plurality of treatment agent containers containing a different treatment agent for treating, in particular cleaning and / or maintaining, a shoe. Such a set of treatment agent containers provides a specific treatment agent for each of the multiple different work steps involved in treating a shoe.

[0096] The invention is further explained below with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in figures. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a system for treating a shoe comprising a container, a treatment component and a shoe holding device with a shoe; Fig. Figure 2 shows a preferred embodiment of a container for treating a shoe; Fig. Figure 3 shows a preferred embodiment of a system for treating a shoe comprising a container, a treatment component and a shoe holding device; Fig. Figure 4 shows a preferred embodiment of a system comprising a modular container and a telescopic shoe-holding device; Fig. Figure 5 shows a preferred embodiment of a container according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 6 shows a preferred design of a treatment component; Fig. Figure 7 shows a system for treating a shoe; Fig. Figure 8 shows a preferred embodiment of a shoe holding device; Fig. Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a shoe holding device with a shoe; Fig. Figure 10 shows a preferred embodiment of a system comprising a container and a shoe-holding device; Fig. Figure 11a shows an exemplary shoe holding device for use in a system according to the invention; Fig. Figure 11b shows another exemplary shoe holding device for use in a system according to the invention; Fig. Figure 11c shows another exemplary shoe holding device for use in a system according to the invention. Detailed description of the drawings

[0097] Fig. Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a system for treating a shoe comprising a container, a treatment component and a shoe holding device with a shoe.

[0098] The container 1 shown comprises a container shell 3, which encloses a container interior 4. The container 1 further has two feedthrough openings 5, the feedthrough openings 5 ​​being located on two side surfaces that are substantially perpendicular to each other. The feedthrough opening 5 that is substantially sealed by a treatment component 11 is located on a lateral side surface of the container 1. The feedthrough opening 5 that is substantially sealed by a shoe holder 31 is located on the upper side surface of the container 1, such that a holding section 35 of the shoe holder 31 is above the shoe. The container 1 further comprises a collection and separation device 8 in the lower region of the container 1.

[0099] The interior of the container enclosed by the container shell 3 is essentially cuboid in shape.

[0100] The shoe-holding device 31 shown, according to a preferred embodiment, has a section outside the container 1 and a section inside the container 1. The section of the shoe-holding device 31 located inside the container 1 holds a shoe 2 in the interior space 4 of the container.

[0101] The treatment component 11 shown also has a section outside the container 1 and a section inside the container 1. The handle section 15 of the treatment component 11 is located outside the container 1 and is designed in the shape of a pistol grip. The treatment component 11 further comprises a holding and positioning device 13, which is located inside the container 4. The holding and positioning device 13 has a plurality of treatment tools 14, which are suitable for treating, in particular cleaning and / or maintaining, the shoe.

[0102] The illustrated embodiment can further include holding and treatment components in the form of a glove, in particular a rubber or plastic glove (not shown).

[0103] Fig. Figure 2 shows a preferred embodiment of a container for treating a shoe.

[0104] The container 1 shown comprises a container shell 3, which encloses a container interior 4. The container 1 also has a closable opening 7 in its upper region, through which a shoe 2 can be inserted vertically into the container 1.

[0105] The container 1 also includes two feedthrough openings 5, each of which is substantially tightly closed by a holding and treatment component 6.

[0106] In the illustrated embodiment, the holding and handling components 6 are designed in the form of a glove, which has a compartment for the thumb and another for the remaining fingers of a hand (mitten). The gloves 6 are integrally formed with the container 3 and are attached to two opposite lateral surfaces of the container 1. The gloves 6 are designed to receive the hand of a user.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the glove 6 shown on the right in the figure is primarily designed to hold a shoe 2 inside the interior 4 of the container 1. The glove 6 shown on the left in the figure is primarily designed to encompass a treatment agent 14 and to treat the shoe 2 with it. The treatment agent 14 is attached to the side of the glove 6 facing the interior of the container 4. To treat the shoe 2, the left glove 6 is inserted into the interior of the container 4 through the opening 5.

