Particle collection device, arrangement and method for operating an arrangement

Abstract

Particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) for attachment to a particle outlet (3) of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator (1) and for collecting separated particles, comprising: - a particle holding volume (14, 14a, 14b) for holding the particles, - an access element (11, 11a, 11b) with an access element opening (15, 15a, 15b) through which the particles can be conveyed into the particle receiving volume (14, 14a, 14b), and - a locking element (12, 12a, 12b), wherein the access element (11, 11a, 11b) can be selectively moved relative to the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) either into a closed position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) closes the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), or into an open position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) releases the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), wherein the closure element (12, 12a, 12b) has a closure element coupling section (18, 18a, 18b) with which the closure element (12, 12a, 12b) can be attached to the particle outlet (3).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a particle collection device for attachment to a particle outlet of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator and for collecting separated particles. The particle collection device comprises a particle collection volume for receiving the particles and an access element with an access opening. The particles can be conveyed into the particle collection volume through the access opening.

[0002] The particle collection volume is provided, for example, by a bag and / or a container. The bag and / or the container are expediently attached to the access element.

[0003] During operation, particles are separated by the vacuum cleaner and / or the cyclone separator and discharged from the particle outlet. The particles then enter the particle collection volume via the access element and are collected there.

[0004] DE 44 15 350 A1 discloses a dust filter bag for a vacuum cleaner, comprising a retaining plate made of a rigid paper material, such as cardboard, to which a dust bag is, for example, adhesively bonded, and a closing flap facing the interior of the dust bag and hinged to the retaining plate, which can be opened against a spring action and, in the closed position, covers an opening in the retaining plate. A band-like spring element is attached to the closing flap such that, in the closed position, a gap is formed between a band end and a pivot axis of the closing flap located outside the band, the pivot axis being oriented towards the interior of the dust bag.

[0005] DE 10 2016 101 697 A1 discloses a retaining plate for a vacuum cleaner bag for a dust-collecting device, comprising an inlet opening for inserting a nozzle and at least one rotary slide configured to open the inlet opening in a release position and to close the inlet opening in a closed position. A detent device is designed to move from a detent position to an open position in response to the movement of an opening element, wherein the detent device is configured to hold the rotary slide in the release position in the detent position and to allow a rotary movement of the rotary slide from the release position to the closed position in the open position.A release device for opening the inlet is coupled to the rotary valve, wherein the release device is designed to cause the rotary valve to rotate when the release device is moved in order to move the rotary valve from the closed position to the release position.

[0006] One object of the invention is to increase the operational reliability of the particle collection device.

[0007] This problem is solved by the device according to claim 1. The particle collection device has a closure element. The access element can be selectively moved relative to the closure element into either a closed or an open position. In the closed position, the closure element closes the access element opening. In the open position, the closure element releases the access element opening. The closure element has a closure element coupling section with which the closure element can be attached to the particle outlet.

[0008] By moving the access element to the closed position, the access element opening can be sealed, thus reducing the likelihood of particles escaping from the particle collection volume into the environment and contaminating it. This increases operational safety, particularly when the particles in question are hazardous to health.

[0009] The access element can be moved into the closed position, in particular, in a state where the particle collection device is attached to the particle outlet - i.e., before the particle collection device is removed from the particle outlet.

[0010] Preferably, the access element can be moved directly from the open position, in which it is located directly below the particle outlet and, in particular, directly below a particle outlet opening, to the closed position, in which the upper side of the access element is expediently completely located under and covered by the closing element. The access element opening is expediently always closed in every position of the access element and / or is located below the particle outlet opening, thus reducing the risk of environmental contamination.

[0011] Areas contaminated with particles can also be referred to as the black zone or contamination zone, and uncontaminated areas as the white zone or clean zone. Sealing the particle collection device at the particle outlet can improve the separation between the black zone and the white zone; in particular, it can ensure that the black zone of the particle collection device is sealed off from the environment, especially after the particle outlet has been removed, thus reducing the risk of contamination.

[0012] Advantageous further training is the subject of the sub-claims.

[0013] Exemplary details and advantageous embodiments are explained below with reference to the figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic view of an arrangement according to a first embodiment, comprising a particle outlet and a particle receiving device, Fig. 2 the arrangement according to the first embodiment, wherein the particle collection device is attached to the particle outlet, Fig. 3 the arrangement according to the first embodiment, wherein the access element is in the open position, Fig. 4 an arrangement according to a second embodiment, comprising a particle outlet and two particle receiving devices, Fig. 5 the arrangement according to the second embodiment, wherein a first particle collection device is attached to the particle outlet, Fig. 6 the arrangement according to the second embodiment, wherein both particle collection devices are attached to the particle outlet and the access elements are in a first position, Fig. 7 the arrangement according to the second embodiment, wherein the access elements are in a second position, Fig. 8 the arrangement according to the second embodiment, wherein the first particle collection device is removed from the particle outlet, Fig. 9 a schematic view of a setup with a cyclone separator and a suction device, Fig. 10 an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement according to the second embodiment, wherein the access elements are in a first position, Fig. 11 the design from Fig. 10, wherein the access elements are in a second position, Fig. 12 a sectional view of the design, Fig. 13 a perspective view from below of an exemplary design of an assembly consisting of a closure element and an access element, Fig. 14 a perspective view from below of the access element, Fig. 15 a perspective view from above of the access element, Fig. 16 a perspective view from below of the locking element, Fig. 17 a perspective view from above of the locking element, Fig. 18 a perspective view from below of the particle outlet, Fig. 19. Attachment of the closure element to the particle outlet, Fig. 20 a perspective view of the particle outlet from above.

[0014] The Fig. Figures 1 to 3 relate to a first embodiment and show a particle collection device 10 together with a particle outlet 3. The particle collection device 10 can also be provided on its own – in particular without the particle outlet 3. The combination of particle collection device 10 and particle outlet 3 is referred to as arrangement 30.

[0015] The Fig. Figure 1 shows the particle collection device 10 in a state removed from the particle outlet 3. In the Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows the particle collection device 10 in a state in which it is attached to the particle outlet 3.

[0016] The particle collection device 10 is designed for attachment to the particle outlet 3. The particle outlet 3 is, for example, a particle outlet 3 of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator 1. The particle collection device 10 is designed to capture and, in particular, collect particles that are separated by a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator 1 and discharged via the particle outlet 3.

[0017] The particle collection device 10 comprises a particle collection volume 14 for receiving the particles. The particle collection device 10 further comprises an access element 11 with an access element opening 15. The separated particles can be conveyed into the particle collection volume 14 through the access element opening 15.

[0018] Furthermore, the particle collection device 10 includes a closure element 12. The access element 11 can be selectively moved relative to the closure element 12 into either a closed or an open position. The closed position is, for example, in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown and the disclosure in the Fig. 3. In the closed position, the locking element 12 closes the access element opening 15. In the open position, the locking element 12 releases the access element opening 15.

[0019] Further exemplary details and embodiments are discussed below. Reference is made to the orthogonally oriented spatial directions “x”, “y”, “z” shown in the figures, which are referred to as the “x-direction”, “y-direction” and “z-direction”.

[0020] First, let's look at access element 11: The access element 11 has, by way of example, a plate-shaped body. The access element 11 has a bottom surface facing the particle intake volume 14 and a top surface facing the closure element 12 (in the closed position) and / or the particle outlet 3. The bottom surface and the top surface are opposite each other and, by way of example, are oriented perpendicular to the z-direction. Advantageously, the bottom surface and the top surface are each the sides of the access element 11 with the largest surface area.

[0021] The access element 11 has an access element opening 15. For example, the access element opening 15 is a perforation from the top to the bottom of the access element 11. Advantageously, the access element opening 15 is circular. Preferably, the access element opening 15 occupies at least 40% of the xy base area of ​​the access element 11.

[0022] The access element 11 is attached to a bag 17 enclosing the particle holding volume 14. Alternatively, the access element can also be attached to a container. The access element opening 15 provides access to the particle holding volume 14, preferably the only access to the particle holding volume 14. The bag 17 or container is, for example, attached to the underside of the access element 11 and is, in particular, permanently connected to the access element 11 by a form-fit and / or force-fit connection. The bag 17 or container is, for example, connected to the access element 11 by a chemical or physical bond. Fig. 2 and Fig. Bag 17 is not fully shown in Figure 3 due to space constraints.

[0023] For example, the access element 11 has a seal 19 arranged around the access element opening 5 on its upper side. The seal 19 is preferably annular. When the particle collection device 10 is attached to the particle outlet 3 and the access element 11 is in the closed position, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the seal 19 lies against the underside of the closure element 12 and seals the particle intake volume 14 against the environment.

[0024] If the access element 11 is in the closed position, as shown in the Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the seal 19 is located on the underside of the particle outlet 3 and seals off a contamination volume formed from particle intake volume 14, access element opening 15, particle outlet opening 4 and particle outlet inner volume 9 from the environment.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, a seal may also be provided on the underside of the closure element 12 and / or on the underside of the particle outlet 3 to provide one or both of the aforementioned seals against the environment.

[0026] It is advantageous for one, several or all of the aforementioned seals to be designed as labyrinth seals.

[0027] The access element 11 can be moved in the x-direction as an example and can thus be selectively moved into either the open or closed position. In the Fig. 2 (where the access element 11 is in the closed position) the access element 11 must, for example, be moved to the right to assume the open position.

[0028] In a state where the particle collection device 10 is attached to the particle outlet 3, the access element 11 can preferably be moved exclusively between the open position and the closed position, wherein in each possible displacement position of the access element 11 the access element opening 15 is either closed and / or, together with the particle outlet opening 4, provides access to the particle collection volume 4. According to a preferred embodiment, the access element opening 15 is closed to the environment in every displacement position of the access element 11.

[0029] Now to the locking element 12: The locking element 12 has a plate-shaped body. The locking element 12 has a bottom surface facing the access element 11 (in the closed position) and an oppositely oriented top surface. The bottom surface and the top surface are preferably the sides of the locking element 12 with the largest surface area. By way of example, the bottom surface and the top surface are oriented perpendicular to the z-direction.

[0030] The locking element 12 preferably rests directly on the access element 11, as shown in the Fig. Figure 1 shows the locking element 12 and the access element 11 being movably mounted to one another, particularly in the x-direction.

[0031] Advantageously, the bearing arrangement between the locking element 12 and the access element 11 is such that the access element 11 cannot move in the z-direction relative to the locking element 12. As an example, the access element 11 is mounted directly against the locking element 12. For this purpose, appropriate (in the Fig. 1 to 3 (not shown) guide sections are planned, as will be explained below with reference to the Fig. 11 to 20 will be explained.

[0032] The closure element 12 has a closure element coupling section 18 with which the closure element 12 can be attached to the particle outlet 3. Advantageously, the closure element 12 can be attached to the particle outlet 3 with the closure element coupling section 18 in such a way that the closure element 12 is fixed relative to the particle outlet 3 in all spatial directions.

[0033] Preferably, the locking element 12 and / or the access element 11 each have a rectangular xy base. Advantageously, the size of the xy base of the access element 11 is at least 75% and / or at most 125% of the base of the locking element 12.

[0034] Now to particle outlet 3: The particle outlet 3 has, by way of example, an access element mounting surface 5 oriented perpendicular to the z-direction, in which the particle outlet opening 4 is located. The particle outlet opening 4 is preferably a perforation extending from an inside to an outside of the particle outlet 3. The particle outlet opening 4 is, by way of example, circular and preferably has the same diameter as the access element opening 15. Advantageously, the particle outlet opening 4 and the access element opening 5 are aligned when the access element 11 is in the open position. Alternatively, it is also possible that the particle outlet opening 4 and the access element opening 15 do not have the same diameter. Preferably, the particle outlet opening 4 has an area at least 75% as large as the access element opening 15 and / or an area at most 125% as large as the access element opening 15.

[0035] By way of example, the particle outlet 3 further comprises a closure element receiving section 6, which is spaced apart from the particle outlet opening 4 and expediently adjoins the access element mounting surface 5 in the x-direction. The closure element receiving section 6 is designed to receive and secure the closure element 12. Preferably, the closure element 12 remains permanently in the closure element receiving section 6 – i.e., in particular in the open and closed positions of the access element 11 – when the particle collection device 10 is attached to the particle outlet 3. By way of example, the closure element receiving section 6 includes a recess in the z-direction (in particular relative to the access element mounting surface 5) for receiving the closure element 12, in particular for receiving its plate-shaped closure element body.For example, the underside of the locking element 12 and the access element contact surface 5 are at the same height in the z-direction, so that the access element 11 can be moved between the open position and the closed position by linear displacement in the x-direction while remaining in contact with the underside of the locking element 12 and / or the access element contact surface 5.