[0108] Container 1 includes an integrated collection and separation device 8, located in the lower part of the container 1, to collect dirt removed from the shoe 2. The collection and separation device 8 has a mesh structure that separates it from the interior of the container 4.

[0109] Fig. Figure 3 shows a preferred embodiment of a system for treating a shoe comprising a container, a treatment component and a shoe holding device.

[0110] The container 1 is essentially cylindrical. The upper side surface of the container shell 3 has a feed-through opening 5, which is essentially sealed by a shoe-holding device 31. The container shell 3 also has a closable opening 7 for inserting a shoe 2 into the interior 4 of the container 1 in the upper region. A collection and separation device 8 is located in the lower region of the container 1.

[0111] A treatment component 11 closes a second feedthrough opening 5 of the container shell 3.

[0112] The shoe holding device 31 comprises an extendable and retractable telescopic device 41 to vary the distance between the shoe 2 held by the shoe holding device 31 in the interior of the container 4 and the holding section 35 of the shoe holding device 35.

[0113] Fig. Figure 4 shows a preferred embodiment of a system comprising a modular container and a telescopic shoe holding device.

[0114] The modular container shown consists of two modules: collection and separation device 8 and container shell 3.

[0115] In this preferred embodiment, the collection and separation device 8 is an independent module of the modular container 1. The collection and separation device is designed to be substantially tightly connected to a container shell 3. The connection can, for example, include a zipper, a zip closure, and / or a snap closure.

[0116] An advantage of this preferred embodiment is that the container shell 3 can be replaced and / or selected as required.

[0117] In the present example, a low-height container 3 (left) is provided for the treatment of a low-cut shoe 2, and a sufficiently high container 3 (right) is provided for the treatment of a high-cut shoe 2.

[0118] Alternatively and / or additionally, different container covers can be selected for different treatment steps, shoe materials and / or shoe colors.

[0119] Removing the container cover 3 also facilitates emptying the collection and separation unit 8, as well as, for example, removing or inserting treatment materials such as brushes and / or containers with shoe polish or soapy water. Alternatively and / or additionally, the collection and separation unit 8 can include containers for treatment materials, in particular water and cleaning foam.

[0120] Furthermore, the top of the container shell 3 can be a removable, independent module, whereby the top can be connected to the adjacent module, for example, via the closable opening 7. Complete removal of the top allows, for example, easier insertion of treatment agents and / or treatment tools into the container 1.

[0121] Fig. Figure 5 shows a preferred embodiment of a container according to the present invention.

[0122] Container 1 can be folded compactly thanks to its flexible outer shell 3, enabling space-saving storage. The separator unit can include 8 devices for storing treatment tools and / or treatment agents / treatment agent containers, so that these do not need to be removed from container 3 for storage.

[0123] Fig. Figure 6 shows a preferred design of a treatment component.

[0124] The treatment component 11 has a handle section 15 for holding or gripping the treatment component 11, as well as a feed-through device 12 for substantially sealing a feed-through opening 5 of a container 1 for treating shoes. In the preferred embodiment shown, the treatment component 11 has a holding and positioning device 13. The holding and positioning device 13 comprises a tool positioning device 16 rotatable relative to the feed-through device 12, with three tool holding devices.

[0125] Fixing and releasing devices 19 enable the attachment of treatment tools 14, in particular brushes, sponges and / or cloths, to the tool holding devices of the tool positioning device 16. One of the tool holding devices assumes the primary treatment position 18, which allows for ergonomically advantageous treatment of the shoe with the treatment component 11. By rotating the tool positioning device 16 by means of the actuator 20, the tool holding device is moved away from the primary treatment position 18 and another tool holding device is moved towards the primary treatment position 18.

[0126] In this preferred embodiment of the treatment component 11, the treatment tool 14 is driven in an oscillating or circular motion by a drive unit in the primary treatment position 18 for the treatment of a shoe.