[0036] The closure element 12 is expediently located entirely within the closure element receiving section 6. In particular, the closure element 12 is located outside the access element contact surface 5. Preferably, the top and / or the side surfaces of the closure element 12 are located in a clean area – that is, an area that is not contaminated by the particles. The closure element receiving section 6 can also be referred to as the clean area.

[0037] Advantageously, the access element 11 is also located completely outside the access element mounting surface 5 in the closed position.

[0038] The particle outlet 3 also has, by way of example, a mounting interface 21 for attaching the closure element 12 to the particle outlet 3. By way of example, the mounting interface 21 includes a locking element that can engage with the closure element coupling section 21. The locking element is, by way of example, arranged in the x-direction on the end face – the outer end face – of the closure element receiving section 6 facing away from the particle outlet opening 4. The locking element has, by way of example, an actuating section projecting in the z-direction, which can be actuated in the x-direction to release the engagement with the closure element coupling section 18.

[0039] The particle outlet 3 also has the particle outlet internal volume 9, which is accessible via the particle outlet opening 4. The particle outlet internal volume 9 is, for example, part of a cyclone chamber and / or is in fluidic communication with a cyclone chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the particle outlet internal volume 9 can also be part of a fluidic line of a vacuum cleaner and / or be in fluidic communication with it.

[0040] The particle outlet 3 is in a state in which the closure element 12 is attached to the access element 11 and the access element 11 is in the open position, above the access element opening 5, so that the access element opening 15 and the particle outlet opening 4 together provide access to the particle collection volume 14. The particle collection volume 14 is advantageously sealed from the environment.

[0041] The arrangement 30 can be operated in particular as follows: In one of the Fig. In the initial state shown in Figure 1, the particle intake device 10 is not attached to the particle outlet 3. The access element 11 is in the closed position.

[0042] The particle collection device 10 is attached to the particle outlet 3, in particular by fixing the closure element 12 to the closure element receiving section 6. The access element 11 remains in the closed position. Advantageously, the particle collection device 10 can only be attached to the particle outlet 3 in the closed position. The access element opening 5 advantageously remains closed at all times during attachment. The attached particle collection device is in the Fig. 2 shown.

[0043] The access element 11 is then moved into the open position 11, for example by shifting the access element 11 relative to the closing element 12 and the particle outlet 3. The access element in the open position is in the Fig. 3 shown.

[0044] Subsequently, particles from the particle outlet internal volume 9 are conveyed via the particle outlet opening 4 and the access element opening 15 into the particle receiving volume 4. This occurs primarily by gravity and / or by a negative pressure, especially an airflow.

[0045] The access element 11 is then moved into the closed position, for example by shifting the access element 11 relative to the closing element 12 and the particle outlet 3. The arrangement 30 is thus again in the position described in the Fig. 2 shown condition.

[0046] Finally, the particle collection device 10 is removed from the particle outlet 3. The access element opening 5 preferably remains closed during removal from the particle outlet 3. Preferably, all particle-contaminated areas of the particle collection device 10 are sealed and / or covered from the environment.

[0047] The following is intended with reference to the Fig. Sections 4 to 8 discuss a second embodiment. For reasons of space, the following are included: Fig. 5 to 8 bags 17a, 17b not fully shown.

[0048] The second embodiment is a further development of the first embodiment. The preceding explanations relating to the first embodiment expediently also apply to the second embodiment. In particular, the features designated with a reference numeral ending in "a" or "b" are designed in accordance with the preceding features designated with a corresponding reference numeral without "a" or "b".

[0049] In the context of the second embodiment, the particle collection device 10 described above shall be referred to as the first particle collection device 10a. The access element 11 shall be referred to as the first access element 11a, and the closure element 12 as the first closure element 12a.

[0050] The Fig. Figure 4 shows an arrangement 40 according to the second embodiment. The arrangement 40 comprises the particle outlet 3, the first particle collection device 10a, and a second particle collection device 10b.

[0051] The second particle collection device 10b is expediently designed to correspond to, and preferably be identical to, the first particle collection device 10a. The second particle collection device 10b comprises a second closure element 12b and a second access element 11b, which has a second access element opening 15b. The second access element 11a can be selectively moved into an open or a closed position. In the closed position, the second access element opening 15b is closed by the second closure element 12b. In the release position, the second closure element 12b releases the second access element opening 15b.

[0052] The particle outlet 3 according to the second embodiment is designed such that the first particle collection device 10a and the second particle collection device 10b can be attached to the particle outlet 3 simultaneously. The particle outlet 3 comprises a first closure element receiving section 6a and a first closure element attachment interface 21a for receiving and attaching the first closure element 12a. In addition, the particle outlet 3 comprises a second closure element receiving section 6b and a second closure element attachment interface 21b for receiving and attaching the second closure element 12b.

[0053] The first closure element receiving section 6a and the second closure element receiving section 6b are advantageously arranged on opposite sides of the particle outlet 3 in the x-direction. Advantageously, the particle outlet 3 is designed to be mirror-symmetrical relative to a yz-plane intersecting the particle outlet 3. Preferably, the first particle receiving device 10a is identical and / or mirror-symmetrical to the second particle receiving device 10b.

[0054] In the Fig. Figure 4 shows a state in which both particle intake devices 10a, 10b are attached to the particle outlet 3. The first access element 11a is in the open position and the second access element 11b is in the closed position. Advantageously, the first access element 11a and the second access element 11b are positioned with their end faces abutting each other, with the second access element 11b adjoining the first access element 11a in the x-direction.

[0055] The first access element 11a and the second access element 11b can be selectively moved together as a group into either a first position or a second position, in particular by linear movement in the x-direction. The group consisting of the first access element 11a and the second access element 11b shall hereinafter also be referred to as the first group. This first group can be displaced relative to a second group comprising the particle outlet 3, the first closure element 12a, and the second closure element 12b in order to selectively assume either the first position or the second position.

[0056] The first position is in the Fig. 6 shown and the second position in the Fig. 7. In the first position, the first access element 11a is in the open position and the second access element 11b is in the closed position. The particle outlet opening 4 is located above the first access element opening 15a and, together with it, provides access to the first particle intake volume 14a. The second access element opening 15b is closed by the second closure element 12b.