[0127] The treatment component 11 further comprises four treatment agent containers 22, which can be filled with treatment agents such as wax, grease, polish, impregnating spray and / or cleaning agents. The treatment agent containers 22 serve to supply the treatment agents and, when the metering device 21 is activated, are fed to the treatment tool located in the primary treatment position 18 via a supply line.

[0128] The treatment agent containers 22 are attached to a treatment agent positioning device 23, which is movable relative to the feed device 12. One of the treatment agent containers assumes a primary feed position 24, from which the treatment agent can be fed to the treatment tool 14. By actuating the actuating element 25, the treatment agent positioning device 23 rotates with the treatment agent containers 22, so that another treatment agent container 22 assumes the primary feed position 24 and the treatment agent contained therein can be fed to the treatment tool 14.

[0129] Fig. Figure 7 shows the system for treating a shoe according to the instructions in Fig. 1 preferred embodiment shown, wherein the sections of the shoe holding device 31 and the treatment component 11, which are located inside the container 1, are not visible.

[0130] Fig. Figure 8 shows a preferred embodiment of a shoe holding device.

[0131] The shoe holding device 31 has a holding section 35 in the form of a handle by which the shoe holding device 31 can be held or gripped by a user. The shoe holding device 31 further comprises a base body 32, which is inserted into a shoe and holds it. The shoe holding device 31 also includes a telescopic mechanism 41, which connects the holding section 35 and the base body 32. The telescopic mechanism 41 allows the distance between the holding section 35 and the base body 32 to be adjusted so that the shoe holding device 31 is suitable for use with both low-cut and high-cut shoes. The shoe holding device 31 has an attachment device 34, which, when used with the container 1, essentially seals a through-opening 5 in the container housing 3. The holding section 35, the telescopic mechanism 41, and the base body 32 are separable from one another.For example, the base body can remain inside a shoe to preserve the shoe's shape during longer storage periods.

[0132] The elongated base body 32 of the shoe-holding device 31 is designed to be inserted into the interior of a shoe and, in the illustrated embodiment, comprises a plurality of links 33, which are arranged in a row and are movable relative to one another about a connecting axis. The movable links 33 allow the base body 32 to assume the curved state shown. The one shown in the Fig. Figure 8 shows the curved state of the base body 32, for example, corresponding to the state the base body 32 assumes after being inserted into a high-heeled ankle boot. By actuating the base body operating device 36 on the holding section 35 of the shoe holding device 31, the movement of the links 33 is prevented after the base body 32 has been inserted into the interior of a shoe, thus maintaining the state of the base body 32.

[0133] Furthermore, three of the mutually movable links 33 of the base body each have a clamping element 37 designed to fix a shoe to the base body 32. The clamping elements 37 are designed as ring-shaped bands that define a circle whose plane is orthogonal to a longitudinal direction of the base body 32. The clamping elements 37 have a variable diameter, so that after the base body 32 is inserted into the interior of a shoe, the outer surfaces of the clamping elements 37 increase in diameter to make contact with the inner surfaces of the shoe, thus fixing the shoe to the base body 32. To release the fixation, the diameter of the clamping elements 37 is reduced. The user increases or decreases the diameter of the clamping elements 37 by actuating a clamping element operating device 39 attached to the holding section 35 of the shoe holding device 31.The clamping element control device 39 controls drive units 38 attached to the clamping elements 37, which accordingly increase, decrease and / or fix the diameter of the clamping elements 37.

[0134] In this preferred embodiment of the shoe holding device 31, the base body 32 also has a sensor 40 on its foremost member 33, so that contact between the base body 32 and the toe of the shoe can be detected based on the sensor 40's readings. If contact between the base body 32 and the toe of the shoe is detected, the drive units 38 automatically increase the diameter of the clamping elements 37 to secure the shoe to the base body 32.

[0135] To release the shoe, the diameter of the clamping elements 37 is sufficiently reduced. To pull the base body 32 out of the shoe, the mobility of the links 33 of the base body 32 is restored, thus releasing the fixed curved state of the base body 32.

[0136] Fig. Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a shoe holding device with a shoe.