[0057] In the second position, the first access element 11a is in the closed position and the second access element 11b is in the open position. The first access element opening 15a is closed by the first closing element 12a. The particle outlet opening 4 is located above the second access element opening 15b and, together with it, provides access to the second particle intake volume 14b.

[0058] The arrangement 40 is designed such that, in every possible displacement position of the first group – the access elements 11a, 11b – the arrangement 40 is in a state in which each of the access element openings 15a, 15b and the particle outlet opening 4 are always closed to the environment. This applies in particular to the first position, the second position, and every possible intermediate position. Advantageously, the black area – i.e., the contamination area – of the arrangement 40 is thus always closed to the environment. In particular, the arrangement 40 can be moved from the first position to the second position without the access element openings 15a, 15b and the particle outlet opening 4 being opened to the environment.The access element openings 15a, 15b are always closed to the environment by the closing elements 12a, 12b and / or the particle outlet opening 4, and the particle outlet opening 4 is always closed to the environment by the access elements 11a, 11b, in particular the access element openings 15a, 15b.

[0059] In operation, it is particularly possible to switch from one particle intake volume 14a, 14b to the other particle intake volume 14a, 14b without opening a particle-contaminated area - in particular the two particle intake volumes 14a, 14b, the access element openings 15a, 15b, the particle outlet opening 4 and / or the internal volume 9 of the particle outlet 3 - to the environment of the arrangement 40.

[0060] Order 40 can be operated in particular according to the procedure explained below: First, the first particle collection device 10a is attached to the particle outlet 3. The first access element 11a is in the closed position. Then, the first access element 11a is moved to the open position, so that the arrangement 40 can access the particles in the Fig. The particle assumes the state shown in Figure 5. Subsequently, particles are conveyed into the first particle holding volume 14a.

[0061] Next, the second particle collection device 10b is attached to the particle outlet 3. The second access element 11b is in the closed position. The second particle collection device 10b can also be attached earlier, for example, when the first particle collection device 10a is attached or even before.

[0062] Next, the first access element 11a is moved simultaneously into the closed position and the second access element 11b into the open position. The two access elements 11a and 11b are conveniently positioned abutting each other. The particle intake volumes 14a, 14b and the particle outlet internal volume 9 remain sealed off from the environment.

[0063] Finally, the first particle collection device 10a is removed from the particle outlet 3, with the particle collection volumes 14a, 14b and the particle outlet internal volume 9 remaining closed to the environment.

[0064] The Fig. Figure 9 shows an exemplary application for arrangement 30 or arrangement 40. Arrangement 30, 40 is used here within a setup 50. The setup 50 comprises a cyclone separator 1, a container 2, and a suction device 22 with a container receptacle 23.

[0065] The cyclone separator 1 is mounted on the container 2. The cyclone separator 1 is exemplarily box-shaped and advantageously has a carrying handle 38 on its upper side. The particle outlet 3 is located on the underside of the cyclone separator 1. Advantageously, the particle outlet 3 is removable from the cyclone separator 1, so that the cyclone separator 1 can be operated either with or without the bag 17. In the latter case, the particles are discharged directly into the container 2 and collected there. The bag 17 is located in the container 2. The container 2 is inserted into the container receptacle 23 located on the upper side of the suction device 22. The suction device 22 preferably has wheels 39 with which it can be supported and moved relative to a floor.

[0066] The suction device 22 is specifically designed to provide the cyclone separator 1 with a negative pressure by means of which an airflow containing particles can be drawn into the cyclone separator 1. The suction device 22 is fluidically connected to the cyclone separator 1 via a fluidic line 24, for example a hose, to provide the negative pressure. The fluidic line 24 is specifically connected to an air outlet 25 of the cyclone separator 1.

[0067] The cyclone separator 1 also has an air inlet 26 to which, for example, a suction hose 27 with a suction head 28 is connected. If a negative pressure is applied to the air outlet 26, for example by means of the suction device 22, an airflow containing particles is drawn through the suction head 28 and the suction hose 27 into the cyclone separator 1. There, the airflow with the particles passes through a feed line 32 arranged in the cyclone separator 1, which leads from the air inlet 26 to a cyclone chamber 33 arranged in the cyclone separator 1. The cyclone chamber 33 is designed according to the known operating principle of a cyclone separator or a centrifugal separator in order to separate a portion of the particles from the airflow.In particular, the cyclone chamber 33 is designed such that the airflow is directed onto a circular path, whereby some of the particles contained in the airflow are flung against the walls of the cyclone chamber 33 by centrifugal force, so that they are slowed down and finally discharged downwards from the particle outlet 3.

[0068] The particles discharged from particle outlet 3 are collected in bag 17. By way of example, bag 17 is sealed via seal 19, in particular particle-tight, preferably airtight.

[0069] From the cyclone chamber 33, the airflow is further conveyed via a discharge line 34 located in the cyclone separator 1 to the air outlet 25. By way of example, the airflow is then conveyed through the fluidic line 24 into the suction device 22 and there passes through a separation device 35, for example a filter, where particles remaining in the airflow are separated. The separated particles are collected in a particle collection volume 36 of the suction device 22, for example in a suction bag. The airflow then passes through a suction unit 37 located in the suction device, for example a blower, which generates the negative pressure.

[0070] Accordingly, the cyclone separator 1 is fluidically connected upstream of the suction device 22 - thus it is expediently operated as a separation pre-stage - so that the airflow drawn in by the suction device 22 has passed through the cyclone separator 1 when the airflow reaches the suction device 21.

[0071] The following will refer to the Fig. Ten to twenty further embodiments of the aforementioned particle collection devices 10a, 10b, the particle outlet 3, and the arrangement 40 are explained. For the sake of clarity, bags 17a and 17b are not shown.

[0072] First, let's look at particle outlet 3, which is particularly important in the Fig. 18 and Fig. 20 is shown.

[0073] The particle outlet 3 has, by way of example, a particle outlet body 41, which is expediently round, in particular cup-shaped and / or funnel-shaped. The upper surface of the particle outlet body 41 is, as shown in the Fig. 20 can be seen, preferably open. The access element mounting surface 5 and the particle outlet opening 5 located therein are arranged on the underside of the particle outlet body 41. By way of example, the particle outlet opening 5 is arranged centrally, in particular concentrically, on the particle outlet body 41.