[0137] The illustrated shoe-holding device 31 has a telescopic mechanism 41 with which the distance between the base body 32, which is inserted into the interior of a shoe 2, and the holding section 35 can be adjusted as needed for use with a variety of different shoes, in particular shoes with different shaft heights. The use of such a shoe-holding device 31 with a shoe 2 with a low shaft (left) and with a shoe 2 with a high shaft (right) is shown. With the shoe with the low shaft (left), the telescopic mechanism 41 is not extended or only slightly extended. In contrast, with the shoe with the high shaft (right), the telescopic mechanism 41 is extended to a significantly greater extent.

[0138] Fig. Figure 10 shows a preferred embodiment of a system comprising a container and a shoe holding device.

[0139] The container shell 3 of the container 1 has two feed-through openings 5 ​​and a closable opening 7, the closable opening 7 encompassing one of the two feed-through openings 5. The feed-through opening 5 encompassed by the closable opening 7 is substantially tightly closed by the attachment device 34 of the shoe holding device 31.

[0140] The shoe holding device 31 further comprises a clamping and stabilizing device 42 in the area between the holding section 35 and the base body 32. The clamping and stabilizing device 42 comprises four brackets which extend from the shoe holding device 31 in a plane orthogonal to the axis of the connection between the holding section 35 and the base body 32. The clamping and stabilizing device 42 is located in the interior space 4 of the container 1. A side surface of the container shell 3 rests on the brackets of the clamping and stabilizing device 42, so that the container 1 is supported by the clamping and stabilizing device 42. The clamping and stabilizing device 42 also clamps the adjacent side surface of the container 1, creating a voluminous interior space 4 that is maintained despite the application of force, for example, during the treatment of a shoe inside the container.

[0141] Fig. Figure 11a shows an exemplary shoe holding device for use in a system according to the invention comprising a container, a treatment component and a shoe holding device.

[0142] The shoe holding device 31 shown comprises a rotatable clamping element operating device 39 to move a section of the shoe holding device 31 forward or backward in order to fix the shoe holding device 31 inside a shoe.

[0143] Fig. Figure 11b shows another exemplary shoe holding device for use in a system according to the invention comprising a container, a treatment component and a shoe holding device.

[0144] The shoe holding device 31 shown comprises a telescopic mechanism 41 for varying the distance between the holding section 35 and the section of the shoe holding device inserted into the interior of a shoe. The shoe holding device 31 also has an attachment device 34 which, when used with a container according to the invention, substantially seals a through-opening of the container shell.

[0145] The shoe holding device 31 shown preferably also includes a rotatable clamping element operating device 39 to fix the shoe holding device 31 inside a shoe.

[0146] Fig. Figure 11c shows another exemplary shoe holding device for use in a system according to the invention comprising a container, a treatment component and a shoe holding device.

[0147] The shoe holding device 31 shown comprises a holding section 35 with a clamping element operating device 39 for varying and fixing distances between movable sections that are inserted into the interior of a shoe. The shoe holding device 31 shown is particularly suitable for use with a container that includes holding and treatment components in the form of a glove.

[0148] The shoe holding devices 31 shown are also suitable for separating the telescopic device 41 and / or the holding section 35 from the shoe holding device 31, for example for storing the shoes without these sections. Reference symbol list 1 container 2 shoes 3 Container cover 4 Container interior 5 Feedthrough opening 6 Holding and treatment component 7 lockable openings 8 Collection and separation device 11 Treatment component 12 Feedthrough device 13 Holding and positioning device 14 Treatment tool 15 Handle section 16 Tool positioning device 18 Primary treatment position 19 Fixing and releasing device 20 actuator 21 Dosing device 22 treatment agent containers 23 Treatment device positioning device 24 primary feeder position 25 Actuating element 31 Shoe holding device 32 basic shapes 33 links 34 Mounting device 35 Stop section 36 Basic body operating device 37 Clamping element 38 Drive unit 39 Clamping element operating device 40 Sensor 41 Telescopic device 42 Clamping and stabilizing device

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