[0074] The particle outlet 3 has on its underside a sliding track section extending in the x-direction, expediently elongated, in particular rectangular, which serves for the attachment of the particle receiving devices 10a, 10b and the linearly movable mounting of the access elements 11a, 11b. The sliding track section is formed by the access element mounting surface 5, which is in particular rectangular, and the closure element receiving sections 6a and 6b adjoining the access element mounting surface 5 on both sides in the x-direction. The closure element receiving sections 6a and 6b extend in the x-direction and project, by way of example, from the funnel-shaped particle outlet body 41.

[0075] The upper surface of the particle outlet 3 is equipped with, by way of example, mounting sections 42, which allow the particle outlet to be attached to the underside of the cyclone separator 1. The mounting sections 42 are arranged, by way of example, circumferentially around the particle outlet body 41. The mounting sections 42 are designed, by way of example, as radial projections and have holes into which, for example, screws can be inserted.

[0076] The particle outlet 3 has on its underside, in particular on the sliding track section, fastening interfaces 21a, 21b for the particle collection devices 10a, 10b. The fastening interfaces 21a, 21b serve to attach the particle collection devices 10a, 10b to the particle outlet 3 in a detachable manner, in particular detachable without tools.

[0077] The following explanation refers to the mounting interface 21a, but also applies accordingly to the mounting interface 21b.

[0078] The fastening interface 21a expediently comprises a first coupling section 51a and a second coupling section 52a. The particle collection device 10a, in particular the closure element 12a, is, as shown in the Fig. 19 shown, first attachable to the first coupling section 51a and then, in the state attached to the first coupling section 51a, attachable to the second coupling section 52a by pivoting movement.

[0079] The first coupling section 51a expediently comprises two mounting slots and is preferably arranged on the two longitudinal sides of the locking element receiving section 6a extending in the x-direction, particularly in the area of ​​the inner end face of the locking element receiving section 6a. The mounting slots are exemplified on two side walls 47 extending in the x-direction and expediently have a curved shape.

[0080] The second coupling section 52a advantageously comprises a locking element and is preferably arranged in the region of the outer end face of the locking element receiving section 6a. By way of example, the second coupling section 52a is arranged centrally in the y-direction. The locking element extends downwards in the z-direction and has a locking element actuation section that can be actuated in the x-direction, for example with a finger, to release the coupling of the second coupling section 52a.

[0081] The particle outlet 3 has sealing element contact surfaces 43a, 43b, against which the sealing elements 12a, 12b bear when attached to the particle outlet 3. The sealing element contact surfaces 43a, 43b are arranged on both sides of the access element contact surface 5 in the x-direction. The sealing element contact surfaces 43a, 43b are offset inwards in the z-direction relative to the access element contact surface 5, so that a recess is provided on each surface to receive the sealing elements 12a, 12b.

[0082] The particle outlet 3 has locking structures 53a, 53b which serve to lock the access elements 11a, 11b in the open position. The locking structures 53a, 53b are arranged, by way of example, between the access element contact surface 5 and the closure element contact surfaces 43a, 43b and each comprise an elongated projection extending in the y-direction.

[0083] The particle outlet 3 further comprises unlocking structures 48a, 48b, which serve to unlock the access elements 11a, 11b relative to the closure elements 12a, 12b when the particle collection devices 10a, 10b are attached to the particle outlet 3. By way of example, the unlocking structures 48a, 48b include projections arranged on the closure element contact surfaces 43a, 43b, extending in the z-direction. Advantageously, each unlocking structure 48a, 48b has two elongated projections extending parallel to each other in the x-direction.

[0084] The particle outlet 3 also has particle outlet guide sections 44 projecting from its underside in the z-direction. These guide sections are arranged on both longitudinal sides of the access element mounting surface 5 and extend in the x-direction. The particle outlet opening 4 is located between the guide sections 44 in the y-direction. Each guide section 44 has a spring element 45. Guide slots 46 for the linear movement of the access element 11a, 11b are provided between the spring element 45 and the access element mounting surface.

[0085] The following section will discuss the locking element 12a in more detail. For practical reasons, the locking element 12b is designed identically to the locking element 12a.

[0086] The locking element 12a is in the Fig. 16 and Fig. Figure 17 shows the closure element 12a having a plate-shaped closure element body 62a, which is particularly rectangular. Two closure element guide sections 61a project downwards from the closure element body 62a in the z-direction. The closure element guide sections 61a are arranged on the two longitudinal sides of the closure element body 62a and extend in the x-direction. Each closure element guide section 61a has a spring element 63a. Guide slots 64a for the linearly movable guidance of the access element 11a are provided between the spring element 63a and the closure element body 62a of the closure element 12a.

[0087] The locking element 12a also has guide webs 65a projecting inwards in the y-direction, arranged by way of example on the locking element guide sections 61a, which run in the x-direction.

[0088] The closure element 12a further comprises first stops 66a, which are arranged, by way of example, in the region of the inner end face of the closure element 12a (facing the particle outlet opening 4), and second stops, which are arranged, by way of example, in the region of the outer end face of the closure element 12a (facing away from the particle outlet opening 4). The first and second stops 66a, 67a are arranged, by way of example, in the z-direction at the same height as the guide webs 65a. Recesses 76a are provided, by way of example, between the guide webs 65a and each of the stops 66a, 67a.

[0089] Furthermore, the closure element 12a comprises, by way of example, a closure element seal 68a, which is arranged on the closure element body 62a and is preferably circular. The closure element seal 68a is, for example, designed as a labyrinth seal.

[0090] The locking element 12a further comprises a locking structure 69a, which serves to lock the access element 11a in the closed position relative to the locking element 12a. The locking structure 69a includes at least one projection extending from the base body 62a in the z-direction. By way of example, the locking structure 69a includes two pin sections extending in the z-direction. Alternatively or additionally, the locking structure 69a can also include further projections, in particular a projection that can engage with the access element opening 15a, for example a circular projection that may expediently be arranged within the locking element seal 68a.

[0091] The locking element 12a further comprises a release structure 71a, which helps to unlock the access element 11a relative to the locking element 12a. The release structure 71a includes at least one opening through which the release structure 48 of the particle outlet 3 can engage to actuate and thus unlock the access element 11a. By way of example, the release structure 71a comprises two elongated release slots extending in the x-direction.

[0092] The closure element 12a further comprises coupling sections 18a for attaching the closure element 12 to the particle outlet 3, in particular the particle outlet mounting interface 21a. The coupling sections expediently comprise first coupling sections 73a and second coupling sections 74a. The first coupling sections 73a are exemplified as pins projecting outwards in the y-direction. The second coupling section 74a is exemplified as an edge region of the outer end face of the closure element 12a facing away from the particle outlet opening 4. Actuating sections 75a are arranged on the second coupling section 74a, with which the closing element 12a can be pressed in the z-direction against the second coupling section 52a of the particle outlet 3, so that the second coupling section 74a of the closing element 12a engages in the second coupling section 52a of the particle outlet 3.

[0093] The following section will discuss access element 11a, which is particularly relevant in the Fig. 14 and Fig. Figure 15 shows that the access element 11b is expediently designed to be identical to the access element 11a.

[0094] The access element 11a has a plate-shaped access element body 91a, which is, for example, rectangular. The access element opening 15a is arranged in the access element body 91a. An access element seal 92a, which is, for example, designed as a labyrinth seal, is expediently arranged around the access element opening 15a.

[0095] The access element 11a has a first locking structure 93a which can engage with the locking structure 69a of the closure element 12a to lock the access element 11a relative to the closure element 12a in the closed position. By way of example, the first locking structure 93a comprises two recesses on the access element body 91a, which are, by way of example, circular.

[0096] The access element 11a further comprises a second locking structure 94a, which can engage with the locking structure 53 of the particle outlet 3 to lock the access element 11a in the open position. By way of example, the second locking structure 94a includes a groove extending in the y-direction, which is arranged in the region of the (outer) end face of the access element 11a facing away from the particle outlet opening 3.

[0097] The access element 11a further comprises an actuating section 95a, which can be actuated by the user in the x-direction to move the access element 11a in the x-direction. The actuating section 95a is exemplified as a wall-shaped projection extending in the z-direction from the access element body 91a and located on the outer end face of the access element 11a facing away from the particle outlet opening 3. For example, the actuating section 95a extends in the y-direction.

[0098] The access element 11a further comprises a mounting rib 96a, which can be brought into contact with the corresponding mounting rib 96b of the access element 11b. The mounting rib 96a projects from the base body 91a in the z-direction and extends in the y-direction. The mounting rib is located on the (inner) end face of the access element 11a facing the particle outlet opening 3.

[0099] Furthermore, the access element 11a comprises one or more projections 97a, which can be brought into alignment with the aforementioned first and / or second stops 66a, 67a of the locking element 12a in order to limit the movement of the access element 11a in the x-direction. By way of example, the projections 97a are arranged laterally on the actuating section 95a and project outwards in the y-direction. The projections 97a are, by way of example, pin-shaped. The projections are arranged in the region of the outer end face of the locking element 11a.

[0100] The access element 11a further comprises guide sections 98a, which can engage with the guide sections 61a of the closure element 12a and / or the guide sections 44 of the particle outlet 3 to provide the linearly movable support of the access element 11a. The guide sections 98a are, by way of example, the longitudinal edges of the plate-shaped access element body 91a.

[0101] In the Fig. Figure 13 shows the access element 11a together with the locking element 12a. The access element 11a is in the locked position and, for illustrative purposes, is located entirely within the xy-area defined by the locking element 12a. The assembly consisting of the access element 11a and the locking element 12a can also be referred to as the locking device.

[0102] The access element 11a, 11b, the closure element 12a, 12b and / or the particle outlet 3 are expediently each a single piece, in particular manufactured in one piece in the original mold. For example, the access element 11a, 11b, the closure element 12a, 12b and / or the particle outlet 3 are each an injection-molded part.

[0103] The following section will describe in more detail the linearly movable mounting of the access elements 11a, 11b on the closure elements 12a, 12b and the particle outlet 3. Particular attention will be paid to the Fig. Reference is made to section 10. The following explanation is given with reference to the first particle collection device 10a and applies accordingly to the second particle collection device 10b.

[0104] The closure element guide section 61a and the particle outlet guide section 44 are designed to mount the access element 11a for linear movement in the x-direction and, in particular, to limit and / or block movement of the access element 11a in the z-direction. The closure element guide section 61a and the particle outlet guide section 44 extend in the x-direction and are preferably arranged in the region of the longitudinal sides of the sliding track section running in the x-direction. The closure element guide section 61a and the particle outlet guide section 44 are expediently arranged one behind the other in the x-direction and are each designed to cooperate with the same access element guide section 98a to provide the linearly movable mounting. By way of example, the side regions of the plate-shaped access element body 11a running in the x-direction serve as the access element guide section 98a.

[0105] The closure element guide section 61a and the particle outlet guide section 44 each provide, by way of example, guide slots 46, 64a extending in the x-direction, into which the access element guide section 98a is inserted. The access element 11a is pressed against the closure element 12a and / or the particle outlet 3 by the spring elements 45, 63.

[0106] By moving in the x-direction, the access element 11a can be moved from the closed position, in which its guide section 98a engages only with the guide section 61a of the closing element 12a, via an intermediate position, in which the access element 11a engages with its guide section 98a with the guide section 61a of the closing element 12a and the guide section 44 of the particle outlet 3, to the open position, in which the access element 11a engages with its guide section 98a only with the guide section 44 of the particle outlet 3.

[0107] The linearly movable bearing allows the access elements 11a and 11b to be selectively moved, in particular together, into either the aforementioned first or second position. Fig. Figure 10 shows the access elements 11a, 11b in the second position and the Fig. Figure 11 shows the access elements 11a, 11b in the first position.

[0108] The following section will discuss a locking mechanism, in particular with reference to the Fig. 12.

[0109] Advantageously, the arrangement 30, 40 has a locking mechanism that prevents the particle collection device 10a, 10b from being removed from the particle outlet 3 in any position other than the closed position. A particle collection device 10a, 10b can preferably only be removed when the corresponding access element 11a, 11b is in the closed position. This is achieved, for example, by positioning the access element 11a, 11b, when it is moved out of the closed position, relative to the particle outlet 3 in a way that prevents any removal movement required for the respective particle collection device 10a, 10b.

[0110] The locking mechanism will be explained below with reference to the first particle collection device 10a; expediently, the locking mechanism is provided in a corresponding manner for the second particle collection device 10b.

[0111] The locking mechanism is exemplified by the particle outlet guide sections 44, the closure element 12a, the access element 11a, and the fastening interface 21a. As shown in the Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the access element 11a overlaps the closure element 12a in the z-direction in a state in which the access element 11a is not in the closed position. This state is, in particular, the open position. Advantageously, the outer end face of the access element 11a overlaps the inner end face of the closure element 12a.

[0112] Furthermore, the access element 11a, in the state in which the access element 11a is not in the closed position, engages with the particle outlet guide sections 44.

[0113] The fastening interface 21a, in particular the first coupling section 51a, preferably the mounting slots, is designed such that removing the closure element 12a from the first coupling section 51a requires a removal movement that is not possible due to the overlap of the access element 11a with the closure element 12a and the engagement of the access element 11a with the particle outlet guide section 44. This is achieved in particular by requiring a pivoting movement first (due to the second coupling section 52a) and then, due to the curved shape of the mounting slots, a movement first in the x-direction and then in the z-direction.If the access element 11a is outside the closed position, in particular in the open position, then at least one of these movements is expediently not possible, so that overall no removal of the particle collection device 10a is possible.

[0114] This ensures that, in order to remove the particle collection device 10a, the access element 11a must necessarily be moved into the closed position.

[0115] The following section will discuss a locking mechanism.

[0116] The arrangement 30, 40 features, by way of example, a locking mechanism which, depending on whether the particle collection device 10 is attached to the particle outlet 3, locks the closure element 12 against the access element 11. When the particle collection device 10 is detached from the particle outlet 3, the locking mechanism locks the access element 11 in the closed position. When the particle collection device 10 is attached to the particle outlet, the locking mechanism locks the access element so that it can be moved into the open position.

[0117] The locking mechanism can, in particular, prevent the access element 11 from shifting relative to the locking element 12 in the x-direction.

[0118] An exemplary embodiment of the locking mechanism is explained below using the first particle collection device 10a as an example. Advantageously, the locking mechanism is also provided for the second particle collection device 10b.

[0119] The locking mechanism is exemplified by the locking structure 69 of the locking element 12a, the spring element 63 of the locking element 12a and the first locking structure 93a of the access element 11a.

[0120] If the access element 11a is in the closed position and the particle intake device 10a is detached from the particle outlet 3, then the locking structure 69 of the closure element 12a engages with the first locking structure 93a of the access element 11a and blocks any movement of the access element 11a relative to the closure element 12a in the x-direction. In particular, the pin sections of the closure element 12a engage in the recesses of the access element 11a. To release the engagement of the locking structure 69 with the locking structure 93a, a movement of the access element 11a in the z-direction relative to the closure element 12a is required, for example, against the spring force of the spring element 63, which presses the access element 11a against the closure element 12a in the z-direction.

[0121] The locking mechanism also includes, by way of example, the unlocking structure 48a of the particle outlet 3 and the unlocking structure 71 of the closure element 12a.

[0122] If the closure element 12a is attached to the particle outlet 3, then the unlocking structure 48a engages through the unlocking structure 71 of the closure element 12a and pushes the access element 11a away from the closure element 12a in the z-direction, thus releasing the engagement of the locking structures 69, 93a. In this state, the access element 11a can be moved out of the closed position by actuation in the x-direction.

[0123] The locking mechanism expediently further comprises the guide rib 65a and the recess 76a of the locking element 12a, as well as the projections 97a of the access element 11a. In the open position of the access element 11a, the projections 97a are expediently located in the recesses 76a between the first stops 66a and the guide ribs 65a. By way of example, the guide ribs 65a have a chamfered and / or rounded end region by which the access element 11a is moved away from the locking element 12a in the z-direction when moving towards the closed position, so that the access element 11a can move over the locking structure 69a.

[0124] A further locking mechanism will be described below. This locking mechanism locks the access element 11a in the open position. Advantageously, a corresponding locking mechanism is provided for the access element 12b.

[0125] The further locking mechanism comprises, for example, the locking structure 53 of the particle outlet 3 and the second locking structure 94a of the access element 11a. In the open position, the locking structure 53 engages the locking structure 94a, so that a movement in the z-direction is first required to release this engagement and move the access element 11a in the x-direction towards the closed position. The engagement of the locking structures 53 and 94a is described in the Fig. 12 can be seen.

[0126] The following section will discuss the limitation of the movement of the access element 11a in the x-direction. For this purpose, the first stops 66a and the second stops 67a are provided. In the open position, the projections 97a of the access element 11a rest against the first stops 66a, so that the access element 11a cannot be moved further away from the closed position in the x-direction. In the closed position, the projections 97a of the access element 11a rest against the second stops 67a, so that the access element 11a cannot be moved further away from the open position in the x-direction.

[0127] Appropriately, a corresponding limitation also applies to access element 11b.

Claims

[1] Particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) for attachment to a particle outlet (3) of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator (1) and for collecting separated particles, comprising: - a particle holding volume (14, 14a, 14b) for holding the particles, - an access element (11, 11a, 11b) with an access element opening (15, 15a, 15b) through which the particles can be conveyed into the particle receiving volume (14, 14a, 14b), and - a locking element (12, 12a, 12b), wherein the access element (11, 11a, 11b) can be selectively moved relative to the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) either into a closed position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) closes the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), or into an open position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) releases the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), wherein the closure element (12, 12a, 12b) has a closure element coupling section (18, 18a, 18b) with which the closure element (12, 12a, 12b) can be attached to the particle outlet (3). [2] Particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) according to claim 1, wherein the access element (11, 11a, 11b) has a top surface which, in the open position of the access element (11, 11a, 11b), represents an outside surface of the particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) and can be attached to the particle outlet (3). [3] Particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the closure element (12, 12a, 12b) is arranged on the top of the access element (11, 11a, 11b). [4] Particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a bag (17, 17a, 17b) and / or a container for providing the particle collection volume (14, 14a, 14b), wherein the bag (17, 17a, 17b) and / or container is attached to the access element (11, 11a, 11b) and is movable together with the access element (11, 11a, 11b) relative to the closure element (12, 12a, 12b). [5] Particle capture device (10, 10a, 10b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the closing element (12, 12a, 12b) completely covers the upper surface of the access element which can be placed against the particle outlet (3) when the access element is in the closed position. [6] Arrangement (40) comprising a particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) for attachment to a particle outlet (3) of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator (1) and for collecting separated particles, wherein the arrangement (40) comprises the particle outlet (3) which has a particle outlet opening (4), wherein the particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) is attached to the particle outlet (3), wherein the particle capture device (10, 10a, 10b): - a particle holding volume (14, 14a, 14b) for holding the particles, - an access element (11, 11a, 11b) with an access element opening (15, 15a, 15b) through which the particles can be conveyed into the particle receiving volume (14, 14a, 14b), and - a locking element (12, 12a, 12b), comprising the access element (11, 11a, 11b) can be selectively moved relative to the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) either into a closed position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) closes the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), or into an open position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) releases the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), wherein the particle collection device (10) is a first particle collection device (10a) and the arrangement (40) further comprises a second particle collection device (10b) with a second closure element (12b) and a second access element (11b) which has a second access element opening (15b), wherein the second access element (11b) can be selectively moved into an open position or a closed position, wherein the second access element opening (15b) is closed by the second closure element (12b) in the closed position. [7] Arrangement (40) according to claim 6, wherein the particle receiving volume (14, 14a, 14b) is closed to the environment in every possible position of the access element (12, 12a, 12b) relative to the closure element (11, 11a, 11b). [8] Arrangement (40) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first access element (11a) and the second access element (11b) can be moved together as a group optionally into a first position or a second position, wherein in the first position the first access element (11a) is in the open position and the second access element (11b) is in the closed position, and in the second position the first access element (11a) is in the closed position and the second access element (11b) is in the open position. [9] Arrangement (40) according to claim 8, characterized by, that in the first position, the second position and in all positions between the first position and the second position the particle intake volumes (14a, 14b) of the particle intake devices (10a, 10b) and the particle outlet internal volume (9) of the particle outlet (3) are closed to the environment. [10] Arrangement (40) comprising a particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) for attachment to a particle outlet (3) of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator (1) and for collecting separated particles, wherein the arrangement (40) comprises the particle outlet (3) which has a particle outlet opening (4), wherein the particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) is attached to the particle outlet (3), wherein the particle capture device (10, 10a, 10b): - a particle holding volume (14, 14a, 14b) for holding the particles, - an access element (11, 11a, 11b) with an access element opening (15, 15a, 15b) through which the particles can be conveyed into the particle receiving volume (14, 14a, 14b), and - a locking element (12, 12a, 12b), comprising the access element (11, 11a, 11b) can be selectively moved relative to the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) either into a closed position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) closes the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), or into an open position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) releases the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), wherein the particle outlet (3) comprises a closure element receiving section (6a, 6b) spaced apart from the particle outlet opening (4) and the closure element (12a, 12b) is completely located in the closure element receiving section (6a, 6b). [11] Arrangement (40) comprising a particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) for attachment to a particle outlet (3) of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator (1) and for collecting separated particles, wherein the arrangement (40) comprises the particle outlet (3) which has a particle outlet opening (4), wherein the particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) is attached to the particle outlet (3), wherein the particle capture device (10, 10a, 10b): - a particle holding volume (14, 14a, 14b) for holding the particles, - an access element (11, 11a, 11b) with an access element opening (15, 15a, 15b) through which the particles can be conveyed into the particle receiving volume (14, 14a, 14b), and - a locking element (12, 12a, 12b), comprising the access element (11, 11a, 11b) can be selectively moved relative to the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) either into a closed position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) closes the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), or into an open position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) releases the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), wherein the arrangement (40) has a locking mechanism which prevents the particle intake device (10a, 10b) from being removed from the particle outlet (3) in a position other than the closed position. [12] Arrangement (40) comprising a particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) for attachment to a particle outlet (3) of a vacuum cleaner and / or a cyclone separator (1) and for collecting separated particles, wherein the arrangement (40) comprises the particle outlet (3) which has a particle outlet opening (4), wherein the particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) is attached to the particle outlet (3), wherein the particle capture device (10, 10a, 10b): - a particle holding volume (14, 14a, 14b) for holding the particles, - an access element (11, 11a, 11b) with an access element opening (15, 15a, 15b) through which the particles can be conveyed into the particle receiving volume (14, 14a, 14b), and - a locking element (12, 12a, 12b), comprising the access element (11, 11a, 11b) can be selectively moved relative to the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) either into a closed position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) closes the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), or into an open position in which the locking element (12, 12a, 12b) releases the access element opening (15, 15a, 15b), wherein the arrangement (40) has a locking mechanism which, depending on whether the particle collection device (10a, 10b) is attached to the particle outlet (3), locks the closure element (12a, 12b) relative to the access element (11a, 11b), wherein the locking mechanism locks the access element (11a, 11b) in the closed position when the particle collection device (10a, 10b) is removed from the particle outlet (3) and unlocks the access element (11a, 11b) when the particle collection device (10a, 10b) is attached to the particle outlet (3), allowing it to be moved into the open position. [13] Method for operating an arrangement (40) according to any one of claims 6 to 12, comprising the steps: - Attaching the particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) to the particle outlet (3), wherein the access element (11, 11a, 11b) is in the closed position - Moving the access element (11, 11a, 11b) into the open position, - Transporting particles into the particle holding volume (4, 4a, 4b), - Moving the access element (11, 11a, 11b) into the closed position, whereby the particle intake volume (14, 14a, 14b) remains closed to the environment, - Removal of the particle collection device (10, 10a, 10b) from the particle outlet (3), wherein the particle collection volume (14, 14a, 14b) is sealed from the environment. [14] Method for operating an arrangement (40) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, comprising the steps: - Attaching the first particle collection device (10a) to the particle outlet (3), wherein the first access element (11a) is in the closed position, - Moving the first access element (11a) into the open position, - Conveying particles into the first particle holding volume (14a), - Attaching the second particle collection device (10b) to the particle outlet (3), wherein the second access element (11b) is in the closed position, - Simultaneously moving the first access element (11a) into the closed position and the second access element (11b) into the open position, whereby the particle intake volumes (14a, 14b) are closed to the environment, - Removal of the first particle collection device (10a) from the particle outlet (3), wherein the first particle collection volume (14a) remains closed to the environment.

Images